Nature is calling, and with the right tent, every outdoor adventure becomes an unforgettable experience. But the choice is huge: from ultra-light trekking tents to comfortable family tents, you will find countless models with a wide range of features. It can be difficult to decide!
In this guide, we'll take you by the hand and show you step by step what really matters when buying a tent. We explain what the mysterious water column means, which material is best suited to your needs and how to care for your tent properly so that it will accompany you on your adventures for many years to come.
Table of contents
What makes a good tent and what should I look out for when buying a tent?
What types of tent are there and which one is right for me?
What is the water column and which coatings make a tent waterproof?
How do the materials differ and what does this mean for the choice of tent?
How important are high-quality poles and which pegs do I need for my tent?
How do I maintain and repair my tent so that it lasts a long time?
How much does a good tent cost and is it worth investing in high-quality tents?
What should I look out for when camping in different weather conditions?
Conclusion
What makes a good tent and what should I look out for when buying a tent?
A good tent is your faithful companion in the wilderness and offers you protection from wind, weather and prying eyes. But what actually makes a really good tent? When buying a tent, you should pay attention to a few crucial factors that can make or break your next camping trip.
Basic quality features
The workmanship and materials used play a key role in the functionality of your tent. Pay particular attention to clean seams and reinforced corners - these are often the first weak points of inferior tents. Durability depends largely on the quality of the materials. After all, a tent has to be able to withstand a lot: UV radiation, rain, wind and, last but not least, transportation in a rucksack.
Pay particular attention to:
- Clean seams: even spacing, no exposed thread ends
- Reinforced areas: Especially at corners and attachment points
- Adhesive seam sealing: Prevents water from penetrating the seams
- Zippers: Robust and with cover to protect against rain
Inferior tents often show quality defects after just a few uses. It is therefore better to invest in a well-made model that won't let you down when you need it most.
The water column as a decisive purchase criterion
The water column is a key factor for the weather resistance of your tent. It indicates how much water pressure the material can withstand before it becomes permeable. (You can find out more about this below)
| Component | Recommended minimum water column | Optimal for intensive use |
|---|---|---|
| Outer tent | 3,000 mm | 5,000 mm |
| Tent floor | 5,000 mm | 10,000 mm |
| Inner tent | 1,500 mm | 2,000 mm |
Remember: In strong winds, rain is pressed against the tent with greater pressure, and when lying down or kneeling, your body weight exerts additional pressure on the tent floor. The higher values are therefore particularly recommended for campers in bad weather.
In addition to the water column, the poles also play an important role. It determines the stability and durability of your tent. The structure with inner and outer tent offers optimum protection against condensation and ensures a pleasant climate.
When buying a tent, you should also compare the materials used. Polyester, nylon and cotton each have their advantages and disadvantages, which are more or less important depending on the intended use.
Choose the right size
The size of your tent should of course depend on the number of people staying in it. However, bear in mind that the manufacturer's specifications are often quite optimistic. If a tent is rated for two people, this usually means that it can accommodate two slim people without a lot of luggage. If you are planning longer stays or are traveling with several people, it is better to choose a size larger.
Rules of thumb for space requirements:
- For comfortable camping: Choose a tent for n+1 people (i.e. a 3-person tent for 2 people)
- Minimum 60-70 cm width per person
- At least 10-15 cm longer than the tallest person
- For longer stays: Plan for more space
Standing height is often underestimated, but is crucial for living comfort. You will appreciate sufficient height, especially on trips lasting several days or in rainy weather. The following applies to family tents: at least 180 cm height in the middle area is ideal.
Weight and pack size
Weight is a decisive factor for hikers and trekkers. However, low weight often comes at the expense of stability or comfort. It is important to find the right compromise here. The pack size should match your transportation options. If you are traveling by car, it is less relevant than on a trekking tour, where every centimeter in the backpack counts.
| Intended use | Recommended maximum weight | Typical compromise |
|---|---|---|
| Trekking/hiking | 1.5-2.5 kg per person | Less comfort, smaller pack size |
| Cycling trips | 2.5-3.5 kg per person | Compact pack, medium comfort |
| Car travel | Unimportant | Maximum comfort instead of low weight |
What types of tent are there and which one is right for me?
