How to choose the right hiking and trekking tent?

In this article, we highlight the importance of considering factors such as size, weight, seasonality, weather resistance, and ease of setup to ensure comfort and safety. Additionally, the article highlights the different types of tents available on the market, including freestanding tents, double-wall tents, ultralight tents, and 3- or 4-season tents, to help readers make an informed choice for their next outdoor adventure.

To choose the right tent , we offer several criteria to consider before investing. To help you choose your tent, you must determine the use you will have for your future tent, the conditions in which it will be used and the mode of transport you will use to transport it.

In this guide, you'll find the key elements that will help you choose the right tent for your camping, hiking, or expedition. To help you choose the tent that's best for you, we suggest you consider certain criteria before making an investment. To make an informed decision, it's important to determine how you'll use your future tent, the conditions in which it will be used, and how you'll transport it.

First, determine how you'll use your tent. Is it for static use or for traveling? It's essential to decide how you plan to use your tent. Do you intend to use it statically or transport it regularly?

Are you planning to cross a mountain range and explore its wonders? Do you plan to camp in a new spot every night? Will you carry your tent in your backpack or fit it onto bike panniers?

Choose a tent specially designed for lightweight hiking , easy to pitch and able to withstand weather conditions. It will be ideal for use in 3 seasons such as spring, summer and autumn.

Are you planning to stay in one place for several days? If so, consider a camping version. This will act as your home, so it's best to choose a comfortable model, especially if you have a car! Camping tents are heavier than backpacking tents , but they offer more comfort for occupants and also have storage space for all your gear.

Are you a fan of ultralight walking (UL), mountain biking, or bikepacking? Are you planning on taking part in a trekking adventure?

This is the same program as for hiking, but you're taking a more minimalist approach. Every gram counts, and you want to be as light as possible. Your goal is to go backpacking, without turning into a Sherpa! You're only carrying the necessary gear to maximize your enjoyment while minimizing the fatigue of carrying it.

Opt for an ultra-lightweight tent ! The best-performing tents weigh less than a kilo per person. Some tent models, like the Lanshan 2 Pro , even weigh 1 kg for 2 people! These shelters are generally technical and made with innovative materials. You should be careful, as they are more fragile than other tent models. They are weather-resistant (wind, rain), but are not designed for extreme conditions. They can be used for 2/3 seasons, or even 4 seasons, depending on weather conditions.

These tents are rated as "4-season," meaning they can withstand all kinds of weather conditions year-round. They can withstand strong winds, snow, frost, and temperature fluctuations. They're there to support and protect you even in the harshest conditions.
Grouped into the same category, these tents have different uses.

For example, they can be used:

• base camp during an expedition in the Himalayas ,
• of assault tent to climb a summit in the Alps ,
• or even an expedition tent to explore Spitsbergen or cross Greenland .

They are also suitable for worldwide travel requiring intensive use. These models are specially designed for use anywhere in the world, regardless of latitude or altitude.

Our selection for choosing the right hiking tent includes several interesting options. First up, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX duo tent, weighing just 1.8 kg all-in, is available for rent. This tent is renowned for its weight/quality/compactness ratio and ease of use. It's perfect for hikers looking for a compromise between lightness and comfort. Another option is the Vaude Power Lizard 1/2 person, which stands out for its lightness and compactness, weighing just 1.1 kg all-in.

For those who prefer to invest in a tent for personal use, the Naturehike Cloud Up is an excellent choice. It's lightweight, compact, and offers good thermal insulation. Finally, the Lanshan 2 Pro tent is ideal for solo hikers looking for an ultra-lightweight, single-wall tent that's easy to pitch using trekking poles. Its single-person alternative, the Lanshan 1, is a double-wall tent ideal for solo adventurers.

Tents are categorized according to their seasonality. This classification is closely related to the tent's ability to withstand the elements, particularly in terms of waterproofing, material strength, and construction type. The concept of seasonality corresponds to the level of protection offered by a tent.

They support you during the late spring camps until the beginning of autumn in favorable times.

They are designed for travel, backpacking, and multi-day trekking. These tents can withstand harsh mountain conditions: torrential rain, thunderstorms, and winds, but cannot protect you in extreme winter conditions.

