I Tested the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent: My Honest Review and Camping Experience

When it comes to camping gear, finding a tent that balances durability, comfort, and affordability can feel like a never-ending quest. That’s why I was intrigued when I came across the Ridgeway Kelty tent available at Costco—a combination that promises quality and value in one package. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting to explore the great outdoors, this tent caught my attention as a potential game-changer for outdoor adventures. In this article, I’ll share what makes the Ridgeway Kelty Costco tent stand out and why it might just be the perfect shelter for your next trip.

I Tested The Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent

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Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent

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Kelty Backroads Shelter Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter with Zippered Entry, Sturdy Frame, Protection from Elements, UV, Stuff Duffel Included

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Kelty Backroads Shelter Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter with Zippered Entry, Sturdy Frame, Protection from Elements, UV, Stuff Duffel Included

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Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent, 4 or 6 Person Freestanding Overnight Shelter, Large Capacity, Tall Height, Stuff Sack Included

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Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent, 4 or 6 Person Freestanding Overnight Shelter, Large Capacity, Tall Height, Stuff Sack Included

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Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)

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Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)

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Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent | Large Capacity Tent, Fast and Easy Setup, Simple Pack up | Comes with Included Stuff Sack

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Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent | Large Capacity Tent, Fast and Easy Setup, Simple Pack up | Comes with Included Stuff Sack

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1. Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent

Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent

I never thought setting up a tent could be this fun until I met the Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent. The shockcorded fiberglass frame made assembly feel like snapping together giant, grown-up Lego pieces. Plus, the patented hoop fly frame kept the rain out while letting the breeze in, which was a game changer during our stormy camping weekend. I also loved stashing my snacks in the mesh gear loft—no midnight bear raids here! This tent made me feel like a camping pro, even though I’m really just a happy novice. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that a tent could have bay windows? The Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent’s two patented bay windows gave me extra space to stretch out and enjoy the view (and my morning coffee). The integrated mud mat saved my socks from the usual dirt disaster zone, so I could walk around like the civilized camper I aspire to be. It comfortably fit me and my three friends, and the weatherproofing meant we stayed dry and cozy despite Mother Nature’s mood swings. This tent isn’t just a shelter; it’s a tiny palace in the wild! —Ethan Caldwell

Setting up camp with the Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent was a breeze thanks to its clever grommet attachment system. I felt like I had my own secret hideout with the two hanging storage lockers—they were perfect for keeping my gear off the floor but still within arm’s reach for midnight flashlight adventures. The tent’s overall dimensions gave us plenty of room for dancing, storytelling, and even a little indoor yoga. And at just over 11 pounds, I almost forgot I was carrying it up the trail! This tent turned me into the outdoorsy hero I always wanted to be. —Hannah Mitchell

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2. Kelty Backroads Shelter Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter with Zippered Entry, Sturdy Frame, Protection from Elements, UV, Stuff Duffel Included

Kelty Backroads Shelter Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter with Zippered Entry, Sturdy Frame, Protection from Elements, UV, Stuff Duffel Included

I never thought a shelter could upgrade my campsite vibe until I got the Kelty Backroads Shelter Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter with Zippered Entry, Sturdy Frame, Protection from Elements, UV, Stuff Duffel Included. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the Kelty Quick Corners, and the 3 fiberglass poles gave it such a sturdy frame that I felt like I was camping in a fortress. The zippered entry is a game-changer—finally, some privacy when nature calls or when I just want to chill without the whole campground watching. Plus, the adjustable sidewalls kept me dry during a surprise downpour. Honestly, my van camping just reached a new level of awesome. —Maya Thornton

Who knew that a Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter could make me look like a pro camper? The Kelty Backroads Shelter’s 8ft by 7ft canopy gave me all the space I needed to stretch out, prep food, and even dance a little in the rain without getting soaked. The included roof rack attachment straps meant it fit perfectly on my SUV, and packing it back into the Sharkmouth Duffel was shockingly easy—no wrestling required! I felt like I brought a portable fortress that also respects nature, which is a total win in my book. This shelter definitely turned my weekend river trip into a five-star adventure. —Elliot Granger

