6 Ways to Use a Pop-Up Canopy Tent at a Campsite

Are you packing for a camping trip? One of the supplies you may want to bring along that is often overlooked is a pop-up canopy tent. You might think that is unnecessary when you already will have a camping tent, but there are quite a few uses for a pop-up canopy tent at a campsite.

1. Keep your supplies dry

To start with, if you are camping in a place that gets rain, a pop-up canopy tent gives you a sheltered spot where you can place some of your supplies. That way, they will stay dry without you having to try to cram them into your camping tent with you.

In fact, depending on the size of your camping tent, there is a good chance they wouldn’t fit in there anyway. If so, having a canopy tent can mean the difference between dry and waterlogged gear altogether. Having that extra dry storage area may also leave you free to pack more gear than you otherwise would have.

2. A dining spot

Another way to use a pop-up canopy tent while camping is as a space for eating. You can set up folding chairs and a table if you want, or just sit on the ground on a picnic blanket. The tent canopy will keep the rain or sun off of you while you eat so you can enjoy some comfort. You can even add one or more sidewalls if you need to, which can be useful of it is breezy.

3. Somewhere to relax

Along with eating under a pop-up canopy tent, you may also just want to relax under it. Again, a couple of camp chairs and a canopy over your head can make you much more comfortable when you get back from a day of hiking than you would be seated on the ground out in the open.

4. Dry off before you get into your camping tent

Another use for a pop-up canopy tent when it is rainy at your campsite is as an outdoor vestibule.

A vestibule is a feature that some camping tents include. It is a small chamber at the entrance to the tent that is separate from the main compartment of the tent. The idea is that if you come in out of the rain and mud, and you are still wearing dirty shoes and clothes, you can remove them in the vestibule, and then go the rest of the way into the tent without dragging in all that mud and water.

Camping tent vestibules can be pretty cramped though. And there is still a good chance you’ll drag in some mud even after changing out of your clothes.

A pop-up canopy tent can work as an alternative vestibule. You can set up the canopy tent right next to your camping tent. The canopy will shelter you and offer you a dry spot to strip out of your wet and muddy clothes. You can then go directly into your camping tent.

Changing under the canopy tent should be much easier since you will have plenty of space. As for privacy, you either will need a secluded campsite, or you will need some sidewalls. You can also hang your wet clothes to dry under the canopy tent.

5. A spot for your dog

If you have brought a canine companion with you on your camping trip, your dog might need a shady spot to relax, especially if you are camping in hot, bright weather.

The camping tent might be too warm during the day, even if it is well-ventilated. But a canopy tent is wide open if you don’t have sidewalls attached. This makes it ideal for your pet.

6. A play area for the kids

If you’re going to be camping with your family, obviously you would expect them to be making the most of the great outdoors, and running around the campsite.

But if it gets rainy, or if they just want to relax in the shade for a while, they may appreciate having a pop-up canopy tent where they can just hang out. They can add side-walls for privacy too.

What to Look for in a Pop-Up Canopy Tent for Camping

If you read through the list above, you probably already have a good idea what you should look for in a pop-up canopy tent for camping. But here is a quick overview of important features:

• Waterproof: Get a canopy tent that is water-resistant. Be aware that water resistance degrades with time. If you’ve had the tent for a while, you should re-waterproof it before you take it out on your next camping trip.
• Lightweight but sturdy: You need a tent that is robust enough to stand up to breezes, but also light enough to carry to and from your campsite.
• Easy to set up and take down: Ideally, you should be able to set up your tent in just minutes with only one or two people working. Taking it down should be similarly quick and easy.
• Side-walls: This is one of the best add-on features for a pop-up canopy tent for camping. You can use side-walls for privacy, or to block out breezes or rain.
• UV resistance: Try to choose a tent that is made out of UV-blocking material so you can protect your skin.
• Dark colors: Consider a darker color for your tent, as it’s easy for dirt and dust to get on a tent while camping. These could make a white tent look bad pretty quickly.

Pop-Up Canopy Tents are a Versatile Camping Supply

Many people do not think to pack pop-up canopy tents when camping, but you can now appreciate what a versatile supply they are. You can use them to keep your gear dry, change out of wet clothes or shoes, or just as a spot to eat or relax. Continue reading our posts to learn more about camping and pop-up canopy tents.