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Rent Camping Tent

from: Kyle Besser

If you are new to camping, or an experienced veteran, "Rent Camping Tent" might be a phrase you will look for on a camping supplier's web site or at a campsite's general store. These words will lead you to tents for rent for occasional camping trips and to styles you can test before making an equipment purchase.

With camping tent rentals, you have the luxury of selecting the exact model you need for the people, the season, the weather and the trip. Tent choice represents a balance of tent ratings, rental logistics and personal style.

Tent Ratings

Tent names usually include a seasonal and occupancy rating:

1-season, tents are for warm weather use when good ventilation is a major requirement. However, many 1-season tents won't keep you dry during a heavy rain.

3-season tents are the most versatile, providing good ventilation and protection against heavy rain and light snow.

4-season tents utilize sturdier fabric and poles and can withstand high winds and heavy snow. When you rent a camping tent for winter use, consider a convertible. These winter tents convert into 3-season tents through the removal of panels.

Tent ratings also include weight, which is an important consideration if you are backpacking. If you don't like sleeping snugly, rent a tent with an occupancy rating one person higher than the number of people who'll be sharing the tent.

Rental Logistics

When you rent a camping tent at a local store, look at availability far in advance of your trip to ensure they have the model you want; the selection may be limited. When you rent from a chain, you can pick up the tent at a local outlet or a store near the campsite. Use the store's web site to determine whether the model you need is available at a convenient location.

You can also rent your camping tent from vendors specializing in direct online rental. These vendors often have a larger selection than gear stores that focus primarily on equipment sales. They'll ship the tent directly to your door, but you'll have to repack it and ship it back after the trip.

Camping tents are also available at camp stores and gear outlets at popular parks and trailheads and as option at private or concessionaire-run campsites where site fees and equipment rental can be combined into vacation packages.

Long before you need to rent your camping tent, check on the vendor's reservation (or shipping-time) requirements and cancellation policies. Some vendors will add a cleaning fee if you return a tent dirty or wet.

Choosing Tent Style

When you rent a camping tent, you can opt for creature comforts and space or for a minimalist style. When you're backpacking or spending most of your time hiking, climbing, fishing or kayaking, a utilitarian tent may suffice. When you're car camping or spending time with family and friends around the campsite, a more spacious tent may be more convenient.