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TENTS
Tents
are one of those things you only truly appreciate when you
need it. The minute you are caught in an unexpected storm
with strong winds and rain, you will need a good, strong shelter.
Something secure as being huddled in a tent that you know
can protect you from getting wet, keep you warm and most of
all, does not leak. You have an almost unlimited number of
choices of protecting yourself from the elements. Tents come
in a wide variety of shapes and function. You also can be
protected with tarps and rain flies, or you may plan to bivouac
under the stars if the weather permits.
What
to look for in a tent?
- Quality
- Your tent is your defenses against the elements so do
not sacrifice quality for price. If you plan to buy a tent
save for it and go for a good tent. A cheap tent would not
do the same job of a good quality tent. Also, take into
consideration what kind of terrain you are going to use
it? Mountain, beach, resort or a very established campsite;
keep this in mind before buying.
- Size
- Consider your personal choice if you plan to share it
with friends or have the luxury of being alone inside the
tent.
- Weight
– the lighter the better. A lightweight tent obviously
will lighten your pack. Choose one with aluminum poles which
is far lighter then fiber glass poles.
- Free
standing - You can virtually pitch the tent anywhere.
Also if your chosen spot doesn’t work out you can
move the tent without taking it down. It is also easier
to clean and dry this type of tent.
TIPS
ON USING YOUR TENT
- Keep
your tent in a convenient place in your pack where you can
get the tent without taking everything else out first. This
is important when it rains.
- Use
a ground sheet under the tent to protect the bottom from
roots and rocks. Make sure you tuck in the ground sheet
underneath the edges of the tent to keep the out water from
collecting underneath.
- Never
cook inside the tent, even when it rains.
- Don’t
leave the tent under direct sunlight, because the sunlight
weakens the fabric and the waterproofing.
TYPES OF TENT FOR ALL TERRAINS
- Horizontal-ridge
tent or A Frame
- This
style of tent can come in virtually any size from one
person to several people. It can be set up almost anywhere.
It has a central horizontal roof pole and two end poles
of the same height.
- Dome
tent
- This
is ideal for extreme condition, since it is very stable.
Very easy to pitch and dismantle and also spacious.
- Tunnel
tent
- A
tunnel tent is a cross between a dome tent and a ridge
tent. They can be used on grass or on rocky terrain.
- Tadpole
or frog type
- Very
stable and can withstand bad weather. It is aerodynamic
which can deflect high wind and is usually lightweight.
- Geodesic
Dome tent
- They
are strong and lightweight. The shape provides a lot
of headroom.
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