Backcountry T5 (GBC50WN)

The T5 definitely has better bug protection - they redesigned the floor attachment system and the seams are way more solid than teh older models. I've used both and the difference is pretty noticeable That said, if you're really worried about setup complexity, the Gazelle instant tents are still gonna be easier to deal with than a Kodiak even if you mess up some velcro alignment. Worst case you just walk around and double-check everything before you get in for the night 💀 Being anxious about gear purchases is totally normal but don't let it paralyze you - both tents will keep bugs out fine if you take 2 minutes to make sure everything's sealed up properly 😂

The T5 definitely has better bug protection - they redesigned the floor attachment system and the seams are way more solid than teh older models. I've used both and the difference is pretty noticeable That said, if you're really worried about setup complexity, the Gazelle instant tents are still gonna be easier to deal with than a Kodiak even if you mess up some velcro alignment. Worst case you just walk around and double-check everything before you get in for the night 💀 Being anxious about gear purchases is totally normal but don't let it paralyze you - both tents will keep bugs out fine if you take 2 minutes to make sure everything's sealed up properly 😂

Have you looked at the Gazelle T5 line? It is a higher price point but you shouldn't run into the problems you do with the insulated tents (ShiftPod, FSR, Overlandish). It had ripstop fabric and roof vents that zipper closed now. Like other tents in its category it has ports to run heating and cooling. Their stakes are petty good but I've been running the helical 12" stakes for all my tents. I always have my impact so driving then isn't a problem. For a little extra you can buy an insert that works with the tent and run a run a wood stove in the tent. I really liked that they came out with this version. I've ran several versions of shiftpod with our organization and while they worked we've switched our whole inventory to Gazelle.

Only downside with those is the size when taken down. Not sure what kind of car OP has.

A few years ago Academy Sports decided to use that same pop out technology, and now I have 2 *basically* [Gazelle clones](https://i.imgur.com/eiUXlrM.jpeg) that I paid less than $250 total. They are fking amazing tents. The blue one is my favorite. Butttttt Academy being Academy they never actually pushed it even though they are extremely awesome.

I've been considering a roof mount because mine make the bed a little awkward because I need to lay it diagonal.

We have a two Gazelle tents (one one-room and one two-room) and their gazebo. They are a breeze to set up and definitely not a gimmick!

I would suggest two tents then. We have a massive Gazelle tent and it is geared for 4-8 people but if I had to share it, I would only say four people comfortably with our stuff inside the tent too. It sounds like you have a pop up tent too? These will always be long and bulky because of what they are. Our old tent was very compact when packed up but was not a pop up and took longer to set up. My husband hates the size and weight of the Gazelle but it is the trade off of ease of setting up/breaking down that he gets for it. I think your idea to go bigger to fit more people inside a tent is not ideal if you are already worried about the size of your current tent.

I just use an Gazelle popup tent. Ample space. Can put a queen bed, pops up in 3m. Overland setups in/on truck are a pain in the ass. I setup camp and drive away often.

Isn't it AMAZING?!?!  I went from being a backpacker to using this because I was mostly out of a vehicle as a rock climber now.. There is so much space, but it's still not overwhelmingly large.

I think your son would struggle with just about every tent given your description. A Gazelle hub tent is my recommendation. But you’ll want to supervise the rain fly attachment as the fly is a bit delicate.

It all depends on how you will use it (do you want to be able to stand up in it to change clothes, how much gear will you have in the tent with you, how many will sleep in it, etc), when (what season) you will use it? For exampl, I have a 2p dome tent for my motorcycle camping. I have a 4p Hub tent for my car camping. They are completely different styles for two completely different needs. So, really more info is needed to help guide you. How many people, do you want to stand, will you be in rainy weather, cold weather, what will be your sleeping pad/mattress and what is your budget? Edit: for almost $400, I would suggest the Gazelle Hub tent (what I have) its hands down the best tent I have ever used. However, it does not pack down small, so you need a larger vehicle to transport it. But if you are considering a roof top tent, then you prob have a large vehicle.