Avoiding Camping Tent Disasters

f you are planning a camping trip for the first time, there are several things you need do to avoid the type of problems that make people swear never to camp again. Choosing the right type and size of tent and practicing assembly before the actual trip are two keys to a successful trip.

Choosing a Tent Based on Weather
Although, you may think camping is merely a matter of buying a tent and sleeping bag, some careful consideration to what type and size of tent to choose is important. Tents are classified as one season, two/three season, three/four season, four season, or expedition tents. A one-season tent is generally for summer use only and will not withstand more than a light rain shower. It should not be used during rainy weather, or anywhere it gets cold at night. Two/three season tents or three/four season tents are progressively heavier and able to withstand stronger winds and rain and provide more warmth. A four-season tent is usually two-layered and capable of withstanding winter weather and normal winter cold. Expedition tents are for mountain conditions and the most extreme type of winter camping.

Types of Camping Tents
Tents come in several types, including, a-frame, dome, cabin, tunnel, and geodesic. A-frame tents are the easiest to put up and usually provide space for sleeping only. Dome, cabin, and tunnel are all variations of a more complicated tent construction that allows room for more than sleeping. Dome tents typically have gently sloping sides and provide a large space of nearly equal height throughout the space. You typically have enough room to stand up, move around, and change clothes. The cabin tent is on a larger scale and typically allows you to park any vehicles in the tent, some will even accommodate a parked car. Tunnel tents typically have a large central area with a higher ceiling in the middle tapering to the ground at both ends. The tapered roof on the ends allows you a cozy place to crawl in and sleep. Geodesic tents are stronger and more durable than a dome type tent but typically have a similar shape. They are typically waterproof, wind resistant ,and constructed with stronger materials and more sturdy poles. This is the type of tent you need in extreme conditions.

Size of Camping Tent
Once you have chosen the proper type of tent you need to decide on size. When you look at the size of tent to, buy keep in mind that the suggested size on the tent is for a certain number of people sleeping very close together in sleeping bags with no other supplies or luggage. If you want to spread out more, intend to use air mattresses, or are planning a longer trip you need to choose a bigger tent. Generally you want a tent made for at least two more people than are in your party. The only exception is for winter camping when you may be counting on shared body heat to keep you comfortable. In that case, you may want a tent designed for only one more person than is in your party.

Practice Run
Once you have chosen the type and size of tent it is essential that you practice putting it up in your yard before you go camping. You need to make sure you have all the poles and any tools necessary for assembly. After you put up the tent you should crawl inside and lay down to make sure you have enough room, enough padding, and that it will be warm enough. If you are worried about being able to put up a complicated tent you might want to consider renting instead of buying. Store employees can help you learn how to assemble the tent and make sure you have chosen the right tent for your trip conditions. Unless you plan to camp in an extremely dry area you should make sure the tent is waterproof and not just water-resistant. Plan to place the tent on higher or slightly sloped ground, so that any precipitation will run off. Even a waterproof tent will not protect your tent from runoff if the tent is set up on low ground.

If you follow these guidelines when choosing a tent you can have an enjoyable camping experience. Remember to choose the right type of tent for the weather conditions you will face and the right size for how many people will be camping. With the right camping and some planning and practice you may find yourself making a camping trip an annual event.

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tent