Whether you are backpacking deep into the wilderness Bear Grylls-style, or you are a rave child who enjoys outdoor music festivals or just love the outdoors in general, having a high-quality tent is a must. Sure, you can stop by the next gas stations and get a cheap tent, but you can just throw it away after you’re done because it’s only good for one use. Or, you could spend just a little more cash and invest in a quality tent that is both functional and will last you for many years to come. And when I say “functional”, I’m talking about a tent that is good at its primary job which is protecting you from the elements and is easy to use at the same time.
Considering that there is a huge number of different types tents for sale available on the market, ranging from $200 all the way to $600 or more, choosing one that meets your needs and your budget can be quite the challenge. But remember, price should not be the determining factor here. There are a number of key features you need to have in mind that can help you make the right choice the next time you are browsing through tents for sale. So let’s go over them one by one.
Size is obviously an important factor. Usually the size of the tent is described by the number of people that can sleep inside it. Although it seems pretty straight forward, you need to put some more thought into it. For example, if you’re camping with your partner, a tent designed for two people can be a tight fit, but you can snuggle together and it won’t be a problem. However, if you are planning to share a tent with a friend, you might want to go for a bigger size and more comfort in order to avoid some downright awkward situations. Plus, your tent is not just for sleeping. It’s also your living quarters and your storage space. Overall, it’s always best to up-size your tent capacity, but don’t overdo it because bigger size means it’s harder to transport.
And this brings us to the next feature which is packing size. Whether you are walking or driving to your camp site, you want your tent to be compact and light in weight. So, avoid tents with heavy fabrics and bulky poles. Also, your tent needs to be easy to set up. Sometimes you might get caught in the rain, or you might be running out of daylight, and you need your shelter as soon as possible. If you are just too lazy, you can always go for a pop-up tent, however, most well-designed tents can be set up by one person in a matter of minutes.
Of course, we must not forget the main purpose of the tent – weather resistance. If you have just the slightest experience in camping, you should know how unpredictable the weather can be and how easy it can ruin your weekend. This is why your tent needs to be made from water resistant materials, a sturdy wind resistant construction, and also provide good shade and air circulation.
Finally, consider the workmanship that went into making of the tent. Some manufacturers will cut down costs by using less stitching for example, and this will have a significant impact on the durability of your tent. As I said before, you should think of your tent as an investment and always go for reputable manufacturers that specialize in this business.
