Do you like to travel? Then such an accessory as a tent is just what you need. Before you go to the store and buy the first model that comes across, we recommend that you study the pros and cons of at least a few options. Of course, you won’t be able to study absolutely the entire range, but choosing the best of the best is quite simple. Especially for you, we have selected the most popular models according to customer reviews and experts. You can see the rating of camping tents in 2017 below.

Features of camping tents

Before you go to the store, you need to decide on the purpose of the tent. Depending on the conditions in which it will be used, the following types are distinguished:

• camping
• Trekking
• extreme
• For fishing

In this article, we will look at the best camping models. These are tents superior comfort, which usually have impressive dimensions and heavy weight. Due to their large size, 3-4 people can freely live in them. As a rule, living in them is quite comfortable and spacious. Most models have fairly high ceilings (about 1.5 meters), a good ventilation system, protection from wind and rain.

Of course, these tents have their drawbacks. It is difficult to carry a lot of weight behind you for a long time, so camping "houses" are most often used during caravanning. Large dimensions negatively affect the heating of the entire structure. It can get quite chilly at night, so you'll have to snuggle closer together.

1 Alexika Nevada 4

Editor's note: A reliable 4-seat model with good weather protection.

Price: from 26,600 rubles.

This model is the most popular both in Europe and in the CIS countries. The tent is made of polyester. Outside, the fabric is treated with polyurethane for greater resistance to water, so the inside will always be dry. The bottom material is Oxford 150D. It is a high strength material with high wear resistance. This design ensures the water resistance of the awning and the bottom - 4000 and 6000 mm w.st. respectively. This means that even heavy rains are not afraid of the tent.

Despite its rather modest size, Alexika Nevada 4 has a spacious bedroom and a huge vestibule. In it you can accommodate a full-fledged kitchen, dining room and conveniently fold all your things. You can get inside through 3 separate entrances. Thanks to this design, 4 people will feel comfortable in any situation. All in all, Alexika Nevada 4 is perfect for outdoor activities in rainy areas.

• Total weight 12.5 kg
• 3 separate entrances
• 1 vestibule and 1 room
• ventilation windows

• Overall customer rating:

2 Tramp BREST 4 FG

Site Editor's Note: Good wind and moisture resistance.

Price: from 17,700 rubles.

Do you like to relax in nature with comfort? Then pay attention to the Tramp BREST 4 FG model. This is a two-layer tent with 1 vestibule and 2 separate rooms (the vestibule is located in the middle and the rooms are on the sides). Two entrances provide comfortable transportation for 4 people (great for 2 couples of young people). The entrance is additionally covered with a mosquito net. Assembles and disassembles in just 10-15 minutes, with only 2 people needed.

Large ventilation windows provide good ventilation throughout the day. The side windows are equipped with the Three Fixation Position system, comfort is ensured in any weather outside. All seams are taped, well protected from rain and showers. In general, this necessary thing for travel for several days. Customer reviews are only positive.

Main characteristics for comparison:

• Total weight 12.5 kg
• Large ventilation windows in the amount of 2 pieces
• High water resistance of the tent and bottom
• 2 separate entrances
• 1 vestibule and 2 rooms
• All seams are securely taped

• Overall customer rating:

3 Tramp BREST 9

Site editor's note: As the previous model, only for 9 people.

Price: from 20,400 rubles.

Do you like big and noisy companies? Then Tramp BREST for 9 people will be the perfect option. Decomposing this model is quite simple, it will take about 25 minutes and a couple of people. As a result, it can comfortably accommodate a large group of people. For this, 3 separate rooms are provided, which are located on the sides of the vestibule. In the vestibule itself, you can place all common things, set a table and chairs. In it, a person can calmly stand at full height, so comfort is guaranteed to you.

Three ventilation windows ensure good air circulation in every room. The material of the tent is polyester, and the bottom is made of polyethylene. These materials provide good water resistance: 4000 and 8000 mm w.st. respectively.

Each door to the bedroom is additionally protected by a mosquito net. Now you will not get mosquitoes and other insects during the rest. Fireproof impregnation provides reliable protection against ignition of the tent. In general, this is the best option for relaxing in a big company.

Main characteristics for comparison:

• Total weight 14.4 kg
• High water resistance of the tent and bottom
• 1 entrance through the vestibule
• 1 vestibule and 3 rooms
• Capacity - 9 people

• Overall customer rating:

4 Maverick FAMILY COMFORT

Site editor's note: A comfortable model for 4 people with a large vestibule.

Price: from 29,550 rubles.

Great tent for family holidays in summer and winter. It has a rather large vestibule with 3 separate entrances. Each entrance is additionally protected by a mosquito net and waterproof walls. Inside there is a sleeping room, which can be accessed from the vestibule. Additionally, there are 2 ventilation windows, now you can sleep and relax in nature with comfort.

According to the manufacturer, the assembly time of Maverick FAMILY COMFORT takes only 5 minutes. At the same time, only one person is required for assembly.

The bottom of the tent, which consists of polyethylene, will prevent moisture from getting inside. The awning is made of polyester. The water resistance of the bottom and the awning is 5000 mm w.st., which allows you to sleep peacefully inside even during a heavy downpour. In general, this is a great option for outdoor activities at any time of the year with the whole family.

Main characteristics for comparison:

• Total weight 11 kg
• Main materials: polyester, polyethylene
• High water resistance of the tent and bottom
• 3 separate entrances
• 1 large vestibule and 1 room
• 2 ventilation windows

• Overall customer rating:

5 Alexika Grand Tower 4

Site Editor's Note: A secure home for travelers.

Price: from 25,300 rubles.

