Extreme Backpacking Camping Tents, what Sets Them Apart from Inexpensive 3-Season Tents?
Choosing the right 4-season tent to take backpacking can be a very arduous task
When shopping for a backpacking camping tent you may be overwhelmed by not only the cost, but also the claims that each tent manufacturer makes about their tents. The cost of these top of the line tents is nothing short of intimidating, but if you are serious about your backpacking camping adventures you will find no products of quality at an inexpensive price.
Where the average camper may only expect to spend $100 on a decent tent, you will be looking at closer to $500 for the same size of tent. However,your tent will allow you to hike into Denali or up Kilimanjaro when the average camper is only visiting Yosemite in the summertime, or staying at a campground.
What do you need to look for in your extreme backpacking camping tent? Well, it truly depends on how extreme you are going to get, if you are hiking into Denali national park in the middle of winter,you are going to need a tent that is not going to let even the smallest amount of moisture in, nor any condensation forming on the inside.
Shockingly many tent manufacturers of extreme camping tents are switching to polyester rather than the nylon they have used for decades. The reason for this switch is that the polyester does not stretch and shrink like the old nylon tents that would have to be adjusted throughout the day from temperature changes.
For lighter weight and better durability you need to look for an extreme backpacking camping tent with DAC® aluminum poles, not only are these poles lighter than the old fiberglass poles, but they also do not wear from weather near as easily. Lightweight and durable is an absolute must when it comes to extreme camping conditions, you cannot afford even a few extra ounces when it comes to extreme camping.
The newest and best in extreme backpacking camping tents have sewn and welded seams, or non-sewn and strictly welded seams,to prevent any water leakage what-so-ever. Now this does not mean that even the most expensive tent will not leak. Therefore it is always a good idea to seal your seams before you need to, nothing worse that getting caught in an Oregon rainstorm that dumps four and a half inches in a day and have your tent leaking on you.
Another tent manufacturer’s suggestion is that you use a footprint for your tent. A footprint will help provide a moisture barrier from the ground up and should make your backpacking camping tent much more comfy on a stormy day or night.
If an extreme backpacking camping tent is in your future I suggest these tent manufacturers for your next purchase. Marmot tents, these tents are made for the Himalayas and for base camps, so you should have no problems with these in extreme conditions, but they may be heavier than you want to carry.
Sierra Designs tents are improving every year and are a great solution for your extreme camping needs. Kelty tents are a less expensive alternative, but make sure you read all the reviews you can get your eyes on because some of their designs are reported to leak. Eureka tents, like Kelty tents, are less expensive and you should do your homework on these also before purchasing.
I hope this article has helped to inform you about extreme backpacking camping tents and helped you in your search for the perfect tent for your next extreme adventure.
Extreme Backpacking Camping Tents
