Tents | Family Tents & Tarps

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A FAMILY TENT

When choosing a family tent, consider factors that prioritize space, comfort, and ease of use, while providing protection against a range of weather conditions. Family tents are designed to accommodate larger groups, making them ideal for car camping, extended trips, or base camp setups where weight is less of a concern. In Australia, where family camping trips can span from beachside escapes to inland adventures, selecting the right shelter is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Tent design and structure: Family tents are typically cabin-style or tunnel-shaped to maximize interior space, with vertical walls that provide ample headroom and allow for easier movement. This design is particularly useful when camping with children or in mixed-age groups where comfort is a priority. Look for tents with multiple rooms or dividers, which can offer privacy or separation for sleeping and living areas. Sturdy poles, made from durable materials like fiberglass or steel, provide stability against strong winds, which can be common in many coastal and open camping areas across Australia.

Weather resistance: is crucial for family tents, as they must provide reliable protection against a variety of weather conditions. In Australia, where weather can be unpredictable, the tent should have a waterproof rating of at least 1500mm to 2000mm for both the tent floor and rainfly, ensuring it can handle rain showers typical of coastal or tropical areas. A full-coverage rainfly that extends to the ground offers the best protection from wind, rain, and dew. Additionally, consider features like sealed seams, reinforced corners, and durable materials to handle both wet conditions and the hot, UV-intensive Australian sun.

Ventilation: is important for family tents to maintain comfort, especially in Australia’s warm climates. Look for tents with large mesh windows, multiple doors, and roof vents to promote airflow and reduce condensation. This is particularly important in humid areas or during the summer months, where temperatures can rise quickly. Tents with awnings or extended canopies over windows and doors allow for ventilation even during rain, keeping the interior dry and comfortable.

Space and capacity: are essential considerations for a family tent. Make sure the tent provides enough floor space and headroom to comfortably accommodate everyone in your group, along with their gear. Larger tents often come with built-in storage pockets, gear lofts, or organizers to help keep the interior tidy. When camping in Australian conditions, consider bringing additional space for storing equipment like camping chairs, cooking gear, or coolers, which are essential for extended stays in remote locations.

Ease of setup: is a major factor when choosing a family tent, especially if you’re new to camping or frequently set up in different locations. In Australia, where weather conditions can change rapidly, a tent that can be pitched quickly and securely is a major advantage, but make sure they still provide the durability and weather protection needed for your intended environment.

Durability: is critical, especially when camping with a family in various terrains. High-denier fabrics for the tent body and floor (e.g., 70D or higher) provide resistance to wear and tear, while heavy-duty zippers and reinforced stress points help ensure longevity. In Australia, where rough ground, abrasive sand, and UV exposure are common, choose tents with UV-resistant materials to prevent fabric degradation. Additionally, a groundsheet or footprint can help protect the tent floor from sharp objects and moisture.

Additional features can enhance comfort and convenience for family camping trips. Look for features such as built-in awnings or porches that offer shaded areas for relaxation, cooking, or gear storage. Some family tents also include separate entrances for easy access or screened rooms to keep out insects, which is especially useful in bug-heavy areas like the bush or near water sources. Reflective guy lines and high-visibility stakes improve safety and help prevent trips or falls at night.

Tarps can be a versatile addition to family camping setups, providing extra shelter or shade over picnic areas, as a sunshade over your tent, or as a communal area during group outings. Choose a tarp that is large enough to provide adequate coverage but lightweight enough to be easily set up or moved. In Australia, where the sun can be intense, look for tarps made from UV-resistant materials that offer protection from harmful rays, or waterproof fabrics that can double as a rain shelter. Reinforced corners and multiple tie-out points enhance the versatility of a tarp, allowing it to be pitched in various configurations depending on the environment and weather.

Finally, consider the intended use of your family tent or tarp. For beach camping, look for tents with sand-resistant features and excellent ventilation, while for bush or forest camping, prioritize those with good insect protection and robust weather resistance. In Australia's diverse environments, choosing a tent that matches your family’s needs and the specific conditions of your camping destinations will ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience for everyone.

NEED HELP CHOOSING YOUR NEXT TENT? CONTACT US TODAY

If you have a particular tent in mind but would appreciate some additional advice. Simply get in touch with our friendly sales team – they’re always up for a chat. You can contact us by calling our Tumut store on (02) 6947 4062 or by email.