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I would probably have chosen a smaller Khyam that I could pitch on my own instead of the Excelsior XL.

DK

When I was a youngster I had a cotton 2 man A-Frame. I can't remember the brand but it was fantastic. Pitched in about 10 minutes. Lasted years. Coupled with a mummy sleeping bag, leather walking boots and Karrimor rucksac I thought the world was my oyster.

Biggest disaster was an argos 6 man dome tent that leaked during it's first outing. Fortunately I got my money refunded.

My current setup (SunnCamp Global 600) is more or less perfect for our needs although it does take too long to set up. Probably get something a little smaller and faster next.

If I knew then what I know now... Don't go to argos, don't pack away your tent unless it is bone dry, always take wellies, and don't camp at sites which have a cowboy themed pub on site (don't ask).

I think I regret...not being a bit more selective with my campsites in the past...Have some horror stories to tell....But now through the www and this site...I can click on the search button...Can read all the blurb on their websites...Have a look at the location from the air no less gather all the info..and make an educated choice on where I want to go..Saved me a lot of wasted w/ends and holidays has the old puter..........

Jelboy.

Our very first backpacking tent, a Notrh Face Tadpole 23 was and still is a fantastic choice.  I don't think I would change it (and, little tent, if you're reading this, I'm going to try and spend some time with you soon, OK?)

Our first big tent was a SunValley 6, which I adore!  I think that now, a canvas pyramid would be at the top of my list - a second hand cabanon, if I could find one, or one of the cheaper new ones from hypercamp (a new cabanon is out of the question, unfortunately!).

My third tent was a Gelert Tornado 5.  It is fine for a sub-£60 tent, but I think I would rather have saved and got a small pyramid.

I'm pleased that all three tents have been good choices (I'm not disappointed with any of them).

I fantasise about a bell tent, but I just don't think it's practical for us at the moment.

I don't have any regrets with any of my purchases. I bought a cheapy tent from Argos as a taster to see if we like camping.  It was 2 man dome tent, single skin. Pros dead easy to put up.  Cons single skin,  used it a couple of times.   Found this site it's been fab, lots of research, the next tent I purchased, vango oregon 400 Its been a great  tent.  It has put me great stead.  The 600 would have been too big for me to put up on my tod as a complete beginner, even though it would have given me extra living space.   And now I have been looking around at other tents, I may retire my tent, Its been hard working, loyal and has looked after me and DS, It was only £120 so it doesnt owe me anything except for memories.

Heather