The right tent can make or break your next adventure. That’s why you need to consider what’s really important when it comes to tent shopping. This guide should help steer you in the right direction.
Will Everyone Fit?
You don’t want to leave one of your companions out in the cold. Make sure to pick a tent that everyone can easily fit in. The prime consideration is floor space. You should aim for around 25 x 80 inches for each adult. Children may be able to get away with 20 x 70 inches (or less).
This is made simple, as most tents, such as the Coleman Instant 6, list how many they sleep in their name. Of course, it still pays to be sure by checking the floor space measurement (known as the tents “footprint”).
Does It Feel Roomy?
While floor space is crucial, don’t forget about the tent’s geometry. If the walls are sloping inwards at a shape angle, then the tent will feel much smaller. Look for a model with spacious geometry: the more vertical the walls, the better.
Can You Carry It?
If you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking, then you don’t want to be lugging around a tent that weighs a ton. On the other hand, if you’re just going car camping, then it doesn’t really matter.
You can check a tent’s weight on the side of the box. Remember, there are three weights displayed. The gross weight is that of the tent and its packaging (you can probably ignore this figure). What you want to know is the lightest full set up weight (often referred to as the trail weight).
You will also see a fast pitch weight, which is that of the fly, footprint, and poles. This weight probably won’t matter unless you plan to do ultralight camping.
Will You Freeze Or Sweat?
If you’re going camping in moderate fall or spring climates, then you probably won’t need to worry about extreme temperatures. However, winter and summer are another issue altogether. Extreme sun can turn your tent into an oven, while ice and snow can freeze your socks off. To stay comfortable and safe you need to choose a tent model that can handle the elements.
If you’re venturing out into the cold then chose a four-season tent. Make sure it’s double walled and sufficiently insulted. Those going out on summer may want a single walled tent. The more windows and doors, the better, as they help with airflow.
Do You Have The Cash?
A good tent isn’t cheap. That’s why you should consider if you have the necessary funds. Shop around for the best deals but never sacrifice your safety to save money.
Final Thoughts
There are numerous tents on the market, which can make the decision difficult. However, the info in this guide should help you narrow down your options. Just make sure to consider all of a tent’s attributes before making a decision. Good luck with your next camping adventure!
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