Thats a definite requirement Geoff we have a 5m Helsport and once us the dog the woodburner, a couple of chairs and all our kit is in there isn't much room for anything else and thats with the cooking stuff in a seperate little tent. Theres something special about a round tent though I can't quite put my finger on it but since we switched over i doubt i would go back to a frame or tunnel again.
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That's whats appealing to us as well Chappers. It just looks a completely different experience and one we are looking forward to trying. Thanks for your replys.
Quote: Originally posted by autopilot on 11/8/2013
Quote: Originally posted by Librasam on 11/8/2013
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SIGs offer convenience in that you don't have to spend time on your hands and knees zipping in a ZIG, being all in one.
I don't understand this comment sorry. Why would you spend time on your hands and knees zipping in a ZIG? The ground sheet stays attached just like a SIG, you pitch and decamp with it attached. The only time you need to unzip it is if you want to roll up the sides (or occasionally pack them separately). ZIGs are more convenient in every way, its simply a cost issue. I can't honestly think of one occasion a SIG would help, and I have been camping for over 30 years including 10 in a bell tent.
I think you missed my rather tongue in cheek point of playing 'devil's advocate' and simply offering an alternative opinion!
I did state that it is for the OP to decide for themselves what their needs are rather than accepting advice per se, as we will all base advice on our own experience and own needs.
Best wishes Sam
Quote: Originally posted by autopilot on 11/8/2013
Quote: Originally posted by Librasam on 11/8/2013 . SIGs offer convenience in that you don't have to spend time on your hands and knees zipping in a ZIG, being all in one.
I don't understand this comment sorry. Why would you spend time on your hands and knees zipping in a ZIG? The ground sheet stays attached just like a SIG, you pitch and decamp with it attached. The only time you need to unzip it is if you want to roll up the sides (or occasionally pack them separately). ZIGs are more convenient in every way, its simply a cost issue. I can't honestly think of one occasion a SIG would help, and I have been camping for over 30 years including 10 in a bell tent.
I think you missed my rather tongue in cheek point of playing 'devil's advocate' and simply offering an alternative opinion!
I did state that it is for the OP to decide for themselves what their needs are rather than accepting advice per se, as we will all base advice on our own experience and own needs.
Best wishes Sam
No worries, I get ya.
Trouble is, unless someone lends you one many people only have advice to go on! You offer very sound advice, which I have read in other threads. It's just that one thing I disagreed with. Horses for courses :)
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I cant believe how well these tents hold their value. Ive been keeping an eye on some for sale on ebay & gumtree. People seem to be prepared to pay almost new price for a used one. Although we want a nice new one, I thought I would just look in case a bargain came up but doesn't look like I will find one.
Quote: Originally posted by Librasam on 11/8/2013
Hi Scrunchkins
In order to offer a balanced view supporting SIGs (and I've had both) it all depends what you want and this is where you need to draw up your own list.
SIGs offer convenience in that you don't have to spend time on your hands and knees zipping in a ZIG, being all in one.
ZIGs may be slightly heavier and usually of heavier or better quality rubber.
SIGs may be a bit cheaper.
Being from 'Oop North we don't usually have the extraordinary weather that necessitates rolling up the sides, and if its that good you're gonna make the most of it (for us northerners it's a rare occurrence!!) and side outside!!
Keeping a SIG clean is easy, simply put down a footprint (which I protected all my tents with) with the bell tent, simply bought a blue 5' x 7' tarpaulin from B&Q for under a tenner and folded it into halves, quarters then eighths, used the black marker on a string trick to draw the curve for the circle.
Bell tents fold into themselves so the groundsheet doesn't really touch the canvas so if it was a bit damp, simply used an old towel to dry the rubber as I rolled the tent up. All done. and no additional faffing with washing down a ZIG at home!
And for your other question, yes a bell tent can be easily erected solo, with practice (I've had mine 4 years) I can put up and peg out in 20 mins flat.
Good luck with deciding what suits your needs, everyone's different.
Best wishes Sam
Librasam. Could you elaborate a bit on how you cut your footprint to shape to fit a 5m bell. We got a 7x5 tarp same as you. Thanks Geoff
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Topic: Bell Tent Advice Please