One of the best models in terms of quality and assembly. It consists of a spacious vestibule and an inner bedroom. The bedroom is high and quite spacious, designed for 4 people (2 adults and 2 children). Material of a bottom and an awning - polyester. This material provides high water resistance of the entire structure, thanks to which the tent easily withstands even heavy showers.

There are 2 ventilation windows, so even in hot weather it will be quite comfortable inside. Windows and entrance are additionally protected by mosquito nets.

The seams are welded, which ensures the durability and reliability of the entire structure. In general, this is a comfortable and roomy model for a family holiday.

Main characteristics for comparison:

• Total weight 12 kg
• Main materials: polyester, durapol
• High water resistance of the tent and bottom
• 3 separate entrances
• 1 vestibule and 1 room
• Good protection against water ingress

• Overall customer rating:

6 Normal Ladoga 3

Editor's Note: A small but robust model made in Russia.

Price: from 12 210 rubles.

One of the cheapest camping tents in our ranking. However, at the same time, it is in no way inferior in quality to all previous analogues. At the same time, 3 people can freely fit in it, there are also 2 vestibules. Installation takes a maximum of 15 minutes, despite the fact that only one person takes the installation. Ventilation is provided by 2 windows, which ensure the presence of fresh air inside even on the most stuffy summer days. You can store your personal items in the side pockets. Reliable materials from which Normal Ladoga 3 is made provide reliable protection from wind and rain. The mosquito net will protect you from annoying insects.

All seams along the perimeter are additionally reinforced with heat shrink tape. This ensures comfort and safety in any weather. This model is recommended for use in spring, summer and autumn. In general, it is well suited for camping in nature.

Main characteristics for comparison:

• Total weight 12.5 kg
• Main materials: polyester, nylon
• High water resistance of the tent and bottom
• 2 separate entrances
• 2 vestibule and 1 room
• small price

• Overall customer rating:

7 Crusoe Camp House Evolution

Article updated: 2016-02-03

Tourist tents - tents designed for hiking or outdoor recreation with a moderate degree of comfort. Due to their low weight and size, they can be transported in a backpack (bag, hands, etc.). Unlike camping ones, they have a lower ceiling height, which allows you to stay inside only while sitting or lying down.

There is always a great temptation to take a tent with bigger vestibules. Comfort, as you know, does not happen much. But it is still desirable to objectively evaluate what they will be used for. For example, for storing bicycles or a large amount of equipment in a region that is troubled in terms of “borrowing” other people's things. Then you understand that an additional 0.5 - 1 kg behind you is a necessary tribute to circumstances. In most cases, one or two medium-sized vestibules are enough. 70-100 cm. And sometimes you can do something more cunning - take a light three-person tent for two with almost no vestibules and comfortably place your belongings in an empty place. At the same time, if anything, there will always be a reserve for putting one more comrade with you.

materials

The materials from which tents are made is a separate huge topic, and one can talk about this for a very long time. So here we will deliberately touch on only a few of the most fundamental points. What is most important from the point of view of an ordinary user choosing a tent for himself.

Tent frames are made from fiberglass(fiberglass,) - much cheaper, or aluminum- more expensive, but also lighter, more reliable. In tents of medium and high level there will almost always be high-tech aluminum arches. In cheap ones - mostly fiberglass. In principle, when used in ordinary calm hikes, there is no big sin in fiberglass arches. You just need to understand that such a tent will be noticeably heavier than its counterpart with aluminum arcs, and is focused only on mild operating conditions. The main place where fiberglass should not be taken is the mountains, where the material quickly degrades under the influence of hard ultraviolet radiation and begins to break, which causes a lot of trouble. In winter, in the cold, it is also more prone to breakage.

Fabrics. Tarpaulin, as a material for tourist tents, has irretrievably sunk into the past. The awning and bottom of modern tents are made of synthetic fabric (polyester or nylon), which is coated with polyurethane impregnation (PU). The more layers of impregnation, the stronger the fabric and the better it holds water. In this case, the name of the material will contain the letters PU and the value of water resistance in millimeters.

About water resistance values many copies were broken. At one time, among tourists, it was considered almost one of the main criteria for choosing a tent. After all, the higher it is, the more guaranteed you and your things will be dry. 10 000mm and nothing threatens you even under the torrents of a tropical downpour. But that's in theory. In practice, all manufacturers measure this value in their own way. Someone indicates a figure for a fabric that has just left the factory, someone has a more objective value - the test results after a year of operation of the tent. In addition, it is of great importance how all this is sewn, whether the pattern is successfully made, whether the seams are processed with high quality, and so on. So it’s quite difficult to compare products of different brands by this parameter or “expose” someone in reality. And the current tent, for any more or less sane manufacturer, is now something out of the ordinary. Like the current umbrella - frank marriage and hack work. This is now sin only very cheap low-quality things. Often, users mistake condensation on the inside of the tent for leaking tents, but this is a completely different physical phenomenon.

The only thing you can really check on a dubious tent is whether it has taped seams. If not, then it is better to refuse it. With prolonged rain, water will gradually seep through such a line. And the older the tent gets, the more the fabric stretches, the more it will flow.

In recent years, lightweight tents have been actively using fabric not with traditional polyurethane (PU), but with silicone impregnation (Silicone or Si)- . This is a much lighter material. For example, a modification of the same double tent with a "silicone" awning can weigh not 3 kg, but 2.3 kg. In addition, the fabric impregnated with silicone, due to the fact that the threads are not glued together, but can move freely and distribute the load, has greater tensile strength. But at the same time, it is noticeably more expensive and requires more sophisticated sewing technology, so it is not used so often. Mainly in UltraLight and extreme series of tents.

