Camping is always loads of fun but your experience can depend on a lot of factors, the first of which is, preparing for your trip. Most of us start out tent camping and that is always tons of fun, but choosing the right tent can be one of the most important factors you will want to consider as your tent is basic to everything else. Besides getting the right tent size and your most convenient style, you must give consideration to the fabric the tent is made of. There are several options available and by knowing the pros and cons of each will put you in position to make a better informed decision.

Nylon

One of the most popular fabrics for tents is nylon. Nylon is durable and strong. It is also lightweight which makes it a favorite for easier carrying and storage. Nylon tents are normally waterproofed and able to breathe quite well, thus allowing for a more comfortable existence inside the tent. Nylon does not rot but mildew can eat on the waterproof coating and when this happens, the tent can become no good for you. Even though uncoated nylon tents do not absorb any water, they are not waterproof. The material is commonly used on tent floors and fly sheets where light weight is needed. Compared to polyester it is a more expensive option.

Polyester

Very much like nylon, but polyester does a good job in resisting UV damage as opposed to nylon. Ultraviolet rays damages and weakens the tent, compromising its strength. Polyester rainfly doesn’t sag when wet as nylon does.

Cotton canvas

This all-weather material used to be a favorite for tent makers before nylon’s arrival on the scene. It is durable and is usually coated with waxing or an oily coating that prevented the absorption of water. The coating allows the tent to remain breathable but this material is not waterproof. You can still get the cotton canvas camping tents today, but they are becoming less preferred by the day.

Polyethylene

The best thing about the material is that it is waterproof and the only way water will gain access is if there is a hole in your tent. Even though it is durable, it is bulky and heavy and it gets tricky to get it back to original form after you have opened it. Camping tents might not be entirely made of polyethylene but you might want to insure that the tent floor is made from it especially in wet seasons.

You might want to take a look at this link when doing your research for a tent. Here you’ll find one-person, two-person or even family tents.

Good luck and good camping!