A Guide to Selecting a Tent

Most campers start with tents because they are a relatively simple and inexpensive way to camp. The first thing to consider is what kind of camping you have in mind. If you plan to back pack or canoe camp, 14 lbs. is considered maximum tent weight. Experienced campers try to stay under 8 lbs.

Aside from weight, fabric is the most important element in tent cost, and the major key to quality. A thread count of 130 means that, per square inch, there are about 70 threads running one way, 60 the other. The higher the thread count and the lower the fabric weight (expressed in oz. per sq. yd.), the better the tent will hold out the elements.

Spun-polyester sidewalls contribute to weight reduction in construction. Many tent fabrics are treated in much the same way a raincoat is treated to further resist water.

Construction quality features include lap-felled or French seams (providing four layers), preferable to less-costly flat seams, which are not as good at keeping out water.

Eaves and main corner seams should be reinforced with an additional strip of webbing. This adds strength to the seams and helps the tent keep its proper shape.

Areas where guy ropes and poles attach should be reinforced with heavy webbed tape backing to keep loops from ripping out of the tent in a heavy wind. A top-quality tent will have either pressed-on metal grommets or sewn-in rings where poles or stakes fit.

In most areas, insect protection is as important as protection from the elements. A sewn-in floor and mosquito door are definite quality factors. Good ventilation is equally important.

Last major consideration is size. You should figure a minimum of 2½' x 6½' floor space for each person who will sleep on the tent floor. If cots are to be used, add another 50 percent to space requirements.

Popular with Scouts, pack campers, etc., pup tents are designed only for sleeping, and hold one or two persons. Size is limited, with a base about 5' x 7' and a height of only 3'6" to 4'. Better-quality pup tents have sewn-in floors and come in one-piece construction.

Exterior Frame Tents are cabin style tents with exterior frame construction which has more room than an umbrella tent and is easy to set up.

The umbrella tent, which requires a center post and ribs extending like umbrella ribs, has been improved with exterior frame design. The exterior frames afford more interior room and easier set up. These are available in a variety of sizes to fit camping needs.

DISCLAIMER: Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of the information in this document. Neither NRHA, any contributor nor Aubuchon Hardware can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.

National Retail Hardware Association

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