Canopy tents are such a useful product, it’s hard to imagine a person who couldn’t benefit from ownership – at least occasionally. Whether you need one for an event or you just want it for camping, one certainty in life is complications with the weather, and a canopy tent can mitigate that unpredictability. Sun, rain, snow – some enclosed canopy tents will even protect you from bugs or wind. And having a shelter that you can put up and tear down on a whim for virtually anything life throws at you is undeniably convenient.
We reviewed dozens of canopy tents to find you the best of the best. We considered price and function to deliver you the answer to what canopy is best for the beach? What about camping? We looked at canopies with sides and those that pop up in seconds and listed our findings below.
For the picture of versatility and everything you could need in a canopy tent, look no further than the Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent.
As we researched, we identified the Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent as the clear winner of our top pick spot. With a fast put up and tear down time, and sides to even further protect you from unpleasant environmental conditions, there’s no doubt this canopy tent is the top dog.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Canopy Tents
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy | 4.5 |
| Runner Up | Leader Accessories Instant Canopy | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | American Phoenix Portable Event Canopy Tent | 4.3 |
| Best Beach Canopy Tent | Coleman Instant Beach Canopy | 4.5 |
| Best Pop-Up Canopy Tent | ABCCANOPY Pop Up Canopy | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent
The Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent is all you need to protect anything that can fit under the 10 x 10 ft canopy. It comes with removable side flaps or full valences that are made of the same 400D polyester material that is fire retardant, water resistant, and offers 95% UV protection. They are secured with Velcro so you’ll have no problems putting them up or taking them down. The front wall even comes with a window and door that you can roll up or down for a completely enclosed box. You’ll secure the tent with stakes and rope which are both included and because this tent has a pop-up design where you just pull out and up, the stakes will be by far the most difficult part of set up. (And considering how quickly you’ll be able to secure the stakes and rope once the canopy is up, it still isn’t difficult.)
It also comes with a carrying case that is nothing to discount. Not only does it easily and securely zip up to fit your poles, stakes, ropes, and fabric, it includes three heavy duty handles and wheels to make transport a breeze. There’s an accessory pocket on the inside of the bag that will let you store the stakes and ropes, preventing the never-ending tangles you would get if you just tossed them in a bag.
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon, and all the features we talked about and plenty additional ones we just don’t have room to talk about, purchasing this canopy tent is a safe buy. And, if you’re looking for a little bonus to sweeten the deal, check out the variety you’ll get to chose from: Eleven different colors!
Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent Key Features:
- Banner loops to secure an added banner to the front
- Steel, powder-coated frame with straight legs
- 4 removable Velcro side walls
Our Runner-Up Pick: Leader Accessories Instant Canopy
For an incredible start to your canopy tent and a whole lot of options to add on later, pick up a Leader Accessories Instant Canopy.
The Leader Accessories Instant Canopy measures 10 x 10 feet and comes with the canopy, frame, and a carrying bag on wheels to make transport a bit easier on you. The straight legs provide a true 100 square feet of protection and you can fit roughly 15 people standing underneath comfortably. It is secured to the ground with ropes and stakes, which are included and have loops along the corners of the canopy, making them extra easy to figure out. You could also opt to purchase the weight bags separately and fill them for either an alternative or extra stability.
If you want to purchase side walls or an inner tent to enclose the canopy entirely, you can purchase them separately with the same link. The side walls secure just under the canopy making it rain proof and they secure with elastic bands and hooks so you can install them quickly.
This canopy tent comes with so many add-ons, you are sure to find a configuration that most suits you. And if you aren’t sure, you could buy the standard canopy and add to it later if you choose. It has earned a rating on Amazon of 4.4 stars and we’re convinced you’ll be just as satisfied as the other customers.
Leader Accessories Instant Canopy Key Features:
- Powder-coated steel frame and fully silver back-coated UPF 50+ UV protection fabric
- Side walls, weighted bags and inner tent sold separately
- 3 color choices
Best Budget Pick: American Phoenix Portable Event Canopy Tent
The American Phoenix Portable Event Canopy Tent is a great investment for your family or for your company. If you frequent commercial fairs, expos and the like with your small business, then picking up a canopy tent to keep your booth contained is a great idea. No matter what you use it for, you should plan for a relatively easy set-up with two people and a possible but difficult set-up/tear down for one.
