Coleman's popular 3 man tent - ideal for adventure camping and festivals

With a retail price of £50, the Coleman Crestline 3 tent presents a valid choice for first time adventure trip and festival goers alike, providing a great price for a 3 man (sleeping width ways) tent from a recognised and respected camping brand. It also provides generous space, including a front porch for more than adequate storage area. The full dimensions of the tent stand at 215cm x 300cm, with a peak height of 125cm. The tent itself features the classic dome design, which provides a more sturdy structure than the tunnel variety of tent. In addition, the waterproofing is well above the British standard, with a 2000mm PU coated hydrostatic head. However, whilst this ensures the tent stays watertight, and the dome design helps stability, it is worth noting that the tent is not designed for any types of extreme weather, and taking it out in these conditions would be a gamble (for similar tents that are able to endure worse weather, you usually have to spend a substantial amount more). The difficulty erection often presented by the dome design need not apply here, as the smaller size of the tent makes it easily manageable

In addition to the sufficient space provided by the tent, the flysheet features mesh vents to increase air circulation, keeping the tent cooler in the heat and helping prevent any build up of condensation in the tent, which can sometimes be a problem in adventure tents and tents taken on festivals.

The tent is convenient in terms of weight, at 4.3kg, and pack size, coming in a rectangular carry bag with the insignificant dimensions of 52 x 16 x 16cm. This makes the bag relatively easy to carry, and small enough to prevent any problems when traveling even in the smallest car. It is also a simple tent to erect, with the inner tent pitching first, through simply threading the poles through, and adding the flysheet afterwards. The flysheet can also be left off if the user feels it unnecessary, perhaps on fine days when the user is only having a quick stop. When pitched as only the inner tent, the dimensions reduce to 200cm x 215cm, with the height reduced to 120cm. For the storage space to be retained, the flysheet has to be pitched.

The dimensions of the Coleman 3 man

The simplicity of this tent serves well for the festival and first time adventure camper, with a low price often reduced further by Outdoor World Direct and Breakoutdoors, which are certainly worth watching out for. The excellent price from a quality brand with a tried and tested classic design makes this a sure contender to be one of the main sellers of the year for light summer and festival camping. Further information on the tent, with use feedback can often be found at the main camping forums, such as Lovecamping.co.uk.

The new and improved Phad X3 is perfect for backpacking and lightweight camping

The Coleman Phad X3 lightweight tent is a solid lightweight tent from a leading manufacturer, which has been reflected through high sales. Despite the small size of the pack, the tent becomes a solid, strong tent, ready for more adverse weather conditions. This is achieved without compromising living space typical of a tent of this type. The floorspace covers 330cm x 210cm, as well as a sufficient height of 115cm. This is all from a remarkable pack size of just 44 x 18cm, weighing just 3.95 kg. Through this, the use can be sure of more than adequate storage and living space for a lightweight. The tent is also easy to erect, taking a matter of minutes with a little practice, reducing stress further.

As is typical of Colemans impressive exponential range, the Coleman Phad X3 has proven to be very hardwearing. The flysheet is far above the standard water resistance, with a 4000mm hydrostatic head. The flysheet itself is also tear resistant to increase durability. This is remarkable considering the semi-geosedic design. Traditionallty these are heavier and harder to erect, but Coleman have negated this to great effect, whilst retaining the advantages of a semi-geo-desic design. Strength is gained through the pole intersections, ensuring that shape is kept even through windy conditions. The aluminum alloy is part of how this is done, providing light weight and strength.

In more favorable conditions, there is additional mesh ventilation for air circulation. Zip open hatches also ensure that the fair weather makes its way into the tent for full enjoyment. The inner tent is made from a breathable polyester as well, preventing condensation build up. Further features include a porch groundsheet that can be zipped on and off. The groundsheet itself has a 5000mm hydrostatic head and is made from a PU coated nylon, with the addition of taped seams to cover any weak spots. Also, a useful features consists of the reflective zips on the tent which makes the tent easier to spot after a night time outing.

