Choosing the right tent for your family can be difficult as there is so many styles and types of tents. So it is very hard to know where to start looking, not to mention actually choosing one to buy. Consider these 5 questions as you look online or in shops, they will help you narrow down your choices so you get it right the first time.
- How much can I afford? Generally it is best to look for camping products in the mid price range – not cheap and nasty, not top range(unless you can afford it of course) Choosing a price range is a good start and will help you answer the following questions.
- How many will be using the tent? How many adults and kids, what ages are the kids and what type of beds and allow room for luggage for each person. Tents are marked as how many beds will fit in not allowing for any spare room eg. A 4 person tent is suitable for 2 -3 persons, a 6 person tent is suitable for 3-4 people. Some tents have straight sides and some are curved – a straight side gives you more room inside. Some tents are not full height – it is much easier to get dressed in a tent will standing height roof.
- How many rooms? Tents can be with 1, 2 or 3 rooms, this depends on the age of your kids. You will probably want younger kids close to you. Older kids will appreciate their own tent. So this depends on your needs, either buy a tent with several rooms or 2 single room tents. It maybe quicker to put up 2 single room tents if your kids are old enough to put it up themselves.
- What features? The tent should be ventilated, have windows, floor should go up the sides, check door zips are good quality and access is easy, colours are a personal choice – generally colours are in natural shades or darker colours (dark colours may retain heat) Bright coloured tents are recommended for hikers so they can be easily seen from above if they are being searched for.
- What type of tent? Tents generally come in to 2 types – Canvas or Dome. Canvas is the more traditional style and is made of cotton canvas. Dome tents are made of polyester. When wet the canvas swells and prevents leakage, polyester is waterproof and lightweight. Canvas tents when packed up are heavy and usually a large article to pack in. Dome tents usually pack up into a roll shape and are much smaller pack than the canvas tents and if you are short of car space they have an advantage.
When you are looking around in Camping shops or shows ask plenty of questions about choosing the right camping tent that will suit your family and situation.
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My Family loves travelling to Australia’s beautiful and unique destinations. These adventures have been my inspiration to create this website and share our holiday experiences with you.
www.travel-australia-planning-guide.com
We were looking for a help at internet some time ago when were buying a camper trailer.
Not having into consideration your above mentioned advices, first we bought an off-road camper trailer.
As our family get extended with one tiny member (my sweet baby Ana), and other two adorable daughters who get grown, we decided to buy a camper tent this time, for our outdoor activities.
Your advices are really helpful. Our children have an absolute joy and freedom whenever we go camping.
Thank you
Lindsy Lochan
Hi Lindsay, when you are buying a camper or tent for the first time it is very hard to know what to buy. It’s great you are loving camping with your children, there is nothing better than getting outdoors and camping and travelling this great country.
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