Best 3-Season Freestanding Tents for 2019


Our review process

Figuring out which tent you should get is no easy task. It can escalate into an overwhelming experience. Luckily for you, we've already gathered and analyzed information on more than 500 different tents and also looked at more than 17,500 data parameters for each one so that you won't have to do the same research. Out of these tents, we then inspected 38 3-season freestanding tents using our leading artificial intelligence platform. The following article will break down the benefits and disadvantages and show you some of the more relevant information our research focused on.

When trying to choose your next 3-season freestanding tent, there are some things we think you should know about. Freestanding tents feature better ventilation, which helps keep the tent cool in hot climates. They are easy to take down and set up since they rely on just one center pole for support. These tents are easy to move, making them a useful choice if you want to reposition your tent after setting it up. With added versatility, they can be used for a range of occasions and locations. However, they are less stable, so they are more likely to blow away by extreme winds. They perform well from early spring through the fall, so they will keep you warm during cold seasons and cool in hot months. 3-season tents usually have vents and have mesh panels, keeping your tent well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture. These lightweight tents are easy and comfortable to carry during long-distance treks.

Our Top Ranking Tents:
Product NameBrandCapacityDimensions
Best Overall Score
1
An image of MSR 3-Person Red Freestanding 3-Season 84 X 128 X 41 Inch Tent
MSR 3-Person Red Freestanding 3-Season 84 X 128 X 41 Inch Tent
MSR
3 people
84 x 128 x 41
Runner Up
2
An image of Browning Camping 4-Person Brown Freestanding 3-Season 28 X 12 X 12 Inch Tent
Browning Camping 4-Person Brown Freestanding 3-Season 28 X 12 X 12 Inch Tent
Browning Camping
4 people
28 x 12 x 12
Best for Bad Weather
3
An image of Kelty Polyester 3-Person Ponderosa Pine Sand Freestanding 3-Season 90 X 73 X 45 Inch Tent
Kelty Polyester 3-Person Ponderosa Pine Sand Freestanding 3-Season 90 X 73 X 45 Inch Tent
Kelty
3 people
90 x 73 x 45
Lightweight Option
4
An image of Kelty Polyester 2-Person Gray Freestanding 3-Season Tent
Kelty Polyester 2-Person Gray Freestanding 3-Season Tent
Kelty
2 people
For Camping Solo
5
An image of Kelty 1-Person Gray Freestanding 3-Season 89 X 43 X 29 Inch Tent
Kelty 1-Person Gray Freestanding 3-Season 89 X 43 X 29 Inch Tent
Kelty
1 person
89 x 43 x 29
Our Top Ranking Tents
Customer Rating
Brand
MSR
Capacity
3 people
Dimensions
84 x 128 x 41
Customer Rating
Brand
Browning Camping
Capacity
4 people
Dimensions
28 x 12 x 12
Customer Rating
Brand
Kelty
Capacity
3 people
Dimensions
90 x 73 x 45
Customer Rating
Brand
Kelty
Capacity
2 people
Dimensions
Customer Rating
Brand
Kelty
Capacity
1 person
Dimensions
89 x 43 x 29
Best Overall Score
An image of MSR 3-Person Red Freestanding 3-Season 84 X 128 X 41 Inch Tent

With an excellent user rating, the MSR Freestanding 3-Person Tent could be exactly what you need for your next camping trip. This MSR tent features a freestanding design, meaning it can stand without using stakes. With the ability to withstand three seasons, it keeps you protected when it's rainy or windy, ideal for summer, fall, and spring weather conditions. This tent is designed to accommodate three people. It has a gear loft, so you will not need to spend time in the morning looking for your glasses or phone.

    Pros
    • Easy setup can be assembled almost instantaneously once you unpack it
    • Features a lightweight design, putting less stress on your back while trekking
    • Mesh panels provide a layer of defense against insects and bugs while letting in plenty of fresh air
    Cons
    • Lightweight tents may not stand up to rough handling
    • 3-person tents are not spacious enough for accommodating bulky equipment, plus campers
    • Freestanding design is the heaviest tent design
Runner Up
An image of Browning Camping 4-Person Brown Freestanding 3-Season 28 X 12 X 12 Inch Tent

Let's review the Browning Camping Freestanding 4-Person Tent, rated highly by online shoppers. With a freestanding design, this tent can be assembled anywhere since you don't need to stake it into the ground but it uses the weight of the campers inside to keep it steady. It has aluminum poles, which are highly durable and are not likely to break with applied force. This tent features side vents, which let in plenty of air to keep the tent at a comfortable temperature. Designed to withstand three seasons, it can endure heavy rain and light snow, perfect for late fall and early winter camping. It has storage pockets and features a gear loft, so you can keep your small and most essential items off the tent floor but still close at reach. It is designed to fit four people. It includes stakes and guy ropes.