The world of tents is diverse, and there are specialized models for every purpose. Let's take a look at the most common tent types and find out which tent suits your needs.
Tent types and their characteristic features
Each tent type has its strengths and weaknesses, which predestine it for certain areas of use. The tunnel tent is a real classic and offers an excellent ratio of weight to space. It is relatively easy to pitch and usually offers sufficient storage space for luggage. Dome tents, on the other hand, impress with their stability in windy conditions and are easy to set up, even for beginners. Other types such as pyramid tents, ridge tents or geo tents have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Tunnel tent:
- Advantages: Excellent ratio of interior space to weight, good headroom
- Disadvantages: Requires guy ropes for stability, more susceptible to wind
- Ideal for: Family camping, longer stays
Dome tent:
- Advantages: Freestanding, easy to pitch, good wind stability
- Disadvantages: Less interior space in relation to the base area
- Ideal for: Beginners, festival camping, short trips
Geodesic tent:
- Advantages: Extremely stable even in storms, resilient in snow
- Disadvantages: Higher weight, more complex structure, more expensive
- Ideal for: High mountains, expeditions, winter camping
Throw tent:
- Advantages: Set up in seconds, ideal for spontaneous trips
- Disadvantages: Less stable, often lower water column
- Ideal for: Festivals, short trips in good weather
The construction of your tent largely determines how it behaves in different weather conditions. The differences are particularly noticeable in windy weather.
Wind stability of different tent designs
Tunnel tents offer plenty of space, but need to be well guyed to be stable in windy conditions. They should be pitched with the narrow side facing the wind.
Thanks to their cross structure,dome tents can also stand without bracing and offer good basic wind stability. In strong winds, however, they should also be braced.
Geodesic and semi-geodesic tents are the pinnacle of wind stability. Their multi-crossed frame structure distributes the wind load optimally and makes them the most stable tents of all - ideal for extreme weather conditions.
The awning as additional living space
The amount of space varies greatly depending on the tent model. From compact one-person tents to spacious family tents, everything is represented. Many tents offer an awning that can be used as additional storage space or as a sheltered cooking area. An awning quickly becomes an indispensable luxury, especially for longer stays or bad weather.
Advantages of an awning:
- Sheltered cooking area even in the rain
- Storage space for wet equipment and shoes
- Additional living space for stays lasting several days
- Buffer zone to the main tent (less moisture and dirt)
Depending on the tent model, there are different awning variants:
| Awning type | Characteristics | Typical application |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated awning | An integral part of the tent | Family tents, tunnel tents |
| Add-on awning | Can be retrofitted, flexible | Dome tents, stationary camping |
| Tarp as an awning | Ultralight, minimalist | Trekking, Bushcraft |
For longer stays or when many people use the tent, a spacious awning is worth its weight in gold. It creates additional storage space and a sheltered area for cooking and eating.
Tips for pitching and taking down
Setting up and taking down can vary in complexity depending on the type of tent. Make sure that the inner tent stays dry by pitching the outer tent first when it rains. If possible, you should wait until the tent is completely dry before taking it down. If you still have to pack it up wet, then put it up again as soon as possible to dry it out - otherwise there is a risk of mold growth.
When you take your tent out of the packaging, first identify all the parts and lay them out in an orderly fashion. This will help you keep an overview and avoid stress when setting up or taking down, especially if it is windy or rainy.
How do you understand the water column and which coatings make a tent waterproof?
The water column is probably one of the most frequently mentioned values when it comes to tents. But what exactly does this mysterious term mean and how much water column do you really need? Here you can find out what this value really means and how different coatings affect waterproofness.
The water column: professional measurement and practical meaning
The water column is given in millimetres (mm) and is determined using a standardized test. This involves testing how much water pressure the material can withstand before the first drop penetrates.
An example to illustrate this: a water column of 5,000 mm means that the material would withstand the pressure of a 5 meter high water column before it becomes permeable.
