Having a comfortable place to crash for the night after a full day of outdoor activities is one of the best feelings in the world while camping. The last thing you want to do is try falling asleep in an uncomfortable position.
After all, you’ll need your rest for your next day of exciting adventures.
One of the mistakes some people make occurs when they choose the tent they'll use while camping. Going overboard in both size and complexity are two common errors that happen when making a tent purchase.
Having the right tent for your specific usage needs will go a long way towards not only improving your sleep while camping, but also make your whole trip more enjoyable.
Choose a tent that is easy to set up and transport.
If you plan to mostly camp on your own, then a small, minimalistic tent is probably right for you. Evaluate your idea of how you want your future camping trips to be and who will be included and use that information to choose the best tent for you. Your main goals should be to keep mosquitoes (and other creepy crawlies) at bay while also providing protection from any liquid precipitation that you may encounter. This is assuming that you plan to do most of your camping during warmer times of the year of course.
Tent location at your campsite is another important thing to consider.
Some modern campgrounds have tent pads on location which offer a level surface upon which to pitch your tent. For those that don’t (or for camping off the beaten path), try to find the most level surface that you can for your tent. Focus on the surrounding area as well. Choose a spot that seems like it will remain dry and that is free from the reach of any dead trees. Sometimes known as “widow-makers” by campers, dead trees are something to be avoided. A nice shady spot under some living trees is never a bad idea though!
If you want a less traditional type of camping shelter, then consider a hammock tent.
There are several different types to choose from depending on where you look and they can be a real treat. Best used during the warm summer months, hammock tents keep you off the ground and are pretty dang comfortable to boot. Drifting off to sleep while softly swaying in a hammock tent is a camping experience you will never forget.
As you continue to gain experience with camping, you'll begin to devise your own tent camping tips to make your trips the best that they can be. Just don’t expect to be an expert from Day 1.
