One of the first decisions you should make if you are going to go to a mountain campsite in Catalonia is which tent to bring. Although it is one of the first decisions made, the truth is that it is one of the most important.
This is because there are so many different family tents out there and with so much choice on the market the decision can be overwhelming. In this article we are going to introduce you to some of the most popular tent models and we are going to help you know how to choose the tent that interests you the most according to your needs.
Tent models
One of the most popular models is the igloo tent. The name mountain igloo is due to the fact that it is quite reminiscent of the igloos of the Eskimos. This tent is characterized by having a half-sphere shape, which is a perfect camping equipment in the mountains due to its ability to resist wind and rain.
Another fairly common model is the tipi tent model. The tipi tent model is a simple and attractive tent model. This tent is inspired by the tents in which the Indians lived in the United States and they are also characterized by being a very resistant tent model despite its light weight and simplicity, being ultralight tents.
Automatic stores are also another of the most common models. These tents have become very popular in recent years due to how easy it is to set them up. Despite the simplicity that an automatic inflatable tent can have, they require some practice when folding them for storage.
Another quite popular tent model is the tunnel tent. The popularity of these tents in a mountain campsite is due to the fact that they are very resistant to wind. These tents are usually made of fairly resistant materials and one of their main advantages is the weight/space ratio they have.
The Canadian model is also another of the most popular. The Canadian tent is characterized by its simple assembly, resistance and high durability. In addition, they also stand out for their large size as they are quite spacious and comfortable tents.
How to choose a tent
Due to the large number of different models out there, knowing how to choose the right tent is essential when setting up an outdoor camp. The first thing you need to consider is how many people are going to sleep. Depending on the people you go to, you will probably need a more or less large store.
For greater comfort we recommend that you choose a model that has a capacity of one or more people, for example, if you are going to enjoy a camping as a couple, a tent for 3 or 4 people will provide you with the most valuable extra space.
Tents are classified by “seasons.” This rating refers to the level of resistance of the tent. Depending on where you are going to camp you will have to choose a tent with more or less seasons. The 2-season models are light and airy, ideal for warm summer climates. The 4-season models are designed to withstand extreme conditions such as high winds and snow.
Store transportation is also important. It will not be the same to have a car in which to take the tent to go to a campsite with friends and take backpacker tents with you. In these cases , weight and size are factors to be taken into account.
Finally, another factor that has the most influence when choosing a tent is the budget. The price of a tent is mainly reflected in the quality of its materials or its weight. If you are going to make occasional use of the store or it is a short trip, you can opt for a low-end model. If you are looking for higher quality or lightness in the tent, we recommend that you look at a mid-range and, if possible, a high-end.
Types of tents according to use or activity (hiking, family camping, trekking, expeditions)
Depending on the type of activity you are going to carry out, it is advisable that you look for certain characteristics when choosing your tent. If you are going hiking, you should always prioritize having a light weight and a compact size. Look for tents made of nylon and aluminum rods to keep the weight to a minimum. In addition, that they are easily assembled you will also appreciate it after a long walk.
If you want to enjoy group camping or family camping, look for a tent that has a large interior space. For a family campsite, a tent with several rooms is a good idea. Look for tents with good ventilation, since size will not be a problem if you have a car.
When trekking, look for a specialized and robust tent. This tent has to be designed to withstand the most extreme conditions, so it must have good strength with more rods and anchor points with which to withstand strong winds. This way you will not have a problem when it comes to mountain weather or there is an unexpected gust of wind.
Finally, for expeditions it is best to have a tent for camping or festival tents. These tents are deployed in a matter of seconds, do not require any experience and prioritize convenience and speed of assembly over other factors. These tents are perfect for beginners and also for one or two night trips by car.
Types of tents according to the mounting system
The set-up is something that worries many people when they are going to carry out a camping trip. It is important that you keep in mind that there are several types of assembly, some recommended for the most expert, while others are accessible to any user.
Traditional rod mounting is one of the most common and widespread. Tents that feature this setup are usually quite stable and sturdy, but it also requires some practice to both set up and disassemble. This setup is recommended for all campers looking for a reliable tent in any weather condition.
If assembly is something that worries you because it seems complicated, you can always choose a store with instant assembly or pop-up. In addition to being a much easier assembly it is also fast, so it is perfect for beginners or short trips, for example, light camping or beach tents. They are usually quite common at festivals or weekend trips.
Finally, inflatable rod mounting is a more modern type of assembly that replaces traditional rods with tubes that are inflated by an air pump. Assembly is faster and easier, but they are also heavier and more expensive compared to traditional tents.
Types of tents according to material and quality
When choosing a tent you have several options depending on the quality and material with which they are made. A tent in which you prioritize a quick assembly will not be the same as emergency shelters or winter tents.
One of the most common materials is polyester, which is present in most mid-range or low-end stores. This is a durable and sturdy material, although it can be a bit heavier than other materials.
Another very good option, but somewhat more expensive, is nylon. This material is not usually found in cheap portable stores, it is usually in high-end ones. It is a very light and compact material, but it is less resistant to UV rays.
Polycotton and canvas are two other quite valid options. They are very breathable materials as well as resistant and durable. The problem is that they are somewhat more expensive and also somewhat heavier than other options such as nylon.
