How to Choose a Tent

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Start with how you camp, not with a tent name. These questions help you compare canvas, regular, and hot tents on the same points.

How Many People, Plus Gear?

Check floor dimensions as stated by the maker, and allow room for gear inside the tent. Makers' person counts vary, so floor size is the fairer comparison.

Do You Need to Stand Up?

Check peak height as stated by the maker, and where in the tent that height is. Wall tents and cabin tents usually give more standing room than dome and pyramid shapes.

What Seasons and Weather?

Check the seasons and weather rating as stated by the maker, and what the tent is made to handle. A tent made for summer use is not the same as one made for snow and wind.

Car Camping or Carrying It?

Weight and packed size matter most when you carry the tent. For car camping, setup time and standing room usually matter more than weight.

Stove or No Stove?

If you want a stove, choose only a hot tent the maker rates for stove use, with a stove jack and a compatible stove. See the safety checklist on the Hot Tents page before you buy.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28 (KJV)