Best Outdoor Tents

Best Outdoor Tents

(CC) Vangelis7/Wikimedia Commons

Deciding on the best outdoor tents for your needs begins by estimating the size of the camping party. A single camper has decidedly different needs than parties of two or three campers. Another factor to consider is the time of year when you will go camping. A large number of outdoor tents are designated for three seasons, but there are also four season tents for the diehard camping aficionados who are not deterred by snow, rain, the blazing sun or cool temperatures. Some tents provide vestibule areas, and if you carry a lot of gear, these make for excellent dry storage solutions, which is especially important if you are planning on backpacking.

North Face Solo 12 Tent for One Camper

If you routinely camp by yourself, the best outdoor tents that fit your needs are those which are uniquely set up for one person. The North Face Solo 12 is a three season tent that offers a comfortable 18 square feet of sleeping area. The tent compresses and weighs less than three pounds, making it an excellent choice for backpackers. You will notice that this outdoor tent only has 35 inches of height, but because of the lower design it withstands winds of up to 95 miles per hour, which makes it an excellent choice for camping on inhospitable mountain summits or at a windy beach. At a cost of $159, this is a good investment in a piece of camping gear you will use for a long time to come.

Marmot Aeolos Tent for Two Campers

The Marmot Aeolos tent is a three season tent that sleeps two adults. The interior measures 35 square feet, and a vestibule area adds another 19 square feet for storage. This is one of the best outdoor tents for taking along on a fishing trip---with a weight of almost six pounds, it is easily stuffed into a backpack---or while rock climbing and planning for an overnight stay halfway up and down the mountain. The availability of two doors allows one sleeper to quietly sneak off for some early morning fishing, while the other one remains asleep. The 2009 cost of this tent is $305.

Nemo Equipment Losi Tent for Three Campers

If you enjoy camping with friends or like to bring along a couple of smaller children, the Nemo Equipment Losi tent designed for three campers might be the best outdoor tent for you. It is a four season tent, which makes it suitable for camping in all weather conditions; this is a definite plus when bringing children. The interior offers a 50 square feet sleeping area, while two vestibules provide another combined 26 square feet for gear and toy storage. At its apex, the tent stands 48 inches tall. Two doors make for easy entry and exit, which is especially important when outdoors with kids, who like to sleep in just a bit longer than their parents. In 2009, this three person tent costs $385.

Article Written By Sylvia Cochran

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.

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