In cheap tents, the bottom is often made, on the contrary, not from fabric, but from reinforced polyethylene("terpaulin", outwardly similar to the material of a shuttle seller's bag). It has a right to exist in simple hikes or outdoor recreation. But it must be borne in mind that such material is much heavier than the fabric and stiffer, due to which the folded tent turns out to be more voluminous. With frequent assembly and disassembly, especially in the cold, creases can gradually form on the folds, allowing water to pass through.

Types of tourist tents

First of all, this ordinary tourist tents (they are also sometimes called "trekking", from English trekking - hike,). Designed for hiking, cycling, water or simple mountain trips. They are best suited for ordinary outdoor recreation: picnics, fishing, trips to the river, etc. The most massive type is about 80% of the assortment of any store.

extreme(mountain,) tents. They are made based on the harsh conditions of the highlands and subpolar latitudes. First of all, these are lower temperatures and strong winds, which ordinary tents most often simply cannot withstand and break. Accordingly, these are thicker fabrics, a strong frame with an excessive number of arcs and testing models in difficult expeditions. Naturally, such tents, despite the most advanced technologies, are somewhat heavier than usual ones. See the section on extreme tents.

Seasonality of tents

Quite often, manufacturers indicate the climatic conditions for which one or another of their products was designed. At the same time, in the description you can see the words: “summer”, “three-season” (spring-summer-autumn) or “four-season” (winter, extreme). This information can be very useful, but it needs to be properly understood and interpreted.

The main difference between tents of different seasonality is how well their inner space is protected from the wind blowing outside. In summer models, the inner tent is usually made of openwork mesh, which provides good ventilation in hot, stuffy weather. In three-season and winter models, a denser fabric is used instead of a mesh, somewhat reducing air circulation and blowing from outside. In addition, many four-season models are also equipped with storm skirts, which can be covered with snow or stones to almost completely eliminate wind blowing.

But it must be remembered that from the point of view of direct thermal insulation, a winter (four-season) tent is not much warmer than a summer one. And this is understandable, because structurally, these are the same two layers of fabric that separate us from the cold prevailing on the street. So, on frosty nights, all the necessary insulation should be provided with a good thick sleeping bag.

little things

The tent is quite often supplied with all sorts of auxiliary little things such as pockets on the walls or shelves under the ceiling. Not that it is strictly mandatory and necessary, but quite convenient in camping life.

But the repair kit should be included in the kit of any tent. It can lie unnoticed for years in a bag of pegs, but if something happens, it can be used to repair very serious damage, which otherwise can lead to a trip disruption.

Manufacturers

The choice of tourist tents in our stores is now simply huge. There are already more than a hundred manufacturers whose products are presented on the Russian market. New names are constantly appearing, someone, on the contrary, leaves the stage. Under these conditions, it is, of course, impossible to talk about everyone, and, moreover, to put them all on the shelves. For some reference, below is a list of brands that have been well-known in Russia for a long time. But you need to understand that it is far from complete, and in addition to those listed, there are many other manufacturers that also deserve attention.

First of all, a few indisputable leaders industry. Those who are now ahead, actively invent and implement something new. They produce the most high-tech, lightweight, durable, but, of course, quite expensive things:

About a dozen other manufacturers middle level, quite widespread in our country (the list, I repeat, is far from exhaustive):

Of relatively cheap tents in almost every store sells something of their own. Among the most popular are:

It should be noted that Russian tents on the general background look very competitive. In terms of workmanship, they are comparable to what Western manufacturers do for similar money. Including, in addition to the traditional trekking and extreme tents for our country, good samples of ultralight equipment are beginning to appear in our country.

How much does a tent cost

The price range for tents is quite wide. For example, a double can cost both 2,000 rubles and 20,000 rubles. And it's not that some manufacturer is very greedy, but someone almost pays us extra out of his own pocket. The price of a tent reflects well the quality of the materials and the technical level at which it is made.

The design of an expensive top tent has been developed over the years, experimenting, choosing the right materials, thinking through the nuances of assembly, ventilation, and using complex technological processes of sewing and sealing. The result is a very high quality, light and reliable thing. It is not scary to go on a long expedition with it, far from civilization, where you start to break something, and you can seriously get stuck.

At the same time, its Chinese counterpart from Auchan is, as a rule, a copy of some well-known model, but much simplified. Simple zippers, fittings made of cheap, not very reliable plastic, the fabric is not the one that the creator carefully selected when designing, but the one that fits into the tight budget limits, the cheapest possible frame. Such a tent may also have the right to exist, especially somewhere in a simple two-day trip to nature. But, of course, one must be prepared for "surprises", and do not expect miracles from her such as low weight and long years of service.

Ultimately, everyone chooses for themselves. Based on their goals and budget, which is morally ready to go broke. For reference, the price of an average (that is, not very expensive, but not the cheapest) tourist tent:

	average tent price
Relevance - Feb. 2016
2 local	7,000 - 12,000 rubles
4 local	10,000 - 16,000 rubles

Going on vacation in the bosom of nature, you will need such an attribute as a tent. The question of choosing a tent is quite complex and depends on many different factors. Buying a tent is not difficult, as there are a large number of tents on the market today - tourist, expeditionary, camping, which are produced by more than 30 manufacturers. Each tent has its own specific parameters and features: the number of places, entrances and vestibules, water resistance, the quality of fittings and seams, the quality of impregnation. Depending on these indicators, the price of tents is also set. It is in the range from 10 to 800 US dollars. Very often, tourists, fishermen and hunters ask themselves the question - “Which tent should I choose?”