The dimensions of the new lightweight Phad camping tent.

All these features more than justify the price, which is often reduced further by deals available by Outdoor World Direct. This tent is sure to impress. Coleman is a very well respected brand, especially for hardwearing equipment which frequently outlasts competition. Perfect for more extreme use, and yet easily transported due to its weight and pack size, the Coleman Phad X3 really is an ideal purchase for those with an adventurous streak, as well as cyclists and motorcyclists. Reviews have also been extremely impressive, with the tent meeting expectations with its ability to remain comfortable in relatively severe conditions. Reviews can be found in most campsite forums, an useful example of which being

The Vango Viper 500's design maximises warmth, whilst still being comfortable

The Vango Viper 500 is a premium sleeping bag mountain tested for three to fours season use. Filled with goose down feathers and using the top quality polair Vango fabrics, the sleeping bag is capable of the dealing with the vast majority of weather conditions. The bag specialises in remaining extremely comfortable whilst being able to deal fully with the conditions in which you use it, capable of dealing comfortably with temperatures between -5 °C and 20°C . Lower temperatures down to -18°C can be achieved, though with increasing discomfort down to that point. In total size, the sleeping bag meets the usual 215cm x 80cm length, whilst packing down to a convenient 35 x 18cm. The weight continues this convenience, being just 1100g, below the weight of many two season bags. Despite the highly specialised nature of the sleeping bag, the price remains reasonable, with an RRP of £110, currently further reduced by Outdoor World Direct.

The 90/10 down feather lining is not the only feature of the sleeping bag added to enhance comfort. The Polair silky lining of the sleeping bag is extremely cosy, as well as the shell of the Viper 500 being soft as well. More importantly, warmth is ensured through the cleverly designed omega shape to leave as little air space within the sleeping bag as possible. The layering is biased towards the top of the bag rather than at the bottom to increase the efficiency of the sleeping bags performance, whilst still allowing the Viper 500 to be packed down to a very small size for a three to four season bag. The 90/10 550+ power down filling further increasing warmth through the loft and insulation achieved. The down is held in place by the ATC system (Advanced Trapezoid Construction), an angled chevron tessellation which stops movement ruining the effectiveness of the down.

Further to the practical advantages of the Viper 500, the sleeping bag features exceptional durability. The Viper 500’s Polair shell is not only washable, but also tear resistant to prevent any avoidable damage, including water resistancy. This ensures that the value of the sleeping bag is not compromised by a short life span, especially considering the environments in which the sleeping bag is intended to be used for. This is in addition to the impressive longevity associated with a Vango product.

When compressed down, the Vango Viper 500 reaches a surprisingly small size

On the whole, the Vango Viper 500 presents an extremely effective sleeping bag with extensive capabilities. The price is remarkable considering the technology employed in the bags construction, making this item one of the most attractive accessories for advanced exploration, leaving more money aside for purchasing other essential kit. The Vango Viper range extends to the Viper 750 and Viper 1000 models, which further improve on the conditions the Viper 500 can manage, whilst continuing the good value price. Further information can often be found through camping forums such as Camping Forums UK.

Coming in a stylish blue, the lightweight, mummy shaped Venom 225 achieves surprising warmth

The Vango Venom 225 provides one of the bestselling lightweight sleeping bags, due to its great all round performance a good value price. Ideal for two season use (with a temperature rating of +8 to +22 degrees Celsius, and an extreme temperature rating of -5 degrees Celsius), the sleeping bags main selling points lie in its insubstantial weight and the convenient pack size for easy transport. Despite being a full size 210cm x 75cm, when packed down the sleeping bag comfortably reaches the dimensions of 18cm x 16cm, a very useful feature in a two season sleeping bag. The two strap compression sac assists getting the sleeping bag down further to the smallest size possible with minimum fuss. The pint-sized pack size is certainly one of the most impressive aspects of the bag, which is difficult to beat. The total weight is also just 750g.