Throughout every season, at every altitude, and all over the world, they withstand frequent use, powerful gusts, and winter storms. These are the structures used in departure camps, during expeditions, and at high altitudes.

Choosing between a single-flyer tent and a double-flyer tent will therefore depend on the intended use and the conditions in which you plan to camp.

A single-flyer tent is designed with a single fabric panel that covers both the roof and the sides of the tent. This type of tent is generally lighter and easier to pitch, making it ideal for backpackers, bikepackers, or campers on the go.

A flysheet tent has two separate layers of fabric, one serving as the roof and the other as a covering for the sides. This configuration provides better protection against rain and wind, making it more suitable for longer camping trips or in harsh weather conditions.

Most of them are freestanding and can stand on their own. Initially, there's no need to support them with guy lines. You can easily move them and then anchor them to the ground using bungee cords. The assembly process is simple: the crossbars intersect and meet at the four corners of the tent, ensuring good stability and wind resistance. Within this category, we can distinguish geodesic tents, which are an improvement on dome tents. They have more crisscrossing crossbars for increased stability and strength.

They are spacious and have large vestibules to store your equipment. Not self-supporting, they require full guying to remain upright and assume sufficient ground surface to plant the pegs. Assembly is simple, the semi-circular poles form the tunnel. For most models, the flysheet is set up simultaneously with the bedroom. With tunnel tents, you benefit from a comfortable shelter. Contrary to popular belief, the tunnel shape offers good wind resistance .

A pyramid-shaped structure with a unique interior space ( some models may have compartments ) and equipped with a central pole that can be adjusted in height. The tipis are spacious and offer a comfortable and friendly living space. Inside, it is possible to stand up! Some models are compatible with the use of a wood stove. The lightest models offer an excellent comfort/weight ratio which is very attractive . Contrary to what one might think, the tipi is extremely wind resistant .

During assembly, a freestanding tent stands upright without the need for pegs and guy lines, as is the case with the famous "2-second tent ." Then, it needs to be secured and guyed to ensure optimal safety and better stability in the wind, as well as to properly tension the structure. You can easily move it without having to set it up and take it down completely. It requires little floor space. It can be installed on difficult terrain such as sand, stony ground, or in areas where securing pegs is difficult.

A non-self-supporting tent requires a ground where pegs can be pitched . This type of tent cannot stay upright. It must be anchored to the ground and ropes called " guys " used to keep it upright. At first glance, this may seem like a disadvantage, but after use, you will realize that it is very easy and quick to set up, which is very practical when it rains. A tent that is not self-supporting requires a ground where pegs can be driven .

The construction stands almost alone, but still requires the use of 1 or 2 stakes to maximize space.

Tent poles can be made of different materials such as aluminum, fiberglass, carbon or composite fibers.

• Aluminum poles : These poles offer good strength and are lightweight. They are easy to handle and suitable for most weather conditions. Aluminum is a commonly used material for tent poles due to its durability and corrosion resistance.
• Fiberglass poles : These poles are also lightweight and offer good strength. They are less expensive than aluminum poles, but they are also more fragile and can break more easily in adverse weather conditions or improper handling.
• Carbon Poles : Carbon tent poles are extremely lightweight and offer excellent strength. Carbon is a high-end material, primarily used in lightweight tents for mountain expeditions or ultralight backpacking. However, these poles are more expensive than aluminum or fiberglass poles.

• Composite fiber poles : Composite fiber tent poles are also lightweight and offer excellent strength. Composite fibers consist of reinforced fibers, such as carbon or glass, embedded in a resin matrix. These poles are often used in high-end tents to provide an optimal combination of lightness and strength.

  
  

Overall, the choice of tent pole material will depend on your specific needs, the duration and conditions of use of the tent, as well as your budget.

Steel or aluminum poles are ideal options for supporting a teepee or tarp due to their strength and lightweight nature. They provide excellent stability to ensure your shelter stays in place, even in windy conditions. Be sure to check their length and diameter to ensure they are compatible with your teepee or tarp. You can also look for height-adjustable poles to allow you to easily adjust the height of your shelter to suit your needs.

These pole-less tents require trekking pole pitching. This is a technique used to pitch minimalist tents to optimize weight and space. This method is particularly popular with hikers and campers looking to travel light and save space in their backpacks.

