Essential criteria for choosing the right tent
A high-performance tent has a number of measurable technical features. Allow around 60 cm per person for optimum comfort, with a minimum height of 120 cm for compact models.
Resistance to the elements is measured in millimetres of water column: a minimum of 2000 mm guarantees effective protection against the rain. Carbon fibre or aeronautical aluminium hoops offer the best ratio of lightness to strength.
For hassle-free installation, look for :
- An intuitive, colour-coded assembly system
- Robust aluminium sardines
- A pre-attached double roof
- Integrated elastic tensioners
Ventilation deserves special attention: opt for models with mosquito nets and adjustable vents to avoid morning condensation.
The different models of camping tents
The dome tent is impressive for its stability in windy conditions and its speed of assembly, perfect for short weekends.
Long-stay enthusiasts prefer the tunnel tent, which maximises living space thanks to its elongated shape, but does not offer the same wind resistance.
Inflatable tents have revolutionised modern camping, with their air tubes replacing traditional poles.
The modern tipi tent combines style and practicality, with a generous height in the centre.
The Canadian tent, recognisable by its classic triangular shape, remains a safe bet for backpackers looking for robustness and simplicity.
As for the cabin tent, its vertical structure makes it possible to stand upright, ideal for families wanting a real living space.
Which tent should I choose for my child?
Would you like to install a tent for your child next to your mobile home, or your own tent? For young campers, a lightweight, compact tent is the best choice. Choose a model weighing no more than 2 kg, so that your child can carry it easily on family outings - and remain independent.
Ease of installation plays a crucial role: opt for a pop-up system or one with simple hoops that your child will quickly master. An integrated floor mat will protect against the cold and damp.
When it comes to size, choose a moderate height (around 1m20) and enough space to store your rucksack. Models with mosquito nets and optimum ventilation will guarantee a peaceful night's sleep. A small inside pocket is ideal for storing personal items.
For a successful first experience, think about themed tents: adventurer motifs or colourful designs will make camping more attractive.
The best brands of camping tents
Decathlon tents: the timeless Quechua
On the French market, Decathlon stands out with its Quechua range, renowned for innovations such as Fresh & Black technology. The brand offers tents that have been tested in extreme conditions, withstanding winds of 50 km/h. Ideal for bad weather!
Trigano tents, for large family tents
Trigano, French experts since 1935, excel in spacious family tents. Their 2025 collection focuses on durable materials and excellent ventilation, particularly with the 6-seater Ontario model.
VidaXL tents
The VidaXL brand is shaking things up with modern tents incorporating LED lighting systems and blackout fabrics. Their 2025 range stands out for its competitive prices and clever storage solutions.
There are many other brands and distributors to choose from when buying a tent for your next camping trip.
Budget: how much should you invest in a tent?
The tent market can be divided into three distinct segments. Entry-level models, priced between €50 and €150, are ideal for occasional weekends or festivals.
The intermediate range, between €200 and €400, offers robust tents suitable for longer stays. These models offer excellent value for money for families who regularly go on camping holidays.
Top-of-the-range tents start at €500 and can reach €1,200 for luxury versions. These investments are justified by their exceptional durability and resistance to extreme conditions.
How can I make my tent more comfortable?
To make your tent really comfortable - and enjoy a good night's sleep during your camping trip - there are a number of essential accessories:
A self-inflating mattress radically transforms your camping experience. Place it on top of an additional ground sheet for optimum insulation against cold and damp.
Create dedicated zones in your tent: a sleeping area with soft cushions and a rechargeable mood lamp, a storage area with adhesive hooks for hanging up your clothes.
Wall-mounted storage pockets keep your belongings organised and free up floor space. A solar-powered LED garland adds a warm, battery-saving touch.
A small portable USB fan cools the atmosphere on hot summer days. For cooler nights, a fleece blanket hanging from the walls provides extra insulation.
Why put a tarpaulin under your tent?
Protecting your tent floor starts with the right tarpaulin. This protective barrier protects the fabric from sharp stones and roots that could damage it. Choose a size slightly smaller than that of your tent to avoid water accumulation.
A permeable floor mat is the optimum solution. This option allows moisture to drain away naturally while keeping your equipment dry. The life of your tent will be considerably extended thanks to this protection against abrasion and seepage.
For maximum effectiveness, position the tarpaulin on ground that has been cleared of debris. Lightweight polyethylene models combine strength and easy transport, perfect for your outdoor adventures.
Lightweight tents: the ideal equipment for bivouacs
Ultra-light tents are revolutionising the bivouac experience, weighing between 800g and 1.5kg. These minimalist models feature a streamlined structure and high-performance materials such as silicone-coated ripstop nylon.
The new generation of lightweight 2025 tents features some remarkable innovations: carbon fibre poles, ultra-thin flysheet and an optimised ventilation system to limit morning condensation. The self-supporting models guarantee rapid installation on all types of terrain.
A major advantage is their compact size when folded, fitting into a 35x15cm bag. Tunnel tents are particularly suitable for solo hikers, while the two-seater versions offer an ideal compromise between space and lightness for duo adventures.
Family tents for a successful camping holiday
Modern family tents meet the specific needs of group holidays. A spacious central area provides space for a dining table, while separate bedrooms ensure privacy for everyone.
The optimum configuration includes two to three separate bedrooms and a central living room of at least 4m². Premium models feature panoramic windows and 2m high ceilings, creating a light and airy atmosphere.
To maximise family comfort, look for practical features such as a protective awning for shoes, storage pockets in each bedroom and ventilation for long summer nights. The 2025 versions even have areas dedicated to children's play.
What is the synonym for tent?
Camping vocabulary reveals a rich diversity of terms to designate a tent. The word "shelter" underlines its protective function, while "pavilion" evokes a more sophisticated structure, often used for large family models.
"Canvas" emphasises the main material and is still a popular term with experienced hikers. Campers also use "barnum" for event structures, "canadienne" for traditional double-sloped tents, or "tipi" for conical models.
The more colloquial term "guitoune" still holds a special place in the language of festival-goers. Glamping enthusiasts prefer to use the terms "lodge" or "yurt" to describe their luxurious accommodation in the heart of nature.