I’m looking for tent recommendations suitable for car camping a few times a year in various weather conditions in Texas. My first trip will be in January and my budget is up to $500. What are some good choices?
Gazelle tents are quite popular and might meet your needs. Worth a look!
Considering it’s a 3-season tent setup you’re looking for (assuming no snow), you have a lot of options. How many people need to fit? Do you want to be able to stand up inside?
Charlie said:
Considering it’s a 3-season tent setup you’re looking for (assuming no snow), you have a lot of options. How many people need to fit? Do you want to be able to stand up inside?
It’s usually just me, my wife, and our small dog, but I’d like a lot of room for gear, so I’m considering 6-person tents.
@Zora
Here’s an option that might suit your needs well within your budget: Core Equipment 6 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent. We use a similar size Coleman for car camping with kids and cots. Also, if you haven’t tried it, a cot with a thermal sleeping pad makes car camping quite comfortable.
@Zora
You might also consider the Nemo Aurora Highrise or the Agnes Bunk House.
I can’t recommend the Gazelle tents enough.
For car camping, I highly recommend Kodiak Canvas tents. My family of four, plus our dog, have used ours extensively for the last five years. It’s extremely durable, and setup is a breeze. We have the 10x14, but they also make a 10x10. It’s a bit over $500 but worth the investment for its longevity.
@Drue
Kodiak is top-notch. I have the 10x10 and it feels like it will last forever.
Have you considered using the car itself as a sleeping space? REI’s Trailgate cot is perfect for this, if you can find one.
Keagan said:
Have you considered using the car itself as a sleeping space? REI’s Trailgate cot is perfect for this, if you can find one.
I carry a lot of tools and a full-size jack in the back, so that’s not feasible for me.
@Zora
In that case, I suggest building a sleeping platform. It’s convenient to ‘set up’ camp by just parking, especially after dark. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the wind!
Keagan said:
@Zora
In that case, I suggest building a sleeping platform. It’s convenient to ‘set up’ camp by just parking, especially after dark. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the wind!
I generally advise against rooftop setups because if you want to drive around during the day, you have to pack up your camp.
@Charlie
I was suggesting sleeping inside the car, not on the roof. 
You might want to look at Onetigris or MC Tomount tents available on Amazon.
Have you tried the Ozark Trails 7-person TeePee from Walmart? It’s great in various weather conditions, has four windows, a large door for ventilation, and it only cost $50!
Choose something with a full rainfly, especially given the intense thunderstorms in Texas. MSR Elixir series tents are well-suited for storms. Nemo Aurora and Marmot Limelight are also good options. Kelty Caboose looks interesting for car-specific camping, and for budget-friendly choices, the Klymit Cross Canyon 4 is spacious and has a solid fly.
Consider the Alps Taurus 6-person tent or their Browning series.
Are you looking for a quick setup, or are you okay with some assembly required? And do you need room to move around inside the tent in addition to space for everyone and the gear?
Love your 4Runner setup!