A frame tents probably have the exact shape you think of one someone says “tent”, and they have been used for centuries. Also called wedge tents, A-Frame tents for camping have a very traditional and simple shape, with some variations out there.
Modern tents with an A frame typically have updated features and designs. Available in a range of different fabrics, you can use this shape for backpacking, casual camping, and even glamping.
This versatility makes them a much-loved model among the camping community, even with all the new and different tent styles coming out on the market. They are also great for camping low-profile in more remote areas.
With such a crowded market of A frame tents for sale nowadays, it can be difficult to narrow things down to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’re here. We’ve made a list of the 10 best wedge tents so that you can make the best purchase decision for your next camping trip.
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10 of The Best A-Frame Camping Tents
1. Eureka! Timberline Backpacking Tent
This is a 3-season model that has comes in a 2-person or 4-person capacity, but both sizes are perfect for couples. Even though the 4P states that it’s for backpacking, the weight of 7 lbs is a little heavy, so we recommend sharing the load between you and someone else. The side door is large and lets you open it fully to sit inside and relax under the small canopy of the rainfly. You can also purchase a vestibule separately, which attaches to one side and has a hooded vent for increased ventilation.
Weather resistance is provided through the strong, yet lightweight, ½” aluminium frame. The shock-corded eaves on the rainfly absorb any wind stress, so it remains stable in high winds. One of the better camping tents on our list today for sure. This rainfly isn’t full coverage, but the large awnings do protect the inner mesh quite well. Without the fly, you have two big mesh panels. These bring in lots of airflow, and let you see outside when you’re relaxing inside.
Features:
- Large Comfortable Floor Area of 63ft²
- Freestanding Lets You Set Up Anywhere
- Good Coverage Rainfly
2. Ozark Trail 4 Person 8’ x 7’ A Frame Tent
The main standout of this model is its huge canopy that is created using the side door panel. This one is ideal for warmer weather camping, as there are vast mesh panels on two of the walls. The side door has can be rolled back to fully expose the mesh whenever you need more airflow.
With a 4.4’ height, you can easily sit up without hitting your head. This can fit a standard queen size mattress, making your sleeping experience even comfier.
The material consists of a durable poly-cotton fabric, that is breathable but can keep you warm. The frame is robust steel, so it’s solid against winds. With an upper gear loft and several mesh pockets, there is plenty of space for storing all your valuables to keep at easy reach.
Features:
- Fast 2 Minute Assembly
- Electrical Port Access & Storage Pockets
- Carry Bag & Stakes Included
3. Ozark Trail A Frame Tent with Awning
This is very similar to the other Ozark model. As it states in the name, it has an extended awning, and takes no more than 30 seconds to pitch the whole tent. All the poles are pre-attached to the fabric, so it’s a matter of unpacking, unfolding, and extending. Although it is freestanding, you should always secure it down, and you are provided with free stakes.
With a large window in the back, air can flow through to prevent condensation. There are also big side vents that stretch out with some cord. 190T coated polyester makes up the body, so it can repel light rainfall. This doesn’t come with a rainfly, so you should take this somewhere with very mild weather conditions. The carry bag is quite long, so we suggest you use this if you’re car camping or walking short distances. The bag has big nylon handles making it easy to carry.
Inside you have heaps of storage options, which is great considering the smaller size of this tent. There are large mesh storage pockets, with a bottle holder included, and we love the shoe holder that rests in the corner. It keeps dirty shoes or bags off the floor. Much like the other model, this also has electrical cord access.
Features:
- Extended Front Awning
- Fits 1 Standard Queen Airbed
- Robust Steel & Fibreglass Pole Framework
4. Eureka! Timberline SQ 3-Season Backpacking Tent
This is the upgraded or newer version of the first one on our list. It has a very modern A-shape design, with and interesting almost geometric roof. With this more rounded roof, it feels more spacious inside as the side walls don’t slant as much.
Two doors make it easy to get in and out without feeling crowded. It does come with one side vestibule, but you can purchase another one separately if you need more storage space. The already built-in vestibule covers one of the doors, and it’s so big that you could even use it as a canopy to relax under, measuring a fantastic 15ft². Also, with both vestibules you get complete coverage with the rainfly, so it works great in high winds, rain, and even a little snow.