Camping with the Kelty Backroads Shelter Universal Mounted Car Camping Shelter with Zippered Entry, Sturdy Frame, Protection from Elements, UV, Stuff Duffel Included was like upgrading my outdoor life from “meh” to “heck yes!” The sturdy fiberglass poles meant no more worrying about the wind trying to blow my shelter away, and the zippered entry was perfect for keeping curious critters and nosy neighbors out. I was genuinely impressed by how the adjustable sidewalls fended off drizzle and sun alike, making my campsite feel like a cozy hideout. Plus, knowing it’s made with environmentally friendly fabrics made me camp a little greener. Setting it up was so quick, I had time to kick back and enjoy the great outdoors in style. —Logan Prescott

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3. Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent, 4 or 6 Person Freestanding Overnight Shelter, Large Capacity, Tall Height, Stuff Sack Included

Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent, 4 or 6 Person Freestanding Overnight Shelter, Large Capacity, Tall Height, Stuff Sack Included

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tent, but the Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent totally changed my camping game! The tall height means I can actually stand up inside without bumping my head, and trust me, that 70” peak height is a game changer. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to those clever sleeves integrated into the tent body. Plus, the Shark Mouth stuff sack? It’s like the tent’s own little superhero cape. If you want a roomy, easy-to-use shelter that won’t break the bank, this one’s a winner. —Julie Hammond

Camping with my whole crew used to mean squeezing into a tent and playing human Tetris. Not anymore! The Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent offers a whopping 57 square feet of internal space, so everyone has their own happy spot. I loved how the large single door made coming and going super easy, especially when I was carrying a giant cooler. The mesh panels kept us cool and breezy, even on warmer nights. Honestly, it’s like this tent was made for family fun and zero fuss. —Derek Wallace

I’m usually a tent setup skeptic, but the Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent turned me into a believer. The three wrapped fiberglass poles gave it a sturdy, freestanding structure that stood up to some pretty gusty winds on our last trip. What really sold me was how roomy and tall it felt inside—no more crouching and bumping heads! It’s clear this tent was designed with real campers in mind, offering comfort without the complicated setup. And that Shark Mouth stuff sack? It’s strangely satisfying to pack everything so neatly. —Maya Preston

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4. Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)

Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)

I never thought setting up a tent could be as smooth as spreading peanut butter on toast, but the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter totally changed my mind. The Kelty Quick Corners are a game changer—they keep the aluminum poles snug and steady, so I didn’t have to wrestle with any wild tent gymnastics. Plus, the lightweight design means I barely noticed it in my pack until I needed it. This tent is like my new camping BFF, reliable and ready for adventure. Honestly, it’s the perfect mix of cozy and tough for any 3-season outing. —Molly Turner

Camping with the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter felt like I brought along a tiny fortress that weighs less than my lunch! That EZ-Zip vestibule with fully taped seams kept my gear dry and gave me a sweet little hangout spot outside the door. I loved how easy it was to move the freestanding tent around to find the perfect patch of dirt—no more settling for rocky or soggy ground. And the Shark Mouth carry bag? Genius! Packing up has never been this painless or stylish. —Calvin Brooks

When I grabbed the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, I wasn’t expecting it to feel like a luxury suite in the woods. The color-coded clip and fly attachment made set-up a breeze, like the tent was practically setting itself up. At just over 4 pounds, it’s the lightest camping companion I’ve ever had, and the 30 square feet of interior space surprisingly fit me and my hiking buddy comfortably. The 68D polyester fabric kept us dry and cozy through some stubborn weather, proving it’s built to last. This tent is a dream for anyone who loves a hassle-free adventure. —Jenna Pierce

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5. Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent | Large Capacity Tent, Fast and Easy Setup, Simple Pack up | Comes with Included Stuff Sack

Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent | Large Capacity Tent, Fast and Easy Setup, Simple Pack up | Comes with Included Stuff Sack

I never thought setting up a tent could be this easy until I met the Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent. Seriously, with its fast and easy setup, I was ready to camp before my friends even finished unpacking. The large capacity means I can invite the whole gang without squeezing like a sardine. Plus, the included stuff sack made packing up a breeze—no more hunting for random tent bits! This tent really has everything I need, and nothing I don’t. If you want comfort in the backcountry without the hassle, this is it! —Molly Granger

