REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
REI Co-op
REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter
Best for: Perfect for vehicle-based tailgate camping.
Kelty
Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent
Best for: Vehicle camping and large gear storage.
Our Take
Both are suv tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
Floor space is also wider — 99 sq ft versus 62 sq ft for the Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent.
The Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent adds vestibule storage for muddy boots and wet gear.
Both score 7.9 overall, though the REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter wins more individual scoring categories.
The main tradeoff: the Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent leads on space and comfort despite trailing overall.
The REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter also has a price edge — $150 less at $199 versus $349.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter
- Tall peak height for standing
- Generous hundred square foot coverage
- Simple intuitive hoop pole setup
- Sketchy instructions make setup difficult
- Unstable performance in high winds
Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent
- Versatile vehicle hatch attachment
- Massive 52-square-foot vestibule
- Standing-height 78-inch interior
- Wrestling monster rainfly
- Requires two people
Full Specs
| Spec | REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter | Kelty Caboose 4 Person Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | SUV | SUV, Dome |
| Capacity | — | 2 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $199 | $350 |
| Weight | 11 Lbs 11 Oz | 21 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 99.2 ft² | 62.1 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | None | 52.6 Ft^3 |
| Peak Height | 75 | 78 |
| Doors | 0 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 100.5 X 93 In | |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Fiberglass |
| Floor Fabric | The REI Co Op Trailgate Shelter Does Not Have A Floor. | 68D Polyester Taffeta / 1500mm / C0 |
| Rainfly Fabric | 75 Denier Polyester With PU Coating And Durable Water Repellent (DWR) | |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 10 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | Limited Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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