If you are not a tent expert by way of experience with a wide range of tents and tenting conditions, then continue your research before spending big bucks.

Rent or borrow gear, take advantage of campgrounds to ask people about what they like and dislike about their tents.

Do not assume that popular tents are anything other than popular.

Find out what works for you, including whether or not you really want to go tent camping.

If you decide you like to camp, be prepared to find out no one tent is best. Like lots of gear you may aim at acquiring something for solo hikes in good weather, group adventures in not-so-good weather, and a few stops in between.

Have fun with it!