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Choose your winter camping tents with an eye on the maximum amount of shelter they provide. The lower the temperatures these tents can withstand, the higher the price. Shop for the maximum amount of tent that you can afford, but be well aware of the tent's limitations; for example, if you can afford only a three-season tent, opting for a trip that takes you into the middle of a snowstorm is not a good idea. Remember that---unlike summer tent camping---the wrong choice of a winter camping tent is more than a mere inconvenience: It may actually physically harm you.
Season Specification
Invest in a four-season winter camping tent that is sturdy enough to withstand strong winds, but sufficiently ventilated to keep you comfortable in an autumn breeze. A four-season tent ensures that no matter how bad the weather gets, you will be sheltered from the worst of it. Compromise on a three-season tent if you anticipate that your winter camping will not include any snow or only a very light, occasional dusting. A typical four-season tent is the Go Lite Valhalla that offers room for two or more sleepers.
Vestibule Size
Choose one of the winter camping tents that has a larger vestibule; a good option is a 7-foot by 4-foot area that allows for sheltered storage of gear, backpacks, and any items that are not in use inside the tent, but that you want to keep close by. The bigger the vestibule area, the more storage space you will have, and if you look forward to camping during more plentiful snow, this is the easiest way of keeping your equipment dry. Some tents, such as the Mountain Hardwear Spire, offer two vestibule areas and make storing of essential gear and boots and only occasionally used gear a lot easier.
Interior Setup
Pick out a winter camping tent that can be set up from the inside out, if you anticipate heavy snowfall or extreme temperature drops. Unlike exterior pole sleeves that are great for summer or fall camping---and which require you to be outside the tent to set it up---interior pole setups provide a skeleton for the tent from the inside, and as such can be put up while you are snug and protected.
About The Author
Based in the Los Angeles area, Sylvia Cochran is a seasoned freelance writer focusing on home and garden, travel and parenting articles. Her work has appeared in "Families Online Magazine" and assorted print and Internet publications.
