Buyer's Guide — Choosing Your Tent
How to choose your tent?
The tent is the central piece of equipment for any bivouac. Here are the essential criteria for making the right choice.
👤 1. Capacity (number of berths)
- 1 person: ultra-light, ideal for solo trekking. Little living space.
- 2 people: the best weight/comfort compromise for hiking in pairs.
- 3-4 people: for families or groups. Heavier, suitable for car camping.
🌡️ 2. Seasons
| Type | Seasons | Use | Water column |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 seasons | Spring to autumn | Classic hiking | 1,500 – 3,000 mm |
| 3-4 seasons | Spring to early winter | Mountain, variable conditions | 3,000 – 5,000 mm |
| 4 seasons | All year round | Winter, high mountains | 5,000+ mm |
⚖️ 3. Weight
- Ultralight (< 1 kg): for demanding trekkers. High price, reduced comfort.
- Light (1-2 kg): the best compromise for hiking.
- Standard (2-4 kg): for car camping or short outings.
💧 4. Waterproofing (water column)
- 1,500 mm: light rain only.
- 3,000 mm: moderate rain, standard use.
- 5,000+ mm: extreme conditions, winter.
🏕️ 5. Structure
- Freestanding: stands without pegs. Practical on hard ground.
- Semi-freestanding: requires a few pegs. Lighter.
- Tunnel: excellent weight/habitable volume ratio. Requires pegs.
💰 6. Budget
- Less than 100€: occasional camping, mild conditions.
- 100 – 300€: regular hiking, good value for money.
- 300€+: intensive use, extreme conditions, premium materials.