Literally thousands of individuals and families are hooked on camping in the wide open spaces. The current world wide economic crisis has not seemed to dampen the enthusiasm for enjoying the thrills and benefits of the camping experience.

The variety of options for campers is nearly limitless and individual choices range from the simple to the extravagant. Let’s take a look at the most popular item, namely tents. Choosing a tent is not simple matter, primarily because it deals not only with the basic need for coverage and protection from weather…and creatures. The choice of a tent also must match a person’s sense of style and the size of their family and the type of activities they enjoy. For example, the tent of choice for a weekend camper would necessarily differ from the options needed for a person who goes into the deep woods for weeks at a time.

And there’s the matter of transportation. If, like my best friend, you drive a Mini, you’ll be challenged to find a way to pack anything larger than a small single person tent. However, if your vehicle of choice is an estate, the range of choices widens dramatically.

Let’s take a look at a few tips for choosing a practical and reliable and functional tent.

If you need a family sized tent, you’ll want to add a dome type of tent for car camping to your shopping list. Many like the ease of one-person installation and the ample space and ventilation, which is a must when camping in hot weather. Dome tents are also available with a transparent window, a nice feature for star gazers. And be sure to check that your choice has enough storage space. Don’t forget to look the warrantee over carefully.

When more space is desired, but not practical because you prefer to backpack, there are a few top-ranked choices for three-person tents that have earned some solid feedback. The keys here are lightest of weight while also having a good space-weight ratio. And don’t underestimate the importance of overall comfort. The best choices are ideal for camping and are easy to install. You’ll also want to check on the tent’s ability to withstand strong winds and rain.

Price ranges for tents can vary widely. Decide what your budget is and how many times you will use it.

All in all the choices are endless but your focus should be clearly on comfort, value and ease of use. Naturally, you’d want to closely match your lifestyle to the type of tent that you purchase.

Your enjoyment of the wide open spaces can be the very best way to relieve stress and improve your fitness level. Don’t agonize over your choices, simply look over the tent reviews here to make an informed decision.