| Today's tents are not shapeless beige flapping | | | | water leaks. |
| canvas you drape over poles. Eureka, for | | | | * Tent floor should have bathtub corners to keep |
| example, which is known for their stylish, brightly | | | | rain floods out. |
| colored tents just came up with one that has | | | | * Beginner campers don’t realize that rain is |
| built-in lighting. Before you get caught up with all | | | | not the only threat to dryness. |
| that coolness, though, make sure the tent you | | | | * A sleeping camper can emit up to a pint of |
| are buying scores high in the 5 basic important | | | | water in 1 night. If all that water can't escape it |
| factors: | | | | condenses inside the tent makes everything wet. |
| Factor #1. Is it roomy and comfortable? | | | | * So look for tents with breathable nylon walls. |
| * Forget about the occupancy numbers | | | | Factor #4. Is it quick and easy to set up? |
| suggested by tent makers. They are meant for | | | | * Only 1 way to find out. Set up the actual tent. |
| sardines. Go with a higher number. | | | | * Some stores like REI are happy to demo the |
| * Look for tents with almost-vertical walls and not | | | | tent setup in the store. If not, try setting it up at |
| sloping walls that cave in on you. | | | | home. If it’s not quick or easy, look for |
| * Tent height – you should be able to stand | | | | another tent. |
| up straight in it. Otherwise how are you going to | | | | * Always practice setting up the tent at home |
| change your pants? | | | | before you leave. Lest you embarrass yourself |
| * Space savers – are there hangers, pockets, | | | | on the campsite fighting with your spouse which |
| shelves inside to stow your knick-knacks? | | | | pole goes where. |
| * Sense of space – large, airy windows, moon | | | | Factor #5. Will it last? |
| roofs and awnings can add a perception of space | | | | Kids and busy parents are constantly walking in |
| Factor #2. Will it keep you warm? | | | | and out. You want a durable tent. Look for these |
| * Summer tents are lightweight and have mesh | | | | features: |
| walls that allow breeze to flow through. | | | | * Breathable nylon walls but tougher polyester |
| * Although we camp mostly in the summers yet | | | | rainflies. |
| we remember some chilly dawns especially when | | | | * Inspect seams for extra reinforcement in the |
| we are at high elevation such as Acadia National | | | | critical areas. |
| Park. | | | | * Aluminum poles are compact, light but strong. |
| * So to be safe, get a 3-season tent even if you | | | | Fiberglass poles can shatter easily. Stay away. |
| are mostly a summer camper. | | | | * And always use a tarp to protect tent floor. A |
| * 4-season tents are for winter camping which | | | | footprint is a special tarp that has been cut to the |
| most families stay away from until they become | | | | exact footprint of the tent. Very convenient, |
| more experienced. | | | | looks great, but costs extra. |
| Factor #3. Will it keep you dry? | | | | Your camping tent is your shelter against the |
| * Major seams should be reinforced to prevent | | | | elements. |