Probably one of the best ways to get away from it all is to return to a simpler existence, with just a handful of needs to cover. If you are looking for something like that, outdoor life and camping can be a good option, whether in a campsite or in the countryside.
If you need to buy a tent for the first time or if it has been a long time since the outdoor experiences, you should take into account some basic concepts due to the large number of models and new materials. The following are some tips that will help you in the choice.
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1. How many people will sleep in the tent?
Although normally each model of tent indicates the maximum occupancy that it tolerates, this number does not take into account the storage of equipment, the size of people, pets or the sleeping habits of each, for example, if they move or turn much. Then it is not bad to consider the team as an extra person and if you want to be standing inside it you will have to find out the maximum height.
2. Do you have to transport it long distances?
Not all tents are designed to be super light and, at the same time, shelter six people with all their equipment. If you are going to carry it in a backpack, you are clearly looking for the first, a small tent, with limited capacity and made with lightweight fabrics, but if you are looking for the second, then you should focus on heavier fabrics and materials that allow larger spaces.
The backpackers’ tents are less spacious than the family ones that are normally transported by car and usually offer very little height.
3. The weather should not be set aside
In the case of strong winds, freezing rain, excessive sunlight or insects and bugs that bite the best will be a good and solid tent. That means polyester / nylon and mesh panels to provide protection and ventilation. Water resistance is indicated by a number that ranges between 400 and 2,000 (2,000 is the most waterproof).
Anyway do not overdo it, it is not the same an expedition to Aconcagua than a weekend a couple of hours from home. For a summer camp with 400 it will be fine.
4. With or without rooms?
Some tents offer divisions to create separate “rooms” inside, which is ideal for families with children. There is also the option of a porch area with waterproof windows that allow you to create an indoor / outdoor space in a tent, which helps keep annoying insects at bay and prevent entry with wet or muddy slippers. It is best to have an eave or apse, something very useful for storing equipment, cooking, changing wet clothes.
5. With a roof – much better
Tents that have an over-roof to the floor retain heat better and protect more from rain. It is important to keep in mind that a light color of the over-roof absorbs less solar radiation and warms its interior less, although it has a disadvantage that it allows the light to pass through a lot. On the other hand, if it is dark, and the tent is located in the shade, it will be cooler and less bright.
6. What material?
A minor aspect is the fabric. It must have cross ventilation so that condensation does not occur. The rips top or anti-tear fabrics are better than those of aluminized nylon and, obviously, those of common nylon since they are lighter and do not wear out.
The following infographic gives more tips for camping tent, including preparation, how to pitch a tent, pest control, etc.
