a bell tent or a pop up 4.2 XL

[jen127]

What are the pro's and cons?
I don't really get the bell tensts but I am prepared to be converted as only MN can
We are looking for a tent to purchase which will be used about 4 times a year, mainly in Ireland. So it has to be weather proof !

It depends what you prefer really. I've been camping with a friend with a 4.2 and she liked it. I have a 4m Soulpad Lite. I can erect it on my own easily. It is lovely inside as you do not get that sweaty humid feeling of a nylon tent. I like glamping mine up with fairy lights and bunting to get a fun feel to it. It is totally weather proof. The only drawback is that it has to be dried thoroughly and it takes up a lot of space.

I have a 5m bell hybrid and I love it, but the drying out is a complete pain in the arse. Also, it being cream (which is lovely when you're inside it and adds to the feel of light and space), it gets filthy in any kind of mud and then needs cleaning/drying.

I bought an 'instant' tent this year for the 1st May BH, when it had been raining for weeks and the thought of pitching the bell on a mudflat then packing it away dirty/cleaning/drying just for a weekend was too awful to contemplate.

However, as Migsy said, the Bell wins hands down on how easy it is to erect and how lovely it feels when its up. It's very waterproof & weatherproof.

But it is a gateway drug to cushions, bunting, fairy lights etc... :o

lovecat thats the challenge ! Do I go for glamour or practicality?
Also how do you travel with all your blankies and pillows and bunting ?

You get a roofbox :)

Estate car, large roofbox and only one child...:o