If you're new to camping and in the market for your very first tent, you're not alone in thinking that the process can seem pretty overwhelming.
With so many different types of tents, features, and price points to consider, it can be hard to know where to begin. That's exactly why we put together this guide – to help you navigate the process of buying a tent as an absolute beginner.
First, let's talk about the different types of tents available. Different websites will tell you that there are anything from five to about 20 main types, but we've whittled the list down to four: dome, A-frame, cabin and backpacking.
Dome tents
Dome tents are the most basic tent, very common – and are generally a good option for beginners. They are usually pretty easy to set up and take down, and are often the most affordable option. They're called dome tents because – you guessed it – they are dome-like in shape.
A-frame
This is your basic, classic, as-seen-in-a-thousand-1950s-postcards tent. Think two A-shaped sets of poles either end (more like inverted Vs) and, connecting these, a single pole along the roof of the tent. They tend to be affordable and easy to set up, but aren't generally what you'd call 'roomy'.
Cabin tents
Cabin tents are sometimes bit more advanced, and are designed for larger groups of people or families. They typically have more room and features, such as separate rooms or built-in closets. A good one will have the feel of a proper cabin – somewhere to come back to and chill out after a day's adventures.
Backpacking tents
These, as you'd guess, are designed for backpackers and are lightweight and smaller than most other tents. They are best for solo campers or small groups.
What to pay for a tent
When it comes to price, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $500 or more on a tent, depending on the type and features. Keep in mind that the more you spend, the better quality and features you can expect – but remember that a tent is a tent.
Even the huge ones won't really give you any soundproofing or a whole lot in the way of creature comforts. But, as they say, that's camping!
However, you don't have to break the bank to get a great tent. With a budget of around $150-200, you can find a solid tent that should serve you well on your camping trips.
Choosing a tent for your needs
Another key thing to consider when looking for the best tent is the season when you're likely to be camping. Some tents are better suited for warmer weather, while others are designed to handle colder temperatures and wet conditions. Three-season tents are the most versatile and are suitable for spring, summer, and fall camping trips.
Four-season tents? You guessed it – these are also designed for winter camping and are typically more expensive. If you plan on camping in a variety of conditions, it's probably worth investing in a four-season tent.
A short guide to tent terms
When looking at tents, you'll find yourself prodding and poking different parts that make up the tent, quite possibly wondering what they're for. The tent body is the main part of the tent that provides the living space. The fly is an outer layer that covers the tent body and provides added protection from rain.
The poles are what hold the tent up, obviously, and the stakes (sometimes called pegs) are used to anchor the tent to the ground.
How big is your tent?
An important thing to keep in mind when buying a tent is the capacity. Tents are typically described by the number of people they can sleep. So, a two-person tent is designed for two people, a three-person tent for three people, and so on.
Keep in mind that this is just a general guide, so if you're someone who likes more space or wants to bring extra gear, consider getting a tent that is one or even two sizes larger.
Before you buy, it's always a good idea to read reviews online to see what other people with similar circumstances to you have settled on. Happy camping!
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