Are you in search of a spacious and easy-to-set-up tent for your next family camping trip? Look no further than the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent. With its three-room design and instant set-up feature, it’s the perfect choice for large families or groups of friends looking for a comfortable and convenient camping experience. In this blog, I’ll be taking a closer look at the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent and sharing my thoughts on its features, materials, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, this review will help you decide if the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is right for your camping needs
Key features & benefits
- Incredibly fast setup, in 2 minutes.
- 3 rooms.
- 2 huge doors with windows.
- 7 separate windows.
- Fits 3 queen size beds.
- Great price.
- 2 large vents close to the floor.
What is in the name – what type is this
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is a remarkable structure that’s sure to impress any camper. Before you raise it completely, with its eight main vertical poles connected by roof poles, it looks like a giant spider. This tent is also included in my list of 3-room family camping tents, which means it’s ideal for larger groups or families who need plenty of space.
Here are the main features of the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent:
1. Instant Tent:
One of the standout features of this tent is that it’s an instant tent, meaning that the frame is pre-assembled and attached to the tent. So you only have to spread it and extend the telescopic poles. This brand is known for such instant tents and they all are listed here. This feature makes setting up camp quick and hassle-free, so you can start enjoying your camping trip right away.
2. Telescopic Poles:
In addition to its instant set-up feature, the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent also boasts telescopic poles, which help to create a stable and durable frame for the tent. These poles are designed to fit together easily and securely, making it easy to set up the tent on your own.
3. Cabin Type:
This tent is also a cabin-type tent. This terminology is described in detail in my separate text. Here, just to stress that this implies that the tent is very tall, 80 inches (2.03 m), and with straight and very steep walls. This design allows for maximum headroom and space inside the tent, making it feel more like a cabin than a tent.
4.3-Season Type:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is also a 3-season type tent, which means that it’s designed for use in moderate weather situations, i.e., as a summer camping tent. This is because the tent has a lot of mesh, so the ceiling is only a mesh, and you have huge windows on all sides and two huge doors. Obviously, such a structure does not preserve the warmth. The fly is minimal, and the tent is very tall, so it is a huge obstacle in the case of side winds. However, the tent is perfect for use during the warmer months when ventilation and airflow are important.
Who is it for:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is a great option for families or larger groups of campers who need plenty of space to spread out and relax. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when deciding if this tent is right for you:
Transportation:
Regarding transportation, it’s important to note that the Core 12 Instant Cabin Tent is a heavy tool, weighing 52.55 lb (23.84 kg). As such, it’s not ideal for backpacking or hiking trips and is better suited for car camping. You will therefore need to use it in places with car access. The tent also has a large packed size of 51 x 12 inches (130 x 30 cm), which may not fit easily in smaller cars.
Capacity:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent has a floor area of 180 square feet (16.7 m²), which equates to approximately 1.4 m² per person in the case of the declared capacity of 12 people. While this may seem like a lot of space, it’s important to keep in mind that this capacity is likely an overestimate, and the tent may not comfortably fit 12 people. However, it can still accommodate large families or groups for quick overnight stays.
Setting the tent up:
One of the most appealing features of the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is its quick and easy setup. With the right approach, it’s possible to set up the tent in just a few minutes. Here’s what you need to know:
Instant Setup:
As mentioned earlier, the tent is an instant tent, which means that the frame is pre-assembled and attached to the tent. This makes the setup process much quicker and easier than with traditional tents. You simply need to unfold the tent, extend the telescopic poles, and lock them into place.
Solo Setup:
You might be wondering if you need multiple people to set up the tent. However, as demonstrated in this video, it’s possible to set up the tent alone in a matter of minutes. With a bit of practice, you can become quite efficient at setting up the tent on your own.
Tips for Successful Setup:
To ensure a smooth and stress-free setup process, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you have a clear and level area to set up the tent. This will help prevent any issues with the tent’s stability or balance.
- Taking the tent down: Just as setting up the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is quick and easy, taking it down is also a breeze. Here’s what you need to know to pack up the tent efficiently:
- Popup Buttons: The tent’s telescopic poles are equipped with popup buttons that lock the poles in their required length. To take down the tent, simply press these buttons and the tent will collapse.
- Folding the Tent: Once the tent has collapsed, you can begin folding it. Start by folding the tent in half, lengthwise. Then, fold it in half again, this time widthwise. Finally, fold the tent in thirds, starting from the door end and working your way back.
- Packing the Tent: With the tent properly folded, you can pack it back into its carrying bag. The tent’s packed size is 51 x 12 inches (130 x 30 cm), so you may need to compress it slightly to fit it into the bag. However, with some careful maneuvering, you should be able to pack the tent away neatly and efficiently.
Materials and Structure:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is constructed with high-quality materials that are designed to provide durability and protection from the elements. Here’s a closer look at the tent’s materials and structure:
Floor:
The tent’s floor is made of standard polyethylene (PE) that is waterproof and has a weight of 115 g/m. This material provides a sturdy and durable foundation for the tent.
Tent and Fly:
The tent and fly are made of polyester 68D, which is lightweight yet durable. The waterproofness rating of the fly is 600 mm, which is better than an umbrella’s typical rating of 400-500 mm. The tent and fly also use H20 Block Technology, which combines water-repellent fabrics with active bead technology for faster water runoff. Sealed seams and rain-resistant seals also help keep the interior dry during wet conditions.
