Dome Tent
By far the most popular tent as it is easy to setup and self-standing. It has a semi-spherical profile which gives it its name. Round profile and generally lower height makes it sturdy against strong wind compared to other type of tents. Variants of it have been designed for more extreme conditions. A dome tent requires a minimum of two flexible poles which crosses at the center to give it its shape. It is common to find a third pole to form the tent vestibule. You may even pitch it on rocks or hard ground which does not allow pegs to be used.
Dome tent in Malaysia forest. |
- Light weight
- Sturdy and can withstand changing wind direction
- Can be setup by one person although usually two
- Self-standing. Position can be shifted once the main body is constructed
- Fully enclosed offering protection against insects and other small creatures.
- More expensive than A-frame tent and tarp tent
- Usually low height and compact which may give a claustrophobic feeling
Tarp Tent
Tarp tent is the most basic form of shelters in the outdoors. It requires fixed sturdy rope across two vertical stands/poles where the tarp/ground sheet is laid over it. Corners of the tarp are pegged onto the ground to give an inverted V-shape shelter. Another tarp may be laid under it for sleeping or a hammock may be tied under it. Tarp tent is mostly used as make-shift shelter for cooking or gears as it does not offer protection against any biting insects or creatures.
Tarp tent in Malaysia forest. |
- Lightest of all shelters
- Cheap
- Excellent ventilation
- Need to find two sturdy stands or trees to tie the rope
- May not provide adequate shelter against heavy rain
- Does not offer protection against biting insects and other creatures
A-Frame Tent
An A-frame tent looks like a standing "A" or inverted "V" from the front which gives it its name. It has two poles that props up the tent and the corners are tied to pegs on the ground to give it its shape. Generally comes with a flysheet to keep out the rain. This tent has been replaced by the more popular dome tents.
Typical A-frame tent. |
- Sturdy
- "Standing" space due to its height
- Fully enclosed offering protection against insects and other small creatures.
- Heavy due to the supporting poles
- Generally need two to four people to setup
- Not possible to shift once it is setup without dismantling the whole tent
