Tent Buying Guide Part 2

Tent Styles

There are two elements that can be used to describe a tent's style: its shape and how it is set up. While the two are related, don't expect one shape of tent to always set up the same way.

Cabin vs. Dome tents: Most tents are either of these two traditional styles.

• Dome tents can often be easier to set up but are generally lower profile. While they have less headroom than Cabin tents, a low profile makes Dome tents sturdy and stronger in high winds.
• Cabin tents generally have walls that are vertical rather than sloped, providing more headroom—often enough to stand up. This also makes them easier to get in and out of. Family cabin-style tents may also have built-in vestibules, screenrooms or storage space.

Setting up Your Tent

While most tents are pretty straightforward to set up, some may require more than one person. Always be sure to read the Owner's Manual before setting up the tent to ensure a smooth setup and to avoid damaging the tent.

It's a good idea to do a practice run at home before taking your tent out for the first time. Not only will this help familiarize you with the process, but it will allow you to inspect your tent for any issues or missing parts before your trip.

Look for these additional features that can make tent setup even easier:

• Colour-coded poles and sleeves - This colour coding takes the guesswork out of tent assembly, helping you easily match which pole goes into which sleeve.
• Hub and pole system - Some tents, such as the Broadstone Easy-Up system, use an integrated pole design which doesn't require any pole assembly. The poles are pre-assembled inside the sleeves with locking joints and use a central hub system. You just lay out the tent, pull up the frame and lock into place.
• Pop-up tents - These tents set up in literally seconds. Pop-up tents are spring-loaded, and feature a tension-based fibreglass rod frame sewn into the tent. The tent is packed with the frame coiled into a hoop. Just take off the security band and toss the tent in the air. The tent will pop right open. Stake it down, and you're done.

TIP: Bring a small mallet with you camping to help tap tent pegs into hard ground

Tent Buying Guide Part 1 - Tent Buying Part 2 - Tent Buying Guide Part 3

Sources : http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/ResearchCentre/TentGuide.jsp?locale=en

TENT BUYING GUIDE Part 1

Whether you're going camping for a weekend with the family or on a month-long backwoods adventure, the right tent can make all the difference between fun and frustration.

The information on these pages will help you answer some basic questions you need to consider before you buy a tent. It also will help you understand the different tent styles, and includes information on tent features that can help you stay dry and comfortable.

Basic Questions

There are a few simple questions you need to consider before looking at tents. Knowing the answers will help you quickly narrow the field, so you can spend more time looking at the styles and features that will make a real difference in your camping adventure.

How Many Campers Will Sleep in the Tent?

As a general rule, it's wise to buy a tent rated for 2 people more than will actually sleep in it. A 2-person tent will sleep 2 adults, but it won't include much room to move around or store gear—a 4-person tent would be better suited to give you room for yourselves and your gear.

If you'll have a bigger group, you'll need more space, so look for tents with vestibules and screen houses. For extra privacy, look at 2-room tents that divide the sleeping area. Most tents will show the tent floor plan and maximum sleeping configuration right on the packaging.

How Will You Transport the Tent?

If you're driving right to your campsite, the bulk and weight of your tent may not be a concern. However, if you're backpacking, biking or canoeing, you'll want to travel light and should consider a smaller, compact tent with lightweight aluminium poles. Most tents state their weight on the packaging.

What is Your Budget?

Like many things, you get what you pay for in a tent. A more expensive tent will incorporate better materials, waterproofing, fly coverage and other features that can make camping comfortable and convenient.

Tent Buying Guide Part 1 - Tent Buying Guide Part 2 - Tent Buying Guide Part 3

Sources : http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/ResearchCentre/TentGuide.jsp?locale=en