Officially, a material is considered waterproof from a water column of 1,500 mm. However, this is not sufficient for practical use when camping:
- At least 3,000 mm for the outer tent in normal conditions
- At least 5,000 mm for the tent floor
- 8,000-10,000 mm for intensive use and longer periods of rain
Why are different values required? When lying or kneeling on the tent floor, your body weight creates additional pressure, which increases the required water column. In heavy rain and wind, the water is also pressed against the tent with higher pressure.
PU coating and siliconization in comparison
The most common coatings for waterproof tents are
| Coating type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Typical water column |
|---|---|---|---|
| PU coating | Cheaper, easy to repair | Becomes brittle over time, UV-sensitive | 2,000-5,000 mm |
| Siliconization | More durable, higher tear resistance, better UV resistance | Significantly more expensive, more difficult to repair | 3,000-8,000 mm |
| Double coating (Si/PU) | Combination of the advantages of both systems | Highest price | 5,000-10,000+ mm |
PU-coated tents are the standard in the mid-price segment. The coating makes the fabric waterproof, but can be damaged over time by UV radiation and mechanical stress.
Siliconized tents (often referred to as "Silnylon" or "Silpoly") offer greater durability and better waterproofing, but are also more expensive. They also offer better tear resistance of the base material.
Different requirements
Not all parts of your tent need the same water column. The outer tent should have at least 3,000 mm, while the groundsheet should have significantly higher values, as mentioned above. The inner tent, on the other hand, does not necessarily have to be waterproof - it is more about breathability to prevent condensation.
Tent floor:
- Highest water column required (5,000-10,000 mm)
- Direct ground moisture and additional pressure from body weight
- Often additional coating or double-layer construction
Outer tent:
- Medium to high water column (3,000-5,000 mm)
- Must keep out direct precipitation
- Ideally UV-resistant coating to prevent ageing
Inner tent:
- Lower water column sufficient (1,500-2,000 mm)
- Primarily designed for breathability (often partial mesh inserts)
- Protection from condensation, not from direct rain
The different requirements explain why high-quality tents often use different materials and coatings for the individual components.
Maintenance of waterproofness
Waterproofing can deteriorate over time. Regular re-impregnation helps to extend the service life. The seams in particular are often weak points. You can make them waterproof with special seam sealants and thus significantly increase the service life of your tent.
How do the materials differ and what does this mean for the choice of tent?
The choice of material has a decisive influence on the weight, durability and comfort of your tent. A deeper understanding of the different fabric properties will help you to find the ideal tent for your needs. Let's take a look at the most common materials and their properties.
Polyester, nylon and cotton: key material properties
A comparison of the three most important tent fabrics:
| Property | Polyester | nylon | Cotton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tent weight | Medium | Light | Heavy |
| UV resistance | Good | Moderate | Very good |
| Tear resistance | Medium | High | Medium to high |
| Extensibility | Low | High | Medium |
| Water absorption | Low | High | Very high |
| Drying time | Fast | Medium | Slow |
| price | Cheap | Medium | Expensive |
Polyester is the most commonly used tent fabric in the mid-price segment. It impresses with its low water absorption, good UV resistance and fast drying time. It also hardly stretches when wet, which keeps the shape of the tent stable.
Nylon (often as ripstop nylon) is lighter and more tear-resistant than polyester, but also more expensive. It absorbs more moisture and stretches when wet, which requires regular re-tensioning. Its lower UV resistance is a disadvantage for prolonged use.
Cotton is mainly used for traditional tents and high-quality glamping models. The natural material offers a pleasant indoor climate, but is significantly heavier and dries more slowly. When wet, the fabric swells and thus seals naturally.
A pleasant climate in a cotton tent: advantages and challenges
Cotton is breathable and ensures a pleasant climate in the tent. This is particularly noticeable at higher temperatures:
- Natural moisture regulation
- Less condensation
- Cooler in summer, warmer in winter
- Reduced "plastic bag effect" (sweating in the tent)
However, these advantages come at a price:
- Significantly higher weight (2-3 times heavier than comparable plastic tents)
- Long drying times when wet
- Larger pack size
- More susceptible to mold if stored incorrectly
- Higher purchase price
Cotton tents are therefore particularly suitable for stationary camping, where the higher weight is not an issue and comfort is the priority.
