Tent Info

Unless you are a seasoned camper or backpacker, choosing the right tent can be a bewildering experience. There are so many variables to consider and each of the variables seem to have sub-variables, not to mention shape, size and price. The following is basic guide to help you select the right tent for your needs and experience.

TENT TYPES - most tent manufacturers classify their tent products as Family or Base Camp, Three Season, Four Season, Ultralight or Solo and Backpacking tents.

FAMILY TENTS - also known as Base Camp or Cabin tents. Just as the name suggests, these are larger tents with plenty of room for 6 or more campers. Typically, Family Tents may have multiple window openings and entrances. They tend to be heavier and require more set-up time.

THREE SEASON - one of the most popular tent styles because they tent to be rugged, durable and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Three season tents are capable of withstanding rain and wind and at the same time are large enough for multiple campers.

FOUR SEASON - heavier duty tents with a lower profile to withstand the weather. Usually made of better grade fabrics with more poles for added strength and stability.

BACKPACKING tents - usually for 2-3 people max. Lightweight, compact, easy to set-up.

ULTARLIGHT or SOLO tents - tend to be smaller than Backpacking tents with room for one. Light weight, easy set-up and compactness are key characteristics.

TENT SHAPES - basic tent shapes include Dome style, Umbrella style and Flex Frame style.

DOME tents - are usually easy to set-up and have plenty of room. They have a rounded shape and are self-supporting.

UMBRELLA tents - have plenty of space and headroom, vertical walls and multiple windows. Most Family Tents are Umbrella style tents.

FLEX FRAME tents - tend to be lightweight, easy to set-up and compact. Most Ultralight and Backpacking tents are Flex Frame designs.

OTHER IMPORTANT FEATURES TO CONSIDER - other features that you should factor into your buying decision include Material Type and Poles.

MATERIAL - most tents are made of Polyester, Nylon or Canvas. Polyester is light and weather resistent, Nylon is light and durable and Canvas is protective and heavy duty, but, is also heavy.

POLES - backpacking and smaller three season tents will tend to have fibreglass poles. Larger family size tents will have aluminum poles. Either is perfectly acceptable.