Choosing your tent
Sizes, how many it sleeps, fabrics and features
Most asked
Which tent should I choose?
It depends on how many people you're sleeping, how often you'll use it and whether you want a wood burning stove inside.
Our tent finder asks a few quick questions and suggests the right one, or you can compare every design in the tent guide.
Still not sure? Send us a message and we'll help you choose.
How many people fit in each size?
As a rough guide, sleeping on mattresses or camp beds:
- 3m: 2 to 4 people
- 4m: 4 to 8 people
- 5m: 6 to 10 people
- 6m: 8 to 15 people
- 7m: 10 to 20 people
- 8m: up to 22 people
If you're adding furniture, a stove or a double bed, go up a size.
Are the tents waterproof?
Yes, every tent we sell is watertight.
- Oxford tents are waterproof but don't breathe, so you'll get some condensation.
- Canvas (polycotton and cotton) tents breathe and stay cooler, but need reproofing from time to time to stay waterproof.
What's in the bag with my tent?
Every tent comes with:
- the tent bag
- a zipped-in groundsheet
- pegs and guy ropes
- poles
- a mallet
- a small spares bag
The tent guide lists the exact contents for each design. Something missing? Let us know from your order and we'll send it.
How long does it take to pitch?
Between about 10 and 45 minutes, depending on the size and design. It's quicker with two people. Watch our pitching videos to see how it's done.
More questions
How much space do I need to pitch it?
Allow at least 2m all the way around the tent for the guy ropes. For example, a 3m tent needs a pitch about 5m across.
Which tents have the most headroom?
The Luna Bell Tent, Nova Air Dome, Tucana and the Emperor range have the most standing room. Classic bell tents have sloping walls, so headroom is mostly in the middle.
Where can I find the exact dimensions?
Each tent's size guide shows its diameter, height, door height and wall height. You'll find it on the tent's page in our manuals and size guides section, or on the product page in our shop.
What's the difference between the fabrics?
- Oxford 175gsm (Weekender): synthetic, light, waterproof and low maintenance, with a 380gsm PVC groundsheet. Not suitable for stoves.
- Polycotton Lite (200gsm): lighter canvas and a lighter groundsheet, so it's easier to carry.
- Polycotton canvas (285gsm): a breathable blend that's comfortable in warm and cool weather.
- Fire retardant cotton (320gsm): heavy, breathable canvas that's safe to use with a wood burning stove.
Our fabric guide explains each one in more detail.
What does GSM mean?
GSM stands for grams per square metre. The higher the number, the heavier and thicker the fabric.
What's the difference between Polycotton 285gsm and the 200gsm Lite?
The Lite has lighter canvas and a lighter groundsheet, so it's easier to carry. The poles and everything else are the same.