Screen tent set up at a camping site
Screen tent set up at a camping site

11 Best Screen Tents: Which Is Right For You?

Written by Harry Spampinato

When conditions get buggy, owning a screen tent is a MASSIVE game changer. Whether you’re on an extended campout and need a bug-free zone for making meals and game time, or simply want to enjoy the beach or your backyard patio space without being accosted by mosquitos and other biting pests, we’ve tracked down the best screen tent options for every scenario so you can enjoy the outdoors without the bug bites this season!

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Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Are Serious

Mosquitos and other biting bugs are not only a frustrating nuisance when you're trying to enjoy the outdoors, but also a serious threat to one's health. Mosquitos can carry potentially life-threatening diseases such as dengue virus, malaria, Zika, and West Nile virus, so protecting yourself from prolonged exposure should be taken seriously.

Check out this informative piece from the CDC in order to learn more about mosquito-borne illnesses and how to minimize your risk.

Pop-Up Screen Tents

Pop-up style screen tents are arguably the quickest and easiest style options to erect and break down - so if you're seeking a brainless, easy-to-implement choice, this is likely the best avenue.

Designed similar to many standard camping canopies and beach tents, you simply pull the frame open, raise the legs, and deploy the mesh side walls to set these shelters up.  They don't entail a bunch of moving parts, and there's virtually no learning curve in regards to setup.

Continue reading more details on the best screen tents to keep you protected outside here.

Media Mentions

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zoe Gates
Editor at Backpacker

Media Mentions

In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange
Hiker

Media Mentions

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker