There is a lot of confusion regarding the different types of camping tents so I have sorted out the top 8 different types of tents to help clarify and make it easier for you.
A-Frame
These are simple light and usually inexpensive. These A frame type of designs usually requires staking to hold it down. Because of the sloping walls, headroom is usually at a premium. In addition, in strong winds stability can often be a factor with these types.
Modified A Frame
Similar to the A frame type except that with the modified version there is either a center hoop pole, a ridgeline pole or curved sidewalls to create more space and more stability.
Dome
Domes come in a variety of shapes, sizes and pole configurations. Typically they are a freestanding type of tent with arched ceilings. Some experts say that this design is the most stable of tent designs.
Freestanding
Any tent that does not require stakes to keep it standing and tied down is called a freestanding tent. The only exception is the vestibules, which are basically storage areas outside the sleeping portion of the tent. The advantages are that these are easy to pitch, and can be moved around very easily as there is no staking.
Hoop/Tunnel
These are basically tube type tents that need to be staked down.
Pyramid/Tepee
Maybe the oldest type of design in existence. These types of designs consist of a rain fly with or without a canopy and supported by a center pole. These need to be staked as well. The only drawback to this type of tent is that they are naturally inclined to condensation buildup.
Single Wall and Double Wall
A traditional tent that is a double wall tent uses an inner canopy that serves as the sleeping area while having a rain fly to keep the water from rain at bay. A single wall tent uses just one layer for doing both jobs. The advantages of the single layer are that it is usually very light. On some type models, there are vents or a partial fly to keep air circulation good and to reduce the possibility of condensation.
Wedge
These types of wedge tents are higher at one end than the other. The head portion is higher than the foot portion. The idea is to pitch the tent with the low end into the wind for the best aerodynamics.
Those are the main types or shapes of tents on the market today. It can be very tricky trying to pick out the right tent for your camping needs if you do not understand the differences between them and the advantages or disadvantages between the different types. You should consider your needs and read the reviews and ratings of various models to help narrow your decision when deciding to purchase a tent.