Tear and weather-resistant fabrics for long-term use
Tear resistance and durability depend not only on the material itself, but also on the type of fabric:
Ripstop fabric:
- Reinforcing threads at regular intervals
- Prevents a tear from continuing
- Recognizable by the characteristic check pattern
- Ideal for outdoor use with risk of damage
Denier specification (D): The fabric density is often specified in denier. The higher the value, the more robust, but also the heavier the fabric:
- 15-30D: Ultralight (inner tents, trekking tents)
- 40-70D: Standard (common camping tents)
- 150-210D: Robust (expedition tents, ground material)
Oxford fabric:
- Especially used for tent floors
- Very abrasion-resistant and stable
- Recognizable by its grainy structure
- Typical specifications: 150D, 210D Oxford polyester
The combination of material, fabric type and coating determines the longevity of your tent. For intensive use or expeditions, it is worth investing in high-quality, robust materials.
Use of material according to purpose
Nylon or polyester tents are ideal for short trips and light trekking. They are lightweight, compact and offer sufficient protection for a few days in the great outdoors.
For longer expeditions or extreme climates, you should look out for particularly robust materials or special coatings. It is worth investing in high-quality fabrics with high tear resistance and UV resistance.
Here is an overview of all the information according to purpose and climate:
Trekking and mountain tours:
- Lightweight nylon ripstop fabrics (30-70D)
- Silicone coating for greater tear resistance
- Smallest pack size and weight
- Example: 30D ripstop nylon with Si/PU double coating
Family camping and longer stays:
- Robust polyester (68-75D)
- Good UV resistance for permanent pitching
- Less stretch for a stable tent shape
- Example: 75D polyester with UV protection and PU coating
Expeditions and extreme conditions:
- High-quality, extremely tear-resistant materials
- Reinforced groundsheet fabrics (150-210D)
- Highest water column values
- Example: 70D ripstop nylon with 210D Oxford polyester groundsheet
Hot, humid climate:
- Breathable materials (cotton or polyester-cotton blend)
- Many ventilation openings with mosquito nets
- UV protection for continuous exposure to sunlight
- Example: Polycotton blend fabric or lightweight cotton tent
How important is a high-quality frame and which pegs do I need for my tent?
The poles are the skeleton of your tent and are crucial to its stability and durability. But which material is best suited and how important are the right pegs?
Aluminum vs. fiberglass: material differences with practical implications
A comparison of the two most common pole materials:
| Property | Fiberglass | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| weight | Heavier | Lighter (approx. 30-40%) |
| Stability | Mediocre | Very good |
| Flexibility | High, but prone to breakage | Elastic and resilient |
| Temperature behavior | Brittle when cold | Insensitive |
| Repairability | Difficult | Easy (repair sleeves) |
| Inexpensive | Inexpensive | More expensive |
| Typical areas of use | Inexpensive tents, occasional camping | Trekking tents, expedition tents |
Fiberglass is the standard for entry-level and mid-range tents. The material is comparatively inexpensive, but heavier and less resilient. There is a risk of breakage in strong winds or snow, especially in cold weather.
Aluminum is the premium material for tent poles. It is around 30-40% lighter than fiberglass with greater stability. The alloys (often 7001 or 7075 aluminum) offer an optimal ratio of weight to stability. Another advantage: aluminum poles do not break completely, but only buckle in extreme cases and retain their structural integrity.
For ambitious outdoor activities and demanding weather conditions, aluminum poles are the clear recommendation - despite the higher price.
Pole arches
The arrangement and shape of the pole arches significantly determine the stability of your tent:
Simple cross structure (dome tent):
- Two intersecting pole arches
- Free-standing construction
- Basic stability
- Limited load capacity in wind and snow
Tunnel structure:
- Parallel pole arches
- Not free-standing (requires bracing)
- Good space-to-weight ratio
- Wind stability dependent on orientation
Geodesic structure:
- Multiple, intersecting boom arches
- Optimum load distribution
- Maximum stability in extreme conditions
- High assembly effort, higher weight
When choosing the right structure, you should consider the worst weather conditions to be expected. Geodesic models are recommended for high mountains or winter camping, while a simple cross or tunnel construction is sufficient for normal campsites.
