Everything You Need to Know About Tents - 2 3 3+ 4 Season - What Works and What to Stay Away From

[@vinnyfaxx9267]

Northeast US here.. Bought a Snugpak Scorpion 3 and has been a great investment. True 4 season beast, got it for around $280 delivered. Even at the current $330/340, it's an absolute steal for the amount of tent you get. Luke has had it out in 2 feet of snow, referred to it as a "hoss" and you frequently see the word "bombproof" used by others. I left it up for almost 2 weeks in rain, sleet, snow, freezing rain and high winds and EVERY time I checked... bone dry. Sheds rain/wind better than anything else I've seen. Especially wind, which is the real killer insofar as shredding lesser tents. The one knock on it is at the top, where people theorize too much heavy snow might collect. In practice, I have yet to find any amount of snow that'll collapse it. Sag a little? Sure. But there's an easy solution - knock some snow off with a tap every few hours. You have to do that with ALL tents BTW, as it's just good housekeeping so to speak. Did I mention how good it is in high winds? Feels like you're inside a tank. Hilenberg? By all accounts, they seem to be great tents. But at 3 to 4x the cost and a 1 year wait, it's hard for me to justify. The material, stitching etc looks to be the absolute best. But I wonder after watching so many videos... how much of its strength comes from the numerous guy lines? It looks to be no small amount. The Scorpion 3 is free standing, and looks to shed wind better when compared head to head where NO guy lines are used. I'm saving for a Hillenberg... but can afford to wait a LONG time. This Snugpak kit is really dynamite. I fear no weather, which in the Northeast US is really saying something. Finally, always carry a tarp. At least 1! They'll make any tent even stronger, can change the color of your tent to whatever you'd like or make dynamite shelters by themselves. Thanks to Luke for all that he does, couldn't have made my decision without you, and very happy with my purchase...

[@1968Greybill]

Luke, you ROCK. 100% trust. I’ve used your recommendations so many times. Big thank you. Hey to the missus!

[@mikeniemi]

I can always count on you and Susie for clear, unbiased information videos and as a bonus, they are also entertaining. Perfect combination.

[@pedroclaro7822]

Susie’s the wife?

[@Berniewojewski]

Love this guy’s honesty. NO BS! That’s what keeps me coming back. Thanks Luke.

[@wyomingadventures]

Best explanation of types of tents I've ever heard. I have a Eureka Expedition 3 person tent from the middle 90s. Still using my tent because it's in excellent condition still. Take care of your tent and it will last for awhile. I wish Eureka still made that tent. I've had many tents. I do lots of backpacking and climbing. My Eureka 4 season was over 400. It has aircraft aluminum tent poles. Mesh pole sleeves. Before pre clip on tent poles. My rain fly has little roof extension over the doors. Inner tent has mesh only 1/3 down the top. I haven't found another tent like it yet. Anyone remember the Zeus? Single wall tent. It's a very hot tent in the summer even at 12,000 ft. His guy is correct about tents do's and don'ts. I can use my Eureka Expedition here because I live in the mountains. If I camp lower elevations it's a no go. Pick your tent wisely. Or tents. Nothing worse than having a crappy tent. Happy camping! This guy knows tents.👍

[@WardenWolf]

Certain types of 3-season tents are better able to be used in winter than others. The single biggest factors are wind and snow loading. A tipi / teepee tent is the best candidate for an all-season tent because its steep-sided design effectively makes it immune to snow loads and it doesn't catch wind. They do make all-season tipi tents where the fabric unzips to uncover mesh areas, but they are extremely expensive (in the $600 range). In a pinch, though, a 3-season tipi with a heater can function in the 4th season.

[@stevec3872]

I van camp and everybody seems to make their van inside be like a little room or mini house, but my minivan is really a sleeping pod and for winter & warmth I decided to make the inside a freestanding tent after first considering a winter tent for the inside. I used 3 half inch 10' pvc poles bending them in the back, front behind the seats & in the middle. I then use a 10x8' silver & black tarp using the 10' for the sides, the 8' back to front. With the silver side down, the black side hangs low enough to block the windows & doors providing privacy. The poles are flexible enough to bend against the roof as needed to keep it snug. I then used a 5x7 emergency blanket tarp and put that underneath the first tarp to reflect the heat back to me (your body is a furnace). I tried it just yesterday when the night temp got below freezing and I was perfectly comfortable. So I was happy with my winter van tent/sleeping pod made better by the fact that I don't need to deal with wind or snow weight. I prefer not to use any internal burning heat so as not to worry about C02, but I have a good solar battery that will power a heating pad for 8+ hours, staying on for 2 hours at a time before it shuts off. This would keep my body core or whatever part needed comfortably warm. If worse comes to worst and it's super cold here in Wisconsin I do have a Trangia alcohol heater and with the windows cracked it will raise the inside temp 15 degrees in 10-15 minutes.

[@christopherwilson1878]

I have a Eureka tent I bought nearly 15 years ago and it is still going strong. It is a big 4 man tent used for car and canoe trips. It has nylon walls and a separate fly. It has large zip down windows and the airflow is great for my family. Sleeping inside. The bathtub bottom is really good in the rain And tall enough I can stand fully upright in it. The tent seems to be in a different class of tents that you don’t see today.

[@beckyraskin8928]

I ALWAYS read the one-star reviews on amazon. They are soooo helpful. When people are angry/pissed off they are often FULL of great info!!!