    Pros
    • Easy to assemble, making it convenient for those who are inexperienced with pitching tents
    • Two-way zipper allows it to open from either end
    • Features a mesh roof, keeping bugs out while still letting in outside air
    Cons
    • Polyester fly cover can sag in the rain and cause dripping on the inside
    • Polyester floor has a limited lifespan compared to other fabrics
    • Mesh roof may not be suitable for cold weather
Best for Bad Weather
An image of Kelty Polyester 3-Person Ponderosa Pine Sand Freestanding 3-Season 90 X 73 X 45 Inch Tent

Let's review the Kelty Polyester Freestanding 3-Person Tent, a popular choice among online shoppers. This tent is made from polyester, eliminating shrinkage when it gets wet, meaning you can ideally use this for years. Featuring a freestanding design, it can be set up anywhere. It has aluminum poles, which are highly durable and are unlikely to snap with applied force. Designed for three-season use, it can endure downpours and moderate snow, perfect for late fall and early winter camping. This Kelty tent includes nightlight pockets and features a gear loft, so you don't have to spend time in the morning looking for your glasses or phone. It has an adjustable fly, providing a larger or smaller air passage, depending on climate and weather conditions. This 46 sq. ft. tent fits three campers, so you can have the perfect amount of space for accommodating a small group.

    Pros
    • Made of polyester, making it very easy to transport this tent from place to place, due to its lightweight quality
    • Features an adjustable fly, providing a larger or smaller air passage, depending on climate and weather conditions
    • Includes a footprint layer, protecting the bottom part of the tent from any wear and tear from debris
    Cons
    • Polyester fly cover can sag in the rain and cause dripping on the inside
    • Polyester does not naturally breathe and is prone to condensation
    • Polyester floor has a limited lifespan compared to other fabrics
Lightweight Option
An image of Kelty Polyester 2-Person Gray Freestanding 3-Season Tent

With the Kelty Polyester Freestanding 2-Person Tent, you can plan a great weekend away. This Kelty tent is made from polyester, making it lightweight, so you can take on your next festival. It features a freestanding design, which can be set up anywhere, no matter the terrain. Designed for three-season use, it can withstand downpours and moderate snow, perfect for late fall and early winter camping. This Kelty tent has a polyester floor, which doesn't shrink when it gets wet. It includes storage pockets, so you can keep track of all your things.

    Pros
    • Features a polyester design, eliminating shrinkage when it gets damp, meaning you can ideally use this for years
    • Built with a lightweight design, making it easy to fit in your backpack
    • Includes a footprint layer, protecting the tent floor from dirt, water, or rips from the ground surface below
    Cons
    • Polyester fly cover can sag in the rain and cause dripping on the inside
    • Polyester has low breathability and is prone to mildew
    • Polyester floor has a limited lifespan compared to other fabrics
For Camping Solo
An image of Kelty 1-Person Gray Freestanding 3-Season 89 X 43 X 29 Inch Tent

Set out into the wilderness for an unforgettable camping trip with the Kelty Freestanding 1-Person Tent. With a freestanding design, this Kelty tent can be assembled anywhere. It is designed to withstand three seasons, so you can use this tent almost any time of the year and it will be able to endure most climates. This 18 sq. ft. tent accommodates one camper.

    Pros
    • Lightweight frame means it will fit in your pack easily without adding a lot of weight
    • Includes a footprint layer, protecting the bottom part of the tent from any wear and tear from debris
    • Sleeps one person, making it an ideal choice for solo campers who just need enough space for themselves
    Cons
    • Polyester fly cover can sag in the rain and cause dripping on the inside
    • 1-person tents don't leave a lot of additional space for storage
    • Polyester floor has a limited lifespan compared to other fabrics
For Family Camping
An image of Kelty Large 6-Person Freestanding 3-Season 120 X 98 X 74 Inch Tent

Let's review the Kelty Freestanding 6-Person Tent, a popular choice among online shoppers. This tent has a freestanding design, meaning it can stand without using stakes. It is designed to withstand three seasons and has an adjustable fly, providing a larger or smaller air passage, depending on climate and weather conditions. It features a polyester floor, which is highly durable and won't be very affected by sun exposure or shrink easily. This tent is equipped with a gear loft and includes nightlight pockets, keeping your essential items all stored in one accessible and convenient spot. It has aluminum poles, which are highly durable and are not likely to snap with applied force.

