Where should I put this sleeping bag?
By: Shane Skinner – RVRepairNOW.com
One of the first questions people ask themselves when they decide to start camping is whether they should buy a tent, a camper (pop-up or slide-on), or a motorhome. Excluding those envied lottery winners, not many people jump into camping by purchasing a motorhome. There is normally some type of progression leading up to the big rig. Therefore, the question for people who are new to camping is narrowed down to whether they should buy a tent or a camper? Three things to consider when choosing between a tent and a camper are expenses, comfort, and safety.
As with many purchases, the first thing for the new camper to consider is their budget to see what they are comfortable spending, as well as what costs are involved in each of the options being considered. Tents are much less expensive than purchasing a camper. Small tents can be purchased for under $50 and high-quality, family-sized tents for under $200. There will be minor expenses associated with using a tent such as a hammer or mallet to drive the tent stakes into the ground. This is highly recommended, as it would be very embarrassing to return to the campsite after a hike or a swim to find the wind-blown tent wrapped around a tree. Campers have a much wider and higher price range. They start at just a few thousand dollars for an older, used model and up to $30,000 for a brand new model. More than simply making a purchase, buying a camper is an investment. However, this investment comes with additional expenses. Campers will lower the tow vehicles’ fuel efficiency during the drive to and from the campground, increasing fuel expenses. Pop-up campers will require tire maintenance or replacement over time. With all the moving parts in a camper, such as door hinges and knobs, wear and tear will create expenses for replacement parts as well.
Comfort is another important factor to consider for new campers. Tents are viewed as uncomfortable, especially for longer trips, and therefore avoided by many people. Using an air mattress is a great way to increase comfort while sleeping in a tent. Otherwise, lying on the hard ground will oftentimes result in a poor nights’ sleep. Campers are viewed as much more comfortable since they include a bed to sleep on. While this is true, some above-average height people have trouble sleeping in a camper because they cannot stretch out. Some models also include a bathroom, eliminating the need to use public restrooms, therefore increasing many owners’ comfort level. In addition, campers help block outside noises, providing for a quieter atmosphere (and possibly a better nights’ sleep) than a tent.
A third factor to consider while determining what to purchase is safety. Campers need to consider what types of areas they will be camping in and the possible dangers. Tents provide shelter from some weather elements, such as rain and direct sunlight on a hot day. Tents can also provide some safety from potentially dangerous animals by serving as a hiding place to stay out of their sight. However, any large threat such as a bear or cougar could easily claw or chew their way into a tent. A camper provides a safer camping environment as it will protect from most types of weather, including wind, as well as provide much more protection from wildlife.
Considering the available budget, comfort needs, and safety risks in potential camping areas will help new campers determine whether to purchase a tent or invest in a camper. For an affordable way to get outdoors and try out camping, a tent is a good way to start. However, if a new camper has the financial means and plans on camping for extended periods or in potentially unsafe places, a camper would be a wiser investment.
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