Tents: varieties, selection and use

A mandatory accessory for a camping trip or a regular outing in nature in the company of relatives, friends and relatives is a tent. The question of choosing this attribute is rather complicated. The main thing is to take into account several important factors, on the basis of which it will be possible to choose the most suitable option for a camping house.

A tent is a portable house made on the basis of frame fasteners and fabric materials. The collapsible design of a hiking attribute is intended solely to protect a person from adverse weather and climatic changes in a natural area.

Tents are used as a temporary shelter on the street, used in private homes for household needs. In addition, you can not only live in them, but also fold materials that should not come into contact with moisture. The fabric construction is also used for production purposes, such as on film sets, where the actors live in improved models of such "houses", and the film equipment is stored in separate folding tent rooms.

From tents of various sizes, temporary camps for tourists are created, reminiscent of a portable village. Of the fabric structures, stationary camps are made up for travelers who go hiking for a long period. The advantage of stationary camps is the ability to return at any time, where, if necessary, they will provide first aid, feed and warm. High-quality tent shelters faithfully serve soldiers during exercises or military operations.

A lot of time has passed since the appearance of the very first tent. This hiking attribute has come a long way of evolution and today it is presented on the market in a variety of forms and designs. But in addition to the unusual appearance and structural diversity, modern specimens of tents are endowed with special characteristics that will appeal to any traveler.

Modern models offered on the market are made with frame and frameless equipment. At the same time, in the frame varieties, it is assumed that there are arcs that give the tent a special shape. Frameless models, in turn, should be hung on tree branches, creating a kind of tent. At the same time, the frame structure is wind resistant, but has a rather large weight.

When purchasing a tent for personal use, it is necessary to assume in advance how many people can stay in it for an overnight stay.For two travelers, a double design will do, and for a large family, you should pay attention to specimens prepared for 4 and even 6 beds. It is important to note that tent manufacturers, when designing a structure, delimit the interior space with the primary comfort for each traveler. This fact will become clear during operation.

This characteristic is the main one for all types of mobile dwellings. The only difference is that each individual copy of the tent has a certain density value, which is indicated on the production marking. Thus, a fabric density of 800-1000 mm is considered ideal for summer outings in nature in sunny weather. If the hike is planned for the autumn or spring period of the year, it is best to pay attention to models with an index of 3000-5000 mm.

If the tent is intended for expeditionary work, where there are probably no stable weather conditions, you should choose specimens with a material density of 8000 mm or more. Special attention should be paid to tissue connections. They must be glued, not just stitched. Thanks to this fact, the strength of the tent increases several times.

In most cases, on the shelves of specialized stores there are tents with one and two layers of fabric. At the same time, single-layer tents do not imply protection from adverse climatic conditions, namely from rain, snow and hail.. Single-layer specimens are used for one-day trips to nature in sunny weather. In turn, two-layer models are equipped with a mesh material, a mosquito net in the inner part of the structure.

Thanks to a thin veil, ideal ventilation of the fabric room is ensured. The outer awning of the two-layer tent has increased strength and is able to protect the tourist with his belongings from bad weather.

To date, there is a huge number of different materials that are taken as the basis for the surfaces of tents. In this case, polyurethane fabric or silicone is considered a classic copy. Thanks to their properties of a design are provided with additional protection against influence of ultra-violet rays and moisture. The bottom of the tent is often made of polyester. Some models use nylon fabric and tarpauling.

Owners who purchase a tent for their own needs need to pay attention to such a feature as a vestibule with a closing passage. It will be possible to leave shoes in it so as not to bring dirt into the sleeping area, as well as other accessories, such as dishes and warm capes. For most tourists, deep pockets are preferred, located on the walls of the tent on the inside, in which you can put the necessary things, such as a phone or a book.

Don't forget that modern tents should have small slots for windows, as well as ventilation holes at the top of the structure. Many examples of folding houses have special fasteners that allow you to hang a lantern in the image of a chandelier.

Modern tents, presented at the choice of the consumer, are determined by their main purpose. For example, if you purchase a fishing tent for the winter, but use it as a shelter for household tools, it will be impractical. To understand what kind of hiking attribute can be used for extreme tourism, recreation and in the domestic sphere, it is proposed to read their detailed review.