    Pros
    • Color-coded pole sleeves help speed up the time in which you pitch your tent
    • Features an easy setup, sparing you assembly time so you can get directly to the outdoors
    • Adjustable fly keeps your tent protected from the rain
    Cons
    • Polyester fly cover can sag in the rain and cause dripping on the inside
    • Polyester floor has a limited lifespan compared to other fabrics
    • Freestanding design is the least lightweight option
Best Affordable Option
An image of 12 Survivors Polyester 2-Person Green Freestanding 3-Season 83 X 41 X 44 Inch Tent

With the 12 Survivors Polyester Freestanding 2-Person Tent, you can plan an incredible outdoor adventure. This tent is made from polyester, so it can be packed down to a small size, making it convenient to take with you everywhere you go. It features a freestanding design, so you can easily assemble it and move it around. With the ability to withstand three seasons, it can endure heavy rain and light snow, perfect for late fall and early winter camping. It has aluminum poles, which will stay in good condition even after long-term use. It is designed to fit up to two people. This 12 Survivors tent has sealed seams, so water won't be able to get inside if it rains.

    Pros
    • Features polyester construction, eliminating shrinkage when it gets damp, meaning you can ideally use this for years
    • Sealed seams keep water from coming inside the tent if you get caught in a storm
    • Accommodates a large group of campers and all their gear designed for easy transport on backpacking trips
    Cons
    • Polyester has low breathability and is prone to condensation
    • Freestanding design is the least lightweight option
    • 3-season tents won't resist heavy snow
Best for Livability
An image of Mons Peak IX Polyester 4-Person Freestanding 3-Season 24 X 7.5 X 7.5 Inch Tent

Let's review the Mons Peak IX Polyester Freestanding 4-Person Tent, a popular choice among online shoppers. Constructed from polyester, this tent is lightweight, easily portable, and simple to take with you on your next camping trip. With a freestanding design, it can be set up anywhere but needs poles to stay up. It is designed for three-season use, providing campers with a safe shelter that can withstand inclement weather. This tent has aluminum poles, which are highly durable and are unlikely to break with applied force.

This Mons Peak IX tent includes storage pockets and features gear loops so that you can easily hang a storage unit to keep all your gear handy. It is designed to accommodate four people. It is CPAI-84 Flame Retardant certified. This Mons Peak IX tent includes a carry bag and stakes.

    Pros
    • Features polyester construction, making it lightweight, so you can take on your next trekking experience
    • Built with a lightweight frame, making it great for fast-paced backpacking
    • Made with snag-free materials, keeping the poles from becoming stuck while setting up the tent
    Cons
    • Polyester fly cover can sag in the rain and cause dripping on the inside
    • Polyester is susceptible to becoming very hot in direct sunlight
    • Lightweight frame is usually less roomy than bulkier tents
Additional Picks
An image of ALPS Mountaineering 3-Person Freestanding 3-Season 90 X 70 X 48 Inch Tent

With the ALPS Mountaineering Freestanding 3-Person Tent, you can plan an incredible weekend getaway. This tent features a freestanding design, meaning it can stand without using stakes. It has aluminum poles, which are highly durable and are unlikely to break with applied pressure. Designed for three seasons of the year, it can endure downpours and light snow, perfect for late fall and early winter camping. It is designed with sealed seams, protecting you from heavy rains. This tent is designed to sleep three people. It includes guy ropes and stakes.

    Pros
    • Easy to assemble design can be ready to go in no time and you can focus on having a good time
    • Features sealed seams, keeping water out and your things inside dry
    • Sleeps a large group of people and all their equipment, making it great for spacious solo camping or for going with a couple
    Cons
    • 3-person tents are not spacious enough for accommodating bulky equipment, plus campers
    • Freestanding design is the heaviest tent design
    • 3-season tents are not designed for areas of very harsh wind
An image of Kelty Polyester 2-Person Freestanding 3-Season 88 X 43 X 55 Inch Tent

Go for a vacation in nature using the Kelty Polyester Freestanding 2-Person Tent. Constructed from polyester, this Kelty tent is lightweight which makes it convenient to hike with. With a freestanding design, it can be set up anywhere but needs poles to stay up. Designed for three-season use, it keeps you protected when it's rainy or windy, ideal for summer, fall, and spring weather conditions. It has storage pockets, designed for easier access to all your camping essentials. This tent features a nylon floor, so it doesn't require protective coating as it is a synthetic, impermeable fabric.