You can choose between different colors or sizes for your canopy and each folds down for a compact storage in between uses. They each also feature a rust and corrosion resistant powder coated steel frame and a water resistant Oxford cloth. You won’t want to keep this canopy up full-time all year long; it just isn’t meant for that. But if the reviews are to be believed, you can do it for about 6-8 months before you start seeing the effect of harsh weather.
If you want to get a solid canopy tent that will really fit the bill for you and your family. And the bill for it isn’t one to break the bank; it’ll only set you back $100. And, remember: if you’re using it for your small business, you can write that off in your taxes!
American Phoenix Portable Event Canopy Tent Key Features:
- Powder-coated steel white frame
- Water resistance Oxford cloth
- 3 size options and 3 color choices
Best Beach Canopy Tent: Coleman Instant Beach Canopy
The Coleman Instant Beach Canopy is just the protection you need for your whole family and offer a reprieve from the blistering sun. You can pop it on your beach car, and once you pick out your spot for the day, set it up in three minutes with just three steps. We’ve struggled longer with setting up a beach umbrella! The 10 x 10 feet will protect you and up to 14 other people comfortably standing or lay down a beach blanket and let your family lounge. This canopy has the potential to turn your beach trip with your family from full of overheated, sun burnt misery to a casual day full of fun and relaxation.
There are 2-way roof vents to keep the air inside the canopy circulating and the poly-guard double thick fabric is made with UV guard to protect you from the harsh rays of the sun. The ropes are permanently attached to the tent canopy so you won’t need to worry about setting that up and securing the stakes with, say buckets full of ocean water, is a convenient way to make sure that the stakes stay put.
With over 1100 customer reviews on Amazon earning it an overall rating of 4.5, there’s no surprise it is Amazon’s choice for canopy tent. And for just under $150, it’s a value that is undeniable, too.
Coleman Instant Beach Canopy Key Features:
- Lightweight pre-attached poles with comfort grips
- Easy-pull wheeled carry bag
- 3 minute, 3 step set up
Best Pop-Up Canopy Tent: ABCCANOPY Pop Up Canopy
The ABCCANOPY Pop Up Canopy is a canopy that goes up in an instant and with its 300D polyester with PU coating, that makes it 100% water proof. The frame is made with a black powder-coated rust-resistant steel with brackets that are 100% durable nylon mold and is 20% stronger than it’s competitors. Set up is made all the faster with its smooth sliding safe push buttons that will raise the canopy to your desired height. The fabric’s seams are even heat sealed, making the waterproof fabric, and the tent itself, a canopy that will last.
Aside from the 20 color choices for the standard tent and carrying case, you can opt for a larger canopy tent (price increases with size) or even sets that come with removable side walls and weighted bags. The carrying bag that comes with the canopy features heavy duty wheels that boasts a lifetime of at least 3 years of regular use. There are two formed rubber handles for lifting and one for rolling, making transport as easy as installation.
With an Amazon rating of 4.5 stars and over 3400 customer reviews, this has well earned its spot as Amazon’s Choice for pop up canopy. And for just $190, you’re definitely getting your money’s worth. The seller frequently runs promotions that will allow you to save a little extra, too.
ABCCANOPY Pop Up Canopy Key Features:
- 100% waterproof and
- 1-year frame warranty
- 18 color options
Who Should Buy a Canopy Tent
If you go camping, you should definitely look into punching up a canopy tent. Even if you have a luxurious camper that has everything you could need, remember the picnic table at most camp sites are chained down to a specific location and most of the time that location isn’t included in the overhang of an awning. If you want to utilize that picnic table, or place a table closer to the fire pit, a canopy tent will go a long way to adding comfort on your camping trip. And if you’re just taking your tent, you’d doubly enjoy having a dry, shaded area that you can escape to from the blistering sun or sudden downpour.