2-3 person tents

Preparing for a hike always begins with choosing a tent. If you decide to go to romantic trip together, then you, as well as possible, will suit cozy. And if you want to relax with your small family, or a small company, you will need a 3-seater tent.

This cozy folding house will become a reliable shelter from the weather during overnight stays and daytime stays. Compact and lightweight, easy to install and assemble, durable and waterproof, tents are considered the best attribute for outdoor living.

In addition, a 3-seater tent will not be superfluous in case of a trip to a family picnic or fishing, to the beach and just during a one-day vacation in the lap of nature. In it, you can not only change clothes, hide from the sudden onset of rain or protect products from the sun's rays. In it, you can organize a hut for children's games, and after dinner put the children to bed, you can just lie down in the shade and wait out the heat.
In our catalog you will find high-quality, comfortable and inexpensive tents. Each model has its own advantages. All of them are made of modern waterproof materials, equipped with mosquito nets, windows for ventilation - this ensures comfortable and safe living in them.
The tent that you buy in our store will become a faithful companion on trips and travels, a reliable protector from bad weather for many years.

4 person tents

Camping-elite online store offers a large selection of tents. Nordway tents and others presented in our catalog have long been in great demand among outdoor enthusiasts.

Perfect for a family vacation or for a small company. They have a large vestibule, which can easily accommodate things and camping equipment. In some models, the vestibule is so spacious that it can easily accommodate a camping kitchen, table and chairs.

In addition, they can be equipped with a dining room or a warehouse. They are equipped with well-designed ventilation. The 4-person tent looks spacious, comfortable and cozy.

When choosing a tent, you should also consider how you will transport it. If you are going camping, it is better to buy a light tent that you will have to carry on your shoulders. And if you are going to rest not by train, but by car, then you can safely buy a large camping tent.

Tourist tents for 4 people are three-season and four-season, with and without a windproof skirt. All of them are made of safe and waterproof materials, have a strong and lightweight frame, equipped with ventilation windows and mosquito nets.

Although a 4-seater tent is designed for four people, experienced hikers know that a larger company can also spend the night in it. For example, a two-room four-seater tent is a mobile version of a classic English house, which is divided in half - a common roof, and the housing is separate.

5 person tents

Five-person tents are not suitable for a lone traveler. They are intended for a large family or a cheerful company, very convenient for expeditions or student trips. For a long stay at the campsite, a 5-seater tent would be an ideal option. Firstly, such a large room provides comfort, and secondly, you can store things and food there or make a camp kitchen.

Of course, a large capacity is reflected in the weight of the tent. Therefore, you should consider the issue of its transportation. If you do not have a car, then it is convenient to divide it into several people in different backpacks. But in the evening in nature, after singing around the campfire, you will not need to disperse to different sides of the camp, but you can continue heart-to-heart conversations before going to bed.
The modern one is made of special high-quality materials that can protect you from rain and wind. Reliable fastenings and racks will withstand any bad weather. An anti-mosquito net protects against annoying insects. In branded tents, an air circulation system is thought out, which will save you from stuffiness even in the hottest weather.

As a rule, large tents are divided into separate rooms and equipped with several entrances. Many models have panoramic windows that allow you to observe everything that happens outside the tent.

In our store there are tents of different sizes and manufacturers - all of them are characterized by high quality and functionality. You can choose any tent for your purposes.

6 person tents

Six-seater tents are ideal for a large company trip on vacation. Typically, these tents are equipped with several bedrooms, which allows you to comfortably accommodate different families. A camp kitchen can be placed in the vestibule, and there is still enough space for storing luggage.

Tent 6 local has two entrances, which are equipped with a mosquito net. An effective ceiling ventilation system has been thought out inside the tent, outside there is a windproof skirt and a duplicate mesh door that will protect the inhabitants of the tent from insects.

In addition, tourist tents for 6 people contain many convenient hanging pockets for various small things, a hook for attaching a lamp is provided, there are large panoramic windows with a transparent PVC insert.

If necessary, you can install one awning, without installing internal tents. Camping tents, which you can buy in our store, are produced taking into account the growing requirements of customers, the main of which are functionality, durability, safety and ergonomics. We sell tents from well-known manufacturing companies, such as Nordway, Outwell, etc.

The outwell camping tent has a modern design, is very spacious and is quick and easy to set up. It is equipped with large windows, so there is always a lot of light in it. The aluminum frame guarantees excellent stability.

All tents that are presented in our catalog are reliable, practical, comfortable and have affordable prices.

Going on vacation in the bosom of nature, you will need such an attribute as a tent. The question of choosing a tent is quite complex and depends on many different factors. Buying a tent is not difficult, as there are a large number of tents on the market today - tourist, expeditionary, camping, which are produced by more than 30 manufacturers. Each tent has its own specific parameters and features: the number of places, entrances and vestibules, water resistance, the quality of fittings and seams, the quality of impregnation. Depending on these indicators, the price of tents is also set. It is in the range from 10 to 800 US dollars. Very often tourists, fishermen and hunters ask the question - « But what kind of tent to choose?» .

A little lower we will focus on the main types of tents and describe the key points that you should first of all pay attention to.

The most common types of tents are tourist and camping.

tourist tents

Capacity. This characteristic is the most important when choosing a tent. There are no big problems in this matter. In most cases, a person who is going to buy a tent knows well how many places he will need a tent. The most ideal option can be considered a 3-4 local tent. In such a tent it will be quite comfortable for two, but under extreme conditions, even six people can be accommodated in such a tent. Tent manufacturers indicate the number of places based on the most comfortable conditions.

