Which Tent to Choose? pt1

At Tents Camping we think it’s very important to get the right equipment for your needs. Our two part guide should give you the knowledge to get the appropriate gear.

When you are choosing a suitable tent there are some important factors which you have to consider to make your camping experience as enjoyable as possible. Firstly you need to consider the conditions that you are going to be camping in. You will also need to factor in the number of people that you would want to accommodate. Lastly it’s vital that you consider how much bulk and weight that you are willing (or able) to carry. Camper’s beware though; no tents will stop the midgies (tiny biting small flies to be found in the Scottish countryside)!

We’ve broken this section into two parts;

• Seasons and Conditions
• Sizes and Shapes and Weights and Features

Seasons and Conditions

Three-season tents are designed to offer good ventilation in spring, summer, and autumn. They provide good protection for most climatic conditions but be aware that they are not designed for heavy snowfalls or very high winds. Most three-season tents have a mesh liner inside, which will reduce condensation in your tent. Three season tents are less expensive than four season and often provide more room inside for less bulk to carry around. These tents are versatile and are the most popular choice for backpackers. Being less bulky and light makes these tents an attractive option for people doing a wide range of outdoor pursuits as they will strap on easily to a medium sized backpack.

Four-season tents are built to protect you in extreme weather. They have been designed with deep snow and high winds in mind. These tents are made with waterproof fabrics with limited ventilation, meaning that they tend to mist up with condensation more readily than three season tents, but are perfect if you are planning a winter camping trip or back country skiing. For most campers a four season tent is not appropriate, they are heavy and bulky to carry and are not appropriate to the conditions that you will be camping in. On the other hand if you are planning a mountaineering trip, these tents are fantastic as they provide the extra protection and durability that you would need in the extreme conditions.

Single wall tents are appropriate for the same uses as four season tents. These tents do not have a fly sheet and are therefore lighter than a four season tent, their weight is similar to that of a bivy sack. These tents do not have a separate inner tent so they give more room inside than a four seasons tent would. These tents are constructed of waterproof and breathable material, they are perfectly suited to dry and cool conditions.