The described climbing attribute must be used on hikes with the maximum level of difficulty, involving a long journey or conquering mountain peaks. The design of the tent is equipped with a strong frame. The device has moderate bulk dimensions, quickly assembled and folded. Due to the small mass, a person practically does not notice the additional burden on his shoulders.

A well-made assault tent can withstand any weather conditions. In the design of a portable attribute, there is always a detachable mesh that allows you to adjust the internal microclimate.

The described design is used by tourists for Olympic ascents with a short duration of the hike. An important distinguishing feature of ultra-light tents is their weight. They are very light and completely invisible in the total mass of things.

In addition, the design of the presented camp housing is different high strength and small size. Due to their miniature dimensions, it is quite difficult to live in such tents, even sitting postures cause a feeling of discomfort. But despite this nuance, Assault ultra-light tents are easily disassembled in natural terrain and folded back into the bag.

In appearance and some properties, the described specimens resemble an assault ultra-light type of mobile housing. Although from the constructive side they are designed for operation in less difficult weather conditions. Expeditionary models do not have snow skirts. The material for tailoring is used with minimal texture complexity.

In appearance and properties, the presented type of marching attribute resembles expedition specimens. They are made in a more simplified version. The design of trekking tents is designed to withstand strong winds and bad weather conditions. They are mainly used for parking halts located along the trails.

This tourist attribute is used for climbing in the mountains. We are talking about routes with the installation of base camps. Tents of this kind are set up for a long time, so that tourists and conquerors of mountain peaks can rest at one point for several days. A distinctive feature of the base tents is the rigidity of the structures that can withstand strong winds, snowfalls and blizzards. In terms of dimensions, the basic tents are quite large and can accommodate more than one person.

• The presented hiking accessory is distinguished by an increased level of comfort, which affects its size. Camping tents are quite high and spacious, but very heavy. It is impossible to wear them assembled for a long time. For this reason, camping specimens are mainly used by travelers who go camping in vehicles. An essential advantage of the design of the camping variety of tents is the height.

Despite the many advantages, camping varieties have some disadvantages. Due to the large dimensions, the interior of the camp dwelling warms up very poorly, which is why travelers can freeze at night.

The represented copy of tents differs in small dimensions and weight. Mainly used for trips to the beach. The design of beach models does not differ in durabilityTherefore, they are not recommended for use in windy conditions. In rainy weather they instantly get wet and let moisture through into the inner space. By service life are not durable.

A special device fixed on the ice surface and capable of creating maximum comfort for the fisherman in the winter. In terms of external design, in most cases it has the shape of a cube, sometimes a hemisphere. Winter specimens most often lack flooring, although there are still specimens with floor litter with slots for holes. Such floor coverings are made of a special heat-insulating material. Many ice fishing tents are equipped with valves that allow you to ventilate the interior and install heating devices.

The production process of tents involves the use of several types of matter:

• from polyamide fibers;
• from polyester fibers;
• from mixed fibers, where, as a rule, cotton is present.

Despite similar properties of lightness and elasticity, there is a noticeable difference between polyamide and polyester fabric materials. Polyamide fabrics, such as nylon or kapron, are quite tear-resistant, resistant to long-term use, but they are adversely affected by exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and when wet, they stretch. For these reasons, they are used to sew the inner surface of tents and flooring.

In turn, polyester fabrics, for example, lavsan or polyester, have similar characteristics with the only difference - resistance to ultraviolet rays. They easily tolerate getting wet and do not stretch. These fabric materials are mainly used in the manufacture of the outer parts of the tent. The third variety, namely mixed material, is used very rarely. It is used when sewing the interior walls and floors of a tent dwelling, as it breathes very well.

However, this is only a superficial acquaintance with matter. Each fabric goes through several stages of processing, in which many technologies are used. Initially, you should familiarize yourself with the methods of weaving the material.

• Taffeta. The most common type of weaving tent surfaces.
• Oxford. Used to make a fairly strong tear weaving on a tent.
• Ripstop. A thickened thread is added to the fabric being prepared, thanks to which a kind of frame is created that resists tearing and spreading of the base material.