Number of layers. The second important indicator when buying a tent is the number of layers. The main number of models that are offered to customers are two-layer. In such tents, a sleeping compartment is installed separately, which is made of mesh fabric, and then an awning is installed on it. The design of such tents is good for the following reasons:

1. There is good air circulation inside the tent, since the sleeping compartment made of mesh allows fresh air to pass through well, which enters the gaps between the bottom edge of the awning and the ground. The external awning gives the chance well to be protected from a rain.
2. Ability to install an external awning without a sleeping compartment. This situation is possible if you plan to use the tent not for sleeping, but for storing things. Installing the awning itself is much easier than with the sleeping compartment.

Single-layer tents are of a little less interest and are designed primarily for fishermen and lovers of countryside holidays with an overnight stay. You can buy such a tent just in case. The price of such a tent is not higher than 80 dollars. Well, we should not talk about quality, it wants to be the best.

Water resistance. Now let's focus on such an indicator as water resistance. It’s hard to imagine what “3000mm” or “8000mm” is, but in the water resistance column, this indicator indicates how much water the outer awning of the tent can withstand without letting water in. Tents with a water resistance index of 800 mm or more are presented to the attention of buyers - these are camping, expeditionary or inexpensive fishing options. With an indicator of 8000mm, these are already expeditionary four-season tents. For summer holidays, it is best to purchase a tent model with a water resistance of 1500mm. For multi-day hikes and the spring / autumn period, a tent with a water resistance of 3000-4000mm is best suited. Well, if you are going to make a high-mountain ascent or a trip in the rainy season, then the option with an indicator of 8000mm will most suit you. Such a tent does not get wet even in the heaviest downpour, in addition, they have a protective skirt, which serves to prevent water from flowing under the outer awning.

Tambour and the number of entrances. These characteristics do not require any special understanding. The vestibule serves to store backpacks and shoes, and the number of entrances does not play a fundamental role, since in almost all cases one entrance is enough.

Mosquito net. Such a characteristic is difficult to overestimate. In most double-layer tents, the “door”, and the compartment itself, is made of mosquito net. It is very convenient with it in the summer, when it is hot even at night, and you can leave the “door” of the vestibule open, and fasten the mesh of the sleeping compartment. This protects against annoying insects and will create additional ventilation for the tent.

Arcs. Currently, arc tents, which are made of aluminum or fiberglass, are very popular. They vary in weight and price. Aluminum is lighter than fiberglass and 10-15% more expensive. But in most cases, tourists still prefer tents, which include fiberglass arcs.

We got acquainted with the main indicators, and now we should turn our attention to a number of little things that will create a number of conveniences during hikes.

Fluorescent stretch marks. These streamers are covered with reflective compounds, and they are visible even in low light. Passing by the tent, you will never catch on the stretch.
- Impregnation of the tent with solutions that prevent the spread of fire. Bonfires are always lit on hikes and the importance of such an addition is quite understandable.
- Internal pockets. It is advisable to have them inside the sleeping room. There you can put a flashlight, documents and a number of small items necessary for hiking. Some models of tents have a mesh shelf, which is used instead of pockets.
- Taping seams. This is a pretty important indicator. In heavy rains, the holes made during sewing can let water in. Therefore, you should always pay attention to gluing the seams.

That's practically everything you need to know about tourist tents.

camping tents

Such tents are already large in size, they have several sleeping compartments, a large vestibule and often have several entrances. These tents are suitable for long stays. big companies. These tents can be easily deployed, and in some especially large tents, you can even lay a table for the whole company, and sometimes you can hide the car.

When choosing a camping tent, you should follow the same rules as when choosing a tourist tent. But some differences do exist.

Capacity. Camping tents are designed for four or more people. The most spacious model can accommodate ten people.

Number of layers. The number of layers in camping tents has a slightly different meaning. In most cases, sleeping compartments are installed after the installation of the main awning. In some cases, they may not be installed. The tent can be used both as a "bedroom" and as a "garage". Therefore, for such tents, the number of layers is a relative characteristic.

Water resistance. In most cases, the water resistance of camping tents is rarely higher than 3000mm. This is primarily due to the situation that they are used in most cases when the weather is fine, so there is no point in buying a super-waterproof tent for a summer holiday. Who will go with family or friends to relax in the rainy season.

Tambour and the number of entrances. For a camping tent, the vestibule is a very important indicator. It can be used as a dining room or kitchen. The height of the vestibules is often higher than 1.8 m, which makes it possible for many to stand to their full height. If the vestibule is used for storing things or for something else, then it will be quite difficult to get through such a vestibule. Therefore, the second entrance for such tents is indispensable.

Number of bedrooms. This indicator becomes fundamental for family vacations, because you can easily allocate one sleeping compartment to children. And when you have a company, it will be quite convenient to divide the sleeping compartments into pairs. Tents, in which sleeping compartments can be set up separately, are also convenient in that you can change the number of compartments in them, and thus you can free up space for other purposes - a dining room, a kitchen, for gatherings. To the attention of buyers are camping models that have from one to three sleeping compartments.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TENT

So, I'm buying myself a tent ... Tell me, friends of the Tramontana, do you remember how you once did not have your own tent? Well, that is, there was not at all: not a single tent of their own. And there were only club, friendly or parental. In which you, in fact, spent the night on your first "departure" and "campaigns". And then the moment came when you said to yourself: that's it, I'm starting a tent. My own, my own.
Remembered? And now, from the heights of the past, we will try to give recommendations to those who also took it and decided to start a tent for the first time.

First bold recommendation- look at double so-called tourist tent double(more precisely, two-layer) designs. On an aluminum tube frame.

