Camping is one of the best ways to relieve stress and clear your head. That’s why it’s so important to buy a tent that’s easy to use and provide worry-free protection.

The first step to getting back to nature is buying a tent you can depend on. A good quality tent must be comfortable, easy to use and provide security for you and your family.

tents come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are compact, easy-to-carry two-person tents that assemble in moments, and there are massive family-size models with separate bedrooms and even lighting. What matter most is that the tent you choose is durable enough to keep you safe in the outdoors and sheltered in all types of weather.

When shopping for a tent, there are several details to look for. First and foremost, determine what you need from your tent. Look at the size and shape of the tent, and consider the weight, setup time and the types of poles. The tent that you choose should be easy to set up, particularly if you’ll be camping alone. Ask the sporting goods store associate if you’re not sure.

It’s also important to make sure that the tent is easy to transport. Don’t forget, you’ll need to pack the tent in your car and leave room for all of your gear.

Size Matters

Are you camping alone, or with your family? Are you packing along a lot of gear? Do you have pets that will need protection? These are all points that will come into play when choosing the size of your tent. You (and those sharing your space) will need room to sleep comfortably, stretch and move around. You’ll need to sit up or stand. While it is possible for a family of four to sleep in a four-person tent, you’ll all be more comfortable in a roomer six-person model. Two people will be comfortable in a small tent, but may need to store their belongings in a separate shelter.

Weight

Nothing takes the fun out of camping like trying to portage or hike to a remote camp while lugging a heavy canvas tent. If you plan to carry your gear an extended distance, be sure to pack light. Remember, you’ll also be carrying food, clothing and gear. Lightweight tents provide ample comfort and security, and there are many models to choose from. If, on the other hand, you’re loading a van with gear and driving straight to the campsite, then a heavy tent will do just fine.

Fabric Facts

Most of today’s modern tents are manufactured with lightweight nylon or taffeta. These are strong, durable materials that can stand up to all types of weather. Be sure that the tent you choose is certified waterproof. You may pay a little extra, but it will be worth every penny when the storm clouds start brewing.

Ease of Assembly

Ask to see the assembly instructions before you buy the tent. Then, try assembling the tent at home before you leave on your camping trip. The tent you choose should be easy to assemble with few or new tools required. You’ll have a lot to do when you reach camp, and you don’t want to spend a lot of time fighting with a difficult tent. Camping is about relaxing and becoming one with nature, not stressing and struggling with a tent.

Tents are not luxuries for the faint-hearted, or copouts for rookie campers. They are necessary tools that satisfy the basic human need for shelter. Even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts will agree, there is no thrill in coming face to face with a forest critter at four a.m.