Vango vs Outwell vs Coleman: Family Tent Brands Compared

This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

You’ve decided the family is going camping this summer, and now you’re on Go Outdoors’ website at midnight looking at tents that all seem the same but cost wildly different amounts. Vango, Outwell, and Coleman are the three brands you keep seeing, and every review site puts them in a different order. Having camped with all three across various UK campsites — from the mud baths of Glastonbury pre-tent to proper family sites in the Lakes — I can tell you they’re each good at different things. The right choice depends on what kind of camping you actually do.

The Three Brands at a Glance

Before getting into the detail, here’s the broad picture.

Vango

Scottish brand, been making tents since 1966. Known for AirBeam inflatable tent technology and strong mid-range family tents. Their Odyssey and Skye ranges are some of the most popular family tents in the UK. Price range: £250-800 for family models.

Outwell

Danish brand that positions itself as the premium option. Their tents feel like temporary houses — thick fabrics, integrated groundsheets, blackout bedrooms. The build quality is a step above, and so are the prices. Range: £400-1,200 for family models.

Coleman

American brand, the value option in this comparison. Coleman tents are well-engineered, reliable, and priced to undercut the competition. They won’t win any luxury awards, but they’ll keep your family dry on a budget. Range: £150-500 for family models.

Tent Construction and Design

The way a tent is built determines how it performs in wind, rain, and the general chaos of family camping.

Pole Materials

Vango uses a mix of steel, fibreglass, and their proprietary AirBeam technology. The AirBeam tents use inflatable beams instead of poles — you pump them up with a hand pump in about 10 minutes. The non-inflatable ranges use standard alloy poles.
Outwell uses premium steel and fibreglass poles in their standard range, and their own “Smart Air” inflatable system in the higher-end models. Outwell’s steel poles are noticeably thicker gauge than both competitors.
Coleman primarily uses fibreglass poles in their family range, with steel for the larger tunnel tents. Fibreglass is lighter but more prone to snapping in strong wind than steel or inflatable beams.

Flysheet Materials

The outer layer — the bit that keeps rain out — varies in quality.

Vango: Protex 70D polyester, typically 3,000-4,000mm hydrostatic head (HH). Solid for UK conditions.
Outwell: Outtex 100% polyester, typically 4,000-6,000mm HH. The higher spec means better rain resistance and durability.
Coleman: Polyester, typically 2,000-3,000mm HH. Adequate for normal UK rain but can struggle in sustained heavy downpours.

For context, light rain produces about 1,000mm of pressure. A typical UK summer storm hits about 2,000-3,000mm. So Coleman’s lower-spec tents will keep you dry in normal conditions, but if you camp in Scotland or during October half-term, you’ll want Vango’s or Outwell’s higher HH ratings. The Met Office’s tips for camping in wet and windy weather has practical advice on reading forecasts before you pitch.

Groundsheets

Vango: fully integrated, sewn-in groundsheet (bathtub style) on most family models. Good protection from ground moisture.
Outwell: fully integrated with sealed seams on all family tents. The groundsheet material is thicker than both competitors — you can feel the difference underfoot.
Coleman: varies by model. Some have fully integrated groundsheets, others use clip-in systems. The clip-in ones are easier to clean but less waterproof at the edges.

Weatherproofing: Who Handles UK Weather Best

This is where the brands separate most clearly, and it matters because UK camping weather is reliably unreliable.

Rain Performance

Outwell leads here. Their higher hydrostatic head ratings and sealed seams mean they handle sustained rain better than either competitor. After 12 hours of continuous rain at a Cumbrian campsite, our Outwell Broadlands 6 showed zero leaks. The Vango handled the same conditions fine but showed some condensation on the inner walls. I wouldn’t trust a budget Coleman in the same situation without additional waterproofing spray.

Wind Resistance

Outwell: thick steel poles and lower profiles make their tents the most wind-stable. They don’t flap and crack in the wind the way lighter tents do.
Vango AirBeam: the inflatable beams flex rather than snap, which sounds alarming but actually handles gusts well. In strong wind, they wobble but don’t break. The trade-off is more movement and noise inside the tent.
Coleman: the weakest in strong wind. Fibreglass poles can snap if a gust catches the tent wrong, and the lighter fabric flaps more. Fine for sheltered valley campsites, not ideal for exposed hilltop pitches.

