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