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Hi

We are both completely new to camping.  We are looking at buying our first tent and wondered if anyone had any pearls of wisdom out either of these two models that would help us choose please?  We went to the Yeomans tent show in Calver at the weekend where the two guys were extremely friendly and helpful.  On eof them suggested this forum to see what others thought of the two tents.  We are leaning (slightly) towards the Outwell despite its more expensive price tag.  One of the Yeomans guys said he would choose the Vango, but thought the Outwell was good too.

There are just two of us, though we may take friends or children along if we can twist their arms!  We want something big enough to stand up in and possibly keep a couple of bikes in (when we haven't got guests of course!).

Thanks in advance for any advice

Justin

Hi Justin- I have just bought a orchy 600 I think the 500 is only slightly smaller all round. I have just packed it away again after putting it up in the garden. I am very pleased with it - more roomy than I thought it would be and quite straight forward to pitch.

In many respects I prefer the Nevada (though the Orchy is not too far behaind and is quite a pit cheaper) but I would warn you about the side door. 

That fibreglass rod that creates a small canopy over the side entrance, if it's anything like my Minnesota 4 (which I am sure it is), puts a lot of strain on the fabric and zip on the door area.  If you go to my Gallery look at the photo of the side door on my Minny - the fabric even started pulling away leaving little holes where the stitching is. 

I have contacted where I bought it from and waiting for their response.

Hi Justin

We had the same dilemma back in March when we were looking for a smaller tent for short weekends and fishing trips for OH and son. 

We looked at both tents when we went to the NEC camping show and bought the Nevada.  On reflection it had much better features and just seemed more robust.  We've learnt the hard way that you get what you pay for.  We haven't been out in it yet but will be going away for 2 nights next weekend to test it out.  We have erected it in the garden and are very pleased with it.  For us the Outwell models always seem to have the edge on others - hence we also have the Vermont XL for longer trips and love it.

Obviously it's your choice but I would definitely advise anyone to go for the Nevada over the Orchy.

Quote: Originally posted by justinpadams on 08/6/2008

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Thanks everyone

We went for the Vango in the end. We've only had one night in it so far, but we are very pleased with it. Only time will tell!

Cheers

Justin

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Make sure you invest in some decent pegs (i.e. Deltas) for the guy ropes; a design like that needs good support in windy conditions.

Their service is excellent and if/when you order mention that you are a UKCS member and you'll get a 10% discount.