I am considering getting a gazebo/ event shelter or a small frame tent for sitting in and eating in.
We have 6 man tunnel tent but the space in the centre is quite small and with 2 young children not sure it will be enough space if it rains.
Have been looking at the event shelters on go outdoors. There is a new euro hike one which is cheaper than the Coleman’s.
The other option is a cheap used frame tent which probably sounds crazy and over kill but would give good amount of space.
Wondering what people think and what you have / use.
Can't help directly. We now have various purpose made awnings, and before that, we loved to put a tarp up for this purpose. Usually affixed to the tent front (or side), so more of a continuation of the tent. Obviously this only offers overhead shelter, with no walls (unless you add windbreak(s), which we very rarely bothered with).
This set up suited us fine, although we are just a couple. No kids to consider.
Just be aware that some sites won't accept gazebo's, as they can be considered "Too weak", structurally. Some sites won't allow event shelters, as they take up too much room on a pitch. Similarly with a second tent.
Of those that will allow, some will be more than happy to charge you extra.
Obviously each site is different, and not all will follow the above, but we never had one site refuse our tarp (4m x 3m) or attempted to charge us extra for it.
Just a thought, but have you considered a canopy extension for your tent. Many tent manufacturers make canopies which fit to the tent to give extra space. The reason I say this is that we have been looking at campsites for this summer (for our caravan) but have noticed that many of them say that gazebos are not permitted.
Quote: Originally posted by Pixie_Hez on 28/3/2021
Just a thought, but have you considered a canopy extension for your tent. Many tent manufacturers make canopies which fit to the tent to give extra space. The reason I say this is that we have been looking at campsites for this summer (for our caravan) but have noticed that many of them say that gazebos are not permitted.
I'd second this idea. We had an extension piece (app. 1.5m off memory) on our tunnel tent that attached straight on the front. Gave us loads more room, and kept the weather off the main entrance.
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