A good tent is designed to help you stay dry and warm, as well as to keep biting insects away. Tents can make a big difference to your camping trip, but they don’t have to come at a high price. Knowing what to look for and how to buy can save a lot of money.
Store size
There are different sizes of tents, usually labeled by the number of people sleeping. There are larger tents as well, which you may want to consider if you’re traveling with a family or planning to spend more time inside the tent. For example, there are tents that have attached screen rooms. These give you additional interior space if you want to avoid bug bites.
If you want to store additional equipment in your tent, please take that into account when choosing a tent. You won’t want to trip over your bags and gear while trying to reach your sleeping bag.
Tent shape
There are A-frame tents and dome tents. Domes are more popular, but A-frames are generally the easiest to install due to their simple design. Both styles can be freestanding or fixed to the ground.
The a-frame style has steeper walls like a pyramid, while most dome tents are more rounded like igloos. Due to this design, A-frame structures tend to feel smaller on the inside, while dome-shaped ones provide better access to floor space and feel larger.
There are also “RV tents” that are designed to fit in the back of a sport utility vehicle or truck. These conveniently provide campers with additional tent space and easy access to the interior of the car.
Environmental characteristics
Once you’ve decided on the size and shape you want, think about where and when you will be camping. Some tents are lighter and designed for summer camping only. Others are built with heavier materials to withstand harsher weather conditions.
If you plan to camp in an area with a lot of mosquitoes or other biting insects, you may want to consider a style with a screened “porch.” If there’s a chance of rain, you’ll want a tent roof or cover to place over the top of your tent for extra protection. Covers usually come as part of the tent package, but check to be sure.
Tent weight
If you need a lightweight backpacking tent, look for a smaller style with fewer stakes and poles and fewer features. If the weather is warm enough, you may prefer a tarp over a tent. No stakes or posts are required as the tarp can be tied between trees.
cost
Generally, the smaller and simpler the tent, the cheaper the price tag. Once you start adding size, additional features, and more durable materials for colder weather conditions, the price will go up. You don’t have to go with a brand name manufacturer to get a high quality tent. You can compare stores online, read reviews, and even find Coleman tents at bargain prices on the internet that can give you years of use.