Condensation

All three produce condensation in cool, humid UK mornings. Outwell manages it best thanks to better ventilation design and thicker inner walls. Vango is close behind. Coleman tents can feel damp on autumn mornings — pack a microfibre cloth and wipe the walls before the kids notice.

Inside a family tent with sleeping bags and gear

Living Space and Layout

Family camping isn’t just about sleeping — it’s about the living space where you sit out rainstorms, cook meals, and try to stop a toddler escaping through the tent door.

Porch and Living Area

Outwell excels here. Their family tents typically have massive front porches with zip-off panels, creating a semi-outdoor living space. The Broadlands 6 has a living area larger than some studio flats I’ve rented.
Vango offers generous living areas in the Odyssey and Skye ranges, with adjustable dividers so you can configure the space. Not quite Outwell-level, but well designed.
Coleman living areas are functional but smaller. You’ll fit a table and chairs, but it’ll feel tighter than the other two.

Bedroom Design

Outwell: blackout bedrooms on most models. These are genuinely impressive — they block 99% of light, which means kids sleep past 5am when the sun rises in June. Worth the premium alone if you value your morning lie-in.
Vango: standard inner tents with some blackout options on premium models. Adequate but not as dark as Outwell’s.
Coleman: standard inner tents. Light comes through. Bring eye masks.

Height and Headroom

All three brands make tents with standing height (180cm+) in the living area, which is essential for family camping. Outwell tents tend to be tallest, with some models offering 210cm+ peak height. Vango and Coleman sit around 190-200cm. If you’re over 6ft, check the specific model’s peak height before buying.

Ease of Setup

You’ve driven four hours, the kids are arguing, and it’s starting to spit. How quickly can you get the tent up?

Inflatable Tents (Vango AirBeam / Outwell Smart Air)

The biggest shift in family camping in years. Instead of threading poles through sleeves, you connect a pump to each beam and inflate. A 6-person tent goes up in 10-15 minutes with one adult. We’ve timed it. The initial learning curve is minimal — if you can pump up an air mattress, you can pitch an AirBeam tent.

Both Vango and Outwell make excellent inflatable family tents. Vango pioneered the technology and has more budget-friendly inflatable options. Outwell’s Smart Air system feels more premium but costs accordingly.

Pole Tents

Coleman’s pole tents take longer — budget 25-40 minutes for a 6-person family tunnel tent with two adults. Fibreglass poles are light but fiddly, and colour-coding varies by model. Vango’s pole tents sit in between — their pre-bent alloy poles are easier to work with than Coleman’s fibreglass.

Pack-Down

Packing away is where tents test your patience. Inflatable tents deflate in seconds but rolling them compactly takes practice — they’re bulkier than pole tents when you get it wrong. Coleman’s pole tents pack down smaller, which matters if your car boot is already full of sleeping bags and a cool box.

Durability and Build Quality

How long will each tent last with normal family use?

Fabric Quality

Outwell uses the thickest, most robust fabrics. Their tents feel substantial — there’s a weight and density to the material that the others don’t match. Vango sits in the middle with good-quality polyester that holds up well across seasons. Coleman’s fabrics are thinner and more prone to wear, especially at stress points around zips and pole sleeves.

Zip Quality

Often overlooked, always important. Outwell uses heavy-duty YKK-style zips that survive sandy hands and repeated use. Vango zips are reliable. Coleman zips are the weakest point — I’ve had a Coleman zip fail on the third camping trip, which is frustrating when it’s the main door zip and rain is forecast.

Expected Lifespan

Outwell: 8-15 years with proper care. Some Outwell owners report 10+ years of annual use.
Vango: 5-10 years. The AirBeam bladders can be replaced if they puncture, extending the tent’s life.
Coleman: 3-6 years. At the lower price point, this is reasonable — you’re paying less per camping trip even with a shorter lifespan.

Price and Value

Here’s where Coleman’s pitch makes sense.