Special attention is paid to the application of a waterproof coating. The material can be impregnated with a polyurethane or silicone substance. If necessary, a waterproof coating is applied in several layers. It follows from this that the lower the impregnation density, the lighter and softer the fabric material will be. Accordingly, the weight of the tent will be much less, but the fabric will breathe, but in bad weather it can pass moisture.

On tents, the manufacturer installs special markings, which can be difficult for beginners to understand. Therefore, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of such encryption.

• Fabric type. In this case, the material used in the manufacture of the tent is indicated, for example, nylon, nylon, lavsan, polyester.
• Weaving method. We are talking about one of the techniques for processing fabric material - Taffeta, Oxford, Ripstop.
• Weaving density. This section encodes information about the number of threads located on one square inch.
• Thread thickness. Information familiar to many women, talking about the density of matter.
• Waterproof impregnation. Clarification on the method of processing the outer fabric - PU (polyurethane), Si (silicone).
• Water resistance in mm. According to the indicated numbers, wetting strength can be determined. The higher the number, the lower the chance of getting wet inside the tent.

Having dealt with the production encryption, it is necessary to consider in detail the options for the fabric material used in the manufacture of the tent. First of all, you need to familiarize yourself with the most common material - an awning. It repels moisture well, keeps its shape perfectly, stretches when wet and does not fade when exposed to ultraviolet radiation.

Awning tents have been pleasing their owners for many years with a colorful palette, where camouflage colors are most often used to decorate the outer surface. The interior is shaped with comfort in mind, the material should be lightweight and breathable. In window cuts, a transparent mosquito net is used as protection against insects.

Tarpaulin deserves special attention. This material is characterized by maximum strength, water resistance and lack of reaction to ultraviolet radiation.

Among the many criteria for choosing a tent, special attention is paid to the external design data, which fully affect the interior space.

It is very popular with tourists, and all thanks to the internal convenience and spaciousness. In appearance, it resembles the shape of a barrel cut along. This design does not have solid stability, but despite this the streamlined tent allows you to cope with strong winds.

Surrealism lovers will like this rounded camping structure.Initially, this form of tent was developed for the tourist craft, but after a while they began to be placed in the yards of cottages. By connecting fantasy, the owner of the tent can create from one large "bubble" and several small houses with a couple of rooms. It will be able to accommodate friends, and spend the night with the family in nature.

Hearing the name, the image of the house of the Kazakh people immediately comes to mind. In principle, there is no big difference between the housing of nomads and the temporary shelter of tourists. The only difference is in the complexity of the design. The frame base is made of durable fiberglass, which does not have a rounded shape. For this reason, the corners of the tent are visible.

Tents of this form are most often intended for winter fishing. The cubic design of the structure allows the fisherman to rationally use the interior space of the camping attribute. The angled roof increases the height of the tent, making the person feel as comfortable as possible.

This type of tent design is used exclusively in the warm season. Carbon tubes are used as fasteners. The roof of the tent can be gable, four-slope or domed. Most often, these structures are installed as a decoration for a festive territory to delimit zones.

The classic design of the structure, familiar to every person since childhood. Its form does not have intricate accents. The internal space does not allow you to stretch out to your full height, but sleeping in such a room is very comfortable. Tents in the form of a pyramid are most often purchased by single tourists.

Such designs are chosen by travelers who love maximum comfort. A modular tent can come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but its interior is rich in a variety of rooms, windows, vestibules and additional accessories.

This version of the tent design is ideal for a modern tourist moving around the world by car. The feature of the transformer is in the possibility of placing a tent on any surface, but most often on the roof of a car.

The most common classification of camping tents is the capacity of the interior space. It follows from this that the more places are supposed to be inside, the more spacious the structure will be. Modern tents are presented in 2-, 3-, 4- and 6-seater versions, where one bed is intended for one adult.

Based on the calculation for one family, when located in a triple tent, parents and one teenager or two small children can easily spend the night. But in cases like this, the most common family camping tent is the four-person design.

