The first step to getting back to nature is buying a tent you can depend on. A good quality tent must be comfortable, easy to use and provide security for you and your family.

Tents needn't be fancy, or expensive. They can be as simple as small, two-person pup tents, or as extravagant as full-size family models with three rooms and lighting. All that really matters is that the tent is durable and dependable enough to protect you from nature's elements.

When shopping for a tent, there are several details to look for. First and foremost, determine what you need from your tent. Look at the size and shape of the tent, and consider the weight, setup time and the types of poles. The tent that you choose should be easy to set up, particularly if you'll be camping alone. Ask the sporting goods store associate if you're not sure.

Finally, be sure that the tent will fit in your car, while leaving room for all of your other gear.

Size

Your tent will be your 'home away from home', so size is a very important issue. Make sure that you, and your fellow campers, will all have ample room. Everyone needs to have enough space to sleep, stretch and move around. If using air mattresses, factor in the area they cover. Make sure that you can stand, or at least sit up. You can easily fit four full-grown adults into a four-person tent, but they'll be much more comfortable in a six-person model. By the same token, you and your partner can sleep in a small two-man tent, but you'll need to find somewhere else to stow your clothes and food.

Weight

If you're headed to a remote location and will be hiking or portaging to camp, you simply can't take along a heavy tent. A large canvas tent has no business going along on a ten-mile hike. You'll also be bringing all of your clothes, gear and food, so the last thing you need is to be weighed down even more by your tent. There are many lightweight models available that provide comfort and security. If, on the other hand, you'll be driving to your campsite in a vehicle that can handle plenty of cargo, then go ahead and pack a big tent.

Fabric Facts

Campers are no longer obliged to sleep under heavy, damp canvas. Today's tents are made with lightweight but durable materials like taffeta and nylon. While light as a feather, these materials are tough as nails and able to withstand the forces of nature. When choosing your tent, be sure that it is certified waterproof. It may cost a little extra, but will pay for itself if Mother Nature sends a little rain and wind along for the ride.

Ease of Assembly

Before you buy the tent, ask to see the assembly instructions. It's also important to try assembling the tent in your backyard before you leave home. Your tent must be easy to assemble using just a few (or no) tools. You're going camping to relax, and there's no point in stressing out with a tent that's hard to assemble.

Tents are not luxuries for the faint-hearted, or copouts for rookie campers. They are necessary tools that satisfy the basic human need for shelter. Even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts will agree, there is no thrill in coming face to face with a forest critter at four a.m.