The term of camping can refer to a wide variety of activities and, due to this variance, a wide range of camping tents have been designed to address each activity's particular needs. In essence, there are five different styles of camping and each style requires a different set of essential camping gear. Choosing the right equipment will depend on what style of camping a person will be doing. The easiest style is using an existing cabin in the mountains or forest. Also called hotel camping, most of the camper's needs are provided and little equipment is needed with this style. Many hikers and backpackers will claim that this style is not actually camping as it does not require any outdoor camping equipment.
Similar to hotel camping, some campers choose to stay in an RV or a camping unit that is towed behind a car. Again, this style will not require much outdoor camping equipment other than the basic necessities for preparing food and relaxing. In most cases, the RV or camping unit will be stopped in a park specifically set up to host these vehicles. For the comfort of the campers, bathroom facilities and sometimes even restaurants or kitchen facilities are provided. This style is often employed by a person that wants the comfort of a hotel, but also wants to be close to a natural location, such as a lake. For this reason, this style is often known as lake camping.
Also considered lake camping, the third style involves driving a car to a campsite, but sleeping in tents at the site. Perfect for a quick weekend vacation to a lake or other natural area, a person can keep all equipment in the car while still enjoying the activity of sleeping in a tent. The camping sites are often regulated and a person will have access to bathroom and shower facilities somewhere on the site.
The fourth style is what is known as normal camping. This is when a person hikes to a specified location and stays in a tent at the location. A person making this type of trip will need to bring several pieces of equipment as well as a supply of food as there is nothing provided at the camping site. Most campers of this nature use a backpack or rucksack to carry all of the equipment. In addition to the tent, a hiker may also need to bring supplies to prepare food, water canteens, and a first aid kit in case of injuries.
The last style of camping is much less common. This happens when a person decides to hike and camp for an extended period of time, generally along an established trail, such as the Appalachian Trail, or the John Muir Trail. The length of the trails can lead to a trip taking several weeks and will require additional equipment, such as an axe, rope, and others depending on the terrain that will be covered. This camping gear and the camping tents are designed to be as lightweight as possible as it will be carried for long distances.