Types and Styles of Tents for Camping

Dome (or Wedge) Tents:

Probably the most common, Dome tents are constructed from 2 or more intersecting curved poles to form a square or round covered area.

These tents are very popular in Walking, Hiking & Backpacking as they combine great strength with the least use of material and weight.

The internal space offered is good and some models are freestanding - only requiring a few pegs to keep it on the ground in very windy conditions*.

Tunnel (or Hoop) Tents:

One, two or three 'hoops' form a tube with curved walls to provide a relatively large volume to ground surface ratio.

These Tents are also surprisingly strong as they divide pressure over the full length of the hoops a bit like an arched bridge. The curved walls give much bigger internal volume than the traditional A-frame (see below) over the same ground area. These tents are very stable particularly if pitched end on into any wind.

Single Pole (or Avian or Pyramid ) Tents:

These are the most lightweight so are often favoured by backpackers. However, there is not much room inside because the pole is always in the way. Little more than a bivouac they are really only suitable for a quick shelter in light weather conditions.

A-Frame Tents:

This traditional two legged frame is found at the outer ends of the tent, the fabric or skin forms a triangular space providing good head-room in the middle. The steep sides mean that water (or snow) drains well but the rigid tent poles mean that they are often quite heavy.

As a result this classic tent shape is now becoming less and less popular due to the relatively poor weight to strength ratio.