No matter what type of camping you plan, picking the right tent is one of your most important decisions. The wrong tent could quickly turn a camping trip into an unpleasant experience. To select the best tent, there are several factors that campers should consider, including size and capacity, materials, style, and weather resistance.
By researching beforehand, campers can ensure they select the right tent for their needs and budget. Buying the right tent is more than just sleeping comfortably and enjoying nature. The ideal tent should also provide durable protection from the elements and be easy to set up and store.
Weather
When shopping for Eureka tents Canada, be sure to consider the weather. The best models have more robust pole materials (aluminum is superior to fiberglass), seam sealing, and full-coverage rainflies. Ideally, camp where the sun will not rise directly into the tent. This will prevent the tent from acting like an oven and allow for a more comfortable sleep.
Remember that prolonged exposure to sunlight can weaken the fabric and zippers. Keeping your tent clean and stored in a cool, dry place discourages mold and pest infestations. Store your tent in a bag or box to protect it from damage when transporting it is also a good idea. For added protection, use a bug repellent in the bag or box.
Size
Tent manufacturers typically overestimate tent capacity, so it’s usually a good idea to buy one size larger than you need. This allows for room to stretch out or move around, plus extra space for gear or pets. Pay special attention to the floor dimensions of the tent. When choosing a tent, these are more important than square footage since they determine how well the interior space is used.
Aim for a tent with a large mesh sack or an old pillowcase as a stuffing option. This will help prevent creases in the tent fabrics, which can weaken them over time. It’s also a good idea to store the tent partially assembled or upright in a closet to protect it from dust and pests.
Style
Whether you prefer to camp with an entire family and all of your gear or sleep in the great outdoors, you need to know what kind of tent best fits you. Do you want a tent that is easy to set up and dismantle? Or is a more robust design with specific attention to quick setup more of a priority? Once you’ve found your ideal tent, knowing how to use and store it properly is essential. Keep it cool and dry (not in direct sunlight), and clean it regularly.
Storage
Many tents offer a range of storage options, from interior pockets to full-coverage rainflies that create space in front of the door(s). Some even feature a vestibule to store boots and shoes to keep them out of the sleeping area. Ensure your tent has a solid foundation to support your weight and gear, especially when camping in rough weather conditions.
Check out the material type and care guidelines when selecting a tent and weather resistance ratings that match your climate concerns. When not in use, tents should be stored in a cool, dry place. Moisture encourages mold and vermin like mice and ants (they also don’t like cold places). Keep your tent clean and free of food wrappers or garbage that can attract these unwanted campers.
Comfort
While tents aren’t one-size-fits-all, there are a lot of different styles with features that suit all kinds of campers. Look for the sleeping capacity, storage options, and weather resistance you need. For example, a family tent that sleeps five or more people comfortably is ideal for camping with kids and pets.
Multi-room tents offer ample space for everyone to lie down and get some sleep while still being able to quickly move around and keep an eye on kids or dogs. For comfort in colder weather, consider a tent with vents and a full rainfly that covers the door(s), creating a space in front of them known as a vestibule. This prevents wind and snow from blowing dirt or rain into the tent, where it can trap body heat.