[@yihan3114]

most educated video about tent. Just had a broken tent in a wind storm with a three season tent. An RV saved me for the night. Now Ive learned so much about tent by this video

[@aaronpohl9817]

I would suggest a different approach on the 4 categories: 2-season means lightweight tents that withstand everything you could expect from late spring to early summer except full summer storms and alpine environments. 3-season would then be the whole package of weather without really heavy winds (20mph+) and snow, because snow can be driven up into vents. Here 3+ season come in handy as you can close the vents fully and have the full fabric for insulation. 4-season tents are those designed to withstand heavier winds and snow loads (double pole configuration) and often come with snow flaps. For examples there are MSR Hubba, BA copper spur and hilleberg yellow label tents those I would consider classic 2-season tents. As for 3-season tents go MSR Elixir/Tindheim and Nordisk LW-Series, 3+ would be hillebergs red label series and Helsports Lofoten range. Proper 4-season tents could be hillebergs black label, helsports extreme series or north face mountain 25. Sorry for the examples being a little centred on the European market. I know that my system is somewhat conservative, but I would say with differing climates it’s better to know that one is stretching a tents capabilities then to have the tent collaps unexpectedly. There are some design details that help to distinguish too. I developed this system to navigate all the different information different manufacturers provide, because except for hilleberg no manufacturer provides all of the following data, but some of it can be found at any serious info sheet. A 2-season tent has no more then 8kg (15den silnylon) of tear strength in the material and a maximum of 8mm poles. It can be all designs but popular are domes with no intersecting poles like the hubba/copper spur design. Lower ventilation is usually achieved by a fly that does not reach the ground and upper ventilation is optional, the inner tent is mainly constructed in mesh. They usually weigh around 2kg/4lbs. 3-season tents feature tear strength of about 12kg (or 30den silnylon), 9mm poles and for 3+ seasons vents can be closed. They will often feature a combination of mesh and fabric inner. Designs are usually tunnels or sometimes real geodesic designs with at least two intersecting poles. The fly sheet in 3+ season tents closes off completely on the ground but can be opened at certain points to allow for ventilation, upper ventilation hoops are standard. They weigh in between 2-3kg/4-6lbs. 4-season tents have a tear strength of 12+kg (30+den silnylon) and 10mm poles. All meshes can be sealed with fabric and there are often snow flaps on the fly sheet. There are additional guy lines wich can be wrapped around the poles and lower vents that are above the expected snow line. Designs are the same as in 3-season tents with the more stable but heavier geodesic designs or lighter tunnel designs. They usually weigh more than 3kg/6lbs. As with PU-coated fabrics there is usually no tear strength stated. For assessing the fabrics one could take the water column into account: below 3000mm would be 2-season and more than 3000mm accordingly 3-4-season tents. I would not trust PU-coated polyester in a expedition tent as to the lower tear strength of those fabrics but there is plenty of them out there. Probably because they get thrown away after one season anyways. I hope this adds to this nicely done video!

[@aaronpohl9817]

Ah one more thing about water column: As with PU coating the water column decreases heavily due to uv-rays and abrasion. That’s why the water column is an indicator for fabric-quality. The higher the column, the longer it will last, to keep you dry 800mm would suffice in a tent (not a jacket where you’d need at least 10.000mm).

[@robertalonzo5725]

81k views not a single thumbs down! That tells you what you need to know about the quality of info on this channel! Outstanding as usual!!

[@SindyJ37]

I appreciate how you give real reviews on products and don't succumb to sponsors. Thank you Luke and Susie for what you do

[@AnthonyJackman]

Huge Thumbs Up! Please keep teaching these types of video trainings.

[@lindapotter5750]

Luke, I live in Iredell Co. I'm elderly and putting together an emergency bag that as recommended, is a wheeled cargo bag rather than back packs which my old body can't handle. The tent I had was a tube tent until I saw it demoed. I'm claustrophobic to the tens!! Not even gonna open it... I bought another tent that only has to last a few days, but, is a double walled 3 season type. Has 4 windows and a vent. Got it from A.....! I learned a long time ago to do my own research. I've been lately trying to tell people the difference between freeze dried food and dehydrated food. Think you might do a study on that sometime?

[@mountain_man_darren]

Never felt compelled to leave a comment before so this is my first one having watched KZbin for years! Literally answered All by nagging questions whilst looking for tents for all seasons in the UK Mountains. Awesome content! Thank you

[@marisvanderaa4423]

Hi Luke , there is a mesh inner avaliable for your Hilleberg Nammath 2 tent. This makes your tent an all year round tent. I have one also and it is amazing. The mesh inner can be used in place of the standard inner tent: simply disconnect the standard inner tent and button in the appropriate Mesh Inner Tent. While this greatly increases ventilation, the mesh inner tents weigh about the same as the corresponding standard inner tents, so there is not a significant weight savings. Used alone, The mesh inner is a simple, highly versatile option for use in dry, warm conditions. Its full mesh walls provide not only maximum airiness and protection from flying and crawling insects, but also 360° views. When used in combination with a Tarp, the mesh inner retains all of its venting and viewing advantages while the Tarp provides protection from rain or shade from the sun. It's just amazing. Bye.....and Greeting from the Netherlands 🇳🇱

[@thewestonfront]

Greatly enjoyed, but it is worth bearing in mind that in Northern Europe our summers rarely get warm enough to need an all mesh inner and the features which you define as 3+ season are normal in European made good quality 3 season tents.

[@Jari_Leandertaler]

The Hilleberg Akto is for me almost the perfect tent. I used it on my trip on 48 day hiking in France. I did the GR34 and GR223 and man what a beautifull area but so much rain... This tent did the trick for me and still is. And I chose this because of some online reviews so great job your doing with informing people! I also like your honesty that is something what makes your video's unique!

[@azclaimjumper]

My "perfect" tent is the Hilleberg Enan.