Types of pegs
Pegs are often underestimated, but are crucial for a secure tent. The choice should be based on the ground conditions:
| Type of peg | Optimal for | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Y-profile | Universal | Good compromise between weight and hold |
| V-profile | Firm base | Stable, but heavier |
| Sand pegs | Sand, snow | Wide for more grip in loose ground |
| Nail pegs | Hard ground | Thin and robust for stony ground |
| Titanium pegs | Ultralight trekking | Extremely light, but expensive |
A high-quality tent with inferior tent pegs loses a lot of stability. You should therefore also invest in good tent pegs, ideally in different versions for different conditions of use.
As a rule of thumb, take more pegs than you think you will need and pack different types to be prepared for all ground conditions.
Pegging techniques
Correct tensioning is essential to ensure that your tent is pitched correctly and remains stable even in windy conditions. Use all available guy points and make sure that the guy lines run at an angle of around 45 degrees to the ground.
In windy weather, you should attach additional guy lines and position the tent as far away from the wind as possible. This increases stability enormously and prevents your tent from becoming a kite.
How do I maintain and repair my tent so that it lasts?
If you look after your tent properly, you can enjoy it for many years. With a few simple tricks, you can significantly extend the life of your faithful companion.
Basic care
Clean your tent regularly but gently. Never use aggressive cleaning agents or detergents, as these can damage the waterproofing. Instead, clean your tent with lukewarm water and a soft sponge.
Always remove dirt as soon as possible, especially if it is bird droppings, tree resin or similar aggressive substances. These can attack the tent fabric over time.
Storage
A common mistake is incorrect storage. Always keep your tent completely dry and in a cool, dark place. Moisture leads to mold growth and UV radiation causes the material to become brittle.
After use in the rain, you should always allow your tent to dry completely before packing it away. If this is not possible on the road, take it out again at home as quickly as possible and allow it to dry.
Repair techniques
You can often repair small tears or holes yourself. Special repair kits with self-adhesive patches are available for tears in the tent fabric. For larger damages, sewing may be the better solution. Use special, strong thread for this and then seal the seam with seam sealer.
Broken poles can be temporarily fixed with repair sleeves. No tent emergency kit should be without these. For a permanent repair, replacing the affected segment is often the best solution.
Maintaining waterproofness
Over time, the waterproofing wears off and your tent becomes less waterproof. You can maintain protection by regularly re-waterproofing. There are special waterproofing agents for tents that you can simply spray or brush on.
It is particularly important to treat the seams. You can use seam sealant to seal any leaks and restore waterproofness.
How much does a good tent cost and is it worth investing in high-quality tents?
The price range for tents is enormous - from inexpensive models for less than 100 euros to high-end expedition tents for over 1,000 euros. But what justifies these price differences and is it worth investing in an expensive tent?
Price categories and their typical features
The price differences are reflected in quality, durability and functionality:
| Price category | Typical features | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Inexpensive (30-100€) |
Fiberglass poles, simple PU coating, water column 1,500-2,000mm | Occasional campers, festivals, few uses per year |
| Mid-range (100-300€) |
Better materials, higher water column (3,000-5,000mm), some aluminum poles | Regular campers, longer trips, slightly capricious weather conditions |
| High quality (300-600€) |
High-quality materials, aluminum poles, 4,000-8,000mm water column | Intensive users, demanding conditions, tours lasting several weeks |
| Premium (600€+) |
Top materials, best workmanship, extremely weatherproof, often ultralight | Expeditions, extreme conditions, professional use |
The price differences result from higher quality materials, better workmanship and more sophisticated designs. Inexpensive tents often save on seams, guy points and water column - areas that only become noticeable with intensive use.
Long-term calculation
In the long term, an expensive tent can actually be cheaper. While you may have to replace an inexpensive tent every two years, a high-quality model can last 10 years or longer - if you look after it properly.
