What to Consider When Buying a Swag Tent

Before you bite the bullet and buy a new King’s swag or Darche swag tent, it pays to do your research. Think about what exactly it is that you are after and what you plan on encountering in the wilderness. For example, if you are travelling with a partner, you might need a double swag. Here’s what to consider when buying a swag tent;

Fabric

The single most important factor to consider when it comes buying a new swag tent is fabric. A high-quality cotton or poly-cotton canvas milled specifically for making swags is ideal, as they are generally designed to be naturally water-resistant. Some manufacturers will bolster their fabric of choice with added water-proofing measures, so keep an eye out for second-hand proofing options.

To make sure your swag tent is made of appropriate fabric, it’s worth taking a look at the waterproofness rating (yes, this is a real thing). A fabric with a waterproofness rating over 1000mm is ideal, however, anything over 800mm-1000mm is considered waterproof.

Design

Some camping swags may look great but fail to get the job done. Pay close attention to the design of your swag tent, most specifically around the drainage and ventilation. Like any good tent, your swag should be designed so that water is directed down and away from any openings. Take a look at where the body of the swag tent meets the floor, as this is often a problem area for water leakage.

Maintenance

Like any considered purchase, you should be willing to invest some time in maintenance, after all, this thing is going to be up against the elements. Try to keep your camping swag clean and free from dust and debris. Most importantly, make sure your swag tent is completely dry before you fold it and store it. The last thing you want to do is open your swag tent for a new adventure, only to find it covered in mould.

Price

While we always encourage people to seek out the best deal possible, when it comes to the best swag tents for camping, you get what you pay for. A $100 swag won’t offer the same support as a $600 swag, so make sure you know what you’re getting. To make the process a little easier, you can create a list of things you will and won’t compromise on.

Mattress

A good sleep is highly dependent on mattress size. For camping swags, mattresses generally come in at around 50mm-70mm. While you could easily get away with a 50mm mattress for a night or two, if you plan on using your swag tent for any significant stretch of time, a 70mm mattress is an absolute must. Darche swags and Black Wolf swags are two brands that are extremely well-known for their mattress comfort and quality.