[@Jari_Leandertaler]

@@azclaimjumper Yes also a great tent! Much better for really warm periods! And lighter

[@horstpeter125]

Since i was able to afford, i love my akto.

[@azclaimjumper]

I vacillated between the Akto & the Enan, finally decided, bought & have used the Enan which has exceeded all my expectations.

[@azclaimjumper]

@@Jari_Leandertaler I've added 2 additional guyout lines at the head & foot of my tent. Hilleberg has the attachments points sewn into the outer body, I merely needed to add the guyout line using an Anchor knot to attach to the tent & a tautline hitch to adjust tensions. The supplementary guyout lines are all staked out to ONE stake. YES, I normally add big rocks on top of all stakes that I've pounded into the ground. I don't want to have to crawl out of my sleeping bag in the middle of the night because tent stakes pulled out of the ground when there are strong gusty winds. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.

[@sixtydegreesadventures699]

Greetings from Norway. Great information indeed. Your comment on outside poles in the winter is on point. One design point is often missed is that some 3-4 season tents has double doors, one layer of mesh and one layer of solid material connected with a zipper. This solution offers the possibility to vent using mesh only, or close up the solid material if it's windy or getting colder outside. The weather up here, even in the summer, can be a challenge. So a good tent is a must. We even have people up here claiming that parts of Scandinavia has a 5th season.

[@jesper509]

Ovan trädgränsen eller under trädgränsen, vintertid?

[@willek1335]

My first tent in Norway will be a Hilleberg, and that has caused my wallet to become ultralight. Win win.

[@tomporrata4359]

I sleep cold and found a tent called sunbacker from the early 2000's that has the double door as you mention and it works better than my N.F. rock 22 tent in the cold weather.

[@NavigatingwithNafe]

Great video Luke! This video reveals one of the many reasons why I stick with hammock camping. Can never go wrong with a bug net hammock & a good tarp. Everything can fit much easier in to a backpack, depending, as you already know. Love your videos brother! Be safe, God bless, strength & honor!! 👍

[@khanara6]

I did consider this but, then you are limited to camping in specific areas i. E where there are trees

[@funsingleguy]

Thank you for clearing up all the information about these different tents. I'm sure you've saved a lot of people both in their safety and how they shop for tents now.

[@chiqui1006]

I feel so blessed finding this channel. The reviews are amazing and I learn each day. At night either I go watching netflix or their adventure videos. For a country who has been in lockdown for 2yrs this channel gives me hope someday I'd be able to go out and hike just like Luke and Susan. KUDOS.

[@sassyvelvetvixen6645]

2 yrs? Holy Cats Batman! Prayers for you & yours. I hope you at least have a backyard/green space you can go to. I would be looney by now.

[@ItsMe-ex2vu]

This guy rules! The amount of information you get from him in just a few minutes is incredible.

[@markfloyd9434]

I am 62 yrs. Old an camped an hiked into Red River Gorge Ky. And other Parks a Forest areas in good and bad weather.I always buy Coleman tents and had no problems.I really like 4 Season Canvas tent that you can use wood burning stoves from Cabelas Mark Floyd From My.I love Hunting ,Fishing, Camping and being out doors period.B Safe

[@jrkent2]

I recently purchased my first tent. I decided to go for a budget tent as the naturehike mongar II. I live in Central America, I have used it over 10 times so far in very humid and rainy environments and it has worked so well. Most of the gear I have purchased so far, I've done it after watching your reviews and advise. I thank you very much for the info you share. Saludos!!

[@mysterylovescompany2657]

I am obsessed with that tent. Got the purple one. 💜💜💜

[@jrkent2]

@@mysterylovescompany2657 Excellent. You've got the exact same tent they reviewed!! Hope you're having great experiences in the outdoors with your tent!!

[@mysterylovescompany2657]

@@jrkent2 unfortch, my City only just got out of a 2 month lockdown, & it was Winter before that (in the coldest capital City in Australia, where we're in a sub-alpine valley), but I am definitely hoping to in what remains of Spring & this Summer! 😁 Wishing safety & health, to you & yours.

[@Gwockamoli]

I love my Snugpak Scorpion 3 for my wife and I. Great value! Works really well for colder falls/light winters/ colder springs. Our Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL3 works great for hot summers/ warmer falls and springs.

[@m.k.7199]

I own several tents and have used them all year long. There is really only two season tents (Winter and the rest of the year). The summer tents are worthless. The only single walled tent I have used is a Gore-Tex bivy tent. Anything else will condensate, even the Gore-Tex will condensate if the conditions are right. I have owned several really good winter tents. The best were the NorthFace VE25, which I used for over 20 years, and the second, is the NorthFace Mountain 25. Both tents are double walled. The VE25 was geodesic and held up to really high winds and snow loads. It has been the mainstay on Everest for years. But the Mountain 25 is a far better two person tent. It stands up to the heavy winds and snow loads, but what makes it so much better is the ventilation. Ventilation = low to no condensation. Hildeberg is the current fad tent, while everyone sings it's praises on the Internet, condensation is a problem. So much so, people like Randy Newberg, who lives in his tent on every hunt, sleeps in a bivy bag inside his tent. While the bivy bag is often used by hunters, hikers, and back country skiers to extend the range on their bags, he specifically uses it due to condensation. (He explains this in one of his videos). So today, I use either a Snugpak Ionosphere as my 3-season tent (or a tarp in the summer), and my NorthFace Mountain 25. There are a lot of other good tents out there, but these are what I use.

[@KaiExploresLife]

I’m so glad to have stumbled upon this channel. I’m on the path to becoming a backpacker and hiker and I don’t want to waste anymore money on products that are not helpful. Thank you for your expertise. I’m about to binge watch some of your videos before I create my wish list.

