Whether you go backpacking to view scenery that cannot be viewed from your car window, to get fit, or even just to be one with nature, you'll find that it is a very fun experience. Because people have been backpacking for so long, the world is just full of already formed hiking trials for you to navigate.

I've been backpacking many times and have trekked for miles and miles throughout my life. Although I have a number of useful backpacking items, I think it is safe to say that a backpacker is nothing without his or her backpacking tents. Even the best hikers will not do well without a good night's sleep at the end of each day. A few poor nights of sleep can quickly end a long hiking trip.

I wrote this article to discuss some of the main criteria for picking out a solid backpacking tent. When you have finished this article you should be able to look through a number of backpacking tents and choose the one that is the best for you.

Finding a tent that is big enough to fit both you and your hiking gear should be one of the first things on your mind. Sleeping in a tent that is not large enough for you to fully extend yourself in is not recommended. Trust me, I have slept in tents where I needed to curl up in the fetal position to sleep and I did not rest very well. Also, all of your gear must be inside the tent or you risk it being ruined by the elements, ruined by animals, or even stolen.

Next, you'll want to make sure that the tent can withstand all of the elements. The tent must always be waterproof, but it should also be highly wind resistant and well suited for the climate you will be staying in. For instance, cold climates will require a tent that can help shield you against the cold weather.

After this, you will want to make sure your tent is light weight and easy to set up. Backpacking tents cannot be considered backpacking tents if you cannot easily carry them with you. The weight of the tent should be light enough that you can hike with it and the size should be small enough that it fits in your pack. The size and weight you will be able will depend on your hiking skills, the severity of the trails you will be hiking on, and the strength of your back and legs.

When you come to the end of your hiking day you will be a lot happier if your tent can quickly and easily be set up. You'll want something that you can put up in about five to ten minutes. Make sure you do not lose your ability to stand up against the wind when you opt for a tent that is easy to construct.