Choosing a tent sometimes feels like picking a travel buddy: do you want something lively and modern, or something classic and dependable? Vango offers both inflatable AirBeam tents and traditional poled tents, and each style brings its own personality to the campsite. This guide breaks down the practical differences: setup, stability, weight, repairability, price, and suitability. So you can pick the Vango tent that best fits your adventures. Light, professional, and slightly cheeky? Absolutely. Let’s dive in.
What are Vango AirBeam and Vango Poled tents?
Vango AirBeam tents ditch metal or fibreglass poles and use inflatable air tubes (beams) that you pump up. When inflated, these beams act as the structural frame holding the tent upright. Vango’s AirBeam technology is designed to be fast, reliable, and surprisingly wind-resistant, making it a favorite for family and festival camping.
Vango Poled tents use rigid poles (fibreglass or aluminium) that slot together to form the tent’s skeleton. Classic camping tech - simple, proven, and dependable. Vango’s poled designs often feature clever layouts and durable materials for long-lasting performance in all conditions.
Both styles use high-quality fabrics, waterproof coatings, and smart internal layouts, but how they behave on the campsite is where the differences really show.
Setup and pitching speed
Vango AirBeam
Inflatable beams make setup quick and fuss-free. Pump the beams, peg the corners, and you’re done.
Ideal if you’re arriving late at a campsite, or if kids are eager to explore while you pitch.
One person can usually set it up alone.
Require assembling poles and threading or clipping them to the flysheet.
Can take longer, especially in windy conditions.
Two people often make pitching easier, though experienced campers can handle it solo.
Takeaway: If convenience and speed matter, Vango AirBeam tents are hard to beat.
Stability and performance in wind and bad weather
Vango AirBeam
Air beams flex under load, absorbing gusts like natural shock absorbers.
Designed to be highly stable in wind, with tensioning points and multiple beams for extra strength.
A puncture in a primary beam is serious, but Vango includes repair kits for emergencies.
Vango Poled tents
Rigid poles resist deformation but can snap if overstressed.
Pole failures are usually repairable with Vango replacement sections or field fixes.
When well-pitched, Vango poled tents can handle wind and rain extremely well.
Takeaway: Both tent types perform well in wind when set up correctly. AirBeam tents absorb gusts better, while poled tents rely on the rigidity of their poles.
Weight, pack size, and transport
Vango AirBeam
Inflatable beams pack down smaller than long poles, but the included pump adds some bulk and weight.
Ideal for car camping, family trips, or festival weekends, but less suitable for backpacking.
Vango Poled tents
Poles can be long and awkward, but lightweight aluminium options are compact.
Better for weight-conscious campers who plan to hike to their site.
Takeaway: Car campers will love either style; backpackers often prefer poled tents for portability.
Durability and repairs
Vango AirBeam
Modern beams are tough but can puncture; Vango includes easy-to-use repair kits.
Non-primary beam punctures are generally easy to patch, while major beams require prompt attention.
Vango Poled tents
Poles can splinter or break, but Vango includes splints or replacement sections.
Field repairs are often easier than with an AirBeam puncture if you don’t have a patch kit.
Takeaway: Both styles are repairable. Pack the repair kit that Vango provides and know how to use it.
Comfort, layout, and liveability
Vango AirBeam tents often feature smooth, flowing curves and generous headroom.
Vango poled tents can have taller peaks and sharp pitches depending on design.
Both tent types include smart living areas, separate sleeping pods, and storage solutions.
Takeaway: Layout, headroom, and porch space matter more than the type of beams or poles.
Cost
Vango AirBeam tents usually carry a premium for convenience and modern tech.
Vango poled tents range from budget-friendly to premium models depending on size, materials, and features.
Takeaway: Expect to pay more for AirBeam convenience, but shop by features rather than just beam type.
Who should choose which?
Choose a Vango AirBeam if:
You want fast, fuss-free pitching (single-person setup friendly).
You’re car camping or festival camping with family.
You value comfort and modern design over ultralight packing.
Choose a Vango Poled tent if:
You’re backpacking or hiking and need compact, lightweight gear.
You prefer mechanical, easily repaired structures.
You want a range of budget or premium options for varying camping styles.
Quick buying checklist
How will you travel to your campsite? (car vs backpack)
How many people and how much gear will you have?
How confident are you in repairing beams or poles in the field?
How often and where will you camp? (wind, rain, festivals)
What’s your budget?
Final thoughts
Vango AirBeam and poled tents each shine in their own way. AirBeam is convenience and speed with a modern twist, perfect for family camping, festivals, and weekend trips. Poled tents offer classic reliability, lighter packing options, and straightforward repairs for trekking and long-distance adventures.
Ultimately, the best Vango tent is the one that suits your style, travel method, and comfort needs. Set it up, test the space, and enjoy the great outdoors.