REFERENCE:

As for terms, it is customary to refer to their most universal type as tourist (or tourist) tents. In this they live both in the forest and in the steppe, at the foot of rocks and on glaciers. Though in February, even in June, although everywhere there will be their own characteristics.

In addition to tourist tents, it is customary to distinguish two more types of tents: for super-extreme, as well as for super-comfortable conditions. Accordingly, extreme tents (for storm conditions) and camping tents. This is the most general classification, since many products have hybrid properties.

And there are also tents for "light-walkers", all sorts of "bivouacs", "bivi", tents, awnings and other "shelters". But these things are for especially sharpened consumers. To want one for yourself, you have to go through a lot and evolve to the appropriate non-traditional needs.

Double benefit

Why a double tent? Because a tent for two people is the most versatile size.

This can be comfortably used alone, but if anything, then she will take three for the night. And maybe more, it all depends on the nature of this very “If What”.

In terms of weight and dimensions, when folded, a double tent does not significantly burden the owner.

A larger tent is usually purchased for some specific task. Let's say a large team is planning a trip to places where there is no problem with setting up a large tent. If you need to optimize the weight of the equipment, then the specific and volumetric weight of one "bed" will be less when using a multi-person tent, and not a solo or two-person option. Large tents are also convenient for setting up a long-term stationary camp. Well, for regular trips to the nature of parents with small children, a large tent is better suited.

Now, with regard to the mentioned double or double layer construction. This tent has double walls. It is like a nesting doll: there is an inner tent and an outer awning, everything rests on one frame.

The outer awning is made of waterproof fabric. It stops the torrents of rain and gusts of wind. Inner tent made of breathable fabric that allows steam and air to pass through. There is a gap between the inner tent and the outer tent. This is an air gap for ventilation: all the condensate from human breathing goes beyond the inner tent, after which it partially erodes, partially settles on the inner surface of the tent. Fresh air flows in the opposite direction. It turns out that the tent is both dry and not stuffy at the same time.

This design is the de facto modern standard for tourist and camping tents. In the latter, several inner tents are often placed under one large awning - “multi-room” camping apartments are obtained.

Note that single-layer tents still exist in nature, and have not died out along with canvas or percale products. Single-layer tents are found in the segment of super-expensive tents for extreme conditions. They are sewn from cutting-edge membrane fabrics. Compact, lightweight, not universal and very expensive.

There are single-layer tents and as cheap solutions: beach houses from the sun, play tents for children or shelters for fishermen, ice fishing enthusiasts. Sometimes the manufacturer (or seller) tries to position them as suitable for tourism. But these tents either get wet or don't "breathe" at all. More often than not, both plus are torn as soon as possible. They can sometimes be used, but only as a one-time solution for one warm night in a distant warm country, to be thrown out in the morning.

Shape: who needs a half-barrel?

Having finished with the first global advice - to choose a double double tent - let's move on to particulars. And then you decide what you need.

In form, most tents for tourism and mountaineering can be divided (very roughly if) into two types: "hemispheres" and "half-barrels".

In hemisphere tents, the arcs of the frame intersect each other and form a self-supporting structure. And in half-barrel tents, the arcs are parallel: a series of arches is created. Such a tent can stand only if it is well stretched between two reliable points.

Within each of these types there are many variations. There are also hybrid solutions, for example, a half-barrel-tambour is attached to a dome-shaped tent. Note that in recent years, the release of "half barrels" around the world has noticeably decreased.

Varieties of gable tents, wigwam tents, tent-houses today are as exotic as bivouac shelters - purely for connoisseurs.

What are the main advantages of the "half-shell"? In her more usable space because its walls are more sheer. Its karsas consists of a smaller number of elements (usually two or three arcs). That is, it is lighter and when folded takes up less space. However, as already emphasized, the half-shell tent needs to be well stretched. This means she needs a wider area and a more thoughtful installation process.

A half-shell tent is good if you plan to set it up on even forest edges or in a field. That is, where there are no problems with even and soft ground, into which it is easy to drive pegs for tying braces. Plus, let the wind there be weaker. Otherwise, you will have to invent something new every time. To drag logs, stones, and knit guy lines to them. Then cover these stones with smaller stones so that in the middle of the night a gust of wind does not overturn all your efforts on your head along with the tent. Putting a half-barrel in deep snow is almost always a pain.

Therefore, half-barrel tents are good for cyclists and, for example, water sportsmen. In other conditions, tents, which can conditionally be attributed to hemisphere tents, will be clearly preferable. So quite under withsilt to stand independently, even without braces. But you still need to tie them: in the mountains, where the tent can be blown away by the wind.

Here, the supporting frame may already include two, three, and even more arcs. The more of them, and the more often they intersect, forming power triangles, the more significant wind load the tent will be able to withstand.

Winged aluminum in arc

If we figured out the form, consider such a thing as a wireframe that creates this form.

First, about the frame materials. In industrial tents, aluminum tubes or fiberglass tubes (usually fiberglass, black or colored) are usually used to make it. There are also steel tubes, but this is in huge camping collapsible houses (and titanium ones are in handicraft homemade products). There are frames made of composite materials based on carbon fiber - in expensive premium models.

As for fiberglass, it is cheap, has no permanent deformation, but is heavy and short-lived. Fragility is associated both with an objective category - the poor resistance of fiberglass to excessive bending, and a subjective one - insufficient quality control of materials and production, since fiberglass is the lot of low-budget solutions (there are exceptions).

