When planning a family camping trip, few decisions make as much difference to your comfort as choosing the right tent size. Too small, and you’ll be tripping over each other and your gear; too big, and you’ll be lugging around unnecessary weight and spending extra time setting up.
Vango, one of the UK’s most trusted outdoor brands, offers a wide range of family tents designed for different group sizes, camping styles, and comfort levels. But how do you decide which size is right for you? Let’s break it down step by step.
1. Start with the Number of Campers
The first step is obvious but essential: how many people will be sleeping in the tent? Tent capacity is usually listed as “two-person,” “four-person,” or “six-person,” but these numbers can be a little misleading.
Manufacturers base these figures on how many sleeping bags can physically fit side by side - not necessarily how much space you’ll have to move around or store your belongings. So, if you’re a family of four, you might want to consider a five - or six - person tent for extra comfort, especially if you’re camping for more than a weekend.
Tip: Consider going one size up from your headcount. For instance, a family of three will likely enjoy a roomier four-person tent.
2. Think About Sleeping Arrangements
Next, consider how you like to sleep. Some families prefer separate sleeping compartments, while others enjoy one large shared space.
Many modern Vango tents are designed with multiple bedrooms or “pods”, allowing parents and kids to have their own privacy. Larger tents may also feature divider panels, which can be removed if you’d rather keep the area open.
If your children are younger, a single sleeping area might make sense, as it keeps everyone close and cozy. Older kids or teens, on the other hand, often appreciate their own sleeping pod - and you’ll probably appreciate the peace and quiet too!
3. Factor in Living and Storage Space
Sleeping areas are only part of the equation. You’ll also want enough living space to relax, eat, and store your gear.
For short weekend trips in good weather, you might not spend much time inside the tent, so a compact design with a small porch could suffice. But if you’re camping for a week - or the forecast looks unpredictable - a tent with a generous living area can make all the difference.
Look for features like:
Standing height ceilings for easier movement
Porch or vestibule areas for storing muddy boots and cooking equipment
Built-in storage pockets to help keep things organised
Linked-in or sewn-in groundsheets to keep the interior clean and dry
In short, think about how much time you expect to spend inside the tent and how much gear you plan to bring.
4. Consider the Type of Camping You’ll Be Doing
The right tent size also depends on your camping style.
If you’re car camping, you can afford to go bigger - weight and packed size aren’t major concerns, so a spacious family tent with separate rooms and a large living area is ideal.
If you’re hiking or cycling, however, portability is key. You’ll want a lighter tent, even if that means sacrificing a bit of space. In those cases, a compact design that can sleep your family snugly will make more sense than a larger, heavier one.
5. Plan for the Future
If you’re investing in a quality tent, it’s worth thinking ahead. Your kids may be small now, but they’ll grow - and so will the amount of gear you bring along.
Choosing a slightly larger tent than you currently need ensures it will serve your family for years to come. It also allows room for occasional extras, like friends joining for a weekend or bringing along extra camping furniture.
6. Test the Layout Before You Buy
Before committing to a tent, it’s always worth checking the floor plan and visualising the space. Most Vango tents list their dimensions online, often with layout diagrams that show sleeping and living areas.
A quick tape measure session at home can help you see what that space really feels like and prevent surprises once you’re out in the field.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tent size is about more than just how many people you’re camping with, it’s about ensuring everyone has space to sleep, store their gear, and relax comfortably.
When in doubt, opt for a little more room rather than less. A well-sized Vango tent can turn a simple camping trip into a relaxing family getaway, giving everyone the freedom to enjoy nature without feeling cramped.
So, before you head off on your next adventure, take the time to plan your space wisely - your future self (and your well-rested family) will thank you.