To set up a trekking pole shelter, you must first find a suitable location. Look for a flat, open area, free of any objects that might interfere with the installation of the shelter.
Next, use two hiking poles to create a base structure. Plant the poles firmly in the ground on either side of the shelter, forming an arch or triangle. Make sure the poles are firmly secured and provide enough stability to support the shelter.
Once the base structure is in place, use ropes or straps to securely attach your shelter fabric to the poles. Make sure the fabric is taut and properly secured to the poles to prevent it from coming loose or flapping.

Choosing your tent involves considering certain criteria to choose the right size:

1. Tent size : It is important to check the dimensions of the tent to ensure that it can accommodate the number of people expected. A standard backpacking mattress is between 50 and 55 cm wide, this can be indicated by the number of beds available in the tent.
2. Space needed for equipment : It's also important to consider the space needed to store luggage and equipment inside the tent. If you have a lot of gear, you may need to choose a model with one or more vestibules, also called apses , to ensure a comfortable living space.
3. Weather conditions : If you plan to camp in harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain or storms, it may be a good idea to go larger to ensure adequate protection from the elements.
4. Comfort and Privacy : If you prefer to have a little extra space to move around inside the tent or want to have separate spaces for different members of your group, you may need a larger version.

The comfort of a tent depends on several factors, such as its size, the quality of the materials used, and the added amenities. To maximize comfort, it's important to have enough room to move around and store your belongings inside and also outside (under a vestibule) to store your gear. Quality materials, such as waterproof and durable fabrics, can provide protection from the elements and provide thermal insulation. Additionally, amenities such as inflatable mattresses, comfortable sleeping bags, and camping lights can enhance the comfort of a tent. Finally, good ventilation and insect protection can also contribute to a more comfortable tent.

Number of doors: The more doors there are, the easier it is for occupants to come and go. They improve air circulation in the room.

Typically, a tent may have a single vestibule, which serves as a storage space for gear ( shoes, backpacks ), luggage, or is convenient for cooking away from the elements. However, some larger tents may have multiple vestibules to provide added convenience and comfort. For example, a family tent may have two vestibules , one for storage and another to serve as a makeshift kitchen or bathroom. It is important to consider these aspects when choosing a tent to ensure you have enough space to organize your belongings and fully enjoy your time outdoors.

Tent fabrics are designed to withstand the elements and provide protection from the elements. Made from durable materials such as polyester or nylon, these fabrics are waterproof and UV-resistant. They are often treated with a special coating to increase their water resistance. Tent fabrics can be used to make lightweight tents for camping, canopies for outdoor events, or temporary structures for festivals or fairs. Thanks to their robust and versatile nature, tent fabrics are also popular in other areas such as backpacks and outdoor clothing.

This is an essential feature of backpacking tents. They are designed to be aerodynamic, with special shapes and lightweight yet sturdy materials that help reduce wind resistance. Stakes and guy lines are also important elements to ensure the tent's stability in strong winds. A well-designed, high-quality tent will provide optimal wind resistance, ensuring a peaceful and safe night's sleep during your outdoor adventures.

Backpacking tents are typically treated with surface treatments to make them more resistant to weather and outdoor conditions. The most commonly used surface treatments for backpacking tents are coatings.
Coatings are coatings applied to the tent fabric to make it waterproof. They are usually made from polyurethane (PU) or silicone. PU coating is the most common and offers excellent waterproofing. It is usually applied to the tent's outer fabric. Silicone coating, on the other hand, makes the fabric more flexible and breathable, while remaining waterproof. It is often used to coat the tent's inner fabric.
To apply the coating, the tent fabric is usually covered with a thin layer of chemical, which is then dried and set using heat. This makes the fabric waterproof by forming a barrier against water.
In addition to coatings, backpacking tents can also be subjected to other surface treatments to improve their strength and durability. For example, some manufacturers apply a UV-resistant treatment to protect the fabric from the sun's harmful rays. Other treatments, such as flame retardant or antimicrobial treatments, may also be used to meet specific requirements.

