Cotton Blend Fabric "Stay"
Breathable and suitable for year-round use. The cotton ripstop structure improves durability without losing cotton's climate comfort advantage.
Camping Advice
Understanding Tents: Types, Sizes, Materials
This page explains the main tent types, connection heights, and fabrics. The goal is orientation: which setup matches your vehicle, usage, and comfort needs?
A neutral overview without sales pressure, with clear definitions and practical guidance.
Quick Overview
Connection Heights
180-325 cm
Depths
ca. 250-300 cm
Widths
ca. 200-390 cm
Materials
Cotton Blend & Polyester
Connection Heights: Which Size Fits?
The connection height determines whether the tent seals correctly against the vehicle. It is grouped into fixed size ranges. Choosing too low or too high can cause tension, leaks, or poor fit.
Size Ranges
180-225 cm: special model, suitable only for VW vans.
Size S: 235-265 cm. Almost always suitable for caravans, and often for lower motorhomes.
Size M: 265-295 cm. If leveling jacks are installed, size M is required in about 99% of cases.
Size L: 295-325 cm. For taller vehicles and superstructures.
Rule of thumb: for caravans, size S is often correct. For motorhomes with leveling jacks, size M is nearly standard. Measurements should be taken on the vehicle in camping setup so height changes and installed equipment are considered.
Tent Dimensions: Depth and Width
Tent dimensions define available space and how well the tent fits your pitch. Typical depth is 250-300 cm. Depending on the model, width ranges from about 200 cm to 390 cm.
Depth
ca. 250-300 cm
More depth increases comfort, but also requires more pitch space.
Width
ca. 200-390 cm
Width depends on vehicle length and your desired living space.
Partial Awning vs. Full Awning
Most classic awnings are partial awnings: they do not use the caravan's full surrounding awning rail. This simplifies setup, but may expand the silhouette less.
Partial Awnings
Use only part of the surrounding awning rail. Good for flexible setup and frequent pitch changes. They cover the vehicle side without enclosing the full profile.
Full Awnings
Use the complete awning rail, extend the caravan silhouette, and appear more integrated. Available in 2.50 m or 2.75 m depth depending on your space preference.
Drive-Away Tents (DA Tents)
Drive-away tents have rear air tubes and can be set up free-standing without using the awning rail. Key advantage: with a drive-away kit, the vehicle can be detached while the tent and contents stay in place.
Suitable For
Mainly suited for panel vans, otherwise the sliding door may be blocked. Ideal for short trips, for example shopping or local drives, without taking down the tent.
Tent Structure & Modules
Tents follow a modular structure. Standard configuration includes two front modules and two side modules. Modules are connected via zippers.
Side Modules
Integrated insect screens provide ventilation. A double zipper allows wind-tight closure.
Front Modules
Wind-tight windows as standard. Optional insect screens can be added using the double zipper.
Materials & Fabric Types
Material affects interior climate, weight, and packed size. It is important to assess these properties realistically.
Polyester Tents (General)
Very light with small packed size. The downside is a higher tendency toward condensation, especially during temperature changes.
Polyester "Tour"
Ripstop fabric with visible grid pattern. It helps prevent further tearing once fibers are damaged. Thicker and more robust than many other polyester variants.
150D Polyester
Without ripstop, extremely light, and very compact when packed. In return, it is less robust than "Tour" polyester.
Avoid Common Misconceptions
"The higher the connection height, the better."
Not true. Excess height leads to folds, weaker sealing, and unnecessary wind exposure. The correct size is always vehicle-specific.
"Polyester is always worse."
Not necessarily. Polyester has clear advantages in weight and packed size. The key question is whether durability or climate comfort matters more.
"More depth is always better."
More space can help, but pitches often limit usable depth. If the tent is too deep, it can block walkways or neighboring space.
Decision Guide in Three Steps
- Check vehicle data: measure connection height correctly, include leveling jacks, and classify vehicle type (VW van, caravan, panel van).
- Define space needs: choose depth and width based on pitch size and trip duration. Short day trips often need less volume than longer stays.
- Prioritize material: balance breathability (cotton blend) against weight and packed size (polyester).