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Try It in a Tent!

© Thomas Stephens Sr.

The "blue bump" was what we called it, and that was how it looked. We bought a plastic (blue) tarp and detachable roof rack, a White Stag one-room tent, Coleman stove, sleeping bag, lantern and an ice chest. We were in business; a camping we did go! Pam and I tent camped across the US and up the West Coast. We used that setup for over five years - and loved it. Loading the roof rack with most of our camping gear and then wrapping it with the tarp freed the back seat of our Ford Tempo for "the beasts" (our dogs). The car's trunk we used for boxes of pots, pans, groceries and anything else we could think of. I have lots of very fond memories of those days. Even the bad ones seem to glow rosy with time.

If you are a dedicated camper, no matter how you camp today, chances are you started out with a tent. There is nothing like sleeping in a tent to get that "close to nature" feeling. Camping in a tent is the only way to go for those hardy campers who like to rough it. (I know from whence you speak!) Tenting does have its advantages over other camping accommodations, especially if you are just starting out. One does not need a truck or tow vehicle to tent camp. Fact! And, that is money in the bank for the frugal camper. Imagine the vacation camping trips you can take with the money you save not buying that fancy travel trailer or RV. Find yourself a nice tent - one that fits your needs - and head for the nearest lake or campground.

Tents are available in just about any shape, size, or color imaginable. Which one is right for you depends on a number of variables. What kind of camping do you plan - back country, hiking or campground? How many people will occupy the tent - you alone, with a partner or with kids? How much space do you prefer - one room, multiple rooms or with a porch? Do you want to stand in the tent or is a small dome type okay? How compact should your folded tent be? Should it fit in a backpack, on a motorcycle or in a car trunk? The choices are many, and each individual must decide which tent best fits their camping needs. There is a very good selection of tent styles and brands on the Internet at Campmor Tent Index Page. Also, The Outdoor Experience and the Wilderness Furnishings web site are excellent places to compare tent options. You can buy on-line if you wish, but if you are a beginner, a first-hand look-see is advisable.

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