Most tents still use solid metal, fiberglass and composite poles, but a few manufacturers, including Nemo, have experimented with inflatable poles to limit packed size and make set-up easier. Now Colorado-based Kelty can be added to their number with its AirPitch tents that leave the irritation of bendy, shock-corded poles in the past. The tents use inflatable poles, which Kelty claims guarantee quick, easy set-up and tear-down. Less time hacking together your shelter means more time spent with your family ... or knocking back a cold one while enjoying the views.

 

With its large four- and six-person car camping tents, Kelty really isn't worried about a small pack size, but it is concerned with simplifying the pitching process. Similar to German manufacturer Heimplanet, it takes advantage of the quick set-up of inflatable design to offer family sized tents focused on ease of use.