Coleman dome tent, 4 person

What it is good at

• Standing up to wind because the dome sheds it in any direction
• Simple pole sleeves that one person can manage
• A raised floor seam that keeps ground water out

Check before you buy

• Floor area against your mats rather than the person count on the box
• Hydrostatic head of the fly, and whether the seams are taped
• Packed length against the boot or the back seat that has to carry it

Who it is not for

Winter trips and exposed mountain camps, which need a heavier tent with more poles.

A dome tent goes up from two crossing poles and holds its shape without guy lines in light weather. That is why it suits weekends and car camping: the pitching takes minutes and one person can do it.

Weather protection comes down to the fly. A coated fly with taped seams and a floor that curves up at the edges keeps rain out, while an untaped seam lets water through in a long shower whatever the coating figure says.