A good-quality tent can make your camping more exciting and comfortable. But selecting the right one is not that easy. That is why you need to research deeply and find out the best ways to choose a backpacking tent. But there is nothing to worry about at all. We have made things easier for you! After researching for days, we have already found out 10 ways. We guarantee you can pick up the perfect one if you follow the following tips systematically. What are you waiting for then? Let’s have an eye:
1. What should you buy – 3 or 4-season tent?
Firstly, you need to determine what type of backpacking tent you want. Usually, you will get 3 or 4 – season tents out there, but the main concern is – which one you should buy. Most of the tents on the market are of 3-season type because people generally go on a hike or camp during the summer season. At that time, they need not think about extremely cold or wet weather. So they choose a 3-season tent in this regard. Moreover, the type is budget-friendly and lightweight, and you can carry it with ease. It’s also suitable for alpine areas because it can keep you dry and safe.
On the other hand, those who want to camp during the winter season generally choose a 4-season backpacking tent because it is highly suitable for cold and snowy weather. Now the decision is yours. If you want to camp during the summer, you should buy a 3-season tent. Or for the cold season, you can buy a 4-season one. Read our best backpacking tent reviews here…
2. Will you use it for a casual backpacking or serious one?
Casual backpacking refers to a trip that happens within shorter distances. You generally go there to spend a night or two. In that case, you can buy one at a reasonable price that can be set-up easily, made with durable materials, and is comfortable to use. For serious backpacking, you generally go a long distance to spend a long time. Here, you should go for an ultra-streamlined design though it’s somewhat more expensive than the previous one. This type is more comfortable and durable.
3. How Important is Weight to You?
Weight is one of the most critical factors you need to consider before buying a tent. When you look at a budget-oriented two-person capacity tent, you will find that the construction materials are cheaper, and the tent is heavier – from 4 to 5 pounds. But a popular and the best 2 person tent is made of high-class thinner materials, and the weight is 2 to 3.8 pounds. This one is a bit expensive but comfortable and durable.
It’s a general assumption that a lightweight tent usually costs more, and when you buy a less durable one, you will get less interior space. Similarly, when the features are less, the set-up will be more difficult. Many users regard REI as the best backpacking tent. You can try this one if you truly want a durable and high-quality tent for your camp.
4. Cost
Surprisingly, you will get different types of tents with different costs, and the range can be from $ 150 to $ 700 or above. Now the main concern is which price range you want to cover. Fortunately, you will get low to medium quality tents by spending 160 to 190 dollars. But the ultralight backpacking tent will cost you more – around $ 400. Similarly, the best 4 person tent is costlier than the 1 person backpacking tent as the capacity is more. So you have to keep in mind that the better you want, the more money you have to spend. Read our best backpacking tent reviews here…
5. The capacity of the tent
Tent capacity is one of the essential issues you have to consider with special care. Luckily, you will get a variety of tents of different sizes. Firstly, you need to think about – how many people you want to stay together. Generally, you will get from one to four people capacity tents on the market. But among them, 2 person versions are the most popular. These are standard in size and quality. And you will get enough space inside to relax or sleep comfortably. Also, you will have the option to keep your pet simultaneously.
On the other hand, 3-person tents are exceptionally suitable for a small family. They have enough space to keep pets and other backpacking with ease. And what’s about the 4-person tents? Hmm, this one is suitable for those who go to a camp with friends or relatives. But these tents have some disadvantages like they are heavier and bulkier. So carrying from one place to another is problematic. Here, the choice is yours because you know very well what type of tents you need. But frankly speaking, 2-person tents are our favorite choice.
Read More About Your Complete Winter Backpacking Guide.
6. How many doors you want
The number of doors plays a vital role in making moments enjoyable. One door is okay, but if you want a luxurious feeling, you should choose a tent with doors on both sides. On the one hand, you will get enough space, and on the other hand, you can go in and out at night without any hindrance. Though a tent with one door saves you some weight, you may find difficulties while spending nights. So we always recommend you buy a tent with two doors at least. They will help the air pass quickly.
7. Weather Protection
Nobody can tell exactly about the weather conditions. Anything can happen at any time. If you camp during the mid-summer, you can be a victim of unexpected and unpredictable weather conditions. That is why you should buy a tent having weather protective features. Also, the ventilation system should be high-class. However, you should select a coated and waterproof rain-fly tent so that you can stay safe from sudden rain or snowy weather. Though this type is a bit expensive, you can get a high-quality and sturdier tent that can serve you for a long time.
8. Ventilation
Like weather protection feature, you should also emphasize on the ventilation system. All-weather conditions can build-up moisture on the tent walls. For this reason, you should buy a tent with double-wall construction. The upper portion of this type of tent is generally made of breathable mesh that keeps the airflow alright. And if you want to get a chimney-like effect, you can buy one having deploy able vents in the rain-fly.
9. Storage
Remember, a tent having good storage always play an essential role in making camping more successful. Firstly, I would like to talk about the vestibules. They are the section of the rain-fly that sheds the doors, shelters your footwear or pack, and protects you from adverse weather. Interior pockets are also useful for keeping essential things near at hand. You can find these pockets along the sidewalls or the roof.
10. What type of tent you want
Generally, you will get two types of tents on the market – freestanding and non-freestanding. Freestanding tents are connected to the poles to stand upright. It’s a bit difficult to carry because of being heavy. On the other hand, a non-standing one needs to stake out the corners so that you can make the structure. Of course, here, you need not flop around. This type is lightweight and easy to carry. Surprisingly, you can also get semi-freestanding tents out there. Here, the choice is yours. If you want to handle the heaviness, you can choose a freestanding tent. Otherwise, it’s better to choose a semi or non-freestanding one. Read our best backpacking tents reviews here…
The conclusion
I know you are clear enough about the ways you should follow before buying a backpacking tent. A good-quality, comfortable, and durable tent can enhance the pleasure of the nights you spend while going to a camp. If you have any confusion, please reread the ways, keep your brain relaxed, think deeply, and finally, make the right decision.