Likewise, a canopy tent can be hugely beneficial if you frequent the beach. Some even come with sand bags rather than stakes to utilize your abundant resource. If you’re planning an outdoor event, a canopy tent is your plan A and the back up plan. Protect your guests or your food, or simply offer a reprieve from the scorching sun.
You’ll also want to keep on mind that once you own a canopy tent, you’ll come up with dozens of ways to use it that you hadn’t considered. No matter what you buy it for, there will definitely be other uses that come up.
For the picture of versatility and everything you could need in a canopy tent, look no further than the Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent.
Important Features to Consider
A canopy tent should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a canopy tent:
- Slanted or straight legs. The stability of the tent isn’t as drastically affected as you may think by whether the legs are slanted or straight, but the straight legs do offer some added strength of the construction. The look may not appeal to you as much, though. The primary deciding factor will probably be the aesthetics, but you’ll also want to consider that the footprint of a canopy tent with straight legs will equal the square footage of your protection. That is to say, if you have a 10 x 10 ft canopy with slanted legs, the space you need could be 100 square feet but you’ll only actually get, say, 62 sq ft of protection.
- Walls. You may not think walls are particularly important but consider: Rain often comes with wind. If you’re under a canopy it won’t do much to protect you if the rain is coming at you sideways. Even if there’s no rain, you’ll still have to contend with wind and more often, shadows of the sun may make your canopy effective as a sun guard less than you think.
- Pop-up functionality. If you plan on using your canopy tent frequently and moving it often, then you may want to consider a tent that pops up with ease. You lose a bit of stability, of course, by not putting up a more permanent fixture, but when comparing how much time you save on set-up and break down, you will definitely not regret it. It may not be the best choice for a permanent carport in your drive, but there are still plenty of other options that will make this the most versatile type of canopy tent.
- Sturdy construction. The construction of the legs are typically aluminum or steel. Aluminum is slightly less durable than steel, but it’s also significantly less weight. The canopy material is most often going to be vinyl because that offers UV protection and is water proof. If the material on your canopy is something else, make sure it still offers these features or at least take them into consideration.
- Screens. Even if you opt to pass on the walls you may want to consider mesh screens that will help keep bugs away. You can pick a canopy tent that has removable (or at least rolling) screened or mesh sides to protect your food from those pesky flies or when those mosquitoes start buzzing, you can roll those sides down and still keep yourself protected from the bites.
- Weights. You’re going to need something to weight your canopy tent down. That could be stakes, but more than likely it’ll be weighted bags that you will secure to the legs. Some canopy tents will come with them, and others will need to be purchased separately. Beach canopy tents will likely come with empty bags and allow you to utilize the infinite resource: sand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a canopy tent?
A canopy tent, at its root, is a relatively simple design. A fabric roof that is secured to 4 metal legs to hang it above something you want to protect. There are several alterations that make the canopy tent more convenient and versatile. 10 ft by 10 ft is the most common size of tent and you can get a lot of use out of that size tent. Of course, the larger the material, the bigger the area of protection, so consider how much more you can put under a larger canopy tent. You can find tents that also feature side walls or mesh screens that convert your canopy tent into protection from all kinds of factors. Screens will eliminate your mosquito bites and side walls will offer full protection from rain and sun.
What are canopy tents used for?
Everything. You can use a canopy tent for so many things, it’s hard to narrow down the answer. We can definitely expand on a few purposes that you’ll appreciate, though. A more permanent canopy tent comes with solid poles that won’t fold or compress for travel and using them for daily protection holds its own appeal. You can create a car port or a cover for your deck that will help keep these areas as usable space all year long. You could even use these seasonally if you want to offer shade for your collapsible pool. But if you don’t have that pool up all year long (you don’t want to kill your grass, do you?) then having a pop-up canopy tent that you can put up and take down as much as a kiddie pool holds its own appeal, too.
