If you are fairly new to the camping experience, you may not know what type of tent to buy. There are a variety of things that you should consider when picking out a camping tent. Tents vary greatly in size, durability, shape, and ease in which they can be transported. So before you go out and buy any old tent, take a few of the suggestion below into serious consideration. Then you will be able to get the tent that you need.

The very basic of any tent's composition is a shelter of canvas or nylon supported by poles. The difference lies in the types of poles; the type of cloth, the shape and options included, which will make each camping tent different. There are basically five different types of camping tents available: frame tents, dome tents, geodisic tents, expedition and family tents.

The frame tent uses aluminum and steel poles with a canvas tent cloth. This is one of the older styles of tents. The newer models have incorporated cotton or synthetic fibers for their tent cloths. This type of tent is ideal for a family and makes efficient use of ground space inside and out. The frame gives it sturdiness, but it can be very difficult to erect.

Dome tents are one of the most popular types of camping tents today. It uses fiberglass or plastic poles that slip through sleeves in the fabric cloth. It's top is shaped like a dome. Although it makes less efficient use of space, it is very lightweight and provides easy set up and collapse. Although fairly stable, in high winds it can be unsteady. So guy lines and stakes are really important with this type of tent.

The geodisc tent is a variation of the dome tent. Although it is framed and the set up is similar to the dome, the poles cross and interconnect providing more security and sturdiness. Like the dome, it is lightweight. Because of the more complicated pole connections, it is more difficult to set up.

Another type of tent is the expedition or touring tents. This type of tent is a combination of the ridge and dome tent. It includes windows and a roomy porch area for shade and shelter. It is very spacious and is high, allowing for easy standing.

Family tents are big and spacious. It will give your family plenty of room. Some also include separate sleeping areas for privacy. The main tent area is of dome or ridge construction. This will be the separate living area from where you will sleep. If you have children this may be a feature valuable to you.

When selecting which tent type is right for you, consider the number of people who will be using it. All tents will list a recommended number of people. A good rule of thumb would be to add two people to your party and find a tent for that number. Next realize what you will be doing on your camping trip. If you are simply going to drive there, set up the tent and stay in that spot for the duration of the trip, then weight won't matter. On the other hand, if you are going to be hiking you will need to carry it on your back. You will want to look for something compact and lightweight. Finally, consider the type of weather you will be camping in. Three season tents work well in bad weather, but not the harshest weather the winter can bring. If you are going to be camping in extreme conditions, a four-season tent will be more suitable.

With some background on the set up, as well as, the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of tents available today, you'll be in a better position to pick the appropriate tent for your needs. Most tents are able to be transported in cars and will be able to be set up in a 5 to 25 minute time allotment. Remember, you want to allow for enough room for you entire party and also want to be dry in different weather conditions. Tent cloths are sewn together but sealant is applied to keep rain out. Check the sealing. Cost may also be a factor for you. Dome tents are cheaper than the ridge construction tent. A general store will offer an affordable tent if you will only be using it periodically. But if you want the best tent that will last a lifetime, go to a specialty camping store. Consider your options and your situation. An informed shopper will have a pleasant camping tent buying experience and will be able to make the best choice for their needs.