[@jaredstewmelt]

Thanks to this channel, I bought the windbreaker module for my Litefighter 1 and I could not be happier with it. I've had it out in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon for the past few weeks in rain, light snow, and wind. Apart from a small amount of condensation on the very TOP of the tent body (that I just wipe away every morning with a small towel), it has been virtually identical to my 4 season tent experiences.

[@xnbomb]

Great video, Luke. I think the generalizations you make are basically right for the vast majority of what is on the market today. I do find it interesting to think about some things that existed in historical pole-tensioned fabric tents (from, say the 80s through the turn of the century): You used to get 3-season tents that had a much stronger pole structure, because pretty much all (high quality) tents were using geodesic pole structures with lots of crossing poles and formed triangles. This meant that there were 3-season tents that could handle serious forces (wind etc.). The other thing you used to see was fabric-bodied tents that had **lots** of mesh windows (not just on the doors)) that could be opened or shut so the potential ventilation of the tent body could be varied for hotter or colder conditions. That made for tents that were more versatile in terms of temperature range ... but of course this required more materials, more sewing and more weight, so there is a trade-off. (Alright, I guess I miss companies like Moss and Walrus. Yes, a lot of their later innovations are in current MSR models, but the current stuff doesn't hold a candle to those companies best work in their best years, IMHO).

[@xnbomb]

Oh, here's a video suggestion: polyurethane vs. silnylon waterproofing for tent flies (or both?!)

[@gwmgbwi]

I camped through three horrendously bad rain, lightning and wind storms and a Ozark trail teepee tent with zero problems. During the fourth storm it started to leak badly but the first three were crazy hard storms and the tent didn’t flinch. Was very much in the middle of the woods too.

[@peaceforall7413]

Love my instant 8 person cabin tent ! Held Up nicely under storm too ! 🏕️🏞️

[@franny5295]

I bought a 2 man ayamaya 4 season tent for winter outages to make a micro enviornment in my home and it works great for that. It wasn't expensive and it was on Amazon. I will keep what you said in mind though.

[@freecitizen7372]

I have owned and used 3+ and 4 season tents for winter backpacking. They all seem to be condensation monsters. I currently use a Kelly Salida 2 tent for winter backpacking. This tent is near perfect. The Kelly Salida 2 has sufficient ventilation to vent off condensation while retaining heat. The tent is a bit on the heavy side at over 4+ pounds.

[@barrybaldwin5535]

I'm 71 now, but in my younger life, I lucked out by purchasing only Moss Tents of Camden Maine, considered the "Cadillac" of tents, before the husband & wife divorced. My 4 season was the "Olympic", my 3 season is the "Stargazer", my 3 season family tent is the "Encore" & I purchased the 19' "Parawing" as a shelter for any of the others. I had, & still have it covered. I've camped in every month of the year here in rural Western Mass & all over New England. I've even pitched the Olympic on the ice & ice fished for multiple days by hand drilling stake holes in the ice & freezing the stakes in place. I woke up one morning with 1/4" of ice all over the fly, that I had to bang off from the inside before I could unzip. Unfortunately the quality level went down a bit after the couple split. My tents are still standing strong after 40 plus years. Thanks for the tutorial on the different design designations & limitations.

[@pistonbroke6424]

90%of my gear now is based on you're reviews. Keep it up luke and suzie love the channel from 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@lakorai2]

Summer tent: Durston Xmid 2p Fall/spring tent: Marmot Fortress UL 3p Winter Tent: Eddie Bauer Katabaic 3p

[@66pac57]

I have a 30 year old Wild Country Hyperspace and it is a tent for all seasons it has survived 100 mile an hour winds camping in Scotland in winter and also is cool in summer owing to the dual doors front and rear with a choice of using the mesh or material or both on the inner tent doors. One new year in Glencoe the only tents left standing on the campsite in the morning were Wild Country (now Terra Nova) and North Face they are expensive but you do get the quality you paid for.

[@BirdSpotter43]

Really greatful for this channel. I bought the Lynx Mountaineer 1 man tent long before you reviewed it and I used it in summer. Almost gave up camping because of how miserable it was. I use it more for fall/early winter now.

[@doms.6701]

Great video as always. Wanted to share what I've been able to test for those wondering what kinda difference they make. You'll understand if you read further but I didn't take temps in the summer. I'm sure my 4 season was warmer than I feel it was compared to my 3 season. I have an Alps Mountaineering 3 season and 4 season tent, both 3 person. I tested them out in the summer and winter. Both are double wall. 7lbs for the 3 season and 10lbs for the 4 season. The 4 was just as warm as the 3 in the summer, the winter not so much. The 4 was obviously warmer in the winter but the added snow made it that much warmer than the 3 season. Both have great ventilation and when setup correctly, condensation is not a worry. In the winter I tested for 4 days. 1 day was 20-25f without snow, 2 days were 15-20f with snowfall, last day was 25-30f without snowfall but a good 3-5 inches on the ground. The coldest nights it was 13f and inside the 3s was 18f, 4s was 22f (no one inside). When I went in and changed, relaxed, etc (basically tested a night getting ready for bed, moving around and such, I did eventually sleep in both). After I spent 20-30 minutes the 3s was 22f, 4s was 28. The snow changed everything. The 4s (after being in it) was a whopping 33f. 20 degrees warmer than the outside temp. My wife slept with me one night and the temp was around 39f Anyone who has done a winter trip knows how big of a difference that makes. I didn't wake up shivering and I wasn't dreading getting out of my bag to make food. One luxury item is a small fleece blanket that is use on the tent floor so I'm not touching cold plastic first thing in the morning. With a mid November trip planned, I'll be taking my 4 season but will probably buy a new one that is 1 or 2 person. MSR has a great 3 season that I would recommend for the winter that will stand up to the snow. I don't own but have tried it with a buddy and it took the test like a champ. But MSR tends to side with caution. When they post a sleeping bag, they show how they determined their temp and give more details than other companies. You will pay for MSR though but it's gonna be my next tent.

