Choosing A Right Camping Tent

Unlike previous generations, camping no longer always involves sleeping in a tent. RVs, commercial campgrounds and other options provide an alternative. But there’s still nothing to complete that camping experience like sleeping in a tent.

Here are a few tips for picking one that gives you all the modern advantages, without the traditional hassles.

The basic purposes of a tent are to provide privacy and protection from the elements - wind, rain and (to some degree) cold. Any sturdy tent will satisfy the first, but to keep weather out requires more.

Windy conditions, common in wilderness areas where most campsites are found, can put a tent to the test. But thanks to modern materials, nylon fabric tents supported by fiberglass or aluminum poles are up to the job.

There are two basic types, internal frame and external. The former are easier to put up, the latter are a little more sturdy and wind resistant.

In either case, it’s helpful if they’re in the right design, however. A zippable flap is a great benefit for keeping the wind out and there should be several places around the perimeter at the bottom to fasten the tent to the ground to minimize gaps.

Rain is one of the chief considerations. Being wet is not only not fun, it can be a serious health hazard if the temperature drops. Keeping dry is simple with a good tent, though. All are made these days with nylon, but not all nylon is the same quality. It should be thick and sturdy enough, and treated properly, to actually keep out a good rainstorm.