Without the fly, this works very well in the warmer months. The entire roof and a bit of the side walls are mesh, so you’re getting heaps of air circulation. With the cover on, you’re still getting airflow through the high-low ventilation system. This happens with the vestibule hooded vent near the roof, and the huge lower side vents that stretch across the entire length of the tent.
Features:
- Lightweight Yet Durable Aluminium Poles
- Large & Roomy 60.8ft² Interior
- Available in 2P or 4P
5. OneTigris Backwoods Bungalow Bushcraft Shelter 2.0
Perfect for backcountry trips with rougher weather, this is an ultralight version that weighs just 3.2 lbs. For a full-size tent, this weight is outstanding and certainly won’t weigh down your gear. Available in brown and green, these blend in so well with nature so you can truly camp discreetly.
To increase the space for relaxing or eating, the large side panel can be lifted and turned into a big canopy. Using the attached cord, simple tie it around two trees and it’s good to go. We like this design because you don’t need to weigh your bag down with additional poles, which are commonly used for creating awnings on tents. More room can be created with the double tie-out points that pull the wall out.
Highly durable 75D ripstop nylon makes up the fabric, which prevents easy ripping or tearing from winds, debris, and constant use. The fabric also has a tough PU coating, giving it a waterproof column of 3000mm to withstand heavy rainfall. To add to the protection, the lack of windows means there is no place for easy leaks. For ventilation, it has upgraded vents at the rear that suck in cool air.
Features:
- High Waterproof Index of 3000mm
- Ultra Lightweight 3.2 lbs for Backpacking
- Large Side Canopy Using Door Panel
6. Stansport Scout 2 Person Backpacking Tent
An option on the affordable side, this is a backpacking model that is good for very mild conditions on short trips. While this isn’t going to protect you from harsh conditions, it doesn’t claim to and is certainly a great lightweight tent for casual or amateur campers. For a little more space inside, the guylines connect to the middle of the side walls, pulling them out a little so they’re not sagging inside.
Ventilation is provided through the bug-repellent mesh door screens, that are covered by the fly when it rains. This fly is full coverage, reaching right down to the ground, so you’re pretty well protected. The body of the tent is made from PU coated nylon fabric, which averts easy scratches or tears.
We recommend using a seam sealer on this one if you want more protection during rainfall. A handy polyester carry bag is provided with a tough nylon handle. It packs down quite well and is easy to carry around without weighing you down.
Features:
- Flame Retardant & Waterproof
- Lightweight 3.8 lbs for Backpacking
- Stakes & Guylines Provided for Easy Set Up
7. River Country Products Trekker Tent
Another affordable option for those on a budget or who don’t camp too often, this is an ultralight backpacking model with heaps of rave reviews online. It has a speedy set up and packs down into a compact shape that can slip right into your backpack.
This has quite a unique shape. It maintains the traditional A-style, but the roof area slopes downwards instead of having a straight edge. We think this may lessen the space a little, but the side walls are stretched out with the guy ropes. To lessen the weight, you use your own trekking pole to create the front peak.
Bathtub flooring lines the interior and prevents easy water leaks from seeping in. At the front entrance, you can roll back the initial panels and expose some mesh. This gives airflow, and you can unzip them and make a big opening. For even more air circulation, there are two hooded vents at the back near the roof. These allow any hot air to escape to stop condensation.
Features:
- Ultra Lightweight 2.12 lbs Packed
- Spacious 35ft² of Floor Room
- Compact Carry Bag, Stakes & Guylines Included
8. French Army Military Surplus Camping Tent
This 2-man tent comes with a complete set up kit with stakes, ropes, and a carry bag for easy pitching and disassembling. Made of nylon canvas, it’s highly durable to withstand rough winds, moderate to heavy rainfall, and even a little snow. The floor is also completely waterproof to prevent any pools of water from entering.
The top section covers the body very well, with small awnings on the front and back that stop water from easily getting on the walls. These also double as vents, which are screened with mesh to prevent bugs from getting inside.
The sides stretch down very far, and there are 2 large vents that line the length of the tent. These provide great ventilation when everything is closed off.
To further control airflow, one end has a zippered screen door with an outer storm panel. You can roll this out of the way to expose the mesh during hotter weather. With its extremely simple all-green colouring, this is a very low-profile model that’s great for hunting.