[@richkostner3381]

Which MSR tent are you talking about? I'd like to check it out.

[@OldPackMule]

Excellent advice. One (very expensive ) category not covered single wall is the Dynema tents, typically 3 season. They are the staple among thru-hikers because they are so light. Companies like Tarptent, Zpacks, even Big Agnes now.

[@alexander565]

To be honest. I prefer a tarp or army poncho in a lean-to setup. Above a tent in any weather condition. With a army sleeping pad, army bivi bag and the dutch bulky heavy m90 sleepingbag, or the sprayway challenger once i let the zipper getting fixed.

[@rockykoast7065]

A long time ago I bought a Vango 'force ten' one person/2 at a pinch tent for cycle camping in France. It ended up being my home for most of the year. proofed synthetic outer, cotton or polycotton inner. It was quite hot in summer, extremely waterproof and one day, when the Tramontane was blowing really hard & at least 95% of the other tents got flattened or blown away, my tent didn't budge. I liked you could put up the flysheet first & hook the inner tent up under it; handy if you have to put up or take down the tent in the rain. Eventually the inner tent got mildewed and rotted due to condensation/ constant use..I still think cotton tents are good... waterproof yet breathable, but they are heavyweight! My first tent was an Itisa all-cotton tent with sewn in 'tuftex' groundsheet; very modern at the time.... Excellent 'all-season' tent; it was used in subzero conditions but never heavy snow..weighed in at 13 1bs I think. I used to go backpacking with it! It was very waterproof, well- suited to camping in UK! I understand technology has enabled tents to be lighter & still waterproof when properly made & treated, but they aren't as durable as a well-kept cotton tent (they need to be dried out!). I did/studied outdoor activities at college - we used stabdard Vango 2 person tents - weight more bearable split between 2 people. Excellent tents but heavy by current standards..Later got a lighter Vango dome tent of proofed synthetic material outer. Waterproof when new, the waterproofing wears out.. One other tent I owned was a 'Lichfield'- family-sized ridge tent with a good space in the front...but only suitable for summer camping really....not very waterproof in heavy rain & would blow about a lot in windy conditions ( frequent trips out in the night to peg it down!). I'm now musing what I can put on my dinghy for overnighting. (I'm now 67 & have Waldenstroms with an associated neuropathy but getting stronger with chemo. Still enjoy camping..)

[@danielkutcher5704]

Thanks for busting (or explaining) the four season myth. My Hilleberg Akto is good for winter and late fall/early spring camping only. It has very limited ventilation. It's light and strong, but sacrifices some durability and flexibility of use as it needs to be staked down, though ALL tents need to be staked down in wind and snow, or they will blow down or apart. The single pole makes the tent susceptible to snow loading. The snow builds up on the broad top and must be knocked off in a heavy, wet snowstorm. It's awesome in heavy winds, as long as they are not broadside - especially if coming from the vestibule side, where the high fly vent is. It's an excellent solo tent that uses the best available materials and is engineered to provide the most solo shelter for the least weight. The silnylon fly absorbs water, like all silnylon with moderate use, and the tent gains weight during a heavy rain. Fwiw, polyester fabric holds up under prolonged sun exposure than nylon, but, initially, identical rainflys, one made from nylon, the other from polyester, the nylon one will be stronger. Nylon, silicone treated or not, will absorb more water than the same weight/sq. yd. polyester fabric with the same waterproof treatment. Thanks, Luke. You could do a four hour video and still not cover EVERY aspect of which shelter to use. It's possible to use a tarp and bivy under certain conditions, too, but it isn't for the casual weekender who expects to be comfortable in a wide variety of conditions. Oh, there's so much! 👍👊

[@CreatorInTrng]

Brilliant! Thanks. Of course, you can't mention all of the tents you've tested, but you gave a good overview and valuable hints on what to look for. As you mentioned, one of the most important criteria - what are going to use the tent for? For example, years ago we bought a nice Sierra Designs (SD) backpacking tent for camping in California. We did not camp in Winter the mountains - mostly seasonal backpacking. Worked great for us. We invested in sleeping bags, etc. to accommodate the fringes of those seasons. However, when we moved to Europe 'seasonal' camping is more limited. Our beloved SD was no match. And since most of the camping in Europe is 'car-camping', not back country backpacking we could splurge on the weight and get something that was more well-rounded. We still use the SD for top Summer camping. We love looking up at night and seeing the stars through full mesh top.

[@TheJhashman]

Very informative, thanks for your video 👍 problem is I live in Scotland and climb Munro’s where you’re likely to encounter 4 seasons in one day haha

[@HillbillySnake]

Good info, I’ve camped in a hammock during all four seasons(in the VA Appalachians), just by changing my underquilt and topquilt. I use the same hammock and tarp year round. After watching this video I believe I’ll stick with my hammock, tents apparently aren’t good for all season use without owning multiple.

[@chrismoore600]

Outstanding job Luke that is the best review of tent type's that I have ever see. Here in the the North Carolina sandhills 3 season is the standard mild winter little snow high humidity.

