The choice of tent is up to you

In short: Tents divide mainly into tunnel and dome tents. A tunnel tent has a better weight-to-space ratio and a large porch, while a dome tent stands by itself and suits rocky ground. A fabric water column of 1500 mm is the basis for a waterproof tent, and the floor should be even more waterproof. You can rent tents or buy them in the shop.

How do you start choosing a tent?

Think about the intended use. Will you use the tent in summer or all year round? Do you travel a lot by canoe and camp more on rocky ground? Winter and summer hikes have different requirements.

What are the features of a tunnel tent?

A tunnel tent has parallel arches and is pulled taut with guy lines so that it stays upright. Without anchoring the tent will not stand up.

• The weight-to-interior-space ratio is better than average compared with a dome tent.
• It has at least three arches and a large porch where you can store gear and cook if needed.
• The arches are usually attached to the outer tent. This lets you pitch the outer tent first and then attach the inner tent while sheltered from rain.

A tunnel tent is a good choice for longer hikes and winter hikes, and when you want a large porch to keep things out of the rain.

What are the features of a dome tent?

The arches of a dome tent cross at one or more points, which creates a self-supporting structure. That is why it is also called a freestanding tent.

• It stands up even without guy lines. Still, guy it out whenever you can. This keeps the outer tent from touching the inner tent and prevents moisture from forming inside.
• It is easy to pitch on ground where tent stakes cannot be used, such as rocky terrain.
• Many dome tents attach the arches to the inner tent. In good weather you can pitch it without the waterproof outer tent, for example on a warm summer evening when mosquitoes are the only worry.
• Many pack down small and take up little space.

A dome tent is a safe choice when you have no fixed use in mind and suits summer trips well.

How is a camping tent different?

A camping tent is for use at holiday sites. It is waterproof but is not designed for hiking in other respects: the arches are less durable, pitching is not as quick and wind resistance is not as good as in hiking tents. Weight also matters less at a campsite. Sizes range from two people up to ten.

How waterproof should a tent be?

The waterproofing of tent fabric is measured as a water column rating. It tells you in millimetres how great a water column the fabric can hold. A rating of 1500 mm is the basis for a waterproof tent fabric. The floor must be more waterproof than the outer fabric because water pressure at ground level is greater. A floor of 3000 mm is a good figure for normal use, unless you sleep on boggy or wet ground.

What to remember for winter hiking?

The tent matters many times more on winter hikes. Four-season tents have more durable arches, are more wind resistant and can take a snow load. When camping in winter, pay particular attention to ventilation so that moisture does not freeze on the inside of the tent. Year-round tents for 2-4 people weigh on average 3-6 kg.

Summary: which tent to choose?

The difference between hiking tents and trekking tents is relative. For example, strong winds are more likely on the tundra than in a forest, and there we recommend a hiking tent. Weight is important when choosing a hiking tent because you carry it, so choose the lightest you can. Two- and three-person tents generally weigh 2-4 kg. Hiking tents are built for low weight, wind resistance and quick pitching.

Alongside a tent you will need sleeping gear and, on a long trip, a backpack. If you are not sure what you need, rent gear and try before you buy, or ask us.