Looking to take your selection process deeper? Now that you’ve narrowed down key aspects of your search, you start to refine your selection even further based on your desired activities.

Let’s start at the top of the mountain with our four season options.

When it comes to navigating four season camping, you’ll want to add two key elements to your consideration.  

RELIABILITY

When selecting a 4-season tent, look for one that has been tested against the elements. You want to be sure that the tent is waterproof and windproof, with fabric and poles that can withstand strong gusts and heavy snowfall.

Sierra Designs’s Convert 2/3 is constructed with 20D Poly Ripstop, an even stronger 2000mm floor, and a fly to compliment and add to that protection, making it a perfect 4-season tent. With its hubbed pole construction your set up is simplified, making your time exposed to the elements even less. From sand to snow, this is the tent gives you the confidence to get up and go!

VENTALATION

Good ventilation is crucial in a 4-season tent because it prevents condensation buildup, which can make for a miserable experience. Look for tents that have mesh panels at the door and window as well as vents near the roof.

Our Backcountry Bivy has a half-moon zip door and windows at front and back, so you'll be well ventilated. Minimal pack space and durable nylon construction to keep you safe from the elements make this our most versatile 4 season option and ultimate backcountry adventure tool.

Next in line is lightweight backpacking tents. These tents are for someone who wants to account for every ounce and is willing to sacrafice extra space in their final setup.

WEIGHT

Several key factors influence weight for a lightweight tent. Everything from a more effient use of materials to thinner fabrics to fewer poles and lighter stiching can play into achieving the lightest pack possible.

The High Route 1 is a great example of packability and versatility. It sets up using trekking poles, so the carry weight and pack space are cut down to almost nothing. You can also set up with or without the fly, or even the fly alone, allowing for a use in a multitude of scenarios.

DURABILITY  

With lightweight backpacking tents, it’s important to make sure that they are constructed with robust fabrics and components. Thinner fabrics will offer less protection and durability, so always look for tents with reinforced seams and durable fabric construction.

WEATHER PROTECTION  

It is always important to select a tent with proper rain protection and adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of condensation. Be sure to check ratings for rainfly coverage and breathability, and choose a model that’s best suited for the conditions you’ll likely face out on the trails.

Our High Side 1 and Meteor Lite 2/3 tents make the perfect accommodations when it comes to unexpected weather. With their large vestibules and open ventilation, you’ll have no worries for the rain. Sleep in.

On down the trail we’re getting into more standard backpacking tents. Here you’ll find a variety of tents that lean a bit more but friendly to a big bigger backpacking option.

Think trips you’ll be taking with a group of friends or some family. You’re able to pack a little more and have a little more “luxury” available! While you’ll be looking for similar qualities, some differences you can consider are:

DURABILITY

Make sure the tent you select is built with high-quality materials and constructed with strong seams, zippers, and poles so it can withstand the elements. You’ll probably be covering longer distances and be out for more time so having a stronger tent is helpful.

SPACE AND COMFORT

Think about the size of the tent and how many people it will fit comfortably. Consider special features such as a vestibule, gear loft, and other useful components. The backpacking lifestyle usually involves using large magnitude items such as a heavier sleeping bag and thicker tent material, which often makes for a more comfortable experience.

Now you’ve made it down the mountain, you’re getting close to the car and are looking for just one more night out under the stars. Good thing you brought along your big, trusty campsite tent! We all love a good campsite or car camping adventure and having the right tent is as easy. Consider the following and you’ll be set for a perfect night’s sleep:

FOOTPRINT SIZE

The footprint size should be large enough to provide ample space to fit all intended occupants while still having enough room to move around. Consider the number of people to ensure the tent fits comfortably. Bringing a pup! They'll need some space too. Or maybe you are just looking to spread out. Whatever your unique needs, ensuring the right amount of space is a priority. They don't call it glamping for nothing!

For an outdoor palace, the Nomad 6 delivers. It's the answer to 3-season adventures that aren’t contained to a backpack. Endless organization pockets keep everyone’s essentials off the floor and within reach, and the 2-door, 2-vestiblue design offers plenty of protection and storage. When it comes to footprint, spread out in a spacious 8.44 ft²

STORAGE

Glamping, or camping for that matter, doesn't come without additional luxuries. That means additional space. Space doesn't always mean the large vestibules. It also applies to storage for small items.

Look for tents with additional pockets for storing personal items, mesh panels for proper ventilation and insect netting to keep bugs from entering the tent.

COMFORT FEATURES

A camping tent should be equipped with a wide range of features to make it as comfortable as possible for all occupants. Fully freestanding tents are very convenient here as well giving you one less thing to worry about. Tents with a high bathtub to keep the rain out or adequate ventilation can make the difference between a memorable experience or your go-to camping horror story.

Wanting to up the ante on luxury featyres? Check out our Twilight Tech fabric, which blocks 98% of light from entering. Not a morning person? Keeping the kids on their nap schedule? The Alpenglow 6 tent with Twilight Tech is for anyone who prefers to rise without the shine on camping trips. These light-blocking fabrics have the added bonus of maintaining a consistent cool or warm temperature, creating the ultimate comfortable camping.