Qondio
Front
Intel
IntelMart
Shares
My Qondio
Account
mrsd3 > Intel > Choosing a Tent

qondio.com/g2jc PRINT EMAIL

Choosing a Tent

When choosing a tent there are several factors to keep in mind. First of all, you will need to know how many people will be sleeping in it. Tent manufacturers will usually list how many people it can sleep. Usually it's best to go a little larger than what the manufacturer claims. For instance, if you buy a 2 person tent, then you might want to consider buying a 3 or 4 person tent instead because unless you like to be packed like sardines, you might want the extra elbow room. You need to keep in mind that you will need room for sleeping bags, sleeping pads, any extra clothing, headlamps or flashlights, and basic essentials.

You will also need to check the weight of the tent. While it may be nice to have the extra space in a 4 person tent while on a backpacking trip, you might want to consider carrying a lighter tent when travelling solo. The extra pound or two might not seem like a lot, but when you're carrying everything on your back, every ounce counts. Also keep in mind the number of poles that the tent has.

Another factor when deciding on a tent is the weather during which you'll be using your tent. Do you need a 4 season tent, or just a summer tent. A 4 season tent is usually heavier and sturdier than most. Most tents also come with a rain shelter. Rain covers are important because you don't want to wake up in the morning in a puddle of water. If you'll be backpacking in a variety of climates and seasons, then a convertible tent may be a viable option. A convertible tent usually has an optional vestibule and poles, which can be left at home or in your vehicle if you'll be sleeping in milder climates.

You will usually find backpacking tents for sale at specialty stores. Tents found in department stores, and common variety stores are usually made for family camping, meaning that they usually are not carried for long distances. They are also quite heavy, and the rain fly's usually are not sufficient to withstand the rigors of the backcountry and being exposed to the elements.

Ventilation is also something to keep in mind. While it may seem unnecessary to have extra windows and doors on a tent, you will find the extra ventilation worthwhile. Especially during trips when you're spending more time in the tent due to weather conditions, etc.

Doing your research before buying a tent can be time-consuming, but buying wisely will be satisfying once you're in the outdoors.

Images

Mountain Hardwear Tent
Mountain Hardwear Tent

Contributed by mrsd3 on April 13, 2008, at 2:39 AM UTC.

Reactions

No reactions yet.

Rate This Intel

Please login or sign up to rate this intel.

Comments

Please login or sign up to add a comment.

Share

Copyright Notice

The copyright for this content entitled "Choosing a Tent" has been specified by the contributor as:

All Rights Reserved

This content may not be copied, distributed or adapted by anyone under any circumstances.

Login Here with
Any Email Address
Any Password
No account? Sign up.

Intel Contributor
This intel was contributed by mrsd3

Qondio Archive
May, 2012
123456
78910111213
14151617181920
21222324252627
28293031


2008
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2009
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2010
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2011
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2012
January, February, March, April, May

Sign Up
Not a member yet? Qondio is a powerful network for making it online. If you have a website to promote, we can help. Sign up and get in on the action.

About Qondio
Welcome to Qondio! Discover the awesome power this network can deliver by going to our About page. Or you could skip straight to the Sign Up form.

ABOUT
SUCCESS GUIDE
FEATURES
FAQ
ADVERTISE
CONTACT
USAGE POLICY
PRIVACY POLICY


TWITTER
FACEBOOK