Search:

Home | Recreation & Leisure


Sizing Up a Great Tent

By: Bud Sayce

Camping is one of the best ways to relieve stress and clear your head. That's why it's so important to buy a tent that's easy to use and provide worry-free protection.

Without doubt a good quality, dependable tent is the first requirement of wilderness camping. After all, "roughing it" doesn't necessarily mean going face to face with the elements when you're far away fro home.

Camping tents can be as simple as a two-person pop up model, or an elaborate three-room family affair. What's important is having a dependable tent that will save you from undue aggravation or danger.

There are lots of things to look for in finding the perfect tent to fit your needs. Consider the shape of the tent, along with the weight, types of poles and setup time. If camping alone, be sure to choose a model that's easy to assemble. If you're not sure, ask an associate at a sporting goods store or outdoor outfitters.

It's also important to make sure that the tent is easy to transport. Don't forget, you'll need to pack the tent in your car and leave room for all of your gear.

Size

Are you camping alone, or with your family? Are you packing along a lot of gear? Do you have pets that will need protection? These are all points that will come into play when choosing the size of your tent. You (and those sharing your space) will need room to sleep comfortably, stretch and move around. You'll need to sit up or stand. While it is possible for a family of four to sleep in a four-person tent, you'll all be more comfortable in a roomer six-person model. Two people will be comfortable in a small tent, but may need to store their belongings in a separate shelter.

Weigh Your Options

Nothing takes the fun out of camping like trying to portage or hike to a remote camp while lugging a heavy canvas tent. If you plan to carry your gear an extended distance, be sure to pack light. Remember, you'll also be carrying food, clothing and gear. Lightweight tents provide ample comfort and security, and there are many models to choose from. If, on the other hand, you're loading a van with gear and driving straight to the campsite, then a heavy tent will do just fine.

Fabric Facts

Campers are no longer obliged to sleep under heavy, damp canvas. Today's tents are made with lightweight but durable materials like taffeta and nylon. While light as a feather, these materials are tough as nails and able to withstand the forces of nature. When choosing your tent, be sure that it is certified waterproof. It may cost a little extra, but will pay for itself if Mother Nature sends a little rain and wind along for the ride.

Assembly

Before you buy the tent, ask to see the assembly instructions. It's also important to try assembling the tent in your backyard before you leave home. Your tent must be easy to assemble using just a few (or no) tools. You're going camping to relax, and there's no point in stressing out with a tent that's hard to assemble.

Tents are not luxuries for the faint-hearted, or copouts for rookie campers. They are necessary tools that satisfy the basic human need for shelter. Even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts will agree, there is no thrill in coming face to face with a forest critter at four a.m.

Article Source: http://www.rightarticle.com

Author Bud Sayce is a regular columnist for several well-known Internet sites, on creative recreation and recreation camping themes, among others.
Visit our tent article directory for a completely unique version of this article.





Please Rate this Article

 

Not yet Rated

Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Recreation & Leisure Articles Via RSS!

Powered by Article Dashboard