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Bell Tent vs Yurt: Which One Is Right for You?

Bell Tent vs Yurt: An Overview

When it comes to canvas living and glamping structures, bell tents and yurts are two of the most popular options. Both offer a unique lifestyle experience, but they have different designs, costs, and practical considerations.

Choosing the right one depends on your space, style, and intended use. Whether you’re planning a glamping business, a backyard retreat, or just a temporary home, understanding the differences is key.

(If you’re new to canvas living, check out our guide on living in a bell tent for a full overview.)

Design Differences

Bell Tent

  • Shape: Conical with a centre pole

  • Structure: Canvas stretched over a single central pole, anchored with guy ropes

  • Interior: Open plan; easy to partition with temporary dividers

  • Setup: Simple, quick to pitch

  • Aesthetic: Iconic glamping look, very Instagram-friendly

Yurt

  • Shape: Circular with lattice walls (ger-style)

  • Structure: Canvas stretched over a wooden frame of lattice walls and radial roof beams

  • Interior: Sturdier and more spacious; can hold heavier furniture

  • Setup: More complex; requires careful assembly

  • Aesthetic: Traditional Mongolian style, cosy, rustic feel

Pros and Cons of Bell Tents

Pros:

  • Affordable compared to yurts

  • Quick and easy to pitch and pack away

  • Lightweight and portable

  • Perfect for short-term stays or temporary living

  • Great for glamping aesthetics

Cons:

Pros and Cons of Yurts

Pros:

  • Extremely sturdy, can handle wind and snow better than bell tents

  • Larger interior space, often with higher walls

  • Better for long-term living

  • Can support heavier furniture and wood stoves

Cons:

  • More expensive than bell tents

  • Assembly takes longer and may require multiple people

  • Less portable; designed more as semi-permanent or permanent structure

  • Aesthetic may feel “less glamping” and more rustic

Cost Comparison

  • Bell Tent: Generally $1,000–$4,000 AUD depending on size and quality

  • Yurt: Typically $5,000–$15,000+ AUD depending on size, frame, and canvas type

If your goal is flexibility, portability, and affordable glamping, a bell tent is usually the better choice.
If your goal is semi-permanent living, long-term comfort, and stability, a yurt is worth the investment.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ask yourself these questions:

  1. Will it be temporary or long-term?

    • Temporary → bell tent

    • Semi-permanent → yurt

  2. How much space and furniture support do you need?

    • Lightweight and minimal → bell tent

    • Full furniture, wood stove → yurt

  3. What is your budget?

    • Lower budget → bell tent

    • Higher budget → yurt

  4. What is your preferred aesthetic?

    • Glamping, Instagram-ready → bell tent

    • Rustic, cosy retreat → yurt

(For tips on sizing your bell tent, see what size bell tent should you choose?)

Conclusion

Both bell tents and yurts are fantastic options for connecting with nature and creating a unique living or glamping space.

  • Bell tents: Affordable, portable, stylish — perfect for short-term living, glamping, or seasonal retreats.

  • Yurts: Sturdy, spacious, and comfortable — ideal for long-term stays or semi-permanent setups.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

For those looking for a temporary, beautiful, and easy-to-manage canvas home, bell tents remain the go-to choice in Australia.

(Learn more about bell tents in our guides: living in a bell tent, bell tents in winter, are bell tents waterproof, and bell tent maintenance.)