| One question I often get from people asking me | | | | Choose a camp that is easy to set up. Tents |
| for advice on family camping is how to choose a | | | | basically come in four shapes: Umbrella, A-frame, |
| good camping tent. With so many different types | | | | geodesic or “dome” and wall. The umbrella |
| of tents available out there, even an experienced | | | | is the most commonly used family camping tent, |
| camper can get easily perplexed by the | | | | as it has plenty of standing room, large windows |
| bewildering variety of tents to choose from. Here | | | | and a rain fly over the top. Some stores are |
| are some essential tips to consider when choosing | | | | happy to demo the tent setup in store. If not, try |
| your family camping tent. | | | | setting it up at home. If it’s not quick or |
| 1. The Size of Your Tent | | | | easy, look for another tent. |
| First and foremost, when choosing a tent you | | | | 4. Tent Material and Poles |
| must know how many persons you will need the | | | | For more durable tent, find one which has a good |
| tent to cater for. You do not want your whole | | | | fabric. Most tents are made out of nylon. Coated |
| family cramping inside a tent where there is | | | | nylon is used for waterproofing. Better tents use |
| barely enough space for everyone to sleep | | | | thicker fabric and tougher polyester rainflies. Poles |
| comfortably. Tents are normally advertised as | | | | are also important in determining a tent’s |
| two, four, six persons and so on. Believe me, | | | | stability. Fiberglass poles are better for durability |
| when the tent label says two persons, they | | | | while aluminium poles are light but strong. You |
| meant exactly that. Do not try to stuff your gear | | | | should also test the zippers to ensure they can |
| together in it. If you need to store your gear in | | | | open and close freely. |
| the tent, then consider choosing a larger tent size. | | | | 5. Budget for Your Tent |
| Also, you’ll want to choose a tent with height | | | | You should know how much you are willing to |
| that is tall enough for you to stand. | | | | spend for your tent. In general, higher priced |
| 2. Location of Your Campsite | | | | tents are made with stronger fabric, stronger |
| You’ll need to determine the potential | | | | poles, and stronger stitching that can last for |
| weather conditions at where you are going to | | | | many years. However, not everyone needs this |
| camp. Different weather can have different | | | | strength and durability. If you are just starting out |
| effects on the tents. Windy areas require tents | | | | in your family camping adventures, you might |
| with sturdy poles, stakes and anchor ropes. For | | | | want to stick with the least expensive tents. Pick |
| rainy spots, choose a tent with a completely | | | | a price range you are comfortable with and stick |
| waterproof rain fly covering as much as possible. | | | | with it until you find a tent that meets all of your |
| The rain fly will also provide shade for tent in | | | | needs – in terms of size, style and price. |
| sunny locations. Look for tents with large | | | | Your camping tent is not only your shelter against |
| screened windows on opposite sides of the tent | | | | the elements, but also your sanctuary for |
| which provides air ventilation in case of heat. | | | | spending quality time with your family. Have a |
| 3. Quick and Easy Tent Set Up | | | | great family camping trip. |