    Pros
    • Made of polyester, making it very easy to transport this tent from place to place, due to its virtually weightless quality
    • Features a lightweight design, making it easy to take this tent with you on any hike
    • Accommodates a large group of campers and all their equipment designed for easy transport on backpacking trips
    Cons
    • Polyester has low breathability and is prone to condensation
    • Lightweight tents are designed with delicate fabrics that can rip
    • Freestanding design requires poles which add to the overall weight
3-Season Freestanding Tents: Here's Some More Information To Think About:
Decide on Sleeping Capacity for Your 3-Season Freestanding Tent
5-7 Person Tents

If you need a tent to take on your next trip with your family and friends, a 5-7 person tent is a great option to consider. These tents have a spacious design, so you can go camping with a group of people. They are large enough to house lots of hikers, plus all the equipment and gear needed for your trip. However, they feature a bulky construction, which makes them more difficult to carry.

3-4 Person Tents

There are three 3-season freestanding tents available for 3-4 people. These tents are able to comfortably sleep four people, but is roomy for two or three sleepers. However, they are generally designed without room separators, so sizable groups sharing a tent will sleep in one big open space rather than in separate rooms.

Two Person Tents

Need a tent for two? Take a look at this great 3-season freestanding tent. These tents are a good choice if you need a tent for a couple or usually just go camping with a friend and don't need a tent for bigger groups of people. With a compact construction, they are easy to transport. Something to keep in mind is that they aren't so spacious, so you might not be able to bring all of your belongings inside.

These Are Some of the Materials to Keep in Mind for 3-Season Freestanding Tents
Polyester Tents

If you go camping often, it is important to get the perfect material for your 3-season freestanding tent. These tents effectively resist water, so you'll be totally protected in even the wettest of conditions. They can dry quickly, saving you time when you want to continue on your adventure. However, they are more likely to lose their color due to extended sun exposure. Another drawback is that they limit airflow, so they might feel a bit stuffy inside. If you feel like polyester is right for your 3-season freestanding tent, check out this great one.

Poly-Cotton Canvas Tents

If you go camping often, it is important to get the perfect material for your 3-season freestanding tent. With proper insulation, these tents will keep you warm and comfortable throughout the night. If you want to see what options are available, head on over here to get an idea of an excellent 3-season freestanding tent made from poly-cotton canvas.

190T Polyester Tents

If you go camping often, it is important to get the perfect material for your 3-season freestanding tent. 190T polyester tents can dry quickly, saving you time when you want to continue on your adventure. They resist water, so moisture is less likely to penetrate the material. However, these tents limit airflow, so they might feel stuffy inside. Now that you're a bit of an expert on 190T polyester, you'll want to consider this awesome one.

3-Season Freestanding Tents Have Different Kinds of Poles
Tents with Aluminum Alloy Poles

If you are looking for a 3-season freestanding tent, there are 12 options with aluminum alloy poles to choose from that we think you'll love. Aluminum alloy poles are durable, so they won't easily bend, shatter, or snap. These poles are resistant to corrosion and rust, so they can last for years without deteriorating if handled correctly. They are built of aluminum that has been combined with another metal for superior durability. If you're interested in aluminum alloy poles, get started on choosing the perfect 3-season freestanding tent right here.

Tents with Feather Lite NSL Anodized Poles

If you are looking for a 3-season freestanding tent, there are two options with feather lite NSL anodized poles to choose from that we think you'll love. Feather lite NSL anodized poles are durable, so they won't easily bend, snap, or shatter. Something to consider is that the poles are fragile, so they are likely to shatter if broken and then you'll have to get new ones. If you've made up your mind about pole material and are curious about options available, this 3-season freestanding tent with feather lite NSL anodized poles could be great for you.

Tents with Aluminum Poles

If you're an avid camper, you'll want to know everything about pole material. The aluminum poles will only bend if overloaded, which can be easily repaired. The poles are very strong yet lightweight, making them great if you're always on the move. However, they are prone to corrosion, so they aren't suitable for saline areas. If you've made up your mind about pole material and are curious about options available, this 3-season freestanding tent with aluminum poles could be great for you.