There are so many options available today when you are looking for a tent.  There are companies that offer brightly colored tents and recently came up with one that has built-in lighting.  But before you get caught up with how it looks, make sure you choose your tent based on the following factors:

How roomy is it?

• Don't count on the occupancy numbers given by tent makers.  They are suggested for sleeping only and that is a tight fit. If you want to do anything but sleep in your tent, go up to a higher number.
• Go for a tent with almost vertical walls. The sloping kind can make you feel like you are in a cave and if you have any claustrophobia, you really need to avoid the sloping tents.
• Try to find a tent that you can stand up in.  It makes getting dressed and moving around much easier.
• It is nice to find a tent with pockets/hangers (space savers)  to stow little things that can get totally lost inside a tent.
• Try to find one that gives you a sense of space.  Moon roofs, large windows that let the air flow through and awnings can add to your perception of space.

How easy is it to set up?

• You will need to set it up to find out.
• Some stores are happy to demo the tent setup. If not, set it up at home and if isn't simple then look for a different tent.
• Practice setting up the tent before you leave home. Setting up camp will be less stressful if you know what you are doing.

Will it keep me warm?

• Try to find a 3 season tent, even if you are mostly a summer camper.
• Even though we camp mostly in the summer, at higher elevations and in some areas of the country, there are chilly mornings and nights where you will be cold.
• 4 season tents are for winter camping and most families prefer not to camp in the winter.
  

Will I stay dry?

• Check that all major seams have been reinforced to prevent water leaks.
• The best tent floor to avoid flooding rains will be one with bathtub corners. These are floor corners that appear rounded and go up the wall a few inches.
  
• Look for tents that have breathable nylon walls. Campers can emit up to a pint of water in a night.  The breathable nylon gives the condensed water a place to escape.
  

How long will it last?

• Look for breathable nylon walls and for a tough polyester rain fly.
• Check the seams for reinforcement.
• Fiberglass poles can shatter, so stay away from these.  Look for aluminum poles that are compact, light but strong.
• Always use a tarp to protect the floor.  They do make a 'footprint' which is a special tarp that has been cut to match exactly the floor of your tent.  It is very convenient but it does cost extra.
  

Camping as a family can be a great bonding time.  It can also be a sanctuary for quality time playing card games, telling ghost stories, gazing at the stars, making s'mores and more.

Please visit our store!  SDG Outdoor and Fun