Tents are a wonderful way to explore the outdoors and make some great memories. Whether you’re camping in your backyard or out in the woods, you need a tent that is easy to set up, provides adequate space, is strong and durable, and, perhaps most importantly, is within your budget.
Not all tents are created equal. As such, it can be difficult making a decision about which one is right for you. Every person has different tent requirements for their camping needs. For this reason, we have come up with a list of considerations and features you can use to help find a tent compatible with your requirements.
What is a tent?
A tent is a shelter made out of durable fabric that is sustained by sturdy poles. It is collapsible and usually used as a temporary building to provide you with shelter outdoors. They come in many different configurations, sizes, and materials, each ideal for different purposes.
Why should you buy a tent?
There are several reasons why you might need to create a temporary shelter. Here are some of them:
Visit somewhere outdoors
If you want to visit somewhere like a national park or nature reserve, you will want to set aside a couple of days to explore it properly. You will save time and money by staying on a nearby campsite or wild camping. If you choose to wild camp, ensure you are camping in an area where the local wildlife isn’t too much of a threat. Having a proper tent can allow you to set up a temporary home for a few days while you explore the great outdoors.
You may even just want to get out of the house for a few days and go to a campsite or wooded area near your home. Whatever the reason, a tent is a perfect way to go live outdoors for a night or two.
Music festival
If you want to enjoy the full line-up at a music festival, you may want to camp for the weekend. Music festivals often have a variety of campsites you can choose from. It is advised not to take an expensive tent to a music festival, but you’ll still want a tent of some sort. Plus, because you’ll be spending your time enjoying the music, it is unlikely you’ll use your tent for anything other than sleeping.
No room for guests
If you have friends or family who need to stay over for whatever reason, but there is no space in your home, you could put them up in a tent in your yard. This is also a fun activity for children if they have sleepovers with their friends. They can feel adventurous by sleeping outside and aren’t making a ruckus in the house but are still close enough to keep an eye on.
What are some things to consider when buying a tent?
To help you choose your perfect camping tent, we have provided this list of features and criteria you should consider:
Size
Tent size is measured by how many people want to use it. If you are going camping with one other person, you would need a 2-man tent. For every extra person you are taking, you go up in 1-man increments— 3-man, 4-man, etc.
You may wish to purchase a 3-man tent if you want some extra room for 2 people. There is no harm in using a tent for fewer people than it can technically fit.
Added space
Some tents come with added compartments similar to having a bedroom and a living room. If your tent consists of two separate sleeping compartments, it will often have a room or hall joining them in the center. If extra rooms appeal to you, look for a tunnel tent, vis-à-vis, or a pod living tent. Tents like these are great for separating the sleeping space from the gear and other items you bring, especially dirty shoes.
Waterproof rating
The tent waterproof rating (hydrostatic head) will give you an idea of the outer layer’s water-repelling capabilities. This measurement is usually given as a number such as 3000 followed by mm HH. The higher the number, the more waterproof your tent.
What are the types of tents?
Tents come in all sorts of designs and styles. Here are a few of the most common ones:
Basic ridge tents
The basic ridge tent has a pole at either end and sometimes a cross pole that holds up the roof. The basic ridge looks like a classic triangular tent that often comes to mind. It is easy to assemble and is quite reliable but contains very little headroom. The ridge tent remains sturdy at any size and is very versatile.
A dome tent
A dome tent uses two flexible poles which are attached to the base of the tent. The poles are then placed across each other and bent downwards. When each end of the pole is bent downwards, they create a dome shape.
Dome tents are light and easy to construct, but larger tents in this design are less sturdy. Our advice is only to buy a dome tent if it is for 3 people or under.
Geodesic pitch tent
A geodesic tent gets its name from its tent poles crossing in a way that creates triangular intersections. Geodesic tents are what the experts use in harsh weather conditions and mountainside camping. As such, geodesic tents are always quite small. If you know you will be camping somewhere windy, do not use a large tent, or it may turn into a kite! These are ideal for camping in inclement weather.
Pop-up tents
A pop-up tent can take less than one minute to assemble. It usually just needs to be twisted in the right way to pop up into the shape you need. We recommend only using this type of tent during good weather conditions and only for a couple of nights at the most. These are also great for days at the beach when you won't need the tent for more than a few hours.
Tunnel tents
Tunnel tents are the most popular form of family tent. They are light, easy to pitch, and often have storage space separate from the sleeping compartment. These can have a large capacity as well, making them smart for bigger group gatherings.
Pod living tents
Pod tents have one main compartment with many pods leading off. This is a great tent to use if you are camping with a large group of friends or family because it affords extra privacy. However, these can take up a lot of space, so make sure your site is large enough. They may also take a while to assemble.
Tepee
Tepee tents are undoubtedly stylish. Unless they are made of 100% heavy cotton, they should only be used during fine weather, as they do not contain an inner layer. These aren't as common for camping trips but are certainly always an option.
What is the price range for tents?
A tent for camping can cost from as little as $15 and up to $2500. Many cheap tents are not made to last long and are only appropriate for mild weather conditions. If you are looking for a large tent with lots of additional features, it will cost more money.
FAQ
What weight tent can I carry when going on a hike?
A tent should weigh no more than 3kg per person— less if possible. If hiking with multiple people, you can split up the load to make it easier to carry.
How do I take care of my tent?
There are some key rules to follow to keep your tent in good working order.
- Use a ground cloth under your tent whenever possible
- Do not wear shoes inside your tent
- Place a doormat inside the entrance to catch mud and sand
- Do not keep food inside the tent - you may attract animals.
You should also avoid going camping in any extreme weather, especially if your tent did not cost much money. Cheaper tents will not be able to withstand the elements like higher quality, more expensive ones.