Feb 27 2010

Choosing The Right Tent And How To Take Care Of It

Published by Linda Oloughlin at 8:55 am under Miscellaneous

In earlier periods, camping was a rare outdoor activity because most people already are sort of camping due to the fact that they already lived in tents.  As the evolution of civilizations move further, so did the house-building and houses made of stone and concrete became the ideal home structures.  With inhabitants living in permanent and budding locations, the urge to breath fresh air of the woodlands have made camping a favorite weekend activity. 

Each year, the number of individuals going camping increases and a few of the reasons why is to get a vacation and not to spend too much money.  Camping activities such as cooking and making shelter has become more faster and convenient thanks to modern camping equipments.  The days of cooking in open bonfires have mostly been replaced with portable barbecue grills and propane fueled stoves whereas tents have gone from regular wooden rods and canvass to durable and flexible carbon fibre poles and water proof synthetic fabrics.

Modern tents are easier to store and have become versatile for camping convenience.  Tents are essential whether it’s for camping, backpacking or hiking. 

Here are a few tent types to choose from:

Pyramid Tents

Pyramid tents are the simplest form of camping tents where putting up two poles, covered by one big canvas and fasten it on the ground with four stakes.  Campers who wish to rough it up prefer its simplicity and setting it up is rather easy even for first-timers.  Tents like these, though, are more susceptible to bugs and insects which will add to a very bad camping experience.  That’s why many camping equipment manufacturers make modern pyramid tents that have entryways with zippers which also have synthetic fabric canvass and carbon fiber poles and rods.

Dome Tents

Dome Tents are one of the most common and favorite tents.  Their dome shape not only slide rain water more effectively but it’s also designed to provide easier entrance and more headroom for its occupants compared to pyramid tents.  Two poles usually come with dome tents.  Dome tents that are modified offer more durability and resilience against strong winds and heavy rains.  The addition of rods and poles to its overall assembly makes it sturdier to the elements.

Tunnel Tents

Tunnel tents have an uneven space and are tapered lower at the back.  Two rods come with tunnel tents as well but one is much longer than the other one but there are also varieties of single poles.  The lighter weight of tunnel tents also give them certain advantages over other types of tents.  Since they are built more compact, tunnel tents are the ideal type of tents for a 1 man tent

For those who have recently bought a new tent, it is important to keep it dry at all times to prevent moisture damage such as mold and mildew which not only discolor the canvass, but will also make them stinky and a potential health hazard.  If your tent is wet, it is good to dry it before storing it.  You can dry your tent by hanging it in a long clothesline and allow it to dry by air.  You can also sun-dry it but it’s important to know that ultraviolet rays from the sun can potentially damage the tent fabric.  Just make sure that you don’t leave your tent exposed in the sun too long.

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