Let’s just say it: Gear is expensive!

When on a budget a good alternative to the more expensive options are the Coleman products…especially tents.

As I said in the “Camping Basics: Tent Living is a Very Personal Thing” post, tents are your home away from home and it is good to try and replicate your home as closely as possible. That being said, spending upwards of $500 on a tent is not always realistic. Coleman makes a line of family tents that are solid options for weekends away.

As one reader said of her Coleman tent:

For $100…I thought it was a good buy. We had plenty of space for the pack n play for the baby and our toddler to hang out in his sleeping bag and a queen size air mattress. -Elena (Colorado)

I also like the Coleman tents for their “hinged door”. It makes getting in and out of the tent easy for both children and parents (toting babies or toddlers!). They are roomy and have the capability of withstanding wind storms, thunderstorms and the occasional torrential downpour.

Here are some examples of the Coleman options:

Coleman Elite Evanston 8

Coleman Elite Montana 8

When on a budget for tent buying (and for buying tents in general) do your research. Read reviews of other users as you will be able to determine if the budget option will suit your needs.