[@loudowning3393]

The tent gospel according to Luke Everyone rags on Stansport but I got an A frame/pup tent at Army/navy surplus for $15-$20 35 years ago. I spent some time seam sealing inside and DWR/ silicone on outside. I guess I got a one in a million tent because despite the sides needing to be guyedout in stuff 30-40 mph winds it's been waterproof at 3lbs weight. I've been in the Uintah Mountains as well as the Winds in Wyoming with it in rain, heavy snow and buffeting winds and it's still very tight. But during the pandemic summer of 2020 spent several months comparing many many tents and waited patiently for clearance on Amazon and one cheap tent I got was a Naturehike Cloudup2 for $79. The color was/is gold , weighs 4lbs with nice footprint and has many tie off points. I didn't really need it but saw it's high waterproof mm and went for it. It better be waterproof or I'll ne ragging on Naturehike.

[@Mtlk77]

Would you consider a video on how to use guy lines appropriately for high winds? Either with a tent or tarp? The recent review of the tent with no high guy out points got me thinking.

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

Yep good point mate, I'd add guy adjustments and peg type too. Cheers Duke.

[@IgnacioGlezCllo]

agree. I've always wondered about long/wide guy lines vs shot/close to tent....

[@sveinottoaar2543]

@@IgnacioGlezCllo Long ones gives a bigger angle , which is preferable. You can use extra guy lines to strenghten your tent in strong wind.

[@corbelius6]

I use the Snugpak Scorpion 2. I simply love it. I've used it down to freezing teperatures.

[@mightymikeymic4607]

awhile back i posted a message asking your opinion on tents for my 2300 mile hike and you answered it thank you

[@MyTinyBalcony]

I live in Australia. I typically don't go to the snow, so I absolutely don't need a 4 season tent. I have 4 tents. A Canvas Camp Sibley 400 with fly and groundsheet for car camping in winter, a Nemo Hornet 2P, a Luxe Hexpeak, and a Snugpak stratosphere. All have very different purposes. I am taking the Luxe Hexpeak moto-camping with me in February.

[@ScottOwens28]

Hands down the best tent information video I've seen. Thanks Luke. Being that the "Seasons" issue is so misunderstood and then compounded by false claims and cheap craftsmanship, I would love for you to take another dive into this realm with maybe giving examples or truly reputable tent brands and example tents from each. This would be helpful to steer clear if so many trash products. Thanks again Luke! "Wolf Out!" 🐺

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Check out Luke's 'Test Night' tent videos and you will find some examples that warrant a purchase for a range of purposes. I AGREE that the subject of which tent for which season(s) has eluded me over the years. Managing condensation and airflow, even on tents that had decent amounts of mesh, was often a problem.

[@azclaimjumper]

In several videos Luke has said Hilleberg tents are the best of the best, of the best.

[@susiehamm216]

This was an OUTSTANDING REVIEW!! So...many things to look at when buying at tent that I had no idea about! Thank you for your time and work you put into doing this review!! GREAT JOB!! Hey my girl Susie!!🥰

[@desmondsky5985]

Like the principle you showed and mostly advocate for. "Teaching people how to fish more than just giving them the fishes" To know what to look for while also giving recommendations so people with not much budget can look into unbranded and branded tents and know what to look for

[@jhuff8596]

Hey Luke you should do a "Tents that will Kill you!" Video for Halloween! Cheers Luke!

[@marcogenovesi8570]

Stansport tents

[@azclaimjumper]

Good idea.

[@mixmediaproductions]

Tents that will kill you are ones where you set one on fire.

[@DarkMetaOFFICIAL]

That should be a category on Amazon 😂

[@lioneljonson161]

That would be an intents video

[@hosoutdoorpursuits3019]

After camping in the UK for five years now, I've realised that tents designed for camping in the states aren't always appropriate for the weather and terrain over here. Well explained video!

[@Ahex75]

True. In US they use mostly tents which are pitched inner tent firs and then outer shell. Inter tent is mostly mesh tent. Here in EU + UK Inner and outer tents are pitched simultaneously (if inner tent is already attached to outer tent) or outer first and then inner tent . Maybe it doesn't rain in the US. It seems that EURO-style tents are used on most expeditions here. There has been some cases where explorers have had problems with inner tent first style tents. Three Finns tried to ski thru Greenland 1997 and in strong wind (Pideraq-wind) caused problems and eventually two of them died. It is also quite common that expeditions use tunnel tents poles inserted. Poles are cut in the middle and tent package is rolled and put on the top of sled/pulka.

[@WhiskeyThree]

Please start reviewing large capable family tents! I'm married with 2 little kids and they aren't interested in little tents. We won't be doing backpacking trips, so it's nothing but car camping for me for a while. My problem is finding a large family tent with all the creeature comforts while still being durable and water proof. I picked up the watergate 8 and canopy by Kampa this year. Used it twice, so far so good. Set up is a bit rough, but it works well.

[@backpacker2417]

I could not even imagine trying to use my 4 "season" tent any time other than the winter. Very little ventilation, bulky, and extremely heavy. I have never even used it when I was not pulling a pulk. I have the North Face Mountain 25 expedition tent. It might be limited to winter but you love in when it is windy or having a heavy snow event. I do have a one season tent but have only used it on one trip. Have to carry a tarp when you use it when it rains so you might as well bring a 2-3 season. Love your reviews.

[@putrescentcadaver]

The only tent I currently have is a ZPACK Duplex, a backpacking tent, so my main focus was it being lightweight and waterproof. Ventilation is ok with the doors open. I really like winter camping and I went to Bryce Canyon for Thanksgiving last year and boy howdy! 6°F temperatures in that tent were chilly and breezy! I definitely need to invest in a proper tent for colder weather. Thank you Luke for being an unbiased/honest source of information! Whenever I come to your channel I learn something and really enjoy the content! 💗🖤

[@devinstetler6874]

I’ve done a lot of camping and I think I have lucked out with my tents. Knowing this information is going to help me lots for my next tent purchase. Thanks.

