Choosing The Right Camping Tent

Different kinds of camping trips necessitate different kinds of tents

. Tents are made for and rated according to their use in various seasons and weather conditions. While the quality of tents will vary based on brand and price, you can start your search by pinpointing the style of tent and type of poles you need as a recreational camper or as a serious backpacker.

For recreational campers, the recommended styles are 3-season, convertible, and 4-season. 3-season tents provide more ventilation for camping in the spring, summer, and fall. They hold up against rain and wind but aren't designed to support the added weight of snow. They weigh between four and ten pounds and are great for small cars or casual backpacking. Convertible (or all-season) tents are 4-season tents that can become 3-season with a few adjustments. Much like 3-season tents, they are great for camping in warm weather but still not great for severe winter conditions.

They weigh anywhere from five to twelve pounds and are also a good choice for a small car or backpacking trip. 4-season tents, on the other hand, are intended for winter weather. Additional poles increase the tent's ability to support snow and resist strong winds. Winter campers or people going out in early spring/ late fall should definitely have a 4-season. The tents don't offer much ventilation, however, so they're not the best for hot summer weather. They weigh between four and fifteen pounds.

For backpacking trips or light-weight camping, you can buy bivy sacks or shelters, sleep screens, tarp tents, or camping hammocks. Bivouacs are small--large enough for just you and your sleeping bag. These are ideal for climbers who want to carry around little weight but not for someone wanting to move around inside the tent. They can weigh from under one pound to three pounds. Sleep screens are similar, except that they only keep out the bugs--not the rain. Tarp tents typically have open bottoms, but they will keep you and your gear dry. Solo hikers may also consider two-person tents, so they can have the space for their supplies. A camping hammock, a cross between a tent and a hammock, is the ultimate light-weight option.

A word about poles. There are generally two choices: fiberglass and aluminum. Fiberglass poles are less expensive but not as strong--good for fair weather camping. Aluminum poles are more durable and weigh less. Good quality aluminum poles will be advertised as anodized, tempered, aircraft, DAC, or 7000 series.

Once you choose the tent and poles you need, you can begin looking at materials, brands, and accessories.

by: Art Gib

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