BUYING A TENT

• Determine the Purpose of the Tent

o If being used for family camping - consider comfort, space and ventilation.??

o If backcountry camping - consider weight, size and durability.

• Determine Type of Material

o Canvas is durable but very heavy.

o Nylon is lighter weight.

o Polyester withstands extended exposure to the sun.

•  Determine the Style

o Cabin tents are big with high ceilings and large windows.? Multi-room models are available.

o Dome tents are smaller, stable and better in varying weather conditions.? They are also easy to setup and take down.

• Determine the Size and Weight

o  What type of activity the tent will be used for

o  How many people will it need to house

o How much gear will be stored inside the tent

o Tent sizes do not include room for gear storage. Consider purchasing a larger tent for this purpose.

• Consider Ease of Setup

o Color coding is helpful.

• Consider the Poles

o Quality is important.

o Fiberglass poles are durable.

o Aluminum poles are lightweight.

• Consider Quality of Other Features

o  Flooring.

o Seams.

o Stakes.

o Stitching.

o Tie Downs.

o Window and Door mesh.

o Zippers.

• Consider the Weather

o Waterproof/water resistant.

o Use a full coverage rain fly.

• Consider a quality ground cloth

o For under your tent to protect the floor and to keep it clean and dry.?

o This ground cloth should be the same shape as your tent and slightly smaller