You can use canopy tents for formal affairs like an outdoor wedding or for your day trip to the beach. Our favorite purpose for a canopy tent, though, is camping. Because you can never be too prepared when you’re camping, a canopy tent that folds up and stores easily is a great way to prepare for poor weather. You don’t sleep under the canopy tent (although you could put it up over a hammock), you use it to protect other areas of your camp site. Primarily the table. You’ll love putting the canopy tent over the picnic table already at the site or the table you bring along with you. Even if you just put it up as an awning to your tent or RV, you’ll love having a buffer zone from sleeping quarters to a potentially muddy ground.
How many tables and chairs can fit under a 20 x 20 canopy tent?
If you’re using your canopy tents to entertain with tables and chairs, you should plan for each 20 x 20 tent to comfortably fit 32 people. But that’s an overly simple answer because the real answer is, of course, dependent on what kind of tables you’re using. You can fit four 60-in round tables with eight people sitting at each table; 32 people. If you’re using cocktail tables, then you can fit about 68 people. For eight foot banquet tables, plan for about 40 people, give or take. If you want to nix the tables all together and have rowed seating (for a wedding, for example), then you can get about 68-70 guests.
We would be remiss to not issue a warning for putting two 20 x 20 tents together: Make sure the seam is sealed. That could be as simple as a strip of rainproof material or as complicated as an awning or tarp to secure the two peaks of the canopy tents. No matter what method you choose, though, you’ll want to make sure you have a barrier so that the physical middle of your event isn’t rained on.
How do you secure a canopy tent?
Different canopy tents are secured by different methods. The most common is for the tent legs to be weighted down. You can use weight plates designed to go around the legs of a canopy tent like the Quick Shade Canopy Weight Plate set. They also sell weight bags for a canopy tent; The Punchau Pop Up Canopy Weights even comes with stakes to help secure the ground and keep them from getting knocked away. You can fill those bags (or really any kind of durable bag could work) with your choice of weight; sand, dirt, gallons of water – anything heavy will work.
The primary alternative to the weights is to secure the tent with stakes. This may be a cost efficient option, but keep in mind it will also be the more time consuming because you will need to secure rope and bury the stakes into a strong ground. You can’t do this in all areas, either; particularly not a sandy beach. The most secure way to keep your canopy tent standing is a combination of both methods.
Other Canopy Tents We Reviewed
For the picture of versatility and everything you could need in a canopy tent, look no further than the Eurmax New Basic Ez Pop Up Canopy Instant Tent.
We looked at 20 other canopy tents. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best canopy tents list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your family. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing. We’ve broken the listings into the following categories for your convenience:
Beach Canopy Tents
This lightweight canopy won’t weigh you down as you carry it; it only weighs between 4 and 5 pounds (depending on your size choice).
Key Features:
- 3 size and 10+ color choices
- Eco-Friendly sport fabric offers a UV 50 protection
- Includes 2 poles and 4 sandbags to secure
Cost: $65
Happy Summer Sunshade Beach Tent Canopy
This beach canopy uses a Lycra fabric to create a UV protection of 50+ for your friends and family.
Key Features:
- Carrying bag, 2 poles and 4 sandbags included
- Machine washable
- 2 size and 5 color options
Cost: $75
This nylon and Lycra blend of fabric combines to create a UV resistant and water repellent oasis from the sun and rain.
Key Features:
- 7ft tall, 9’W x 9’L
- 8 color choices
- Lightweight; only 6.5 lbs
Event Canopy Tents
Kinbor Canopy Wedding Party Tent
This canopy tent comes in six color choices and a variety of size options, so get just want you need for your next event.
Key Features:
- Powder-coated heavy duty steel frame
- Waterproof silver backed oxford fabric
- Includes black carrying bag
Cost: $135
Outdoor Basic Pop up Canopy Party Wedding Gazebo Tent
You get to pick if you want four or six side walls with this canopy so you can connect two, leave one side open or fully enclose it to protect the guests or contents.
Key Features:
- 4 color choices
- Includes carrying case with handles and wheels
- Each sidewall features 3-part window
Cost: $190
Shade Tree Heavy Duty Event, Party, Wedding Tent, Canopy
This canopy tent can be your indoors in the outdoors; it’s a large-sized temporary venue for your upcoming big event.