Typical Family Tent Prices (4-6 Person)

Coleman Ridgeline 6 Plus: about £250-300 (Go Outdoors, Amazon UK)
Vango Skye 600: about £350-450 (Go Outdoors, Cotswold Outdoor)
Vango Odyssey Air 600: about £500-650 (Cotswold Outdoor, Millets)
Outwell Broadlands 6A: about £650-800 (Cotswold Outdoor, Outwell UK)
Outwell Birchdale 6PA: about £900-1,100 (Outwell UK, specialist retailers)

Cost Per Night

If you camp 10 nights a year:

Coleman: £250 tent lasting 4 years = 40 nights = £6.25 per night
Vango: £400 tent lasting 7 years = 70 nights = £5.71 per night
Outwell: £750 tent lasting 10 years = 100 nights = £7.50 per night

Vango actually offers the best value per night in this calculation. Coleman’s lower upfront cost doesn’t stretch as far when you factor in lifespan. Outwell is the most expensive per night, but you get the most comfortable experience.

The Second-Hand Market

Worth mentioning: Outwell and Vango tents hold their value on eBay and Facebook Marketplace. A 3-year-old Outwell tent in good condition sells for 40-50% of retail. Coleman tents have almost no resale value. If you might sell and upgrade later, the premium brands pay back.

Which Brand for Which Camper

Buy Outwell If…

You camp 5+ times a year and want a comfortable base
You camp in unpredictable weather (Scotland, Lakes, autumn half-term)
Sleeping in and dry living space are priorities
You’re willing to invest once and keep the tent for years
You have the car space — Outwell tents are heavy and bulky

Buy Vango If…

You want the best balance of quality, features, and price
AirBeam technology appeals (quick setup is important with kids)
You camp 3-5 times a year in mixed UK conditions
You want a tent that’s good at everything without being the most expensive

Buy Coleman If…

You’re new to family camping and not sure how often you’ll go
Budget is the primary concern
You camp mainly in summer on sheltered, well-maintained sites
You want a functional tent without paying for premium features
You’re happy replacing it in a few years if camping becomes a regular thing

For more on choosing the right tent for your experience level, our beginner’s tent guide covers the basics.

Our Specific Recommendations

Best Overall: Vango Odyssey Air 600

About £500-650. The AirBeam setup, solid weatherproofing, generous living space, and mid-range price make this the tent I recommend to most families. It handles everything the UK throws at it without Outwell’s premium price tag. Available at Go Outdoors, Cotswold Outdoor, and Millets.

Best Premium: Outwell Broadlands 6A

About £650-800. If you know you love camping and want the best experience, this is the tent. Blackout bedrooms, cathedral-like living space, and build quality that’ll last a decade. Worth every penny if you use it regularly.

Best Budget: Coleman Ridgeline 6 Plus

About £250-300. A solid first family tent. It won’t impress tent snobs, but it’ll keep your family dry on a July weekend in Devon, and if you decide camping isn’t for you, you haven’t spent a fortune finding out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Vango or Outwell? Outwell makes the higher-quality tent with better fabrics, weatherproofing, and features like blackout bedrooms. Vango offers the better value with nearly as good performance at a lower price. For most UK families, Vango is the sweet spot. For frequent campers who want the best, Outwell justifies the premium.

Are Coleman tents any good for UK camping? Yes, for fair-weather summer camping on sheltered sites. They keep you dry in normal rain and set up without drama. They struggle in sustained heavy rain and strong wind compared to Vango and Outwell, and they don’t last as long. Good for trying camping without a big investment.

Is an inflatable tent better than a pole tent? For family camping, yes. Inflatable tents go up in 10-15 minutes versus 25-40 for pole tents, and the beams flex in wind rather than snapping. Both Vango AirBeam and Outwell Smart Air systems are reliable. The only downside is pack size — inflatable tents are bulkier to transport.

How much should I spend on a family tent? Between £300-600 covers most families well. Below £250, you’re compromising on weatherproofing and durability. Above £800, you’re paying for luxury features. A Vango in the £400-500 range offers the best balance of quality and value for UK conditions.

How long do family tents last? Coleman tents last 3-6 years, Vango 5-10 years, and Outwell 8-15 years with proper care. Store them dry, repair small tears promptly, and re-proof the flysheet every 2-3 years. A well-maintained tent far outlasts one stuffed away damp after every trip.

In This Article