Windows and Doors:
The tent’s windows and doors are made with mesh and waterproof polyester panels. The mesh is not a no-see-um mesh but still provides good ventilation and airflow. The doors are located on opposite sides of the central section and are equipped with small awnings. The back door is D-shaped and has a window parallel to it, while the front door is a huge double door with an inverted T-shaped zipper.
Poles:
The tent’s poles are made of steel, which adds to the tent’s weight. The roof poles converge towards the center and are attached to a hub structure at the highest point. The eight vertical poles are telescopic and can be extended to the required length using popup buttons that lock them in place.
Removable Dividers:
The tent’s two dividers are removable, providing flexibility in how you use the interior space.
Fully Freestanding:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is fully freestanding, which means it can be pitched on any terrain. The fly can also be used without fixing it to the ground, as long as you don’t expect extreme weather conditions. The fly clips to the eight vertical poles, but to ensure full functionality and security, it’s recommended to stake it if possible.
Ventilation:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent features a highly effective venting system that helps to regulate temperature and promote airflow throughout the interior of the tent. Here’s what you need to know:
Air Intake Vents:
The tent has adjustable air intake vents on both sides of the tent, located close to the floor. These vents allow cool air to be drawn into the tent, while warmer air escapes through the mesh ceiling. This creates a natural airflow that helps to regulate temperature and keep the interior of the tent comfortable.
Guylines:
The air intake vents are covered by guylines that can be staked out to make the airflow more efficient. These guylines help to channel air directly into the tent and prevent it from becoming trapped.
Mesh Openings:
All of the tent’s openings are covered with mesh, including the windows and doors. This allows for additional airflow and helps to prevent condensation from building up inside the tent.
Versatility:
One of the best things about the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent’s venting system is its versatility. The air intake vents can remain open at all times, allowing for a constant flow of cool air into the tent. Additionally, the mesh openings can be combined and regulated to customize the airflow based on your preferences.
Privacy:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is designed to provide privacy and comfort for its users. Here’s what you need to know:
Zippable Openings:
All of the tent’s windows and doors can be zipped closed for privacy and protection from the elements. This allows you to control the amount of light and airflow that enters the tent, as well as provide a secure and private space.
Dividers:
The tent’s interior features two removable dividers that can be used to create separate rooms or areas within the tent. This is particularly useful for families or groups who need some privacy and separation during their camping trip. Each of the divided units can accommodate a queen-size bed.
Pockets and Other Features:
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is also equipped with a range of pockets and other features that help to enhance its functionality and convenience. Here’s what you need to know:
Hanging Storage Pockets:
The tent has four hanging storage pockets that can be used to store small items such as keys, phones, and wallets. These pockets are a convenient way to keep your belongings organized and within reach.
Gear Loft:
A gear loft is included with the tent and is equipped with a lantern hook. This allows you to hang a light source from the top of the tent, providing illumination during the night.
Electricity Port:
The tent also features an electricity port that can be closed if not in use. This allows you to charge your devices or power other electrical equipment while camping.
How to Organize the Space:
With its large floor area, the Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent provides ample space for families or groups to spread out and relax. However, without any vestibules, it’s important to think about how to best organize the space to maximize comfort and convenience. Here are some tips:
Use Cots:
Instead of sleeping on the floor, consider using cots to elevate your sleeping area. This not only provides a more comfortable sleeping surface but also creates additional storage space underneath the cots. This is particularly useful for storing larger items like coolers, duffel bags, or camping chairs.
Low Bunk Cots:
The tent’s interior height is 80 inches, which may seem like plenty of space, but keep in mind that the tent’s steel poles take up some of that height. To avoid obstructing the views through the windows, consider using low bunk cots for kids or shorter adults. This will provide a comfortable sleeping surface without blocking the natural light and views from the windows.
Additional Storage:
To keep your belongings organized and within reach, consider using hanging storage pockets or a gear loft. These are great for storing smaller items like phones, wallets, or keys. Additionally, you may want to bring a small table or camping organizer to create additional storage space for items like cooking utensils, food, or games.
Specifications
- Type: 3-season, freestanding, instant cabin.
- Capacity: 12 people.
- Weight: 52.55 lb (23.84 kg).
- Dimensions: 18 x 10 ft (216 x 120 in; 5.49 x 3.05 m).
- Floor area: 180 ft² (16.7 m²).
- Area per person: 15 ft² (1.39 m²).
- Peak height: 80 in (2.03 m).
- Packed size (L x D): 51 x 12 in (130 x 30 cm).
- 1-year limited warranty.
- Poles material: steel.
- The number of stakes: 18.
Pros
- Spacious with enormous size
- Easy setup and take down
- Very tall with a peak height of 80 in (2.03 m)
- Affordable price
- Freestanding design
- Features 2 doors
Cons
- Lacks vestibules for external storage
- Limited storage pockets
Conclusion
The Core 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent is a fantastic option for families or groups looking for an affordable and spacious camping tent. Its instant set-up design and freestanding structure make it easy to pitch, and the tent’s tall peak height and numerous windows provide ample natural light and ventilation. While the tent lacks vestibules for external storage and only includes a limited number of storage pockets, its overall value and benefits make it a top choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient camping experience.