Along with the number of places, tents differ in size, or rather, in length, width and height of the structure. Standard height for most models is 135cm, although there are more understated varieties, as well as enlarged views in which an adult can feel comfortable standing upright.

Undersized tents are ideal for backpackers. And all because of the low weight of the folded dwelling. As a rule, such tents are small in terms of capacity, they are maximally ready to accept two people. And models with an overestimated ceiling, on the contrary, suggest places for 4 and 6 people.

In the world of travelers, it is accepted that if a hike begins with a trip by car, then in order to get to the desired place, it is preferable to take an enlarged tent in which you can stand at full height and feel the maximum space.

In addition to the design features and materials used in the production, tents differ according to the season of operation. And indeed, you can’t go with a summer thin beach tent for winter fishing. Further, it is proposed to familiarize yourself with the seasonality of hiking attributes in more detail.

It is used exclusively in the warm period of the year under positive climatic conditions. The design of such tents is not complicated, they are easy to care for. If a thunderstorm and any other unforeseen weather changes are planned, the structure should be assembled, since it cannot be saved from the storm. The main and most important advantage of a summer tent is excellent ventilation. Besides, they are very compact, light weight and low cost.

A marching attribute of this kind provides maximum protection to a person in the most unpleasant weather. In general, they are designed for spring, summer and autumn. The frame of the three-season varieties of tents is strong enough to withstand windy weather. They cost several times more than summer copies, as they have much more functions.

Such options for portable dwellings are designed for any weather conditions. They easily withstand cold winds, showers and hot sun. You can use this type of tent all year round. Its main advantage is high level of water resistance. The strength of the structure allows the tent to withstand strong winds. All-season specimens are equipped with snow skirts. The price of such a "house" is an order of magnitude higher than its counterparts.

Modern tents are divided into two types, namely single-layer and double-layer. By the names of the characteristics, the essence of the design features of the marching attributes becomes clear.

• When sewing single-layer tents a single layer of fabric is used, which is a waterproof material firmly connected to the bottom fabric. As ventilation holes, most single-layer structures have small windows in the upper parts, covered with a mosquito net and equipped with a visor that protects the slots from rain.The main advantages of single-layer tent models are the weight of the structure, cost and ease of operation. The disadvantages that most tourists have noticed is the poor ventilation of the interior of the tent in the summer heat and, as a result, the formation of condensate.

• double layer tents are made using two types of fabric, one of which makes up the inside of the structure, and the second is responsible for the outer waterproofness. Double Layer Instances differ from each other according to the installation technology. One option involves the assembly and installation of the interior space, followed by the addition of arches, on which the outer awning is put on. The disadvantages of two-layer tents include weight, since the design has a tangible mass on the shoulders, the installation process and the cost of a camping attribute. The second option requires the installation of an external structure, and after that - fastening the inner room.

In both described cases, the outer awning has maximum water-repellent properties; contact between the outer and inner layers is unacceptable. That's why even with a minimal occurrence of condensate, its drops will flow down the outer matter and go into the ground.

• Along with the presented options for tents, there are three-layer models. Their main purpose is winter fishing, but due to the versatility of the design, they can be used all year round. The third layer is fixed from the outside, and if necessary, can be easily unfastened.At the same time, all three layers of the fisherman's house are treated with waterproof impregnation, respectively, the tent has enhanced protection against leakage.

When choosing a tent, each tourist is guided by individual preferences. For some, comfort is important, for others - simplicity, for others - the presence of additional rooms. Novice travelers ask the opinion of colleagues of interest in order to determine the most suitable model for themselves. And in order not to turn to friends for help, it is proposed to get acquainted with the best examples of camping tents.

The most popular model of camping tents. The spacious interior space is equipped with two separate rooms with a dividing vestibule. In this case, it is not necessary to use both rooms as a bed, one part can serve as a kitchen. This tent is not very heavy, so it is convenient to take it on a hike. The assembly of the structure is quite simple and very convenient. Only one person is enough for installation. The tent can accommodate 6 tourists.