Fiberglass tubes are connected to the frame rack using metal couplings. These couplings, on the one hand, add weight, and on the other hand, they are often frankly of poor quality (roofing iron rolled into a tube, which “spreads” along the seam under load). The very same fiberglass tube, barely cracked, inexorably continues to crack further and further. And it “pushes” when you try to insert it into the repair sleeve. A cracked rack can only be repaired at home with epoxy. It is believed that fiberglass does not hold the load well in the cold, but this is rather a consequence of defects made during production.

Tents on a fiberglass frame, of course, can and should be used. They are perfect for regular, uncomplicated trips to nature: in the same, predictable, weather and landscape conditions. Another tent "on fiberglass" will be a good, but "one-time" solution for one season. Let's say, for a stationary camp for one summer, when the tent will not be repeatedly dismantled, assembled and moved to a new place.

Now, in fact, there is little left to say about aluminum frames. Stronger, more durable, but more expensive.

Compared to fiberglass, the aluminum frame (aluminum grades are similar to aviation ones) is almost twice as light, moreover, it holds sharp bends and shock loads much better. That is, a tent with an aluminum frame is much better at resisting gusts of storm wind.

Due to the greater strength, the diameter of the aluminum tubes is smaller, and this is compact.

It is repaired on site using a pair of pads (or an aluminum tube-sleeve, which often comes with a repair kit) and electrical tape. At home, a broken segment can be replaced with a new tube, or the fracture site can be “recycled” into another, new “knee” on the arc.

There are elite brands among aluminum frames. It is a product of research laboratories that only design and manufacture frames and then sell them to tent manufacturers. A common thread for their products: quality, strength and low weight.

Most heard of superframes from companies DAC and easton.

Korean company DAC(Dongah Aluminum Corporated, www.dacpole.com) is a clear leader today: in terms of prevalence and the number of cooperations with well-known tent manufacturers.

DAC's arsenal includes extra-strong tubes with variable wall thickness, a wide range of diameters, high-tech press-fitting and special technologies for joining elements. Hardening knurling, anodizing and other, other…

In the last few years, DAC has seriously hit the production of all kinds of aluminum and plastic adapters, tees, connectors, sleeves and other accessories, which allows the craziest designers of tents and trekking furniture to play enough. The results are fantastic! The development is called DAC Toys.

Americans from EASTON(http://tentpoletechnologies.com) are trying to keep up. In contrast to competitors, they have stepped up research in the field of lightweight composite materials. Super high quality and expensive. By the way, fiberglass frames from Eastorn are cool.

About rags...

So what's next. Perhaps you can stop at the fabrics.

With fabrics for a tent, everything is relatively clear. The lighter and stronger - the better, but more expensive, because strength and lightness are antagonists. Rip Stop technology is welcome (reinforced threads are periodically woven into the fabric; a tear, if it occurs, has a chance to stop faster - “stumbling” on one of these threads).

The waterproofness of awning materials is achieved both by the weaving of the fabric and the quality of the waterproof layer applied to it. Plus a water repellant finish. Not only the finished fabric, but even the individual fibers from which it is made can be subjected to such processing.

Water resistance is measured in objective terms - millimeters of water column. There are visual tests, when the test fabric is pulled tightly on the bottom of a high glass tube: water is poured into the tube and they are monitored when drops begin to ooze through the fabric.

A sufficient indicator of water resistance for a tent awning is 3,000 mm (three meters of water column). Pay attention to this characteristic, it must be indicated in the product passport.

By the way, almost all reputable world and responsible Russian manufacturers have always higher water resistance indicators for awnings in practice. The point is the guarantee for a new tent: by the end of the warranty period, the water resistance should not be lower than stated. A good manufacturer plays it safe and puts fabric with initially higher rates.

In addition to the awning, the tent must also have a waterproof bottom: for it, the indicator must be at least 10,000 mm (ten meters of water column). It is this pressure that your elbow or knee will exert on the damp ground when you hit the floor.

By the way, the floor of the tent is sometimes made of the so-called extruded polyethylene. Cheap and durable waterproof material, heavy and poorly compressible. (Supermarkets sell reusable shopping bags made from the same fabric.) This is a budget solution. The bottom of extruded polyethylene is found, as a rule, in the same tents that are equipped with a fiberglass frame. About where and when it is advisable to use such tents, we wrote above. For other options, the use will be associated, if not with risk, then at least with inconvenience.

...and taping the seams

An indicator of tens of meters of waterproof fabric will be an empty and wet place if the manufacturer does not glue the seams during the production of your tent. Each seam of the outer tent must be well insulated, as well as all the seams of the floor of the inner tent. Without this, moisture will ooze into them, and in huge quantities.

Typically, sizing is performed thermally using a special transparent tape. This procedure is not artisanal. Available only to owners of the corresponding expensive equipment.

High-rise and extreme tents made of complex fabrics using silicone-filled fibers do without gluing the seams. The hot-melt film does not stick to such, and therefore the problem of watertightness of the seams is solved here in other non-trivial ways.

Fabrics for the inner tent also need light and durable. Its panels may include mesh inserts for better ventilation, internal pockets and more.

What makes up a demisseasonality of the tent

There is another parameter according to which tents are divided into two groups: seasonality. The tents are called three-season(not suitable for winter use) and all season(suitable for all situations, including snow camping). In foreign catalogs, respectively, it is indicated as three seasons and Four Seasons (sometimes All Seasons), respectively.

In the "tri-season" the side and top panels of the inner tent are sewn from a thin mesh fabric, which provides excellent ventilation, insect protection and lighter weight. In general, these tents are versatile and more suitable for long trips, because lighter and more compact. However, during a snowstorm, snow dust can penetrate through this very mesh, which will definitely fly under the outer awning.

