Tourist tent. How to make the right choice?
Any traveler and outdoor enthusiast knows what the main attribute of a successful trip is. That's right, we are talking about a tourist tent. It will protect you from snow, hail and rain, becoming a temporary refuge while relaxing in the mountains, by the river or in the forest. The choice of a tent depends on the scope of its use. But before proceeding to consider the features of the choice, let's dwell on the varieties:
An alpine tent is most in demand on long-distance expeditions and long hikes, when stopping in hard-to-reach places. The main design features are high rigidity and wind resistance. With such a tent, it's not scary to storm Mont Blanc, Everest and McKinley.
The assault tent is designed for many kilometers of mountain passages with a minimum number of halts. Such a journey is very tiring, which is why light luggage is so important.
The tent for the middle mountains is recognized as the most popular in our time. It features good comfort and acceptable wind resistance.
The flat tent is ideal for short outings - picnics in urban surroundings.
Main selection criteria
Dimensions (edit)
This parameter is chosen based on the number of people who go on vacation or conquer the next mountain peaks. Experienced climbers know one secret: domestic products designed for 3 people can comfortably accommodate 4 people, while there will be plenty of space for everyone for a calm, measured rest.
Form of "temporary dwelling"
According to their shape, the tents are divided into "half rolls" and "hemispheres". Of course, both the first and second types of tents have their own advantages and disadvantages. "Half rolls" are characterized by a large living area and less wind resistance than "hemispheres". In addition, almost any surface is suitable for installing the latter.
Matter
To ensure lightness and good ventilation in the tent, nylon is used when sewing it. Unfortunately, direct sunlight can adversely affect this material. Therefore, it is better to find something else for hiking in the summer.
Note : Waterproofness and strength are the main requirements for the awning and the bottom of the tent. When choosing, be sure to consider these criteria.
Waterproofness level
It is also called the height of the water column. A high level of waterproofness is another plus in favor of purchasing certain products. It is desirable that the water resistance of the awning was about 2000–3000 mm of water column (minimum, according to international standards, 1500 mm).
The material from which the frame is made
A plastic or metal frame is often used. The metal is slightly heavier, but much stronger. When deciding to buy a tent with a plastic frame, be extremely careful. The durability of the entire structure depends on the quality of the plastic. It is better not to experiment here, preferring products of famous brands.
IMPORTANT: If the tent is to be used in extreme conditions, such as winter hiking, its poles must be duralumin. This material is not only lighter but also stronger than fiberglass. The preferred color of the awning in this case is bright red or orange. This is due to security measures: such a tent will be better visible during a blizzard and other weather troubles.
Correct seam
The best option is a reinforced seam with a special waterproof tape. In any case, you need to get a special means for gluing the seam, sometimes treating it for preventive purposes.
Useful tips for choosing a camping tent:
If a large company is going on a hike, it is more profitable to take one multi-person tent instead of several small ones. It's simple: its weight, divided by all participants in the hike, will be small. Consequently, someone will be able to carry the awning, the rest will get the inside and the frame. As a result, everyone will be happy, because the weight of the backpacks will turn out to be almost identical.
When choosing between a 1-person and 2-person tent, choose the latter. Elementary logic: the weight differs by no more than 0.5–2 kg, but in a 2-person tent, if necessary, you can fit in three (not very comfortable, but still), and for one there is absolutely expanse.
Are your travels limited to short field trips during the warmer months? In this case, reasonable economy is appropriate - buy a single-layer, inexpensive tent.
For autotourists, the lightness of the luggage is not particularly important. In order not to deny yourself the minimum comfort, you can get a spacious camping tent.
On hot summer days, the stuffiness is unbearable. Sleeping in a tent with good ventilation, like a breath of life-giving moisture, refreshes and restores your strength. Therefore, it will be better if it is equipped with 2 inputs. They are covered with a net to avoid mosquitoes at night.
And finally, I would like to give you, dear reader, one valuable piece of advice: a sail left without wind becomes an ordinary piece of matter. Therefore, do not postpone the journey on the back burner, and let your tent serve you faithfully for many years.