Canvas Tent Camping

Canvas tent camping may seem like an old fashioned solution to the problem of shelter while camping, but there are actually a number of reasons why some people might want to use a canvas tent. Cotton canvas is a breathable, comfortable fabric that won’t have the same “oven” effect that nylon does, and while it’s heavy, the weight isn’t an issue if you won’t be hiking with your tent.

Canvas tents are great for people who don’t care to camp in a modern style tent, or who have a reason for wanting the look and feel of canvas. Canvas tent camping is extremely popular among historical reenactors, who want to get a truly authentic looking encampment. If you’re interested in camping in canvas, here are a few tips to help you buy the right tent for you.

First, you’re going to want to think about size. Most modern tents are relatively small, but canvas tents, especially those based on historical designs, can be positively spacious. Just remember that the bigger the tent, the more it’ll weigh and the more difficult it’ll be to set up.

Most designs require more than one person to put up, and are generally a little more difficult than your average dome tent. You’ll probably need to supply rigid poles for the majority of canvas tents, as well. You’ll find many different shapes, and tents sized anywhere from individual to family to large gathering.

The wedge tent - a traditional A frame design - has been popular for millennia due to its simplicity, ease of erection, and stability in harsh weather. Round, oval or square pavilions are popular for medieval and renaissance reenactors, and designs like the French bell are comfortable, spacious, and great for families. Prices will vary according to materials, complexity of design, and the size of the tent.

Expect to pay more for tents with fire proof or weather treated canvas. You should also remember that these kinds of treatments reduce the breathability of the canvas and can wear out over time. Some people choose raw canvas for their tents to avoid having to pay more and to avoid sacrificing many of the upsides of canvas tent camping. In most reasonably light weather, raw canvas will swell to keep water out.

You’ll have to get used to a few differences from modern tents. Canvas tents never offer a completely sealed tent. That means that plenty of nice breezes will get through, but also that you’ll need to remove the occasional insect hitchhiker from your tent. Never put your tent away wet or damp, unless you have to, and dry a wet tent as soon as you can to avoid mildewing. Canvas tent camping isn’t for everyone, but for some of us, it’s a great alternative to the usual.