[@grayfoxoutdooradventures]

That was a great informative video! Makes me want to evaluate some of the tents I have. Might have to make some buy and sell moves soon

[@johnjackaman2040]

Great video so much info.Looks like a 3x3 tarp and mozzy net is the way to go. 15 tents in one with a poncho liner over a good sleeping bag for the fourth season and just the poncho liner in summer. Many thanks John J from across the pond.

[@lenmueller9702]

Excellent information! I think that I finally understand the various types of tents and when to use each one. What I do not understand is why you would ever get a 👎. Maybe these people are your KZbin competitors.

[@janromer6401]

An excellent video, and a needed one. Thank you; wish this existed way back when I was getting my first tent.

[@scottmoore4039]

Really excited for your tips for using a 3-season tent in wintertime. I'm about to do a week up in Northern Arizona to use up my remaining vacation days lol What I have done is Binder Clip a thermal blanket to the tent poles on top to the tent(to supposedly reflect down the rising heat), and also insulating that with a heavy duty tarp before putting on the rainfly. It seemed to help a bit last winter. A little noisy if there is a lot of wind. VERY dry place, so condensation wasn't much of a problem. I have also been debating about a Mr.Buddy heater though.

[@keithmoriyama5421]

Bought a Coleman 2 person tent, (meaning it's really a one person tent) which turned out to be a fabulous 3 season tent-- less than $100. Absolutely rainproof and it held up under a severe storm while the rest of my kayaking group suffered collapses and water intrusion. Single layer, excellent ventilation, and an enclosed vestibule which turned out to be priceless in a storm.

[@davidewersphotography1013]

can i ask what model?

[@keithmoriyama5421]

@@davidewersphotography1013 No idea! Doesn't say anywhere.

[@johnacord5664]

Most of my camping will be in the arid country. All I really need is a tent that will withstand an infamous Nevada cloud burst. It must withstand the high winds. We do get some snow in the winter here in Northern Nevada. Most of the storms are blocked by the Sierra Mountains West of Carson City. The red tent should be called Fourth Season Tent.

[@sahhull]

I love my 4m x 4m budget blue tarp and 2x trekking poles solution. Never got wet, always handy, got me out of a couple of moist situations.

[@robertmarsing8086]

Great video, with a LOT of information. I will, however, say that you left out one type of tent classification, and probably because it is soooo small. Convertible tents, which I know you have reviewed before. I remember the military 3 season tent that has an optional "liner" that converts it to the 4th season that you reviewed. Also, there are ways to "upgrade" lighter 3 season tents to start to enter the 4th season. Basically by covering them with tarps to block wind and add some warmth. Not a real solution, but a way to upgrade in a pinch.😁😉

[@rosslangerak8361]

In about two years, I am going to retire. I will take everything I still own, put it in storage, get on my motorcycle, and go for a very long ride around the US, Canada, and possibly Mexico. I hope to spend a decade on the road. I have an REI, three season, mesh tent with a rainfly. Weight and bulk are at a premium on a motorcycle. I won't have the option of changing tents every time the weather changes. I would be interested in seeing how I can extend the capabilities of a three season tent using a tarp. I don't expect to encounter snow, but I will need to be prepared for it. Currently, if it is raining, I put up the tarp first, and then set up the tent partially sheltered by the tarp.

[@PerroneFord]

Best basic tent intro I've ever seen SUPER helpful! Thank you.

[@lenmueller9702]

One other comment/question. Have you ever camped using a hot-tent? Up in the Boundary Waters they use the Octopeak Tipi hot-tent (and others) with a wood stove in the winter.

[@vickiesaewert60]

I am so glad I watched this video before buying my tent! Thank you for all the great and truthful information. I have gotten educated here today!

[@MsRotorwings]

When I was looking for a bike packing tent I knew I wanted a tent with good ventilation and one that was waterproof. I went with the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2. A bit pricey but IS waterproof and has held up beautifully in east coast thunderstorms.

[@shinnam]

Thanks so much. A 3+ season tent is what I need, nights are rarely over 15°C , sometimes I wish heat were a problem.

[@manofmystery748]

Fantastic informative video. This is really important for people who are not sure what tent to buy for the right season. Many many thanks for sharing this with us 🇺🇸

[@mtadams2009]

Great video. Back in the day none of my tents used mesh for their tents other than on the doors. That explains why they were so heavy. I use three different tents now. I have a BA Jackrabbit, BA Tiger Wall and a Zpacks Duplex. I hike mostly in the White mountain's of NH and its rarely warm at night. Again great job. I like the song at the end of this video for some reason.

[@marzsit9833]

in the old days mesh was too stretchy so it wasn't possible to use it to construct a tent body.

[@mtadams2009]

@@marzsit9833Interesting, thanks for the information.

[@NadesikoRose]

Thanks Luke, this video helped me to narrow down my list of possible second tent choices. I thought I had made my choice but took your advice here to double check my possible choice only to find out that it wasn’t a good pick for my needs

[@WalshItinerary]

This is one of the most informative videos on an often unappreciated topic. Thank you.

[@pochtronvirelune25]

It's been 6 years that I'm using a 3 season tent for winter here in Quebec sometime at -40°F, never had any problem I recommend a good gear but its really doable with this one its a quickhiker II from Decathlon and I'm always surprised of its capabilities ^^

[@peaceforall7413]

It went down to -6C the other weekend and we managed to find comfort in our new Coleman. Stay safe !!

[@Jason_The_Man]

Great review. I’m looking for a good casual camping tent for California. We rarely experience extreme cold, but heat can be an issue. I’ve learned a lot from this video. My search continues.

