Choosing the right camping equipment

It is always a good investment to obtain the best quality tent and camping equipment you can afford.

First of all, decide what type of camping you intend to pursue. Consider the number of people the tent needs to sleep. Try to buy a tent which sleeps at least one person more than you intend.

Lightweight Tents

These small and lightweight one or two man tents are designed to be carried easily and comfortably for those wishing to travel from camp site to camp site. They may be ideal fo short family holidays and weekend breaks, or as 'pup tents' for the children to sleep in if they want to be separate from their parents. They are quick because they are made of new lightweight synthetic polyester material and fibreglass poles.

Dome Tents

Lightweight and spacious, the dome has proved to be the most popular lightweight tent on the market. They were originally designed for use by backpackers, but were bought by people who preferred them to frame tents because of the size and simplicity to erect. They are erected using two or three poles, which pass through the centre of the roof. This interior is spacious with adequate headroom.

Frame Tents

These are available in many different sizes, shapes and configurations and usually have separate bedrooms and living areas. There are many that have kitchens too, and nearly all have windows (plastic) with curtains. They offer much more comfort and space, with a wide range of sizes available to buy; from a compact single-bedroom model to canvas mansions sleeping up to eight people in three bedrooms.

Quick Erect Tents

These are available in all tent types and consist of a tent which already incorporates poles, flysheet and inner tent. With carefully designed hinges and springs, these tents quickly pop open into a ready-to-walk-in state. There's a great selection of these versatile tents available from Khyam

Trailer Tents

As the name suggests, these tents fit into an open trailer towed by the family car, and like the above, they only have to be unfolded from the main trailer with 'wings' opening outwards to provide a bedroom on either side, with the trailer providing the 'living room' in the middle. Extra zip-on awnings provide extra bedroom or living space.