For many people, true backpacking also means camping out in the foreign wilderness in one’s tent. This doesn’t only entail a closer connection with nature, but the traveller also saves themselves the expenses of a hostel or hotel room. Of course, if one is trekking through multiple day long hiking trails, or planning on climbing the summits of remote mountains, than a tent is likely to be the only option. But picking a tent is hardly as simply a decision as it might seem, as there are some tents for professional mountain climbers that will easily set you back almost as much as a brand new plasma television, while others can be purchased on sale for under £15 in your local department store. Like with many things, the middle ground often offers the best option. We will take a look at some of the best brands and features to be on the look out for, although your ultimate choice will be dependent on your individual tastes and needs.

Firstly, you have to figure out how many people your tent will have to accommodate. Having a one person tent for a party of three is no good, unless the people don’t mind taking turns sleeping, or are very close with one another. But there are many more practical things to keep in mind. Make sure the tent is made of a reliable, non-tearing material, like nylon, and try to ensure there are no seams on the bottom floor. Aluminium tent poles are more reliable and less likely to break than plastic poles, although they do come with the added weight. Once again we are stressing the importance of weight when backpacking, and choosing your tent is no different. A tarp is also a great companion for you, your tent, and your travelling party. Especially if it rains, a tarp will do well to ensure that your tent won’t even get wet. But it can also be used for shade on the beach or protecting cookware from precipitation. We could not end this article without mentioning one type of amazing, and sometimes even more comfortable. backpaper accommodation; namely, the hammock. This essential piece of equipment offers the utmost in relaxation and is easier than a tent to both set up and pack up. Although it is a less ideal solution in rainy or insect infested environments.

So which tent should you buy? Just try to make sure it satisfies some of the requirements we just laid out, and that it is made of quality material. The Mountain Safety Research brand of tents are professional specimens designed for braving mountain elements, and are undoubtedly very durable and resistant. Though for anyone who plans to camp in less intense environments, yet still wants a quality tent, Sierra Designs offers an affordable solution. Of course, there are many, many more quality brands out there, like Coleman, Quechua, or Vango, just make sure to take care in selecting your new home away from home.