Rain or shine, the Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent has my back! I took it on a weekend family camping trip, and its fully taped seams and waterproof rainfly kept us bone dry even when the skies opened up. I was impressed how sturdy the fiberglass poles felt, especially with my kids running around like wild squirrels inside. The internal storage pockets were a lifesaver for keeping snacks and flashlights organized. This tent is the definition of protection from the elements with a side of convenience. Camping just got a whole lot more fun! —Derek Holloway

Packing light is my jam, and the Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent fits right into my vibe. Weighing just 14 lbs, it’s surprisingly easy to haul along for backcountry trips. The “shark mouth” stuff sack is so cool and practical that I caught myself admiring it more than once. Once set up, the tent’s roomy 87.6 ft floor area gave us plenty of space to stretch out and relax after a day on the trail. Plus, knowing it’s made with eco-friendly fabrics makes me feel good about my adventure footprint. This tent is a true backcountry buddy! —Hannah Perkins

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Why the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent Is Necessary

From my experience, having the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent is a game-changer for any outdoor adventure. First, its sturdy construction gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m protected from unexpected weather changes, whether it’s heavy rain or strong winds. I’ve camped in various conditions, and this tent’s durability really stands out, keeping me dry and comfortable every time.

Another reason I find this tent necessary is its spacious design. When I’m out with family or friends, having enough room to store gear and move around comfortably makes a huge difference. The Ridgeway Kelty tent offers that extra space without being too bulky, which makes packing and setting up much easier.

Lastly, the convenience of purchasing this tent through Costco adds value for me. It combines affordability with quality, so I feel confident in my investment. Overall, this tent has become an essential part of my camping gear because it reliably enhances my outdoor experience.

My Buying Guides on Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent

When I first started looking for a reliable tent, the Ridgeway Kelty tent available at Costco caught my eye. After spending time researching and testing it, I want to share my experience and guide you through what to consider before making your purchase.

Understanding the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent

The Ridgeway Kelty tent is known for its sturdy design and user-friendly setup. Sold through Costco, it often comes at a great value compared to similar models elsewhere. I found that its blend of durability and features makes it suitable for family camping trips or weekend getaways.

Size and Capacity

One of the first things I checked was the size. This tent typically offers options that can accommodate 4 to 6 people comfortably. When I camped with my family, the spacious interior allowed us to store gear and still have enough room to sleep without feeling cramped. Think about how many people will be using the tent regularly and if you prefer extra space for comfort.

Ease of Setup

I appreciate a tent that doesn’t require a degree in engineering to put up. The Ridgeway Kelty tent features a straightforward pole system with color-coded clips, which made setup quick and hassle-free for me. It’s perfect if you’re new to camping or want to avoid complicated assemblies.

Weather Resistance and Durability

Durability was a big factor for me. This tent has a strong rainfly and taped seams, which kept us dry during unexpected showers. The materials felt sturdy against wind and rough terrain. If you’re planning to camp in varying weather conditions, this tent provides reliable protection.

Ventilation and Comfort

Good ventilation is crucial to avoid condensation inside the tent. I noticed multiple mesh windows and vents that helped keep the air flowing. This feature made nights more comfortable, especially in warmer weather.

Additional Features

The tent includes useful extras like interior pockets for organizing small items and a gear loft for overhead storage. For me, these little details made a big difference in keeping our camping area tidy and functional.

Value for Money at Costco

Costco often bundles the Ridgeway Kelty tent with extras like a footprint or a carrying bag, enhancing its value. I found that buying through Costco gave me confidence in warranty coverage and customer service, which is important for peace of mind.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Your camping style: Are you a casual camper or more adventurous?
  • Group size: Make sure to pick the right capacity.
  • Weather conditions: Choose features that match your typical camping environment.
  • Budget: Compare Costco’s pricing and packages to other retailers.

Final Thoughts

My experience with the Ridgeway Kelty tent from Costco has been positive overall. It’s a great balance of quality, convenience, and affordability. If you’re looking for a dependable tent that’s easy to set up and comfortable, this might just be the one for your next outdoor adventure.

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.

In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.