[@Foxxyginger]

I love how brutally honest this guy is. Insta subscribe.

[@ljzipay]

I have not camped before but have been researching products and gathering information. I love this video. I had no idea what these terms actually meant! Thanks!

[@Spushed]

Seems a 4 season tent should be called a FOURTH SEASON TENT. The Naturehike Opalus 3 person tent (green) is an amazing tent! Luke reviewed it and liked it, however, he made assumptions of it without testing what he said it couldn’t do. I have and I trust this tent in the 4th season (20° F temps and 35+ MPH winds). Make dang sure that you have the appropriate sleeping bags and ancillary gear to support you in these conditions!

[@Ahex75]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZapcqyBgt9mZ5Y&ab_channel=HillebergTheTentmaker 70mph winds

[@Mike-fs4vz]

Cheers mate, much appreciated. Getting into camping and vids are this are making me feel so much better/informed about the things I’m purchasing. 👍👍🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@GEOPUZZLE]

I don't believe you gave 3+ season tents a fair shake in this review. I used to have a Marmot "Swallow" that was advertised as a 3+ season tent and, IMHO, lived up to that rating. It withstood horrendous thunderstorms in the BWCAW and it kept us 100% dry. It was nearly bomb proof when properly guyed. We used it for winter camping here in Indiana when we had a moderate amount of snow (not blizzard conditions or heavy snow loads of course) and we stayed warm. The inner body had plenty of mesh but with zippered fabric closures to regulate the ventilation. It was perfect for those longer, later season canoe camping trips when you might reasonably expect 80+ degree days and/or 30-40 degree nights. I don't remember the price of the tent but I think it was in the $350 price range about 15 years ago. The weight was a bit on the heavy side for a 2 person tent at somewhere in the neighborhood of 6 lbs but well worth it for the versatility. Sadly, because of the PU coating and seam tape deteriorating after 15 years, we had to retire it. Marmot no longer makes the Swallow but a newer model, The Fortress, looks to be a possibly viable replacement I may consider. Granted, I would not carry a 6 lb tent when I know the weather conditions will not warrant it but during those time when you have to be prepared for most anything, this was my goto tent.

[@kevgraham72]

Great information only thing I can say is I used a ozark trail tent ⛺️ in heavy rain and wind in Scotland and main room didn’t leak some water 💦 in area at front where I keep boots etc maybe I was lucky but was surprisingly impressed so think my tent was slightly better than a 2 season tent but nothing more but it scarily heavy next to the loch as we say in Scotland

[@wohlhabendermanager]

Thanks for this video, very valuable information. I too thought "4 season tent" meant "can be used all year round". Right now I use a 3 season tent (or, a mix between 3 season and 3+ season? The mesh can be covered up by fabric to reduce the air flow), which is okay to use from April/May to August/September, maybe even October in my area. Summers usually don't get all that hot, around 22°C on average, with only a few days where we get more than 30°C, and winters are relatively mild as well (average temperature just below freezing point). But I'm looking for a lightweight tent for hiking trips, so this video is a very good starting point, as I now understand better what to look for in a tent. Again, thank you very much.

[@georgelaurie3587]

So many things to consider when buying a tent ! Holy smokes its mind boggling makes me think a camper is just easier and hike out from there man.. thanx luke cleared up alot of issues there take care and thanx again for taking the time to teach us about all the diff types and scams to look out for

[@roaddog1m]

My favorite 3 season tent I've had for 10yrs. Alps Lynx 2 but no longer offered. 2 doors/vestibules. I've used it on multi day trips and one 8 day kayak trip on the upper Missouri river in Montana in September.

[@arconreef]

Excellent video, but I would like to challenge your assertion that 4 season tents are never suitable for warm weather. I have a Black Diamond Ahwahnee, and it has served me very well during the summer months. It's not as 'bomb-proof' as Black Diamond's other offerings, and it's heavy for a single wall tent, but I think that's an acceptable trade off for the liveability and versatility that it provides. If you absolutely must have a true four season tent, then I think the Ahwahnee fits the bill.

[@doug4412]

I don’t understand why you didn’t mention the brand of the 3+ season tent. Every other tent you mentioned, but the one that I’m looking for.

[@goldenscales]

With summer just around the corner, (in New Zealand), videos such as this are extremely important! The majority of people pay big money for tents they'll only use once, then throw them in a corner and forget about it. Watching videos and doing some research before buying will save you a ton of cash. Think hard before making a fatal decision! :-) Thanks, Luke! You give great advice!

[@josevelez7539]

Very thorough and educational! I have a good 3 season tent, but need a 4th season tent for winter camping! Thank you.

[@KimberlyGreen]

Mine is a Hilleberg Red Label Soulo with the additional mesh inner & pole holder kit. Flexibility from scorching desert trips to blizzards. The only drawbacks are weight and inner space. It cost an arm & a leg, but I figured "buy once cry once".

[@murdock5537]

This is excellent! Best YT video on tents, many thanks, especially for explaining the difference between 4 and 3 season tents. Years ago I made the mistake buying an expensive expedition tent - really not necessary. Since then I use 3 season tents, very reliable. 🙂

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

I recently bought a Marmot Limelight 3P tent. It's a great tent but it doesn't work for me. Just bought a Kelty Side Roads car awning. Comes with poles, stakes, no floor. But on the ground it makes a great floorless tent. I have a Canvas Cutter bedroll with the full pole system. It gives me excellent 4 season weather coverage with the Kelty over it giving me a place to sit. Sometimes when looking at everything on the market you can look at this over here with that over there and make it work for you.

[@bigalcervantes5118]

Luke, can you do a video on trekking pole tents or non- freestanding tents. I'm really thinking of a non freestanding tarp type tent.