Thanks to the reinforced frame, this design can be installed in windy areas, and the waterproof impregnation of the outer fabric will not allow rain to seep inside. Existing window openings are covered with mosquito nets. The design of "Alexika Indiana 4" contains filtration system and ventilation departments. As additional equipment, inside the tent there are pockets for small accessories. The manufacturer of this design paid special attention to the seams. They are highly sealed and do not let moisture in.

The presented type of tent is designed for 2 beds, but its capacity allows even 3 tourists to live comfortably. The presented design in the folded state takes up minimal space, and weighs just under 4 kg. At the heart of the tent there are fiberglass arcs that can easily cope with any load. In simple words, this hiking attribute without much effort can withstand strong winds and heavy rain.

The height of the tent is quite high, a tourist with an average height will be able to walk inside the camping room without bending his shoulders. This product ideal for forest tourism, but not recommended as a climbing accessory.

The design of this tent has several inlets, as well as ventilation slots that are responsible for blowing through the interior of the tent. Outside, it has the shape of a hemisphere. The tent material and the bottom are made of high quality polyester. The entrances to the tent are equipped with a mosquito net. In front of the structure there is a vestibule where you can store bags and shoes. Inside the tent there are pockets for various small things. Outside in the vestibule there is a latch for hanging the lantern.

This model is intended for extreme tourism, in terms of capacity it is designed for two people. The design without a cover and stakes weighs 2.7 kg, and together with them - 3.2 kg. The arcs of the tent are made of aluminum alloy, due to which the tent has a minimum weight. They do not corrode and retain their shape for a long time.The price of a tent will be affordable for any tourist, but for the money spent, the traveler will receive a convenient hiking attribute.

The seams of the structure are taped and resist the ingress of moisture. The openings of the tent are closed with a mosquito net. The fabric of the bottom of the structure is treated with water-repellent impregnation. On the inside, the model is equipped with pockets for small things, on the outside it is equipped with a skirt.

A person needs to approach the choice of a tent very responsibly. After all, this is not just an ordinary accessory, but a real house, designed to live in nature for several days. A few tips from experienced tourists and avid travelers will help you make the right choice.

• Fans of long outdoor recreation should forget about quickly assembled structures that fold into a round case. Such models are unstable and provide only unnecessary hassle.
• There is no need to consider multi-room tents as ideal natural dwellings. Firstly, it will be possible to avoid sharing between friends and relatives for the right to sleep in a certain place. Secondly, for the installation of capacious structures, it is required to look for a flat surface of the earth, which is extremely rare in a forest area. Experienced tourists say that large-sized tents are often made of poor-quality materials that, in case of rain, will not be able to protect the tourist.
• When buying prefabricated housing, it is important to decide in advance how many people will live in it.The volume and dimensions of the structure entirely depend on this.
• When buying a tent, special attention must be paid to the water resistance of the outer material. For amateur hikes, 4000-6000 mm is considered an ideal indicator.
• Beginner campers should avoid non-standard tent designs. A simplified frame is much more reliable, such models are quickly disassembled and folded than improved specimens.
• When choosing a tent, you should pay attention to its coverage. In two-layer copies, internal condensate does not penetrate into the living area.
• If you choose a tent with a vestibule, a separate entrance, additional pockets and other accessories, you should be guided by the possible ways of using them. Such models are quite heavy, so they are not used by travelers on long trips.
• If you plan to go out into nature in the cool season, you should pay attention to tents equipped with a windproof skirt. For summer travel, it is optional, as it is an obstacle to blowing through the interior space.
• Particular attention should be paid to the corners of the structure, check whether they are stitched, glued or welded. Unreliable connections threaten to break the fabric surface, respectively, the design of the tent can quickly fail.
• Tourists going on dangerous hikes should purchase tents equipped with storm guy lines, which allow them to make additional fortifications against strong winds.
• Many sales assistants advise buyers to purchase tents with fireproof impregnation. Only it is not necessary if the planned trips are scheduled exclusively for the warm season.
• The mass of the tent plays a special role in hiking. If a trip to nature is planned using a car, then there will be no problems.
• Structures made of aluminum arches weigh much less than tents with a fiberglass base. This is quite an important factor if you plan to hike in the mountains.
• Not always a person has the opportunity to purchase a new tent. For this reason, it is necessary to consider options that were in use. Before buying, it is important to carefully examine the integrity of the structure, check the frame, fabric and equipment. Tents that have served 2 or 3 years to the old owner will be able to accompany the new owner for about the same period.
• The choice of tent is important to carry out on the basis of individual principles. It will not be possible to purchase a comfortable and convenient tent if you take into account the needs of other people.

