Once it’s up, the UVGuard™ material offers 50+ UPF protection from the sun’s dangerous rays. When the fun’s done, the frame folds down for compact storage. Like the REI and L.L.Bean canopy shelters, this Clam tent has a generous fabric skirt coleman instant tent at its base that is designed to keep determined insects—and pooling rainwater—out. If we were camping somewhere infested with mosquitoes or no-see-ums and could fit the Clam in our vehicle, we’d prefer it over any of our other picks.
Because of its durability, shape, and size, the tent is on the heavy side at 45.2 pounds. But for simple portability and storage, it comes with an easy-pull wheeled carry bag that fits inside most vehicles. The telescoping poles are easy to extend into place thanks to the pinch-free Comfort Grip™ technology and large feet that are big enough to stand on while you set up the shelter. The double-thick Polyguard 2X™ fabric stands up to the elements–season after season.
When you want a simple tent that will give you coverage during your backyard cookout, look for a large pop-up tent that has a 13X13 foot spread. A roof vent is also ideal, as it resists pooling when you have rainstorms. Some models even offer an unparalleled three-minute setup that will help prepare you for impending storm clouds in no time.
Many tents feature solid panels that lower to offer shade or privacy, providing more flexibility on where to set it up. Also, overhanging roof flaps and outward extending bottom flaps allow rain to drip off and away from the tent. Also, look for heavy-duty screen tents with tightly knit roofs if they are intended for protection against UV rays or water. Be sure to check the product description for these types of screen tents to ensure they meet your specific needs. While screen tents are an excellent addition to a backyard or campsite, not all of them have the same setup or serve the same purpose.
If you are looking for a budget 6-person tent, we are sorry, but this isn’t the one we would recommend. Fiberglass poles, cheap mesh, and tarp-like flooring are connected by mid-grade zippers and inverted seams (instead of the superior seam-seal). The bag is also poor quality and will inevitably require ducktape after the first or second season.
However, those slightly sloping walls also result in a stable design — and it’s still plenty long to fit over a standard size picnic table. The two center zip doors also make the L.L.Bean Acadia Family Screen House great for using over a picnic table or a large camping table — easy access to the table from either side. The overall design is similar to the Acadia 6-Person Family Tent we reviewed last year and found excellent.
That’s why we focused on collapsible camping shelters with mesh walls to keep bugs at bay. This tent measures 15 by 13 feet and 7 feet high in the center, with full-height zippered doors on both tall sides. The double-thick polyester fabric features a UVGuard treatment to prevent the penetration of the sun’s rays while also offering a bit of water resistance during light coleman sundome rains. Northern Breeze Screen House is one of the most versatile screen houses available for 2023. It’s very popular with outdoor enthusiasts because it has a rugged build quality and great features. The waterproof roof fabric is 150-denier polyester oxford, which is a bit thinner and lighter than the Cabela’s Quick-Set Screen Shelter Roof — but it is waterproof.
If you want a screen house which can fit all the family then there’s one option that stands out above the rest. The Clam Quick-Set Escape is a great screen tent that is easy to use and comes with all the features you’ll need. It’s wonderful on warmer summer nights but if you camp in spring or fall, you’ll feel quite a chill. Pop up the screen tent, slide your sleeping bag inside and you’re safe. If you’re looking for a budget screen house you can assemble quickly, the Quest is an excellent tool. It’s nothing fancy—perfect for people who don’t care about extravagance, but very much care if there are bugs in their face or food.