Most people, when camping for the first time, will opt to purchase their equipment from a chain department store, such as Wal*Mart or Kmart. While this equipment is less expensive and might hold up for a few camping trips, it is not going to last for years. Buy investing in some durable, higher quality equipment; you are saving money in the long run on replacement costs. There are still many supplies that can be bought at these stores, but tents, sleeping bags and tarps should not be part of that list.
The tents available in chain department stores are ok for back yard camping, but can not stand up to the, sometimes brutal elements in nature. When camping in a more wilderness setting, weather can change at a moments notice and you must be able to rely on your shelter. Buy purchasing a tent in a sporting goods store; you are more likely to get a name brand tent that adheres to strict ratings. You will be able to choose a tent that will meet all your needs by reading what each one's ratings include. Not to mention, that with good care taken, this tent will last for many years and will most likely have a warranty.
Your sleeping bag is another area where you should invest wisely. Chain department store's sleeping bags are great for sleep-overs, back yard camping and an extra blanket for chilly winter nights, but they are simply not suitable for wilderness camping. Sports Outfitter type stores will have the best quality and lightest weight sleeping bags that will keep you toasty and dry in case it gets cold or rainy. These sleeping bags can be found made with the same weather resistant material as your tent and that means double protection.
Your camping equipment should be viewed as an investment and it should be well taken care of to ensure that it lasts a long time.
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