Now that spring is finally here, I'm sure more than a few of you are planning that first big camping or backpacking trip of the year. If that's the case, and you're in the market for a new tent, Popular Mechanics is here to help. The magazine recently posted an article on its website listing the 7 best camping and backpacking tents that are currently available, with some good options for just about every budget.
The seven tents that made the cut vary in size, weight, and price greatly, but there really is something for just about every type of camper here. For instance, the list starts with the Kelty Grand Mesa 2, a two-person, three-season shelter that costs just $140. On the other end of the spectrum is MSR's awesome Hubba Hubba NX, which retails for $400, but is built to survive in just about any conditions and weighs in at just 3 lbs., 7 oz.
In between these two options you'll find plenty of others, including some that are both more and less expensive. Depending on your needs, you'll discover some solid suggestions here, with tents to accommodate two adventurous souls or as many as six. Most are meant for spring, summer, and fall outings, although one or two could be used for winter camping in mild conditions as well. In short, its a nice variety of shelters to accommodate all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're about to do some shopping for a new tent, this article is definitely worth a look. The tent market is as competitive now as it has ever been, and the latest models are lightweight, efficient, and comfortable. Deciding which one is the best is a tricky endeavor, but PM can help you sort out some of the choices that are currently available. Read the entire article here.