Like any other camping attributes, tents require proper attention and special handling. If misused, after a few trips, it may become unusable. For this reason, it is suggested that you familiarize yourself with the basic rules for the use and care of a portable home. While inside the tent, do not lean on the walls of the structure, since the side fabric can stretch, and the frame, made of fragile material, can break.

When fastening windows and doors, carefully use zippers, do not pull them, close them with a smooth movement. It is best to support the zipper at the base with one hand, and with the other to perform closing actions.A broken zipper closing a tent structure outside of civilization can bring a lot of trouble, especially at night.

Inside tents that do not have fireproof protection, a fire should not be made. Any spark can provoke an instant ignition of the fabric material. It is very important that the outlet of the tent is free, not cluttered with bags, clothes and backpacks, the same goes for access to the zipper. It is desirable that the double-sided pawls are located at the very top, which contributes to the convenient opening of the inlet.

Each individual type of tents requires certain installation rules. But at the same time, there are general concepts on the basis of which one or another design of portable dwellings can be assembled.

• Before setting up a tent house, you need to familiarize yourself with the area. Pay attention to the ventilated qualities of a suitable clearing, dryness and evenness of the ground. It is important that there is a reservoir or river nearby. In clearings with a dense cluster of trees, there is no necessary ventilation. Due to minimal sunlight, the ground does not dry out properly. The place chosen for placing the tent should receive diffused lighting, otherwise it will get very hot and it will be extremely unpleasant to be inside during the day. Particular attention should be paid to the land chosen for setting up the tent.It should not have sharp ledges, stones and branches sticking out of the ground. Otherwise, the bottom of the structure may be damaged.
• Having decided on the place of installation of the tent, it is necessary to clear the ground, get rid of pebbles, branches, cones, acorns and other natural elements in order to get a flat surface of the bottom of the tent. You can also put straw or grass on the ground and set up a tent on top. These natural materials will protect the outer part of the bottom from pollution.
• Next, you need to set up a tent. To do this, you will need to familiarize yourself with the assembly diagram and in no case deviate from the step-by-step instructions.
• If the owner of the tent thinks that within a few days there may be a danger of melting snow or it will rain, small grooves will need to be dug around the fabric dwelling, capable of diverting water to the side.
• The tent should not be set up next to anthills, wasp nests or near a fire.
• When pulling the awning, it is necessary to exert maximum effort so that the outer layer of the tent does not come into contact with the inner walls of the structure.
• At the end of the hike, you need to assemble the tent according to the available instructions. Before assembly, check the seams, the outer and inner surfaces for tears, and get rid of possible contaminants. Dry beforehand. The seams will need to be treated with a special solution that repels moisture. Otherwise, fungus may occur on wet seams.

Depending on the types of tent designs, there are several options for assembling them, where the most common and very practical is the "eight" assembly. The procedure itself does not cause any difficulties. Initially, you need to give the tent a standing position and fix it with your foot. Then hold the top of the tent and start twisting the structure 180 degrees. A circle is formed in the center, which must be bent down. Next, the resulting ring must be combined with the initial rounding. After alignment, the structure is placed in a case.

More complex structures are formed in a different way. For example, in arc-shaped models, it is necessary to combine the frame with each other, divide it into parts, combine it into a single whole and fold it into a case. Over the past few years, tourist tents have become especially popular. They are quite easy to unfold, but the assembly process seems quite complicated. Initially, the automatic structure is laid on the ground, giving it a flat state.

Depending on the type of construction, a geometric figure should be formed, for example, a square. Then all sides are folded into a single whole and laid on the surface of the earth. One end of the assembled structure must be pulled over.

How to choose the right tent, see the following video.