Been shopping online for a family-sized tent (6p) and it seems like everytime i find a model I like, it's unavailable or out-of-stock everywhere! Every single time! Is this just due to covid? or is it a bad time of year to be tent shopping?

Also, anyone have a recommendation on a tent for a family of four (two adults, two kids)?

In my experience if you have 4 people you will want a 5 or 6 person tent. As far as what tent? I have been bringing my Colman 6 person tent for ten years and is still in good shape. I paid a little over $100 dollars. I’m sure the more you spend the better quality you will get. But we have always been kept dry and bug free.

I might have a Chinook Trailside tent that I’d sell. I believe it’s 8x8 with a bathtub floor and a huge vestibule. I have the original fiberglass poles but had custom aluminum poles made. It’s made a couple trips the the BW.

There were COVID related shortages this year due to more people getting outside and probably disruptions to supply chains. Could be that a lot of things sold out for Christmas.

Have you tried REI? They seem to have a wide variety of 6 person tents available.

Also Sierra Trading Post has some.

Yes cover related. It's across the board shortages in the outdoor industry. In the BW you may want two 3 or4 person tents if that's practical. Getting a big enough tent pad isn't always easy

Yes there is a huge gear shortage. It’s not just tents. Example last month, I wanted buy a fishing rod at Cabellas. They used to have a huge selection. There is very little to pick from. I had to settle on one that was just ok, not the one I wanted. I asked the guy and he said China is not shipping anything. And before everyone jumps on me for buying Chinese goods, I just wanted another pike/musky rod. I’m not interested in another $400 US made one.

Maybe for your tent you could inquire at one of the outfitters up in the BWCA if they have any used tents for sale.

I found this at Open Box in Anoka. Thought I’d throw it out if anyone is interested

Blatz: "Yes cover related. It's across the board shortages in the outdoor industry. In the BW you may want two 3 or 4 person tents if that's practical. Getting a big enough tent pad isn't always easy"

I'd even say get two 2-person tents with two vestibules each for the above reason.

Thanks for the tips everyone! I did finally find a 6 person tent that I like for a reasonable price, and most importantly is in stock.

Hear ya on multiple smaller tents, and that is my preference too, but just not going to happen with my wife and kids.