Example calculation:
- Inexpensive tent (60€): Lasts about 2-3 seasons with regular use
- High-quality tent (300€): Lasts 8-10 seasons with the same use and good care
Over a period of 10 years, you would have to replace the cheap tent 3-5 times (180-300€), while the high-quality tent may still perform well. In addition, there is the reduced comfort and potential frustration if the cheap tent fails in bad weather.
Value for money
The best value for money is often found in the mid-range price segment. Here you get solid quality without paying for extreme specializations or brand mark-ups.
For beginners and occasional campers (100-150€):
- Solid 3-season dome tents from established outdoor brands
- Compromise between durability and purchase price
- Sufficient for normal camping in the main season
For ambitious campers (200-350€):
- High-quality constructions with aluminum poles
- Good water column (at least 4,000 mm)
- Well thought-out details such as multiple guy points and ventilation options
For special applications (350-600€):
- Ultralight trekking tents (1-1.5kg) for long-distance hikers
- Extremely stable models for high mountains and winter camping
- Large capacity tents with sophisticated living comfort for long-term campers
The best buying opportunities often arise at the end of the season or when changing models - here you can get hold of high-quality tents at a significant discount.
Pay attention to independent test reports and user reviews - they often provide valuable information on the actual price-performance ratio.
What should I look out for when camping in different weather conditions?
The weather can have a significant impact on your camping experience. With a few tricks, you can master adverse conditions and stay dry and comfortable.
Weather-specific tips
Choosing the right pitch is crucial in the rain. Avoid hollows where water could collect. Pitch your tent slightly higher and dig small drainage channels around the tent if necessary.
In windy conditions, pitch your tent with the narrowest side facing into the wind and brace it carefully. Use all existing guy points and use additional pegs if necessary.
The right orientation helps in hot weather: place the entrance in the shade or facing north if possible. Open all ventilation flaps and, if possible, pitch the tent under trees to avoid direct sunlight.
Pitching techniques
In wet conditions, it is important to keep the inner tent dry. With many modern tents, you can pitch the outer tent first and then hook in the inner tent. Use this option in the rain!
In stormy areas, you should anchor your tent particularly well. Additional guy ropes at the main load points of the tent increase stability considerably.
Climate optimization
Proper ventilation is crucial for a pleasant climate in the tent. Open all ventilation flaps when it is warm and partially close them when it is cold to reduce heat loss.
The orientation of the entrance also has an influence on the indoor climate. In summer, it should be in the shade if possible; in winter, direct sunlight in the morning can be pleasant.
Emergency measures
If a storm is approaching, you should check all guy ropes as a precaution and reinforce them if necessary. Pack sensitive equipment in a waterproof bag and keep a flashlight to hand.
In the event of a thunderstorm, leave the tent and seek safe shelter, as metal tent poles can attract lightning. If you don't have the opportunity to go outside in nature, at least avoid contact with the poles.
Conclusion
Let's summarize the most important aspects of our tent guide once again so that you can start your tent purchase well prepared:
The most important selection criteria
- The water column is crucial for waterproofness - at least 3,000 mm for the flysheet and preferably 8,000 mm or more for the groundsheet.
- The material influences the weight, durability and climate properties - polyester is cheap and easy to care for, nylon is light and tear-resistant, cotton is heavier but has a pleasant climate.
- Weight and pack size must match your means of transportation - every gram is important for trekking, less for car trips.
- High-quality poles made of aluminum offer more stability and durability than fiberglass, but are more expensive.
Tent types and their areas of use
- Dome tents: Easy to pitch, good wind stability, versatile.
- Tunnel tents: Good amount of space, lightweight, but somewhat more susceptible to wind.
- Geodetic tents: Maximum stability for extreme conditions.
- Family tents: Lots of space, high level of comfort, but heavier and more complex to set up.
Care tips for long use
- Only clean your tent with lukewarm water, never with detergent.
- Always store it completely dry and protected from UV radiation.
- Refresh the waterproofing regularly, especially at the seams.
Set up your tent and set off on your adventure! Take a look at our other articles to find out more about the best tents and other camping tips for your next outdoor trip:
Hanging a hammock correctly: How to create the perfect place to relax
Checking out the biggest camping myths: What's really true?
Camping by the lake: Our insider tips in Germany
