How to Shop for a Camping Tent

With so many camping tents on the market, choosing a tent can seem like a daunting task. Whether you choose a lightweight camping tent, a family camping tent, a dome tent, or a spacious cabin tent, there are several steps to ensure that you choose the camping tent that is right for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Backpacking Tent by Black Diamond Camping

   Consider your camping needs. If you are an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking or climbing, you would not want the weight of a cabin tent or a tent for the family. Rather, a lightweight tent or a backpacking tent would be the right choice. By the same token, a recreational camper with a family would appreciate the space and the design of a cabin tent.
   
   Determine the style of camping the tent will be mostly used for to narrow down the list of options.

2. 
   Eureka Copper Canyon Family Tent

   Consider the weather. Mother Nature is unpredictable, but the different regions of the world require different protective measures. If you live in a mostly sunny, dry area and plan to camp in summer, a family tent or frame tent will likely do. If you enjoy winter camping, look for tents designed to withstand severe temperatures, often labeled as four season tents.

3. 
   Coleman Dome Tent

   Consider the size. Though most tents will advise what size they can accommodate, remember to account for the extra items that take up space inside the camping tent. Sleeping bags, camping gear, and hiking boots will require a little extra room.
   
   Generally, a two person tent will comfortably fit one person and gear. Unless a lightweight camping tent is a priority, it is usually safe to assume that a tent runs on the small side.

4. 
   Kelty 6-Person Tent

   Consider the tent construction. Quality tents will have extra features which enhance the family camping experience. Camping will be more comfortable in a tent that has adequate ventilation. Extras like a gear loft will keep small gear off the floor and easily within reach.
   
   Another common feature on a quality tent is bathtub-style seams. This means that the floor of the tent comes off the ground and up the side of the tent before being sewn together. This extra feature helps keep campers dry when it rains.

5. 
   Eureka Tent

   Read reviews. There are hundreds of camping forums and websites, such as Amazon.com, that display first-hand reviews of camping gear and tents. Users can share their experiences with potential buyers. Because the user is issuing the review, not the tent manufacturer, reviews tend to be more truthful of actual camper experience.

Tips & Warnings

• Camping tents are an investment. A quality camping tent will provide years of quality outdoor recreation. Research tents thoroughly, even viewing tents in a sporting goods store before purchasing a tent.
• Invest in seam sealant. Even high-quality tents can be prone to leakage. Seam seal costs only a few dollars, takes minutes to apply, and provides additional protection against tent leaks.
• Be careful when considering package deals. Some companies offer free camping gear when you purchase a tent. This can lead to purchasing a tent that doesn't suit your needs as well as purchasing a camping tent alone.

Resources

• Family Camping Cabin Tent
• Dome Tents and Other Camping Tents
• Expedition and Backpacking Tents
• Eureka Tents

[jenkinr]

on 12/19/2008 Step 3 is a very important point. I do a lot of camping and you don't want your gear left outside because of lack of space inside the tent. Great article.