The materials used are also of exceptional quality, with an extremely comfortable and warm 90/10 goose down filling. The external fabrics keep up to the standards of the internal through the use of Vango’s polair fabrics, including a polair micro-lining, which is soft, water resistant and washable, as well as helping prevent rips. The bag also consists of Polair Micro RSP, which is windproof, lightweight and also tear resistant. The quality provided by these materials is also designed to last, coming with a lifetime guarantee, obvious assurance of the quality for the customer. The materials are further designed to provide maximum loft of the insulation. Differential fill ensures that full efficiency is gained from the material used, with the insulation focused around strategic points. Methods of design that maximise insulation extends even to the drawcord hood, with the two panel design further maximising comfort and warmth. Even the half-length zip ensures ventilation or insulation as required. It is through these techniques that the impressive temperature range is reached despite the pack size and weight. Attention to detail is completed with a Velcro internal pocket for valuables, helping to prevent loss and stress.

The Venom 225 can pack down to pint-sized dimensions

The attributes of this bag, combining quality, luxury, durability and convenience, make this an ideal purchase for trekkers, travellers and mountain athletes, coming at a RRP of £90 for a piece of highly specialised, well thought out equipment by a respected, well proven and popular brand with years of experience. Customer reports are satisfying, with bag exceeding expectations for comfort and warmth. The addition of a microfleece lining extends the temperature capabilities of this bag, to withstand the majority of weather conditions in Britain, and most conditions abroad. The Cango Venom sleeping bag range includes the Venom 150, 200sq and 300, all available at Outdoorworlddirect. Further reports and advice on the quality of this bag can be found on a variety of online forums, such as ukcampsite.co.uk

The Nevis 600 provides a spacious, lightweight option when choosing a quality family tent

The Vango Nevis 600 provides a very well designed option for those seeking a 6 man family tent that they can rely on. The Nevis 600 provides a conventional 6 man layout and design, but with the extremely convenient addition of a lightweight pole system that does not compromise the overall stability and strength of this high quality tent. The specialist alloy from which the poles are made takes the overall weight of the tent down to an impressive 17.7kg, a massive reduction on other 6 man tents of comparable quality. The clever design also takes the pack size down to 67 x 43 x 25 cm , also a reduction of the normal pack size for such a large tent (590 x 280 cm, with up to 195cm in height).

This main feature is complimented further by other handy measures incorporated into the tent. This can be seen with the addition of a 5000mm protex waterproof lining, far better than the majority of family tents, and much higher than the British standard. Fully taped seams and rain gutter zip covers ensure that the Nevis 600 is fully watertight. Based on big selling Tigris model by Vango, the Nevis inherits all of the qualities of this prominent tent, but with vast improvements to make this tent one of the most desireable in the range.

The powerlite alloy poles build on the convenience provided by their weight and strength by being colour coded in order to simplify erection of the tent, which can be easily put up within about twenty minutes, once more impressive for a tent of this size. Once pitched, the tent is light and airy, due to generous space, plenty of standing room and the new crystal clear tent windows which feature prominently on the tent. The tent fabric is also very breathable, despite the presence of a leading waterproof lining, contributing further to the complete eradication of claustrophicness in the tent.

Inside the tent, the layout is also well designed. When not in full use, the tent provides a flexible bedroom layout which can be rearranged by the user. Even when used to full capacity, cable tidies around the cable entry points, hanging lantern points, hanging organisers and inner pockets to make the most of the space.

