Camping Tents: A Buying Guide for Londoners

One of the biggest requirements of going camping is having a tent. However, when it comes to buying one, not many people take important factors into account.

Since your tent is an essential part of your camping trip, here are a few pointers you need to consider when looking for one.

Budget

The first factor most people consider is the budget. Tents come in a variety of prices and can be as pricey or light on the pocket as you like. No matter what budget you have, always read reviews of the product and never buy second-hand stuff. For first-time campers, it is usually recommended to go for low-end items at first, and once they know what it lacks or doesn't lack, they can invest in a decent tent.

Features

• If you like having more space to stand up, look for a tent with a maximum height. Hiring a Campervan is also a great idea for taking equipment like large tents on long journeys.
• If you want to cook inside the tent, get one that allows sufficient ventilation. On a side note, avoid cooking inside as it can be dangerous.
• Look for a tent with bedroom space if you’re not a fan of sleeping without a mattress.
• Check the tent details and evaluate if it can survive in different conditions. For example, in places with snowy weather, your tent should be robust and should be able to withstand winds.
• Do you wish to have an outside view? Choose a tent that has windows with curtains for privacy.

Types of Tents

There are several sizes, types, designs, and shapes for you to choose from. Make sure that the one you buy meets the given criteria.

• The design should be according to the climate it is intended to be used in.
• There should be some level of waterproofing.
• It should be spacious enough to accommodate however many people you’re planning to.

Here’s a breakdown of each tent type:

1. Air Tent

Air tents use inflatable beams instead of traditional poles for structure. You inflate them with a pump, making setup quick and easy.
   - Best for people looking for hassle-free and quick setups, usually on car camping trips or festivals.
   - Advantages: Fast setup, no poles to break, lightweight and easy to transport.
   - Disadvantages: Requires an air pump, more expensive than poled tents.

2. Family Tent

Large tents are designed to accommodate multiple people, often with separate rooms or partitions for added privacy. These tents are typically spacious and comfortable.
   - Best for family camping trips, group outings, or long stays at campsites.
   - Advantages: Large space, multiple compartments, good ventilation, often with features like storage areas and windows.
   - Disadvantages: Heavier, bulkier, and more time-consuming to set up.

3. Weekend Tent

Compact and easy-to-set-up tents intended for short camping trips. They are typically simple designs with basic features.
   - Best for short weekend trips or occasional campers.
   - Advantages: Easy to set up, affordable, lightweight.
   - Disadvantages: Limited space, fewer features than family or adventure tents, less durable.

4. Poled Tent

Traditional tents use metal or fibreglass poles for structure. These are common and come in a wide range of sizes and styles.
   - Best for general camping needs, from casual campers to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
   - Advantages: Widely available, affordable, and durable, with a range of sizes.
   - Disadvantages: Can take longer to set up and pack away compared to air tents.

5. Tipi Tent

Inspired by traditional Native American tipis, these tents have a cone-shaped design with a central support pole. They often have a large, open interior.
   - Best for people who like a spacious, unique, and well-ventilated tent, especially for festivals or glamping.
   - Advantages: Spacious interior, great ventilation, quick setup with minimal poles.
   - Disadvantages: Less stable in strong winds due to the single pole structure, and less common.

6. Adventure Tent

Tents are designed for more extreme conditions, such as high-altitude trekking, mountain climbing, or rough weather. They are built to be robust and often have advanced weatherproofing features.
   - Best for extreme adventurers, mountaineers, or those camping in challenging environments.
   - Advantages: Durable, weatherproof, and often lightweight despite their durability.
   - Disadvantages: More expensive, often compact with limited space for comfort.

7. Backpacking Tent

Lightweight and compact tents are designed for hikers and backpackers who need to carry their gear over long distances. These are optimized for minimal weight and pack size.
   - Best for long-distance hikers, trekkers, and solo campers.
   - Advantages: Extremely light, compact, and easy to carry, designed for one or two people.
   - Disadvantages: Limited space and comfort, often lacking in features like standing room or storage space.

Each tent type is tailored to specific camping needs, so choosing the right one depends on your camping style, location, and duration.

Sizes

The size of a tent is measured in terms of berth/person/man to refer to the number of people who can sleep in it. However, it's not as simple as it seems because a four-berth tent may be sufficient for two to three people only. Therefore, never go for the same berth as the number of people. Moreover, make sure to consider the following:

• Find out the number of people you want to have in a tent.
• Always go at least two sizes up.
• Check the pack size and weight.
• Never ignore the comfort rating of a tent, as it suggests how comfortable a tent can be for a certain number of people.

Tent Jargon

Here is some tent vocabulary to help you buy better.

• Berth: It implies the number of people a tent can cater to.
• Double skin: It refers to the number of fabric layers a tent has.
• Denier: It is a way to measure the fabric’s thickness.
• Hydrostatic head: it measures how waterproof the tent fabric is.

Our Top 6 Camping Sites Near London

Looking for the perfect outdoor escape near the city? Here are our Top 6 Camping Spots Close to London. Whether you're after luxury glamping, a family-friendly retreat, or a more rustic, back-to-nature experience, these campsites offer something for everyone—all within a few hours of the capital.

1. Plush Tents Glamping

This is for people looking for the best in "luxury camping" – a beautiful tucked-away spot in Sussex, offering yurts and communal spaces for a relaxing, nature-filled retreat.
   - Best for Glamping enthusiasts and those seeking a luxurious camping experience.
   - Location: Chichester, West Sussex – around 2 hours from London.

2. Holden Farm Camping

Just a few hours away from the city, this is a spacious camping spot perfect for energetic kids and pets. With plenty of room between tents, it's ideal for those seeking privacy.
   - Best for Families with children and pets who enjoy space and fresh air.
   - Location: Nr Alresford, Hampshire – around 1.5 hours from London.

3. Alde Garden

A camping site with diverse accommodation options, including tents, caravans, and yurts. Located in a woodland area, this site offers a rustic country experience with lots of greenery.
   - Best for Campers seeking variety in accommodation and a peaceful woodland escape.
   - Location: Sweffling, Suffolk – around 2 hours from London.

4. Lee Valley Almost Wild Campsite

Set on the edge of the River Lee, this campsite provides an "almost wild" experience for those who prefer a more rustic and off-grid setting. No formal pitches, just you and nature.
   - Best for Nature lovers seeking a wild camping vibe close to the city.
   - Location: Broxbourne, Hertfordshire – under an hour from London.

5. The Secret Campsite

An eco-friendly camping site that offers spacious pitches and a peaceful environment for unwinding in nature. Known for its wildlife-friendly approach, this is a great spot for stargazing and birdwatching.
   - Best for Eco-conscious campers seeking tranquillity and open spaces.
   - Location: Lewes, East Sussex – around 1.5 hours from London.

6. Embers Camping

A family-friendly campsite located by the river in Polesden Lacey. It offers open campfires and ready-pitched bell tents, creating a cosy and convenient outdoor experience. Perfect for a quick getaway.
   - Best for Families, couples, or first-time campers looking for a blend of comfort and nature.
   - Location: Surrey Hills – around 1 hour from London.

These campsites offer a variety of experiences, from luxury glamping to almost-wild camping, all within easy reach of London.

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