Protective equipment for backpacking tents is essential to ensure the durability and safety of your shelter during your outdoor adventures. The main components of these protective equipment include a groundsheet to protect against ground moisture, sturdy pegs to anchor the tent, and guy lines to reinforce the structure and stability of the tent against the elements. In addition to these components, windbreaks can also be used to protect the tent from gusts of wind and rain. Protective equipment helps extend the life of your tent and keep you dry and safe in changing weather conditions. They are therefore essential accessories for any camper or hiker looking to protect their equipment and ensure their comfort during their outdoor expeditions. Don't forget to incorporate these protective equipment into your backpacking gear to make the most of your outdoor experience.

The seams of backpacking tents play a vital role in their durability and weather resistance. These seams must be perfectly sealed to prevent any infiltration of water, wind, or dust. To ensure optimal waterproofing, manufacturers use special techniques such as heat sealing or the application of waterproof adhesive strips. In addition, the seams must be reinforced to withstand the stress and friction the tent is subjected to during outdoor use. The choice of sewing materials is therefore crucial to ensure the strength of the structure. The seams of backpacking tents are therefore an essential technical aspect to consider when purchasing a tent, as they largely determine its reliability and lifespan.

The zipper on backpacking tents, also known as the zip, is one of the essential components of any camping gear. It allows the tent to be tightly closed, ensuring protection against the elements and insects. Additionally, the zip provides easy access to the tent's interior, which is particularly useful when you're out in the wilderness. Choosing a quality zipper for your backpacking tent is important, as a faulty zipper can compromise the tent's integrity. Good quality zippers are durable, water-resistant, and easy to use, making them a must-have for any camping enthusiast. In short, the zipper on backpacking tents plays a crucial role in the practicality and protection offered by these temporary shelters during your outdoor adventures.

Pegs are an essential part of any backpacking tent. They are used to firmly anchor the tent to the ground, ensuring its stability and weather resistance. Pegs should be durable, lightweight, and easy to stake into different types of ground. They come in a variety of materials, including aluminum and steel, and can be of different lengths and shapes to suit different camping environments. When choosing pegs for your backpacking tent, it's important to consider weight, durability, and ease of use. Good-quality pegs will ensure your tent stays put, even in harsh weather conditions, providing a safe and enjoyable camping experience. And don't forget to pack a few spares, just in case.

Ease and time of setting up a tent are important criteria to consider when choosing a model. In general, modern tents are designed to be easy and quick to set up. They are equipped with simple assembly systems, such as pre-assembled poles and clips, which save time during installation. In addition, many models are color-coded , meaning the different parts of the tent are identified by colors to facilitate assembly. However, the assembly time can vary depending on the size of the tent and the camper's experience.

It is therefore recommended to practice assembly before going camping in order to gain speed and efficiency.

This type of mounting maximizes the structure's interior space by eliminating bulky poles inside. This provides greater comfort for the tent's occupants by giving them more room to move around. Additionally, mounting the poles on the outer fabric makes it easier to set up and take down the tent, as it's easier to attach the poles to the fabric before assembling the tent. However, this type of mounting can make the structure less stable, as the poles are not directly attached to the inner fabric. It can also make the tent more difficult to repair if a pole breaks.

On the one hand, this optimizes the interior space of the tent by providing more headroom. This can be particularly appreciated by tall people or those who want to move comfortably inside the tent. In addition, this configuration makes it easier to set up the tent, as you only need to attach the poles to the inner canvas before pitching it. However, this design can have some drawbacks, particularly in terms of stability compared to models with external poles. In the event of windstorms, the tent can be more vulnerable to shaking and tearing. In addition, if the poles break, it can be difficult to repair or replace them. This should be considered according to your usage needs.

The color of tents can impact several aspects of the camping experience. Tents are typically available in a variety of colors, ranging from natural hues like green and brown to brighter, bolder colors like blue or red. Each color has its pros and cons.

Benefits :

1. Visibility : Light-colored tents are more easily visible, which can be helpful in an emergency or for finding your way around a crowded campground.
2. Warmth : Light-colored tents tend to reflect heat rather than absorb it, which can make the inside of the tent cooler in hot weather.
3. Brightness : The light color allows more natural light to enter the tent, which can make the space feel brighter and open.

Disadvantages:

1. Dirt : Light-colored tents tend to get dirty more easily, which can make them more difficult to maintain.

2. Increased visibility for insects : Insects can be attracted to light colors, which can increase the chances of insects entering the tent.

