Camping for dummies: how to choose the right camping tent?

Are you going camping for the first time this summer and still not sure which tent to choose for your holiday? Here's some advice to make sure you don't get it wrong!

Which tent is right for you?

The world of camping tents has evolved considerably over the last twenty years or so. Gone are the orange Canadian tents of the 70s that took ten years to erect. To meet the needs and preferences of all campers, tents now come in so many different sizes, shapes and models that it can be hard for novices to find their way around. But choosing the right tent is essential. It provides shelter for sleeping outdoors, cooking, storing your belongings, changing clothes, protecting yourself from the elements... Here's a quick overview of the main models available on the market.

The igloo tent: the easiest camping tent to pitch

The igloo tent (or dome tent) is the most popular and best-selling model. It is appreciated for its versatility, lightness and design. Easy to erect, the igloo tent is a freestanding tent, which means you can move it without having to dismantle it. It is supported by at least two crossed poles, giving it great stability. On the other hand, interior space is limited.

The tunnel tent: the best family tent for camping holidays

This is the best-selling camping tent and the favourite of families. Several poles support the outer structure of the tent, giving it a tunnel shape, hence its name. It has several separate bedrooms and a pleasant, comfortable living space. They can accommodate up to 8 people, and the height of the canvas allows you to stand upright. However, they are often heavier and take up more space to transport than other types of tent.

The pop-up tent: instant set-up

You've all heard of the famous Quechua tent that sets up in 2 seconds? This "automatic" tent model has revolutionised the world of camping tents. The frame, made up of flexible, rounded poles, is integrated into the fabric. All you have to do is take the tent out of your bag and it sets itself up in a matter of seconds, thanks to a spring mechanism. Depending on the model chosen, instant tents can sleep from 2 to 8 people. A good choice for campers looking for an inexpensive, practical tent for a few days camping or bivouacking.

The tent: an inflated idea that doesn't lack air

Putting up a tent with poles isn't easy, especially if it's your first time. To make life simpler, you can opt for an inflatable camping tent, which can be set up in just a few minutes without any effort. The inflatable tent has no poles or hoops, but pneumatic tubes already mounted in the canvas. They are simply inflated using a manual or electric pump. Pneumatic tents can accommodate from 1 to 6 people, depending on the model. The only drawback is that inflatable tents can take up a lot of space, particularly because of their one-piece design.

The "ready-to-camp" tent: camping without a tent

Don't necessarily want to buy a tent? Discover the "ready-to-camp" mode at Camping Le Vieux Port and the [ hire equipped tents ] [ https://www.levieuxport.com/fr/tous-nos-hebergements/locations-tentes-cabanes/tente-eco-4-personnes ] with everything you need to travel light. No need to worry about setting up your tent when you arrive, all you have to do is put your suitcases down and enjoy the campsite and its services. This 17 m2 tent, with a covered terrace and 2 chiliennes, can accommodate a family of 4. The tent has no heating, water or sanitary facilities (otherwise, it's not camping!!!).

Our advice on pitching a tent

- Putting up a tent is no easy task: before you go camping, practise putting up and taking down your tent so that you are familiar with the exercise.
- Orient your tent according to the wind: the entrance should be at the back of the wind.
- If you hate insects, avoid pitching your tent near hedges or bushes.
- Spread a camping tarpaulin on the ground to protect your tent from any unevenness on the ground, from the risk of tearing and from leaks.
- Don't pitch your pegs vertically: you should pitch them at a 45-degree angle away from the tent.