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There's more to choosing a camping tent than you might expect. Size, shape, material, cost, added features, and seasonal use all factor into the tent buying equation. In order to determine your needs, first ask yourself a few questions.

When and how will you use your tent?Are you planning only to camp during the warmer spring and summer months, or will you be tenting in cold weather, too?'These factors will determine fabric, frame construction, weatherproofing, and durability, as well as screening and ventilation needs.

How will your tent get to your site?'Backpackers will need lighter tents, while those arriving via a vehicle can negate this worry.

How many people do you need to accommodate?

How much gear do you need to accommodate? (Remember that ratings for number of people are for sleeping space, not including gear storage, so you might choose a 3 person tent for extra storage even if there are only 2 of you.

Shopping For Your Tent: You Have Choices

After determining your tent needs, it is time to start looking for the right tent within your budget.

Here's what to look for:

Construction and Durability

Fabric is one of the first considerations. Tents are made from a variety of fabrics including cotton, nylon, polyethylene, and rip-stop nylon. Most importantly, however, you want a fabric that is breathable and will not condensate excessively, is waterproof and wind resistant, is fire resistant, and has been treated with a UV protectant to minimize deterioration. Polyester is recommended for long-term camping (as it withstands UV rays), but nylon is preferable for a lightweight, shorter stay.

The fabric needs to be strong and properly designed for strength. Most">All seams should be taped to maximize waterproofing; no seams should lie low on the floor, touching the ground, as that invites water flow into the tent. Seams should also be double-sewn. Additionally, check the construction for ventilation screens. It is imperative that all tents have some ventilation and breathability for the safety of occupants.

Also check the closures and fixtures used in the tent's construction. Look for sturdy, free-moving zippers and fastened grommets to prevent stress and tears.

Another construction consideration is tent poles; the choice is either fiberglass or aluminum. Many prefer aluminum because they are lightweight, durable, inexpensive, and are not affected by UV radiation. Fiberglass poles are considered more durable.

Ease of Use

Choose a tent that is easy to set up and can go up in a relatively short amount of time (of course, this is also dependent on the size of the tent and its design). Remember that freestanding tents will tolerate the wind and weather the best without blowing away; of these, tunnel, 'A' frame, and dome shapes are most wind resistant.

Additional Features

After you've covered the basics within your budget, look for some useful extra features to help break a tie. Extra storage pockets and vestibules for storage will come in very handy.

For a very general guide, let price help determine tent quality; generally higher-priced tents have the best quality, materials, and construction, but if you shop on price alone you might find yourself with an expensive tent that far exceeds your needs. The best tent buying advice is to determine those needs first, then work with knowledgeable sales staff in person or online so they can help you find the tent that suits your kind of camping.