Benefits :

1. Stealth : Dark-colored tents can blend in more easily with their natural surroundings, which can be useful for those who want to camouflage or remain discreet.
2. Less visible soiling : Dark-colored tents tend to hide stains and dirt, which can give them a cleaner, more well-maintained appearance.

Disadvantages:

1. Heat Absorption : Dark-colored tents absorb heat rather than reflecting it, which can make the inside of the tent warmer on sunny days.
2. Lack of brightness : Dark-colored tents can make the inside of the tent appear darker, which can be bothersome for some people.

Ultimately, the choice of tent color depends on individual preferences, the camping context, and the pros and cons mentioned above. Some campers may prefer

When it comes to choosing the color of a backpacking tent from a practical standpoint, it's important to consider a few factors. First, visibility is essential, especially if you're camping in rugged or wooded areas where it's easy to get lost. A brightly colored tent like red, yellow, or orange can help you be easily spotted in an emergency. On the other hand, if you're camping in areas where camouflage is necessary, such as wilderness or hunting grounds, an olive green or brown tent may be more appropriate. Additionally, the color of the tent can also affect the temperature inside. Light-colored tents tend to be cooler because they reflect sunlight, while dark-colored tents absorb heat and can become stuffy in hot weather.

Ultimately, choosing the color of your backpacking tent will depend on your camping environment and your specific needs.

If you like your gear to stand out, opt for a tent in a bright color like red, blue, or vibrant green. Not only will this make it easy to spot your tent in a crowded campsite, but it also adds a touch of fun to your outdoor living space. On the other hand, if you prefer to blend in with nature, natural colors like brown, dark green, or beige may be more appropriate. These earthier tones can help your tent blend into its surroundings, which can be especially useful in areas where wild camping is permitted.

Whichever color you choose, be sure to also consider other important factors such as visibility and safety when choosing your backpacking tent .

First, it's important to determine the number of people who will be occupying the tent. Then, weight and bulk are factors to consider based on the duration and type of hike you're planning. It's also essential to adapt to the expected weather conditions. Good water and wind resistance are essential to ensure optimal protection. Finally, comfort and ease of setup must be considered to ensure a pleasant experience on the hiking trails.

When choosing a bivouac tent, it's important to consider several criteria. First, it's essential to consider the tent's capacity in terms of the number of people it can accommodate. The MSR Hubba Hubba is an ideal two-person option, offering comfortable space and good weather resistance. The Naturehike Cloudp Up is another popular tent, available in various capacities and appreciated for its lightweight design. If you prefer a more compact one-person tent, the double-walled Lanshan 1 is an excellent choice, provided you have one hiking pole. For those who need a little more space, the Lanshan 2 Pro offers greater capacity and high wind resistance.

Ultimately, the choice of bivouac tent will depend on your specific needs and the conditions you will face during your outdoor adventures.

When choosing a camping tent, it's important to consider certain tips to ensure you make the right choice. First, it's essential to determine the number of people who will be using the tent to choose the right size. Second, the season you plan to camp during is also an important factor. Seasonal tents are lighter and suitable for spring and summer, while four-season tents are more durable and suitable for extreme weather conditions. It's also recommended to check the tent's water and weather resistance, as well as how easy it is to set up and pack away. By following these tips, you'll be sure to find a camping tent that meets your needs.

When deciding to buy a rooftop tent, it's important to consider certain tips to make the right choice. First, it's crucial to check the tent's ability to support the weight of the occupants. A quality rooftop tent should be strong enough to withstand the elements and provide optimal protection. Additionally, it's recommended to consider the tent's size so it fits your vehicle properly. It's also important to choose a tent that's easy to set up and store to avoid complications during use. Finally, it's advisable to compare prices and features before making a purchase to get the best value for your money.

A four-season tent is essential for campers who practice their activity all year round. It's important to check the tent's ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as wind and snow. The tent should be made of sturdy, waterproof materials to ensure optimal protection. The tent's weight and ease of pitching are also important criteria, especially for campers who travel frequently.

Finally, it's recommended to choose a tent with good ventilation to prevent condensation from forming inside. By taking these tips into account, you'll be able to find a 4-season tent that's right for your needs.