3 Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Camping Tent Often, the best trails are the ones that are too long to complete in one day. If you plan on camping out during these longer hikes you will need to carry your shelter with you. In very warm, dry climates this could just mean having to carry a lightweight sleeping bag. In most cases, however, you will need a camping tent. There is quite a difference between buying a tent for hiking and just buying a camping tent. Here we will discover three important things to consider when choosing a tent to take on a hike. 1. Consider the Number of People The first thing to consider is how many people will need to sleep in the tent. Also, you will need to allow space for your backpacks and cooking equipment. Obviously there is a limit to the size of tent you can strap to your backpack but there are varieties available that can sleep 2 people in relative comfort with their packs inside and still be a manageable weight and size. Look at the manufacturers’ indication of how many people the tent is designed to hold and if you see the ‘+’ sign then that normally means that there will be a little extra room for that number of people and their packs as well. 2. Consider the Type of Tent The next thing to consider is the type of tent you want. This will largely be determined by the weather conditions you expect. Look for the season index of the tent.

• 4 season tent: Suitable for year round use – even in the snow. • 3 season tent: Very robust but not for violent or extreme weather conditions. • 2 season tent: Best only for spring and summer use.

The two most popular types of tents for hiking and backpacking are the hoop tent and the simple dome tent. Both of these varieties of tents are quick and easy to erect and take down, even in bad weather. Whichever type you choose, it is wise to buy a tent with an outer and an inner skin. The outer skin will always be weatherproof but the addition of the inner lining decreases the risk of excessive condensation.

• The hoop tent has two or three hoops of descending size to which the tent fabric is attached. These tents tend to be very strong and stable, especially in windy conditions, as the hoops evenly support the fabric. The hoop tent packs very small but tends not to have a great deal of interior space.

• The simple dome tent has two crossover flexible poles which form hoops which crossover at the apex. This creates a square base and domed top. The simple dome tent is very strong and surprisingly roomy and it offers the best weight-to-size ratio.

3. Consider the Color A final thing to consider is the color of your tent. If you are planning to camp in the snow, then bright orange or yellow are ideal as it will easily be spotted. For summer camping light reflective colors are best in order to avoid overheating inside. Be aware, however, that some campsites in areas of outstanding natural beauty will only allow ‘earth’ colored tents (natural hues of beige, green and brown) so as not to stand out too much and detract from the landscape.

Whichever type of tent you choose to include in your camping gear, it is wise to remember that you do get what you pay for and cheap tents will not be anywhere near as robust and stable as the leading brands. Buy sensibly, choose well and your hikes will become mini expeditions! Author Bio: Barry Rodgers is an outdoors enthusiast. He has a love of the outdoors lifestyle and has hiked in the USA and many European countries. Currently living in Greece, he is often found hiking and camping in the mountains and on the beaches of southern Crete with his camping gear, camping chairs, some camping tents and good friends.