Weight
The total weight of the tent is including the frame and other accessories.
This parameter depends primarily on the purpose (see above), and after that — on seasonality, capacity, and additional functions. For example, in trekking and expedition models, the weight usually does not exceed
5 – 7.5 kg, and the lightest of these products can weigh
2 – 3 kg or even
less, while being full-fledged tents for 2 people or even more. However, for a trekking tent, such a small weight with a capacity of more than 2 people usually means that this model is designed exclusively for the summer. For most camping tents, the weight starts at 6 kg, although among them there are also quite light products — by
4 – 5 kg,
3 – 4 kg, or even less (in such cases, light weight can also mean a purely summer specialization). And the most capacious and/or multifunctional models can have a weight of
10 – 15 kg,
15 – 20 kg and even
more; in this weight category, you can mainly find tents, camping tents for many people and fishing tents for carp fishing (see "Destination").
When choosing a tent according to this indicator, it is worth considering that it does not always make sense to chase the maximum weight reduction. Yes, the
...light tent is the most convenient to carry; on the other hand, weight reduction inevitably affects one or several other characteristics at once. So, most often, lighter models are either more expensive or smaller in size and less roomy and functional than their heavier counterparts. And sometimes weight reduction also negatively affects the security (including moisture resistance) and the overall reliability of the product. Therefore, it makes sense to specifically look for the lightest tent possible in cases where weight reduction is of key importance; a typical example is long trips, in which all the equipment has to be carried “on oneself” for a long time. And even in such cases, it is worth remembering other important characteristics. For example, for use in late autumn, when frosts are likely, it is better to choose a heavier tent with winter seasonality than a light model that is not designed for winter conditions.Ventilation windows
The presence
of ventilation windowsprovided in the design of the tent. These windows are essentially vents and, unlike normal windows (see above), are not designed to provide light or visibility. Their main purpose is to provide an influx of fresh air and remove moisture from the tent released by people during breathing and sweating. Good ventilation is especially important if a tent (usually a camping tent, see "Use") is organizing a kitchen.
Main poles
The number of poles provided in the frame of the tent. For hemispherical types (see "Shape") for 2-3 people, not intended for extreme conditions, 2 poles are considered quite sufficient; larger and/or reinforced models may have more poles. In the case of half-barrels, this amount is directly related to the length of the tent.
More features
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Reflective elements. The outer surface of the tent is equipped with special reflective inserts. Thanks to this, the location of the tent will be visible from afar, which allows users to quickly navigate in the dark, easily determining the location of the tent city / tent. Often, reflective fibers are woven into wind braces so that at night they do not catch on.
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Mosquito net. Fine-mesh mesh covering the openings in the tent: entrances, windows, ventilation openings. Its presence is highly recommended if you plan to use the tent in the warm season: it allows you to ventilate the interior without letting mosquitoes and other unpleasant flying insects inside.
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Lantern loop. A special mount (loop, hook or carabiner), usually under the ceiling, designed to secure the lantern inside the tent. It will allow you to easily organize indoor lighting and eliminate the need to hold a flashlight in your hands or independently find a place for its best location.
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Internal pockets. Pockets located on the inside of the tent. They facilitate the organization of the internal space, allowing you to conveniently place relatively small items — glasses, watches, some tools, etc. It also reduces the risk of accidentally crushing fragile items.
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Shelf for small items. The purpose of t
...he hanging shelf is generally similar to the inside pockets (see above): to organize the space inside the tent so that small items are not lost and are not accidentally crushed. In some tents, there may be several such shelves. Shelves are usually located in the upper part of the tent, which allows them to also be used as a stand for a lantern if there are no loops for it (see above) or it is impossible to use it for some reason.