Tentproinc RV Awning Shade
A practical camping shelter (caravan / motorhome awning) for time spent outdoors.
Tent Buying Guide: How to Choose (UK 2026)
Choosing a tent comes down to the type, the size, the waterproofing, how it pitches and the features you want. This guide walks through each so you can pick the right tent for how you camp, your group and the UK weather.
Type and size
First the type: tunnel tents give the best family space and headroom; dome tents are quick and freestanding; inflatable (air) tents pitch fastest; pop-ups suit festivals; lightweight tents suit hiking. Then size - manufacturer 'person' ratings are snug, so size up for comfort with gear (a family of four is happier in a 6-person tent). Consider sleeping cabins plus a living area.
Waterproofing
For the UK, waterproofing is critical. Hydrostatic head (HH) measures water resistance in mm: around 2000mm is a sensible minimum, 3000mm+ handles sustained rain comfortably, and 5000mm+ is very robust. Just as important are taped (sealed) seams and a sewn-in groundsheet, which keeps out draughts, water and bugs. Check all three, not just the HH number.
Pitching and poles
How a tent pitches affects your whole trip. Poled tents (fibreglass or alloy) are lighter and cheaper but take longer; inflatable air tents pump up fast, often solo, at a higher price; pop-ups spring up instantly but pack larger. Alloy poles are stronger than fibreglass for big or windy pitches. Whatever you choose, practise pitching once at home first.
Features and comfort
Match the extras to how you camp: blackout bedrooms for better sleep and lie-ins, a porch or living area for cooking and gear, good ventilation to reduce condensation, and useful doors and windows. A sewn-in groundsheet and decent headroom add comfort. Think about packed size and weight for your car or your back, and how easy it is to dry and store.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
Glymnis Pop Up Beach Tent
A practical camping shelter (beach / sun shelter, 6-person) for time spent outdoors.
#3 
ROADIE The OVERNIGHTER
A practical camping shelter (awning) for time spent outdoors.
#4 
Tentproinc RV Awning Sun Shade
A practical camping shelter (caravan / motorhome awning) for time spent outdoors.
#5 
Vango Storm Shelter
A practical camping shelter (camping shelter) for time spent outdoors.
#6 
FREE SOLDIER Camping Tarp
A practical camping shelter (awning) for time spent outdoors.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a tent?
Start with the type (tunnel or inflatable for family space, lightweight for hiking, pop-up for festivals) and size (size up from your headcount for comfort). Then prioritise waterproofing - a hydrostatic head of 2000mm+ with taped seams and a sewn-in groundsheet. Consider pitching style and features like blackout bedrooms and a living area, and match it to how you camp.
What size tent do I need?
Size up from your group size for comfort - manufacturer person ratings assume a tight fit with no gear. A family of four is much happier in a 6-person tent, with room for kit, a living area and space to move. Look for separate sleeping cabins plus a living or porch area, and check the dimensions against your group and gear.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the Tentproinc RV Awning Shade (our score 9.6/10) - A practical camping shelter (caravan / motorhome awning) for time spent outdoors..