How To Buy The Best Outdoor Tent

When going camping, I think we can all agree that the outdoor tent is the most important piece of equipment to bring along. Buying the best outdoor tent can be a confusing task, with all the different types of outdoor tent available. Read on and learn how to buy the best outdoor tent to fit your needs.

Decide on the type of outdoor tent you need

There are two main types of outdoor tent, the 3 season and the 4-season outdoor tent. The 3 season is good for anything but winter, while the 4-season outdoor tent can be used at any time. Keep in mind though that the 4-season outdoor tent can be a bit uncomfortable in the summer as it doesn’t breathe. A 3 season outdoor tent is best for general family camping.

Decide on the size of outdoor tent you need

An outdoor tent is rated by the number of people that can sleep in it. I should note that this is generally measured as if everyone was to sleep shoulder to shoulder, a tight fit indeed. Don’t be afraid to get an outdoor tent rated for more, or even double the number of people that will sleep in it. You’ll appreciate the extra space for equipment, and just to move around.

What material should the outdoor tent be made of?

There are two main materials that an outdoor tent is made of, either rip-stop nylon or a poly-cotton blend. An outdoor tent made of nylon is tougher and usually better quality, they also breathe better, something you’ll appreciate in the heat of summer. Generally I wouldn’t recommend a fabric tent unless it’s a 4-season outdoor tent, even then, check the outdoor tent reviews to see how it fares.

Look at the hardware that the outdoor tent has

The best quality outdoor tent has fiberglass hardware with shock cords. Aluminum is also available, generally you’ll see this in a lesser quality outdoor tent

Look at the flooring of the outdoor tent

The flooring of the outdoor tent is very important. It should be thick waterproof nylon that runs several inches up the wall, creating a ‘tub’ effect.

Final considerations in an outdoor tent

Make sure you check the ventilation, there should be nylon screens on the windows and on the door flap. Also make sure there is a rain fly included with the outdoor tent.

How to buy the best outdoor tent

When you’re ready to buy an outdoor tent, make sure you read outdoor tent reviews from such sites as Consumer Search and Consumer Reports. These sites have unbiased outdoor tent reviews from real users just like yourself and can really help you find the best outdoor tent. You’ll also find useful links right here on this page to help you.