Tent Camping and Tent Types For Outdoor Camping

Tweet

Tent Camping and Tent Types

In preparation of my upcoming tent camping trip I decided it was time to take an inventory of my current camping gear. That lead me to the idea to write this article on tent camping and the various tent types to consider when going camping. It is important to know the different tent types and sizes based on the type of tent camping you will be doing in various environments and weather conditions. Here are a couple of things to consider when tent camping:

Tent Size

Your tent needs to be able to accommodate the number of people you intend to occupy it comfortably. Also keep in mind you you will probably also be changing attire in your tent as well as storing gear in it. so make sure to choose a tent size that will accommodate your needs.

Weather Conditions

It is important to choose a tent type that can withstand the weather conditions of the environment that you will be camping in. Most importantly though, be sure to choose a waterproof tent with a rain fly, and optionally a tent porch for storing wet items so they can dry out without getting the interior of your tent all wet.

Tent Strength

Be sure to choose a tent type with durable tent poles, pegs, and fasteners. Being able to withstand strong winds and other weather conditions are must when selecting a tent. For added durability you can also opt for a tent with double sewn seams that will stand up to harsh weather conditions when tent camping.

Now let’s move on to the different tent types to choose from when tent camping:

Quick Pitch Tent

The quick pitch tent is a style that has become increasingly popular among campers, because they are relatively simple to setup. These type of tents come with an integrated pole system that allow the tent to collapse like an umbrella and spring open in seconds made possible by springs or pull cords at the tents peak. They have a one piece design and can be setup in a matter of minutes .

Dome Tent

The Dome Tent is one of the most popular tents in  use by the average camper. The ease of setting up these type of tents within minutes makes them the perfect choice for the beginner to moderate camper. The interlocking pole system can be tunneled through the tents webbing structure the creates a dome shape at the top with vertical sides to create a square bottom with good headroom. They normally come equipped with a separate ground sheet to place underneath the tent. The dome tent is great for light wind and rain, but normally don’t hold up when dealing with harsh weather conditions.

Tunnel Tent

If you are in need of additional space for friends and family then the tunnel tent is a great option. They come in a variety of sizes, and are the most common form of ‘family tents’. The tunnel tent has curved poles to create a tunnel like structure, and are easy to pitch once set up. They are best used when pitched facing into winds as the sides tend to take on heavy wind gusts which can cause the tent to collapse. Because of the added size you can generally sleep more people and store more gear in these type of tents.

Ridge Tent

The ridge tent is less commonly used today, and is considered a retro style tent because of it’s classic tent shape which is erected by a pole on either side which forms a triangular shape. The design of the ridge tent makes it a sturdy and easily pitched tent. Although not in use as commonly today it still can be great choice depending on the type of camping you are doing.

Geodesic and Semi-Geodesic Tent

The geodesic tent has exterior poles that criss cross over each other forming small triangles. This design helps it to distribute stress among the structure so that it is able to withstand extremely harsh weather conditions. This all weather tent is great for mountaineers and because of the extra durable design they tend to be more expensive than your average tent.

The semi-geodesic tent is similar in design, but tends to have fewer poles. While this tent type won’t hold up as much in extremely harsh weather conditions the aero-dynamic design helps to aid in extremely strong wind gusts. It is great for backpacking, mountain camping, and windy terrain.

Although there are several other tent types these are the more common designs for tent camping. What is your favorite tent type?