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Sorry  - I think I posted this in the wrong place first time - still learning.

I must have spent days sifting through all the amazing advice on this site and still can't make up my mind what to buy.

We are a family of 5 with 2 dogs - so I have taken on board the advice to upsize the tent. The tent will spend at least 2 weeks every year pitched on the very north coast of Scotland as well as the odd weekend jaunt to Lake District etc.

I have come down to the choice between the Khyam Ontario 8 and the Vango Tigris 800. The midge proofing (if that's possible) will be essential, as well as being able to stand up to whatever the weather throws at us:  wind, rain (and hopefully some sun). Ease of pitching is key as we have the 3 smalls and dogs to entertain during this time ( and a husband who is not quite as sold on the camping thing as me). I am pretty budget conscious too, but want to be sure I buy decent quality.

Can anyone advise me if I am on the right track -   or if there is any other tent that maybe fits the bill better? I am hoping to see these tents next week.

Thank you!    

Hi bsusie and welcome to ukcs. If the midge proofing is one of your essentials then I would say the Vango Tigris which does claim to have "mesh doors" is the one for you. They khyam does not have any sort of mesh door protection I wish it did, last year we had a very large dragonfly in the tent which was hard to get out, but at least it didn't bite!

It's probably a good idea to see both tents in the flesh so to speak and to look at the sleeping requirements for your family.

Welcome.

The Tigris is becoming a bit of a buzz tent on the forum as with the 800 you can not argue with accomodation at the price point of around £250 or less. As you are going to be camping in areas that can be challenging , I wonder if you should perhaps consider a frame tent , which need not be difficult to errect or expensive . With three children and two dogs space will be at a premium in the car  ,but if you are going to invest in a trailer or topbox , then you should consider other options . I am an advocate of the Coleman modular tents that can be set up to your families changing needs , and are straight forward to errect , relatively cheep , and have a HH of 6000.And my Evolva has acres of mesh doors/panels!! If you have the opportunity to check out campsites in person , have a look at the type of tents seasoned campers in those areas use and have a chat .