Selecting a Tent The most fundamental piece of camping equipment is a good tent. It's a good idea to do some comparison shopping before you purchase one since tents are available in a variety of styles, and since there is wide variation among them in terms of quality and cost. Your best bet is to begin by talking with a salesperson at one or more outdoor outfitters in your area. People who work in these stores are usually experienced backpackers and campers themselves and have firsthand knowledge of a number of different tent options. As you shop for a tent, here are some basic factors to keep in mind: - To select the right tent, you'll first need to determine what type of camper you are, or what skill-level of camping you intend to pursue -- car-camper, basic recreational hiker/camper, serious backpacker or advanced mountaineer.
- Most tents are grouped into one of two categories: three-season and four-season tents. Three-season tents are suitable for camping in spring, summer and fall (figure A). Most recreational tents are three-season models. Four-season tents are also designed to provide ample shelter in winter and under severe weather conditions. This type is used by advanced backpackers, trekkers and mountaineers.
- Determine how many people will need to fit into the tent. Tents designed for backpacking are usually described in terms of how many people they can accommodate for sleeping: one-person, two-person, three-person, four-person and so on. These descriptions refer to how many people can sleep in the tent, side by side in sleeping bags. Tents designed for backpacking may sleep up to six people in larger models (figure B). Larger cabin-style tents are designed to accommodate an entire family, and may even be large enough to allow you to stand up and walk around inside. These larger types are designed for more casual, campground use.
- Tents are available in a range of styles, shapes and "footprints" including dome, half-dome, low-profile, A-frame, rectangular and cabin-style. The most popular style among outdoor enthusiasts is the dome style, which offers sturdy, efficient design and easy set-up (figure C). The tent is held up by lightweight cross-poles (figure D) that fit through clips or fabric loops. Most also come with a rain-fly that fits over the tent exterior and provides extra protection from the elements, allowing rain to drain off nicely. Most recreational tents are a freestanding design, meaning that once the poles are in place, the structure can stand on its own without needing to be staked or tied. Use of tent-stakes is still advisable, however, to keep the tent from blowing over in high winds.
- Weight can be critical. If you're going to use your tent exclusively for car camping, then weight isn't that much of an issue since you probably won't be carrying your tent more than a few yards. If you're backpacking, however, the weight of the tent is a major consideration. High-end tents are made from ultralight materials, making them appealing to serious backpackers who'll be carrying their shelter over long distances.
- Tents are made from various materials, but the best ones are made from high-quality nylon. This type of material has a tight weave and has usually been treated for protection against ultraviolet light, which can cause fabric to deteriorate prematurely. Some tents also feature nylon-mesh doors and panels that allow for enhanced ventilation.
- Extras aren't much of an issue since most tents are fairly self-contained. You will want a suitable ground cloth, a sheet of material that fits beneath the floor of the tent (figure E). The ground cloth protects the tent's nylon floor from damage and provides an extra barrier against moisture. A plastic tarp can do the job, but for most high-end tents you can purchase a custom-fit ground cloth that's lightweight and compact and fits your tent's footprint precisely.
For general recreational applications, you can expect to pay between $100 and $400 for a good tent. Many outdoor outfitters offer tent-rental programs, so it's possible to try your hand at campcraft before you've actually purchased a tent. Rental also offers the advantage of allowing you to try out a style or model of tent to see how you like it before making your purchase decision. The other major purchases you'll need to make for camping will include sleeping bags for all of your family members and backpacks (unless you plan to only do car camping). Like tents, sleeping bags and backpacks come in a range of styles, sizes and weights for various applications. As with the tent, the sales rep at your outfitter can help you select these items based on your camping needs and expectations.
What to Pack With your tent and sleeping bags selected, there are a few more essentials you'll need to bring along. Here's a list of some basics: - Water. Store ample amounts of water in leakproof containers (figure F). For moderate activity, you'll need to bring at least three quarts per person, per day.
- Food. Dehydrated foods (available from your outfitter) and other lightweight, high-energy foods are ideal for backpacking. For car camping, you can bring along more substantial fare stored in coolers.
- Cooking and eating utensils. You may want to also consider a gas-powered campstove of some sort for cooking and making hot beverages.
- Light. Propane or battery-powered lamps are good for illuminating your campsite. You'll probably also want a handheld flashlight for each camper.
- First-Aid Kit. To prepare for minor emergencies, bring a first-aid kit (figure G) that includes adhesive bandages, gauze bandages, tape, sunscreen, etc.
- Waterproof/windproof matches. For starting a fire, you'll need matches. Waterproof matches (figure H) and waterproof match-containers are available from outdoor stores.
RESOURCES :
Parents' Guide to Hiking & Camping: A Trailside Guide
Model: 0393316521
Author: Alice Cary
Volume from The Trailside Guide Series from W.W. Norton and Company.
W. W. Norton & Company
REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.)
A comprehensive site with equipment and clothing for camping, hiking, climbing, cycling, paddling, fly fishing, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking and other outdoor activities.
REI
Sumner, WA 98352-0001
Website: www.rei.com
Eastern Mountain Sports
Eastern Mountain Sports, an outdoor store, was featured in DIY Family Outdoors, episode 101.
Eastern Mountain Sports
Peterborough, NH 03458
Phone: 603-924-7231
Website: www.emsonline.com
Outside magazine
Magazine covering outdoor activities including adventure travel, hiking, backpacking, camping and the environment.
Backpacker magazine
Magazine covering outdoor recreation, hiking, backpacking, camping, equipment, etc.
A Guide to Happy Family Camping: A Little Help to Get Started Camping With Kids
Model: 156148248X
Author: Tammerie Spires
Good Books
Website: www.goodbooks.com
Simple Tent Camping: The Basics of Camping from Car or Canoe
Model: 0070730210
Author: Zora Aiken
McGraw-Hill Companies
Website: www.mcgraw-hill.com
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