Forclaz MT500 Dome Tent
Rating
Versatility: 6
Size/Weight: 7
Features: 6
Construction: 7
Sleep Quality: 5
OVERALL: 6.2
The Forclaz MT500 Dome Tent offers an impressive combination of space, portability and practicality, making it a solid choice for solo adventurers. With dual vestibules for gear storage and useful internal pockets, it’s designed with convenience in mind. Lightweight and compact when packed, it’s easy to carry on shorter backpacking trips or weekend camping adventures. While it’s better suited for one person, it can accommodate two in a pinch, though space will be tight. The thin groundsheet and lightweight materials mean it’s not ideal for rugged conditions, but it stands up well to moderate rain and wind, delivering solid performance at a budget-friendly price.
Pros: Compact and lightweight, dual vestibules for storage and quick to pitch.
Cons: Snug for two people and the groundsheet could be more durable.
Verdict: Best for light-duty camping trips or festivals, it’s a great value option for solo campers seeking affordability and practicality.
Skip ahead to First Impressions, Sleeping Experience, Features Analysis, Construction and Durability, or the Final Verdict, or check out how the Forclaz MT500 Dome Tent compares to others in our list of the Top 5 Backpacking Tents.
Specs:
Open Size: 205 x 125 cm
Packed Size: 39 x 12 cm
Weight: 1.95 kg
Approx Price: £129.99
First Impressions
The Forclaz Dome Tent arrives as a compact, lightweight package, easy to carry in a backpack or strap to a bike. Once pitched, it reveals a surprising amount of internal space for a one-person tent, with additional vestibules on either side for gear storage. When used as a two-person tent, however, it feels quite snug, leaving limited space for comfort. Pitching the tent for the first time can be a bit tricky, as the diagrams are not immediately clear, but with practice, it becomes straightforward. The tent is a solid all-rounder, ideal for light to moderate use and perfect for solo adventurers.
Sleeping Experience
As a one-person tent, the Forclaz Dome Tent is roomy and comfortable, with enough space to fit gear inside without feeling cramped. The dual vestibules add extra storage for wet or bulky items like boots or packs. For two people, though, the tent becomes a tight squeeze. You’d need to be comfortable sleeping close, and gear storage would need to move entirely to the vestibules. The thin groundsheet provides adequate protection on soft or even terrain, but it might require a ground tarp for rocky or abrasive surfaces. Inside, the tent features handy pockets and a light hook, enhancing the sleeping experience for solo users.
Features Analysis
The Forclaz Dome Tent comes with several thoughtful design features. Two side vestibules for storing gear, plus internal pockets and a hook for hanging a light for organisation. The pole system for the inner tent is straightforward, but the lack of colour coding could confuse first-time users. Once familiar, the tent can be pitched in about 10 minutes. Dual roof vents improve airflow and help minimize condensation, although some moisture may still accumulate in humid conditions. At just under 2kg, it’s not ultralight but remains manageable for backpacking trips, especially considering its affordability.
Construction and Durability
The Forclaz Dome Tent is made from lightweight materials, making it portable but less robust than premium options. While it holds up well in moderate rain and wind, the thin groundsheet may be vulnerable on rough terrain, so extra care is recommended. The flysheet and seams are waterproof and the tent has been tested to withstand force 8 winds, making it a dependable option for typical three-season use. The guylines and zippers feel sturdy, and the flysheet clips securely onto the poles, giving it a taut and stable structure.
Final Verdict
The Forclaz Dome Tent strikes an excellent balance between price, portability and functionality. While it’s best suited for solo campers, it can accommodate two people in a pinch. Its compact pack size, ease of setup and decent weather resistance make it ideal for weekend camping, festivals, or light trekking. Just keep in mind that it’s not designed for harsh conditions or long-term use on rocky terrain.
Why not visit our list of the Top 5 Backpacking Tents 2025 to see how the Forclaz MT500 Dome Tent compares?
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.