Quote: Originally posted by linsxxx on 24/8/2011
Oooh no I hadn't seen the Columbia - there are some on ebay! What is higher spec about them? And what in your opinion is the most important thing to look for (all the specs are such long lists!).
I have had a look at Kampa - we were half thinking about the Croyde 6 ( I liked the big windows). But again it seems quite heavy and I was put off by friends who said if the tent was too big and heavy we wouldn't bother going away at weekends as it would be too much hassle. I don't know if that's true really - what do you think?
We have the Kampa Studland 8 and there's only 3 of us, we often go away for weekends, Fri to Sunday, but then we tend to leave a lot of the other things at home, double ring cooker, wardrobes, etc plus you only need small bag for clothes. So the amount of bits and pieces we take is minimal. We opted for the bigger one because it gives us the option of others joining us too, family/friends, daughters friends. Obviously a larger tent is going to weigh more, but then again it'll stand up to high winds better. Our tent is around 7.5m (over 8m with vestibule, which we don't always use)x 5m and so far haven't had a problem on any sites. We joined the C&CC as their pitches seem to be larger, but if the site you want to go on say the tent is too big and you have to pay for two pitches pick a different site there are loads around. Most of all enjoy.
Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes
I don't know if it's too far to drive, but there's a camping exhibition at Ripley castle, just north of Harrogate where there are dozens of tents (maybe as many as 100) on display outside.
It's probably 1.5 - 2 hours for you, but maybe combining it with a day out for the bank holiday, there's a nice cafe at the castle (you can also visit the castle) and the village is nice to walk around.
If you still looking, worth going to Prudhoe and taking a look in the Camping shop and display within the Garden Centre there. Good choice of Vango tents on display .
New one at Shire Moor poor we think, but Go Outdoors Stockton, down A19 great.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: New to camping - choosing tent...