All-season tents, that is, "four-season", usually more expensive and more durable: to resist blizzards and winter winds. The outer tent may or may not have an additional protective skirt, but in any case, it is designed to be longer so that the ground clearance remains less than that of the “three-season” tent awning. The racks of the frame are usually thicker and stronger than those of the "three seasons".

REFERENCE (observation from life):

However, this does not mean that it is impossible to survive in a tent with an all-mesh lining in the winter. It used to be that you climb inside, but you don’t know that the tent that your partner carries with him everywhere is a “three-season”. It’s amazing, of course, to find in the middle of the night a natural draft that flows from starboard to port, flows through your neighbor, through your sleeping bag and flows somewhere into a frosty, snowy night. Well, you’ll be surprised and roll up a roller of clothes in front of your nose so that it doesn’t freeze too much.

If you are going to use a tent always and everywhere, then one that is designed for “four seasons” will be preferable. It is convenient when part of the mesh panels of the inner tent are duplicated with solid fabric flaps (for example, fastened with zippers). Usually panels of “doors” are made such composite, puff. In cold weather, there will be more comfort in such a tent, although its weight will also be greater when compared with a similar three-season one.

Emergency entrance, emergency exit and utility vestibule

Tent designs are varied. By the number of entrances and the presence of vestibules, including. The possibility of separate, say, storage of equipment and provisions greatly improves the functionality of a camping dwelling. Here we dry our shoes, and there we pour our morning coffee. The presence of a spacious vestibule greatly facilitates life, but again increases the weight of the tent. And it requires additional space for its installation. So, look, try on and choose.

Philosophical who is on top: frame or awning?

This is such a long-standing, specific and never-ending dispute. It concerns one more feature of the construct of a modern tent: where should the arcs of the frame be located - on top of the outer tent or under it? Both options are quite common among modern tents.

The main benefit of having an external frame is that the inner tent can remain attached to the outer tent at all times. And therefore, by stretching the outer awning, you will automatically “set up” the entire tent as a whole, including the inner tent. And in this case, if you put up a tent in the rain, the insides of it will not get wet. You can detach the inner tent from the outer one when you want to clean it or dry it thoroughly.

With a tent in which the frame is located inside, between the inner tent and the awning, this number will not work. First you need to put up an inner tent, and then pull the awning from above. If it is raining or snowing, then all this can be inside the tent. Especially if you hesitate.

However, such calculations are rather theoretical. In practice, you can put up an inner tent, covered with an awning that has not yet been stretched. This reduces post-drying to a minimum.

On the other hand, when the frame is external, you face the unpleasant need to push the elements of the arcs into the special narrow and long pockets provided for by the design. When the turn of the second arc comes, it is very problematic to do it alone - you try to resort to the help of a partner.

In addition, the design of many of these tents is such that, with excessive force, the stand rests and tears the fabric of such a pocket. Attention, accuracy and sufficient illumination of the scene are required. Under the wind and rain, the task becomes even more nontrivial.

The author of these lines has ever seen a "dream tent" with an external frame only photographed by Reinhold Messner from Everest: there the tent was hung to the frame with the help of a thin strong cord and many hooks. Alas, today such tents are produced either individually or handicraft.

But what exactly loses a tent with an external frame is in absolute inability to fold down the awning and spend the day/night only inside the inner tent. In the sun or in stuffy weather, such a luxurious option is simply irreplaceable.

A tent with an external frame seems to be advantageous in the conditions of some multi-day trip through the area, blown by hurricane winds. If the rack bursts, then it (most likely) will not open the tent with its debris. What would inevitably happen if the frame was located inside, under an external awning, and thereby gave rise to a lot of problems.

Little things are big and important

Having examined the tent as a whole, carefully learn and appreciate the little things: fasteners, "zippers", execution of seams. The presence and number of eyelets and eyelets for guy wires. The braces themselves, the packing bag and the quality of the pegs.

All these, as it were, trifles, in fact, are not nonsense, but archival things. If everything goes in the normal order, then a tent made of high-quality fabric and with high-quality fittings can last five, ten, or fifteen years.

But the “lightning” that spreads under load is terrible. As well as the “lightning” that is not able to fasten under load. Monstrous threads sticking out in all directions and falling into the fastener slider. Unsuccessful protective overlay on the "zipper" of the awning, unexpectedly sticking into the lock, takes away the last strength when you have already overcome all the challenges and trials of a good day at work and are about to melt the snow for the evening soup. And then such a trabl!

Breakaway eyelets, flying off strips, to which braces are knitted. Hooks bursting in the cold or from the heat for hanging the tent to the frame. Believe me, if they are destined to come off or break, then they will come off and break at the most, most inopportune moment. When there is neither time nor strength to confront this mini-accident.

Choosing a tent unzip and install it and get inside. Lie down to your full gigantic height. Is there enough headboard space for personal items? And in the legs - for equipment and ropes?

Examine the tent. Is the inner tent hanging on the frame? And the awning doesn't wrinkle? If there is a hint of this, then in the rain, when the fabric is saturated with moisture and inevitably stretches, the sides of the inner tent and the outer awning will stick together. And then during the night all your warm clothes will get wet. And in the wind, the flapping “sails” will break: first, the braces will fly, and then the main fabric will burst.

If the tent is well designed, then weather transformations are taken into account in advance. The tent remains beautiful and elastic both in the rain and in the sun.

It would seem quite a trifle - the coloring of the arcs of the frame in different colors. But when you shake out this multi-colored “bamboo” on your bedding and start building your house, you will appreciate how much faster it goes with color marking. And on a frosty night, by the light of a flashlight, the color of each arc and the corresponding color markers on the fasteners of the tent turn from a seemingly trifle into a real de luxe option.

Have a nice night!