5 Things You Really Should Know About A Camping Tent

In my 15 years of working for our regional Boy Scout Council, I have learned a lot about camping gear, especially camping tents. From that experience, here are the Top 5 Things To Know About A Camping Tent.

(Disclosure: Please note that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission that will help support this blog. Also, although I work for a Boy Scout Council, this advice is in no way endorsed by the Scouts. My own observations and opinions are what this article is based upon.)

1. What You Plan To Do With Your Tent Makes All The Difference In What Type You Should Purchase.

Instant tents are handy for the newer or periodic camper who tends to camp in fair weather conditions in easy-to-reach campsites. When needing to camp a larger number of people under one roof for a fun get together these types of tents can be handy and more economical. Pop-up tents do not tend to do as well as more traditional manual assembly tents in very windy, rainy, or other adverse conditions.

Traditional manual assembly tents tend to be favored by more frequent campers, all-weather campers, and campers who often hike into camping sites. Many of these tents can be collapsed down smaller for storage and carrying than pop-up tents can. Also, these types often offer added durability.

2. You Get What You Pay For When It Comes To Camping Tents.

Purchasing a camping tent simply because of the low prices is a BAD, BAD, idea. Too many times I have seen people rush to grab the bargain-priced option only to find in the middle of the night that the zipper sticks and they can’t get out of the tent. Or that the floor of their tent and their gear is completely soaked from all the pin hole leaks in the supposedly “waterproof” tent.

Instead…use the next tip to guide you in your tent purchase.

3. Pay Attention To Fellow Campers Reviews To Help You Make Smart Tent Purchases.

I have found the online camping enthusiast community to be much like the online auto lovers community. In general, they are a vocal, straightforward, and helpful bunch of people. They are quick to share tips about what works and what does not. They are passionate about camping and love to help others find their way in the camping world.

Check out what they have to say about the products that you are considering purchasing and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you need more information.

4. Some Simple Tent Accessories Can Transform Your Camping Experience.

Tarp-Excellent for placing under your tent as a protective barrier. The tarp will keep unnoticed roots, dirt clods, etc.. from snagging the bottom of your tent. Also, as it prevents your tent bottom from being directly in contact with the ground, it will help keep it cleaner.

Hanging Lantern-Bring one or more with you so that you can hang inside your tent to give you light on a cloudy day or when the sun goes down.

Carabiners-Perfect for providing a spot to hang your lantern on in the top of the tent.

5. Clean Your Tent And Related Gear As Soon As You Arrive Back Home To Keep In Good Shape.

Otherwise, procrastination will set in and you will let your dirty, often damp, tent and accessories sit for too long. Mildewing and rusting parts can be a big issue if you do not properly store and maintain your equipment. And that in turn will mean greatly reduced equipment life and money wasted.

Armed with these 5 Camping Tent Tips, you will be well on your way to many great camp outs.

For more camping ideas:

8 Essential Tips For Camping With Dogs