The Nevis 600 features generous space and multiple entryways

Not to be overlooked is the brand name which the tent comes with. Vango are leaders in the field, producing reliable tents based on tried and tested methods and top technology, coming at very good value. The value extends to the Nevis 600, which had sunstantial reductions with Outdoorworlddirect and Breakoutdoors. This tent as these prices represents a very sensible purchase for a durable tent with fantastic functionality. Easy to erect, spacious, and long lasting, this tent is well worth the money. The Nevis model is also available in 4 man and 8 man models. All can be found on discussion forums, such as http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/

The Gelert Solo provides a convenient, great value tent with an attractive finish

The Gelert Solo provides a lightweight tent at an incredible price. One of the most attractive prospects for a lightweight one man tent, available at small cost. Aimed to be ideal for trekkers, cyclists and motorcyclists, the insignificant weight of the tent, one of the lightest in the Gelert range, makes for one of the easiest tents to transport. At 1.5kg, the solo represents a barely noticeable weight, which is complemented with the insignificant pack size of 40cm x 15cm x 15cm. When erected, this pack size extends out to dimensions of 270cm x 170cm, with sleeping space providing 250 cm in length, with 90cm across the chest. The overall height of the tent is 65cm at the peak (storage space is available in addition between the inner and outer sheets). In this way the Solo provides the space required for sleeping, whilst still packing down to an extremely small size.

The ease in regards to transport extends to pitching of the tent. Guy lines are pre-attached, increasing the speed of pitching this already easy to handle tent, offering a quick pitch and quick packing tent perfect for hassle free use, consistent with the easy pitch feature of many Gelert tents. Convenience extends to the easier access side entrance, and despite the price, the tent meets expectations for a capable single man tent. Waterproofing matches the standard 1500mm hydrostatic head for quality waterproofing, with PU coating on both the outer and inner tents. The latter detail provides an effective layer which allows breathability, good durability and contributes to the overall light weight of the tent. More potential weaknesses are covered by the presence of taped seams (which can be further strengthened with seam sealant), a wise addition to any tent, preventing leakage through joinings of materials in the tent. Although not stormproof or winterproof (for which you would certainly need a much more expensive tent), the solo has proven itself in undesirable weather conditions, which is not to be taken for granted for tents within this price range.

The tiny pack size does not compromise having sufficient space for one-man camping

A popular seller, this convenient, great value tent is a solid find, serving the purposes required for an insignificant price and drawing great praise from users in the process, in outdoor forums such as www.livefortheoutdoors.com. It is incredibly easy to transport, and can be put up and taken down in no time at all, with minimum hassle. Available in neutral colours such as forest green, this Gelert tent provides a great option for those desiring a simple, no-nonsense tent that can be carried or attached to a cycle, with all the necessary features for a camping trip. With the expense usuallyimplied by compact equipment, the price of this tent is ideal, surpassing its cost by far.

A new Vango tent for 2010 offering luxury camping accommadation.

An eye-catching new addition to the Vango range, the Maritsa 500 and 700 family tents provide a stylish option for those wanting a high quality camping camping experience. The numerous features applied to the product by Vango ensure that expectations are certain to be met in this luxury tent, with space for groups of five and seven in the Maritsa 500 and 700 respectively. The tent is strong and spacious, whilst offering remarkably competitive prices at £400 and £500. Currently, Outdoorworlddirect and Breakoutdoors offer further reductions from this cost.

One of the main selling points is the substantial room offered by the tent. At 680 cm in length, 385cm in width (at widest point) and a height reaching 220cm, even the smaller Vango Maritsa 500 presents the user with exceptional living space and standing room. The slightly irregular shape incorporates great space in the sleeping compartment and the section immediately in front, whilst also providing a 260cm x 225cm front porch.

The size of the tent is compensated by a very competent pole setup, featuring Vango’s powerplus steel pole system ensuring this large tent remains sufficiently strong and secure. This durability is enhanced by Vango’s proven expertise, as well as suitable weatherproofing technology. The Protex 3000 flysheet provides a well above standard 3000mm hydrostatic head, supported by a polyethylene groundsheet with a substantial 10,000 hydrostatic-head rating. To ensure the tent is entirely secure from leakage, all seams are also fully taped to prevent water coming through from this traditional weak-point in less impressive tents. All this is complemented by a storm skirt on the tent to provide further weatherproofing, as well as fire retardant materials for full safety.

