Choosing The Right Tent
There's a world of difference between planning a walking and camping trip with a friend, sorting a site-based holiday with the whole family and going to a festival. However, there are a few things to think about whatever your plans.
Budget - In an ideal world, this wouldn't be a factor but we all have one. We also want quality and value for money; that's why our entire tent range offers value for all.
Size - Family camping means thinking beyond enough bedrooms for everybody in the tent. You need to consider living space for clothes, cooking, eating, playing space for the children on a wet day and just hanging out.
Weight - Travelling by car means weight isn't usually a key factor but if you are planning to carry your tent any distance then the lighter the better.
Packed size - Whether in a car or rucksack, the less space taken up by your tent the more is left for other key items like clothes, food, bikes and frisbees!
Purpose - If you are backpacking and moving on every day then you'll probably want a simple quick-pitching tent. Staying on a site for several days means it's worth considering larger tents that take longer to pitch properly but give you home from home space and feel. Touring by car allows you to pick a tent offering more space but you'll still want one to pitch and pack easily. If festivals are your focus, then instant shelter that doesn't take up much space may be the priority.
Design - if you are planning to spend some time around your tent then flexibility in terms of doorways, porches and headroom becomes more important. Bear in mind the extra shelter and privacy offered by canopies, tarp awnings and windbreaks.
Take your time to work out your own needs for a tent:
• Who - How many people? How old? How mobile?• Where - Whatever you think the weather might do, you can't rely on it being bright and sunny. A tent that can cope with wind and rain is a practical necessity in this country and most of Europe.
• What - As well as all the other factors, there is also what you prefer? Some people love big tents; others prefer smaller designs that are quick and easy to pitch.
• When - Happily, all tents with flysheets can be used for all-year-round camping.
• How - Basecamp or mobile shelter? By car, on foot, or on two wheels?
It's worth jotting down a few key considerations and keeping an open mind on options.
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