Camping is a brilliant way to unwind, reconnect with family, and reground yourself. It can sometimes feel as though life is going at 100 miles per hour. 

Between work and school, you and your family can feel like passing ships in the night. 

That’s why when you get the chance it’s important to take the time to participate in some wholesome recreational activities such as camping. Hide the Ipad and put your phone on aeroplane mode and enjoy everything nature has to offer. 

Whether you’re hiking up hills, biking scenic routes, scoping out the best country pubs, or playing swing ball outside your tent, you’re sure to feel mentally rested by the end of your trip. 

Firstly, ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free camping experience by reading our blog Camping Essentials For Your Next Trip. Already got every camping must-have but don’t think your current tent is up for the job? Check out these 4-man tents you’ll want to add straight to your shopping basket. 

A tent should be both sturdy and reliable. We have an extensive range of tents designed and manufactured by high-quality brands that are leaders in the outdoor industry. 

All our tents cater to various needs and preferences. Whilst this blog specifically focuses on 4-man tents we do also stock 1, 2, and 3-man tents for lightweight backpacking, solo adventures, or those looking for a durable expedition tent to share with friends. 

Our tents feature waterproof material, they’re easy to set up and have excellent ventilation to reduce condensation and make for a pleasant and comfortable sleeping environment. 

Inside of green tent

Sierra Designs Meteor 3000 4-Person Backpacking Tent

Looking for a great tent with an even greater price tag? Then check out the Sierra Designs Meteor 3000. This tent has masses of storage room which is perfect for families with younger children or for week-long camping trips. 

Featuring a 3000mm 68D Poly taffeta flysheet with a 70:30 solid fabric/ mesh inner ideal for good old British weather. The two porches are great for storing muddy boots and wet clothing between backpacking.  

The colour-coded poles help to create a quick set up meaning your family can start enjoying themselves in no time. The star-gazing rollback flysheet is maybe the reason the tent gets its meteor name. Allowing you to sit back and look up at the stars. 

The burrito-style storage bag makes storing your tent easy and convenient. You can carry it in your backpack, perfect for those looking to pack light. With six hanging loops to hang lamps or string up a drying line if you’re taking a longer trip.  

Whilst we’ve spoken about camping in terms of heading away from the hustle and bustle of life with your children; we understand that family is subjective. You can use these 4-man tents for trips with friends, who are in a lot of cases our chosen family. 

Also, you may wish to buy a 4-man tent for 2-3 people and use the extra space for relaxing or storing your camping equipment. This may be especially useful during colder seasons where you may have wet clothes and boots. 

Sierra Design Meteor 4 person tent

The things you need to take into consideration when buying a tent are: 

Size & Capacity:

Take into consideration what size tent you’ll need. How many people will be sleeping in the tent and how much room do you need for your personal belongings? We also recommend taking into consideration the tent's peak height if standing space is something you require. 

Durability and Weather Resistance:

If you’re a seasoned camper who doesn’t let the weather put you off you’ll want to ensure your tent can withstand changing weather conditions. Look for high-quality materials such as polyester or ripstop nylon as these are extremely strong and resistant to tears. Additionally, check waterproof ratings and ensure it has a sturdy rainfly to keep you dry.

Easy to Set Up:

Everyone wants a stress-free start to their holiday, especially if you’ve got children with you. Look for a tent that has straightforward instructions and colour-coded poles, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors.

Ventilation and Comfort:

Keeping your tent ventilated is paramount to a comfortable camping experience. Make sure your tent has mesh panels to promote airflow, this will help to minimise the amount of condensation. It can also prevent stuffiness and help to regulate the temperature inside the tent.

Storage and Organization:

Being organised can make life easier, especially when camping with lots of gear. Tents with porches, storage pockets, and hanging loops all make it easier to efficiently organise individuals belongings.

Portability and Weight:

If you’re moving between camps on a hiking holiday and may be carrying your tent for long distances you should consider its weight and portability. Larger family tents tend to be heavier, so it's essential to strike a balance between size and ease of transportation. Look for tents that come with a carry bag and are lightweight without compromising on durability and space.

Price and Budget:

Tents come at varying price points to suit different budgets. At Valley & Peak, we always keep our prices fair. When working out your ‘tent budget’ take into account how often you plan on camping and the expected lifespan of your prospective tent. Whilst it may be tempting to go for the cheapest tent you can find, it’s better to invest in a tent that’s been designed with longevity and reliability in mind as this will save you money in the long run. 

For more information on picking the tent that’s right for you and your family don’t hesitate to get in touch with a friendly member of our team who has over 40 years of experience working in the outdoor industry at support@valleyandpeak.co.uk

If you leave your name and number as well as a time that is convenient for you we will get back in touch with you as soon as possible, even if it’s out of business hours. Our customers come first. Happy camping!

Why not check out our other expert written blogs to become a master of the outdoors

July 18, 2023 — Jim De'Ath