I have the Clam 12×12 and love it, note that only the brown one is compatible with the rain panels which work really well. I’m not sure about the SPF50 rating, I sat in mine for a few hours a few weeks ago and my bald head got burnt, that was the only time I wasn’t wearing a hat. While this tent has UV protection, it is not waterproof and not the sturdiest given its lightweight. So I would not recommend this model if you anticipate experiencing any inclement weather conditions. Here is a list of the best screen tents and what makes them different from each other so you can choose the right one for you.
Note that Eureka also has an item of this type, the Eureka! You might want also to see this Core Instant Screen House Canopy Tent 12 x 10 that is a bit differently shaped. Regarding the size, this is a hexagon with the two main diagonals 12 and 10 ft (366 and 305 cm). The declared area is 90 ft² (8.4 m²), and in view of its floor shape, it is best suited for a round table or even square, and you can easily put 4-5 large chairs inside.
It’s better to be prepared than to let something unexpected ruin your weekend. Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering coleman screen tent helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time). During the winter and early spring of 2017, we added four more canopy tents to our testing lineup. In addition to the models from REI and L.L.Bean, which became our new top picks, we tested the Coleman 15 × 13 Instant Screenhouse and the Wenzel Sun Valley Screen House.
Pests aren’t invited in on the action so Coleman made sure the enclosed mesh walls create the perfect space to kick back. Plus, the 2 entryways make it easy to bring gear in and out. A canopy tent is a purchase most regular car campers consider after stocking up on the basics. After all, you can find plenty of smaller and less-expensive items to help you fight bugs, guard against the sun, and shrug off rain. Considering most quality screen tents cost well over $150, we wouldn’t call them a cheap camping accessory. If you frequently camp in areas plagued by flies, mosquitos, and other insects, a screen tent is an excellent investment.
With six mesh netting screen walls and a hexagonal shape, your views of the beautiful outdoors are only hindered by your friends, not the tent’s structure. While it’s not waterproof, the Alvantor Screen House can hold up to six people and instantly pop-up anywhere you need protection from the critters. Plus, at 41.6 square feet of floor space and a 7-foot maximum height, this screened canopy tent is roomy and comfortable.
This polyester material is less susceptible to UV damage than the nylon that previous versions of this tent incorporated, but it generally has a feel that is not quite as soft. Despite the change in fabric, this REI shelter still weighs just 13 pounds, several pounds less than many others of this type. The REI Co-op Screen House Shelter is easy to set up and pleasant to use, providing good protection from bugs, sun, and gentle rain showers. A high ceiling makes the tent feel brighter and more airy than other camping shelters with a similar footprint.