What the Camping Tent Ratings Mean

Tents are generally categorized as three season or four season. Most family tents or general purpose tents are considered three season tents. Three season tents hold up well in moderate weather conditions, including light rain. They are generally more affordable than four season. These tents do not hold up well in high winds, torrential rain and heavy snowfall.

Three season tents generally come with a waterproof rain fly and a breathable canopy. Ideally you want to find a three season tent with a waterproof floor, however, the rugged "bathtub" floor is generally reserved for the more expensive four season tent (but not always).

Four season tents are great for just about any weather condition that you may encounter. Structurally they generally have at least four aluminum poles for strength (the more the better) to withstand rain and snow. They are aerodynamic in design and typically they are dark colored in order to absorb heat.

The roof lines on four season tents are fully defined and very strong so water and snow cannot collect on top of the tent. Most four season tents can be utilized free standing in the event there is no place to pound stakes into the ground such as on the side of a mountain or in frozen terrain.

Four season tents have a fully encompassing rainfly to combat the elements. They also have excellent waterproof floors that are called "bathtubs" as they come up to about six inches on the side of the tent. Additionaly the seams are very hardy and strong throughout the tent.

The three season tent is the recommended choice for the majority of campers. It is the most cost effective tent and will allow the user to camp in a variety of conditions up to, but not including, severe weather conditions.