Your vehicle itself is a pretty good shelter without any modification. I have spent several nights sleeping in the vehicle. I especially recall being stranded in a snowstorm and another occasion when we left our tent in a violent thunderstorm for the somewhat better protection of the vehicle.<br><br>Tents provide superior shelter in inclement conditions, especially in cold, windy conditions, although they can be quite noisy. The "three season tents" are code for a light tent that will keep the bugs and dew out and provide privacy. Snow caves and constructed shelters offer a calmer environment. A leanto is pleasant if conditions are fairly calm, otherwise the fire will not keep you all that warm.<br><br>If you get a tent, get one that is sturdy enough for the most extreme conditions you might encounter. You probably don't need to bother with weight. Rather than a tent, I would be sure I had enough insulation in clothing and sleeping bags that I would not have to depend on the fire exclusively. I always keep a few tarps in my vehicle so that I can extend the inherent shelter provided by the vehicle outward.