Such features ensure that user attention can be fully focused without worry to Vango’s attention to detail in regards to functionality. Poles are colour coded to simplify pitching, along with easy to find inner tent clips, helping remove stress in favour of allowing users to get straight on with enjoying their camping trip. Transport of the tent is convenient, with roller bags negating weight.

Features have been added to further exploit the space offered by the tent. Storage pockets are added to the pelmets of the tent, hanging organisers, and a roll down groundsheet in the front porch entryways. Furthermore, if the tent is not being used to full person capacity, one sleeping compartment can be transformed into an impressive walk in wardrobe with a hanging rail. Lantern hanging points and two cable entry points (with tidies) finish this array of features added to maximise convenience. The tent also feels more open due to the large, crystal clear windows added throughout the tent. Fabric is fully breathable, with mesh vents for improved air circulation, ensuring a great experience.

The Maritsa 500 offers exceptional space with a generous front porch

The Maritsa range ensures that expectations are met in all areas. Convenience is maximised in this extremely spacious tent, from the beginning of the camping trip to the end. Vango’s attention to detail, combine with the size and layout, making this new model a fantastic luxury option incorporating the brands years of expertise and new ideas, providing satisfaction for large groups who can then camp in complete style.

Further reviews can be found within forums such as ukcampsite.co.uk.

A double sleeping bag which converts into two sing sleeping bags

Once a tent has been purchased, the cost of accessories can mount up quickly. However, Vango’s great value extends to the new Vango Breakout 250 SQ, 300 SQ, Midi-Junior and 300 Double sleeping bags, exclusive to Outdoor World and Breakoutdoors. With an RRP of £20, the original value is improved further by reductions down to between £12.50 and £16.99 in the range for the singles, and to £29.99 from £40 for the double. For summer camping, the Breakout range represents leading value for money, especially considering the reputation of the Vango brand and its consistent reliability. The square design maximises comfort, providing plentiful room, especially in regards to the footwell. The more open design compromises warmth only very slightly, whilst preventing the claustrophobic feeling some campers associate with the mummy shaped sleeping bags. Height is also substantial; 210 cm length combining with the 75cm width on the 250 SQ, resulting in comfort for users up to 185cm.

Despite the generous space, the Breakout is still able to compact down, with a pack size of just 35 by 21 cm for extra convenience. Ease of use also continues through to the weight of the sleeping bag, at just 1250 grams, and also the zip, which features a two way system. Furthermore, the sleeping bag comes with a convenient stuff sac, and a drawcord hood on the sleeping bag itself. The Breakout retains the qualities customers want in a sleeping bag, whilst maintaining an impressive low price, especially for those trying camping for the first time, or buying for an entire family trip.

With family in mind, the Breakout range extends to the midi-junior range, the sleeping bags height of 175cm extending incorporating a use height of up to 155cm. The quality represented in the Breakout range makes for a superior junior bag, with no quality lost in comparison to the adult version. Though only available in the mummy shape for kids, this has advantages in itself. Spaciousness is not as much of an issue for children (though the bag is still 70cm across the chest), but also the temperature rating is slightly better, which can be very important in satisfying the high standards of the typical child.

A highly effective 3 season sleeping, the Breakout is perfect for family camping.

The single layer insulation matches the needs of summer camping, and is stitched through, ensuring that it stays in place, retaining comfort through usage and contributing to durability of the bag. Vango’s Polair brushed polyester lining is washable and tried and tested, adding to the durability, but also providing more comfort than standard polyester lining for a more cosy feel.

Finally, the Breakout offers versatility. As well as its suitability for family camping, the value makes for an attractive purchase for music lovers in the summer festival season, school trips or even for sleepovers. The Breakout can be used many times in many situations with enduring quality rare for such a price. The brand is well established and respected for camping equipment, meaning that the Breakout range is sure to satisfy.