Key Features:
- 20′ x 30′ enclosed canopy
- Galvanized steel frame
- Blocks 90% of sun’s rays for UV protection
Cost: $600
TANGKULA Outdoor Pop-Up Canopy Tent
This classy pop-up canopy is a great addition to an outdoor event that will protect without limiting access.
Key Features:
- 2 windowed side walls and 2 draped door side walls
- Powder-coated steel tubes & connectors
- 100% waterproof silver lined oxford cloth
Cost: $85
TentandTable White Canopy Pole Tent
This is a great option to offer a bit of protection to your guests while still keeping that outdoor feel.
Key Features:
- 20′ x 20′
- Fire resistant vinyl cover
- Secures with included ropes and stakes
Multi-Use Canopy Tents
This canopy is excellent for a long term use like a car port or covering a patio through the summer.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty bungee cords secure cover to poles
- Double polyethylene fabric is UV and water-resistant
- White powder coated steel frame
Cost: $190
ABCCANOPYEZ Pop up Canopy Tent Instant Shelter
You’ll have all you need for set up with this tent canopy; it includes a carrying bag and six weight bags.
Key Features:
- 100% waterproof
- 10′ x 20′ canopy
- 1-year warranty
Cost: $260
ABCCANOPY Straight Leg Pop-up Canopy
The side walls of this canopy tent are secured to each other with zippers and to the poles with eight Velcro straps for each pole.
Key Features:
- 4 weight bags and carrying case included
- Heat sealed seams
- 100% waterproof
Cost: $400
Choose 10 feet by 10, 15 or 20 feet to customize your tent to your specific use and you’ll get to pick from 8 colors, too.
Key Features:
- Water resistant Oxford cloth
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Extending legs adjust to desired height
Cost: $180
Cool-Off Mid Pressure Misting Tents
For an incredible addition to a standard canopy, try one that will mist cool water to keep you and your guests from overheating.
Key Features:
- Fine mist water releases every 2 ft of canopy
- Secures with included stakes and ropes
- 10 ft x 10 ft
Cost: $600
CORE Instant Shelter Pop-Up Canopy Tent
With a 4.1 star rating and over 250 customer reviews, the fact that this canopy is Amazon’s Choice for 10′ x 10′ canopy isn’t surprising.
Key Features:
- 10′ x 10′ canopy
- Pre-assembled frame for easy set up
- 1-year warranty
Cost: $155
CROWN SHADES Slant Leg Instant Canopy
This canopy tent doesn’t just come with a side wall, this side wall is already installed and permanent so you won’t struggle taking it off and putting it on.
Key Features:
- 6′ x 6′ cover with 8′ x 8′ foot print
- Backpack for transport
- 1-year warranty
Cost: $70
CROWN SHADES Patented Outdoor Pop up Portable Shade Instant Folding Canopy
The legs of this canopy extend and lock into place with latches and the foot of each leg is secured with two stakes each.
Key Features:
- Peak Height: 9.19 ft
- White-powder-coated steel frame
- Roller bag included for transport
Cost: $145
This straight-legged canopy will give you a full 100 square feet of coverage and comes with its own roller carrying bag, as well.
Key Features:
- Roller bag included with shoulder strap
- 2 color choices
- 10′ x 10′ cover and footprint
Cost: $130
Protect yourself with the standard canopy tent and create an extra barrier from the elements, too, with the removable sidewall.
Key Features:
- 10′ x 10′
- Includes 1 removable side wall
- 3 adjustable heights
Cost: $135
Quictent Heavy Duty Tent Canopy
This semi-permanent fixture would make an excellent car port or a great shelter for a wood pile in the woods.
Key Features:
- Heavy duty powder coated steel pole frame
- Reinforced polyethylene material is Tear-proof, Waterproof and Anti-UV
- Limited warranty; lifetime on connectors, 1-year for frame and cover
Cost: $190
Quik Shade Expedition Slant Leg Instant Canopy
This slanted-leg canopy tent uses patented push/pull sliding latches that will let you adjust the height as you see fit.
Key Features:
- Powder coated steel frame
- Durable 150D fabric cover with 99% UV protection
- 7 color options
Cost: $85
