When you get ready to go camping, you probably don’t think about how complicated it will be to bring your tent with you. Everything feels simple and straightforward at home.
You pack a bag with some clothes, a toothbrush, maybe even a book or two – but what about the tent? Think again. Unless you own a permanent residence somewhere in the vicinity of the campgrounds, it’s not quite as simple as just throwing that old red-and-green canvas tent in your backpack and calling it good.
If you’re reading this article, chances are you’ve probably already learned that yourself. The problem is that some of these things are not quite so obvious until the first time when you try to take your old tent camping.
We’ve put together this list of helpful tips for anyone seeking information about buying a new canvas backpacking tent for their next trip into the wilderness. Check them out below!
Can You Backpack With a Canvas Tent?
This is the first question you need to ask yourself. The answer is – yes, you can. However, many of the top options on the market made from canvas will be slightly heavier than potential synthetic options.
Most tent manufacturers don’t recommend using a tent like this for multi-day treks. We are talking about tents meant to be used on the weekends – at the local campground.
If you are looking to backpack with a canvas tent, make sure you check out the weight.
If it’s over 6 or 7 pounds, it’s probably not a great idea. However, if you are more interested in setting up a tent at a local campsite, you may have more options available to you.
Most tent manufacturers don’t recommend using a tent like this for multi-day treks. We are talking about tents meant to be used on the weekends – at the local campground.
If you are looking to backpack with a canvas tent, make sure you check out the weight.
If it’s over 6 or 7 pounds, it’s probably not a great idea. However, if you are more interested in setting up a tent at a local campsite, you may have more options available to you.
Most tent manufacturers don’t recommend using a tent like this for multi-day treks. We are talking about tents meant to be used on the weekends – at the local campground.
If you are looking to backpack with a canvas tent, make sure you check out the weight.
If it’s over 6 or 7 pounds, it’s probably not a great idea. However, if you are more interested in setting up a tent at a local campsite, you may have more options available to you.
Always Check The Size Of Backpacking Tent
One of the most important things to do when you’re ready to buy a new tent is to check the main size dimensions of the tent. This is the most important thing you should be looking for.
Remember, canvas tents tend to be heavier than synthetic ones. So, look for a smaller tent if you plan a backpacking trip.
Tent dimensions will let you know how many people can fit in the tent, how tall the tent is, and how wide the tent is. You’ll need to keep these numbers in mind to ensure you’re buying a tent that will fit your needs.
For example, if you’re a couple looking to go camping together, you probably want to make sure you have enough space.
When you’re checking the specs, make sure the tent will fit both of you—and maybe even a dog!
You’ll also want to look at the tent’s height. This will let you know if you can stand up in the tent. If you want to be able to change in the tent, you’ll want to make sure you have enough room to do so.
You’ll also want to make sure it has just enough width. If you’re buying a two-person tent, you’ll want to make sure the tent is wide enough for two people to sleep comfortably.
Canvas Backpacking Tent. What’s Included in the Deal?
Every tent usually comes with some additional equipment. Whether it’s the tent itself or a few extra pieces of equipment, make sure to check what comes with the tent before you buy it.
Some tents will come with tent stakes or even an aluminum frame. Others will come with a rain fly or a carry bag.
Some tents will come with a ground tarp or even a few pieces of rope. The point is that you should check what’s included before you buy anything.
You need to know what you might be missing and what you could use to make your trip a little more enjoyable.
Don’t Forget The Rain Fly
The rain fly is probably one of the most essential parts of the tent. This is the structure of the tent that protects the tent from rain and other extreme weather conditions.
You’ll want to make sure the rain fly comes with the tent you buy. If it doesn’t, you can always buy a separate rain fly. However, it’s always best to buy the rain fly when you buy the tent. This way, you know for sure that it will fit your tent perfectly.
You’ll also know that it was designed specifically for your tent brand. When buying a rain fly, make sure it covers your entire tent. You don’t want to leave any part of your tent open to the rain.
Durability Of Canvas Material and Quality Of Stitches Is Key
Durability is essential in any purchase of backpacking equipment, but it is even more so in a tent you carry on your back and sleep in. If a tent is not durable, it is not worth the money you pay. You always want to ensure that the canvas you buy is high-quality.
You also want to know that it is going to last and that it is not going to tear or break easily. When you are buying a tent, make sure that you check the seams and the overall stitching.
You don’t want to see any loose threads or potential holes in the fabric. Ideally, you want to see double stitching in the areas where the seams are the most stressed. You want to feel confident that this is a tent that will last for years to come.
The Importance Of Size
The size of your canvas backpacking tent you buy is critical. Depending on the number of people you want to fit in the tent and the gear you will be bringing with you, you may want to consider buying a larger tent.
You may want to buy a tent slightly larger than you actually need just to be safe. This way, you can always comfortably fit your gear inside the tent.
You don’t want to be cramped inside a tent. You want to have enough space to be comfortable. You also want to have enough space to easily put all your gear away. So, you should consider buying a tent with a little extra room.
This will also allow you to bring your dog to your hiking trip.
Conclusion
When buying a canvas backpacking tent, there are many things to consider. You want to make sure you are purchasing a tent that is the right size for your needs and durable enough to last for years.
When buying a tent, check the seams for any loose threads, the amount of stitching, and the tent’s height, width, and length.
You should also consider the weight of the tent, whether or not it comes with a rain fly, and if it is made from high-quality canvas.
With all that in mind, we hope you have a better idea of what to look for when buying a new canvas backpacking tent.
These tents are an excellent option for camping in almost any weather condition. Whether you’re camping in the mountains in the middle of winter or near the beach in the middle of summer, a canvas tent can be a great choice.
If you are not afraid of that additional weight!