Features:
- Large Spacious Interior of 6.67’L x 5’W
- Rust-Proof Zippers
- Compact Duffel Bag Included
9. Texsport Willowbend Trail Tent
A traditional camouflage exterior pattern makes this another great hunting tent on our list. It’s reasonably priced, and it has enough room for two campers to sleep side-by-side. With a 38” height, you can comfortably lean on your knees without the roof touching your head. The sloping roof makes way for wider side walls, giving an increasingly spacious feel.
This makes a great warm weather shelter. Both the front and back have mesh openings, with storm flaps that can be tied back to get more airflow. Receiving ventilation from both sides means humidity is significantly reduced. A tub-style floor pairs with the tough ripstop PE fabric to greatly prevent leaks if puddles begin to form. This also makes it more reliable, as it won’t easily rip or scratch if you pitch it on rough surfaces. The rest of the body is made of robust PU coated polyester taffeta which is waterproof and flame retardant.
Features:
- Two Mesh Doors for Increased Ventilation
- Flame Retardant Materials
- All Stakes & Guylines Included
10. SE Emergency Outdoor Tube Tent
This model is extremely simple and serves as an emergency shelter, as the name suggests. It’s made from a non-woven material with a complete aluminium coated interior.
This delivers a huge amount of insulation to keep you warm and safe if you find yourself stuck in a dangerous situation whilst out in the wild. There is just enough room for one person to comfortably lie down.
The A-style makes it super simple to pitch, where the guylines tie to trees for stability and to create the triangular shape. For even more stability, you’re provided with 9” zinc plated carbon steel pegs, which are heavy-duty and will withstand high winds.
The outer material is tear-resistant, so you can set it up on virtually any surface. It packs down very thin and can line your bag without taking up much space.
Features:
- 100% Waterproof
- Top-Quality Aluminium Lining Retains Body Heat
- Completely Tear Resistant
How to Choose an A Frame Tent
Size
Like all tents, the size is going to be the first thing you should consider. This style of tents typically has great floor space, but not a lot of headroom and won’t let you stand up. The most you can do is kneel, so keep this in mind if it’s an important aspect for you.
Size also entails the pack size. The ultralight backpacking versions are designed to pack very well in a compact shape. Others might be a little bulkier, as they may have thicker materials and heavier poles, so think about what kind of camping you’ll be doing.
Weight
Dedicated backpacking models should be under 3.5 lbs, with aluminium poles that are lighter than regular steel ones. If you’re car camping or on a shorter trip, the weight shouldn’t be a big deal, but still think about how heavy it will be to carry from your car to the campsite.
Protection
These tents typically provide great protection. With their aerodynamic shape, they work well in winds, but we still recommend pitching them between trees or behind rocks for coverage.
Most models have great coverage rainflies, reaching all the way to the ground to prevent winds or precipitation from entering. Try choosing one with vestibules, as they give heaps of extra storage space and further enhance the protection.
Ventilation
Most of the ones you’ll find will only have openings on the front and back, or some just have one opening. Look out for vents on the bottom sides and at the top of the ends of the tent. Ground vents on the side walls are perfect for sucking cold air and distributing that throughout the tent. Upper vents allow hot air to escape, and this will all make your experience more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an A Frame or Wedge Tent?
They are very traditional shaped tents that have been used for many years for low profile camping. They have a classic triangular shape, and most are freestanding. They’re popular among backpackers, especially the ultralight weight ones, and they can be easy to set up.
How do You Set Up an A Frame Tent?
Most models follow this simple process:
- Stake down the corners whilst tightly pulling the tent. Hammer the stakes in a 45° angle.
- Assemble the poles and insert them into the sleeves. In most traditional models, separate poles get placed in the front and back.
- Secure the guylines to the stakes, making sure they are taut for stability.
- Place the rainfly (if applicable) and secure it down as well.
Some designs can be attached to trees using the ropes, instead of to stakes on the ground.
How Much do They Cost?
This depends on the brand and materials used. You can find high-end ones with top-grade materials over the $200 range or more. Although, there are a lot of affordable ones on the market in this style, going as low as $30 or $40.
Conclusion on A Framed Tents
A frame tents are classics that have been around for hundreds of years for a reason. With their simple design, yet updated features, they’re the ideal shelters for far-off camping in remote locations.
The unique A shape of wedge tents make them ideal for pitching under trees and in other low head height areas.
Plus, most of them are lightweight, yet strong with durable frameworks. The sloped shape of their walls makes them aerodynamic to withstand winds, and the wide floor room and high peak make them spacious and comfy to live in.
