Even though the holiday season has ended, the love for camping among Chinese outdoor enthusiasts remains strong. People now prefer using sky curtains, tents, barbecues, and "tent camping" as their leisure methods. With so many tents available in the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is best for you. To shed some light on this matter, the reporter interviewed Zhu Liangcui, Secretary General of the Nanjing Outdoor Sports Association. He shared his expertise on how to choose a good quality tent for your camping trip.
Nanjing residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to camping options during the holidays. With attractions like Xuanwu Lake, Zijin Mountain, Niushou Mountain, Tiansheng Bridge Scenic Area, Laoshan Forest Park, Green Expo Park, and more, the "tent craze" has ignited a thriving camping economy. Statistics reveal that the camping market during the May Day holiday has been steadily growing, with a remarkable 117% increase in searches related to camping. Forest camping, park camping, starry sky camping, and parent-child camping have emerged as the most favored camping themes during this period. Experience the wonders of nature and create unforgettable memories through various camping adventures!
To truly enjoy camping outside the warmth of the fire, you must first have a suitable tent. According to Zhu Liangcui, the essential components of an outdoor tent are the fabric and bracket. The outer layer material of the tent plays a crucial role in waterproofing. If you plan on camping in parks and other venues, opt for a waterproofing value of under 1000mm. However, for outdoor camping, it's best to choose a value above 1000mm. The higher the value, the better the waterproofing performance. Keep this in mind when selecting a tent for your next camping trip.
Zhu Liangcui mentioned that when it comes to choosing tents, we can categorize them based on the environment they are suitable for. There are two types: alpine tents and tourist tents. Alpine tents tend to be more expensive as they not only serve as temporary shelter but also have the capability to withstand harsh weather conditions like strong winds and heavy rain. On the other hand, tourist tents are relatively cheaper and their production process is simpler. These tents are great for activities like camping or outings, but they are not ideal for challenging environments.
The decision between a three season tent and a four season tent often arises when selecting a tent. Zhu Liangcui highlights the fact that three season tents are designed for use in spring, summer, and autumn. These tents have a relatively breathable inner tent but may lack stability. They are suitable for camping in low altitude areas with stable climates. On the other hand, four season tents are suitable for year-round use in varying weather conditions. These tents offer a more windproof and stable inner tent, providing improved warmth. They are ideal for high altitude or cold climate environments. However, if you primarily plan on camping during the spring, summer, and autumn, purchasing a three season tent should suffice.
When selecting an outdoor tent, it's important to carefully consider the size. This means taking into account the number of people who will be staying in the tent, as well as their height and weight, to ensure that the tent is not too small. Zhu Liangcui recommends a simple trick for choosing the appropriate size: opt for a tent that is slightly larger than what you think you need. For example, if two people will be using the tent, consider buying one that is meant for three people. This will help ensure greater comfort and ease of use during your outdoor adventure.
Zhu Liangcui, an expert in outdoor sports management, advises fellow campers to always be mindful of certain details when setting up their tents. One important rule to follow is to always pitch tents on stable and hard ground, avoiding riverbeds, riverbanks, and similar locations. When arranging the tent layout, it is important to have all doors face the same direction. For groups of campers, it is best to maintain a safe distance of at least one meter between tents and awnings. Furthermore, it is generally recommended to face south or southeast when setting up the tent, with the entrance facing away from the wind. By following these tips, campers can optimize their camping experience and ensure their safety throughout their trip.