The four man version of the Tigris family tent

When going away for the first time with your family, you want to get on with the serious business of enjoying yourself as soon as possible. Vango have developed an easy to pitch tunnel structure with a light and airy feel. Look no further than the Tigris range of tents. Within this range are flexible bedroom configurations and storage options aplenty. The Tigris range of family camping tents was the top selling tent in 2009. The range has a choice of three sizes, the 400 600 and 800, and is available in a choice of soft colours. The Tigris tent caters for four to eight persons depending on the model chosen.

The flysheet is fire retardant and is produced in Protex 3000HH taped seams polyester for extra waterproofing. There is also a storm skirt system to reduce drafts inside the tent and best of all you can keep the inners dry whilst you pitch outer first. The Powerflex fibre glass poles are colour coded for ease of set up. Another benefit is the vango’s own TBS II (tension band system) for improved stability in storms or typical English weather. The sewn-in groundsheet is 10,000 HH the sewn in construction helps keep out unwanted bugs and also keeps the tent warmer. This could be considered a disadvantage when folding down the tent to pack away but the benefits outweigh the disadvantages and this construction is proving popular in other tent brands and models. There are cable points for electricity access into tent and tidies inside the tent for the house proud.

Another added feature on the 2010 range is the new larger crystal clear windows with internal covers for privacy. The pelmet over the side door is also stylish and practical. The inner tents on the Tigris are also a breathable fabric for extra comfort in the warmer climates. There is also a roll back inner divider on the inner tent. The tent also has a parallel zip door and the king poles are included. All of the above comes in a very handy saddle bag. Other models in the Vango range to compare would be the Orchy. Or in other brands i.e - Gelert take a look at the Atlantis 400 or 500.

The largest member of the Tigris collection

Also one must not forget to purchase the extras with this tent carpets, footprints, canopies and canopy extensions and also matching windbreaks available. The footprint especially is a must to protect your purchase from stone damage and soiling. The footprint is shaped to go under the whole of the tent.
All in all a good solid family tent that has a lot of good reviews on websites such as CampingForum and UkCampsite, the Tigris collection of family tents is perfect for family camping during the summer periods.

Although tents generally last a few years, especially Vango ones, they are still having an effect on the environment as more and more people live this disposable life where they throw everything in the bin after one use (festivals being a fine example).

So much is made of carbon footprints and the environment in this modern age with more and more pressure from the governments and environmentally friendly groups to reduce our emissions. One outdoor company who has taken note of such changes is Vango, the new range of tents is designed using recycled materials to reduce the overall carbon footprint of campers. The Eco range of Vango tents uses recycled materials wherever possible:

- The flysheet
- Window covers
- Hanging storage areas
- Inner tents
- Carry bags

All these items are made from recycled plastic bottles, this reduces the amount of plastic going to landfills, less oil is used in plastic production and less energy is consumed overall. However not all of the materials are recycled, certain elements of the tent must be made from new materials otherwise the quality of the tents would be compromised. The zips and groundsheets are all made using new materials and the poles have to be new to ensure their strength is not compromised.

The tents in the Eco Collection from Vango include the:

Vango Green Tee 500 Dlx – the eco tepee that is more than ideal for the eco friendly festival goer. The tepee also features a newly styled porch with a skylight for those romantic weekends away.

Vango Green Bean 350 – the Green Bean tent will be ideal for the adventurers and touring campers who require a versatile tent that is quick to erect and set down.

Vango Green Wing 300 – the Green Wing is a direct copy of the Vango Icarus 300 tent but the only difference is the materials used in the production of the tent.

The eco friendly version of the Vango Icarus 500

The new collections of Vango tents are a step in the right direction, recycled materials make no difference to the quality of the tent and hopefully it will not be too long before we see more eco-friendly camping initiatives saving us resources and eventually, money.