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WHAT TYPES OF TENTS CAN I FIND AT TOM'S OUTDOORS?

At Tom's Outdoors we carry a range of tents designed to meet various needs, from solo adventures to family camping trips:

Expedition Tents: These tents are built for extreme conditions, such as high-altitude mountaineering or winter camping. They are made from durable, weather-resistant materials and feature robust poles and secure guy lines to withstand strong winds, heavy snow, and harsh environments. Expedition tents usually offer good insulation and ventilation to handle diverse climates and are designed to accommodate smaller groups or individuals who need reliable shelter in demanding conditions.

Lightweight Tents & Shelters: Designed for backpackers, hikers, and anyone who prioritizes a light pack weight, lightweight tents and shelters are compact, easy to set up, and often use minimal materials. These tents may range from fully enclosed models to minimalist tarp shelters or single-wall designs. While they may not provide as much protection against extreme weather, they are excellent for fair-weather trips, ultralight backpacking, or fastpacking where reducing pack weight is critical.

Family Tents & Tarps: Family tents are designed to accommodate multiple people, offering spacious interiors, multiple rooms, and features like large vestibules, mesh windows for ventilation, and multiple entry points. These tents are great for car camping, festivals, or extended stays at a campsite. Family tents prioritize comfort and convenience, making them suitable for families or groups who want more room to move around. Tarps can also be used as additional shelters, cooking areas, or to create communal spaces.

HOW DO I CHOOSE A TENT THAT SUITS MY NEEDS?

Choosing the right tent depends on the type of outdoor activity you’re planning, the environment you’ll be in, and your personal preferences. Here are the key factors to consider:

Purpose and Environment: Start by considering the primary purpose of the tent and the conditions you'll use it in. If you're planning an expedition to a high-altitude area or a cold-weather destination, an expedition tent will provide the strength and weather protection you need. For backpacking trips or hikes where weight is a concern, a lightweight tent or shelter is ideal. If you're going on a family camping trip or need more space, a family tent offers comfort and room for multiple people.

Capacity: Decide how many people will use the tent and whether you need extra space for gear storage or comfort. For solo or two-person trips, a smaller tent will suffice. For group camping or family trips, look for larger models that offer separate rooms or more headroom.

Weather Resistance: Think about the typical weather conditions you expect to encounter. Three-season tents are designed for spring, summer, and fall, offering good ventilation and rain protection. Four-season or expedition tents are made for winter or harsh conditions, with stronger materials, better insulation, and features to handle snow and wind.

Weight and Packability: If you plan to carry the tent over long distances, weight and pack size are crucial. Lightweight tents or shelters are best for backpacking, while heavier tents are more suited for car camping or base camps where you don’t have to carry your gear far.

Ease of Setup: Consider how easy the tent is to pitch, especially if you expect to set it up in challenging conditions like wind or rain. Freestanding tents are often easier to set up and move around, while non-freestanding tents may require more effort and additional stakes or guylines.

Ventilation and Comfort: Good ventilation is essential to reduce condensation inside the tent, especially in humid or wet conditions. Look for tents with mesh panels, windows, or vents. Also, consider the interior height and layout, which can affect how comfortable the tent feels, especially for longer stays.

Durability and Material: Check the materials used for the tent's fabric, poles, and zippers. High-quality materials like ripstop nylon or polyester for the tent body, aluminium or carbon fiber for poles, and waterproof coatings (like silicone or polyurethane) ensure durability and protection from the elements.

Additional Features: Look for features that add convenience and functionality, such as gear lofts for storage, interior pockets, multiple doors for easy access, and vestibules for keeping gear dry and out of the way.

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.