One of the many things that make traveling so awesome is that there are many different types of travel, each offering its own unique benefits and experiences. For example, some types of travel necessitate a travel tent and these typically offer adventure! Camping, backpacking, and hiking are all adventure-packed travel paths where a piece of equipment that offers shelter and protection from the elements, as well as privacy and a comfortable place to sleep, comes in handy.
It’s important to know however that choosing a travel tent shouldn’t be taken lightly as it will affect your overall experience. So here are 3 tips for choosing the right travel tent.
Material
One of the first things to think about when choosing a travel tent is material as material affects a tent’s weight, durability, and weather resistance.
Here are some of what to consider when choosing a travel tent based on material:
- If you’re backpacking, you want a lightweight tent. Look for materials such as nylon or polyester
- For frequent use, you want a durable material that can withstand wear and tear such as ripstop nylon or polyester
- In wet or windy conditions, a tent with good weather resistance is crucial. Look for materials such as treated nylon or polyester that are water-resistant with a high denier rating
- For hot and humid conditions, look for breathable materials such as mesh panels for better air circulation
- If you can afford it, more expensive tents are typically made from specialty chemical fibers and higher-quality materials that offer better durability and weather resistance
Capacity
Group travels can be so much fun! However one of the downsides is having to factor in the size and capacity of all your travel equipment, including the tent. Choosing a tent with the right capacity is crucial if everyone’s going to have enough space to sleep and move around comfortably, as well as adequate protection and ventilation.
When choosing a travel tent based on capacity, you want to:
- Look for a tent with at least 30 square feet of floor space per person
- Consider a tent with an additional vestibule or awning for extra space for things like gear storage or cooking
- Choose a tent with a peak height
- Make sure the tent has adequate ventilation, such as mesh windows or vents, to prevent condensation
Ease of Setup
Struggling to assemble your tent can really put a damper on things. A tent that is difficult to set up means frustration, wasted time, and even mistakes that can compromise the safety and effectiveness of the tent.
Here are some tips to tell whether a tent will be easy to set up or not:
- Tents with fewer poles are usually easier to set up t
- Look for intuitive connections. For example, pole sleeves and clips that are color-coded make setting up quicker and more straightforward
- Freestanding tents are relatively easier to set up because they don’t require stakes to keep them upright
- Look for a detailed instruction manual or even a video tutorial
The wrong travel tent can really diminish your travel experience. Use these tips to consider material, capacity, and ease of setup when making your choice.
