Pole tents and air tents are two of the most popular types of wild camping tents among beginners. Each has merits and limitations that can be amplified depending on the location and weather conditions. As such, neither is inherently better for all campers and situations.
If you’re wondering which one is better suited for your needs and preferences, we will share below our rundown of air tents vs pole tents, where you will learn how each type fares in terms of the different aspects and features expected from a high-quality camping tent. By the end of this post, you can feel more confident in choosing the right tent to keep you safe, warm, and dry during your outdoor adventures.
Air tents vs pole tents: comparison
As a guide for novice campers, we are going to compare air tents vs pole tents in this section. You will learn their respective features and how each element can be advantageous or disadvantageous in various camping conditions. We will also share our insights into which of the two will likely be better for those with no or minimal experience in pitching, staying in or dismantling a camping tent.
Ease of setup and takedown of tent
The engineering principles behind the setup and takedown of pole tents vs air tents are among the most significant differentiators of the two. As the name suggests, a pole tent has multiple poles that must be assembled in a certain way to ensure the tent’s integrity and stability. Some manufacturers simplify the process by colour-coding the poles, but the setup or takedown can take several minutes.
On the other hand, air tents rely on air beams, which are inflated using mechanical or electric pumps. All you have to do is lay the tent on a flat surface free of debris or sharp edges and let the pump do its work. Given this, air tents can be easier to set up or takedown, but their relatively heavier weight makes them more challenging to get out or return to the carry bag.
Tent design
A pole tent is constructed with rigid poles made of fibreglass, aluminium, or other light but sturdy metals. It comes in various sizes and shapes, such as A-frame, dome, or tunnel. Depending on the combination of material and form, a pole tent is designed to be a portable yet reliable companion for backpackers or car campers.
In comparison, an air tent stands up through a complicated system of inflatable air beams. These design elements guarantee simplicity and convenience, but to prevent the occurrence of common inflatable tent problems, the materials used for air tents must be flexible yet thick enough to ensure that they will not be vulnerable to puncture, ripping, or bursting.
Tent stability
Comparing an air tent vs pole tent in terms of stability depends on the wind strength and weather conditions. Air tents are more capable of adapting to stronger wind pressure because of their flexible air beams. However, that could be compromised if a sharp object comes into contact with the tent fabric and creates a hole that causes the affected air beam to deflate.
This is not a significant issue if you stay in a pole tent. However, solid tent poles might bend or break under the pressure of heavy rains or snow, especially if they are made of materials not for 3-season or all-season camping.
Tent durability
With all things considered, an air tent is more durable than a pole tent. It is designed to maintain the optimal air pressure, prevent deflation, and resist the impacts of potentially harmful objects. However, over time and repeated usage, an air tent can lose air as its sealing and valves weaken.
That said, pole tents offer a different level of durability. It possesses higher resistance against abrasions, rough surfaces, or pointed edges. The problem lies mainly in the tent poles, which can become rusty and be more prone to breakage if not maintained properly. It is also more likely to collapse when the rain, snow or wind becomes too much to handle.
Repair and maintenance of tent
Air and pole tents can last for years as long as you practice proper cleaning and care measures. This means cleaning and drying the tent after every use, resealing the seams, and reapplying waterproof coatings. It’s important to note that the structural differences of pole tents vs air tents also affect the type of repair and maintenance required.
For instance, the tent poles must be inspected regularly for any signs of corrosion. Defective poles are usually replaced instead of repaired, as they are cheaper and easier to source. On the other hand, an air tent must be checked for leaks and punctures. Repairing such damages can be done through the provided patch kits. However, extensive damages may require specialised tools and materials to repair the fabric and valves of the air beams.
Tent weight
Pole tents are typically lighter than air tents of similar size and capacity because of their material and the lack of additional components, such as pumps and valves. Not every pole tent is guaranteed to be portable, though. It still depends on the number and material of the pole, wherein aluminium is the lightest, but at the expense of its durability and price.
The exact difference in weight between pole tents and air tents varies depending on the design and construction. On average, it can be around 10 to 15 kilograms. To compensate for the heavier weight, manufacturers design backpack straps or wheeled carry bags that improve air tent portability.
Price of tent
Several beginner campers consider this the most important factor, especially since they do not want to invest much in camping gear yet. As such, pole tents continue to be popular for their more affordable prices and perceived greater value for money.
Another interesting point is how wide the price range is among pole tents. It varies according to the brand, materials, and additional features offered. A survey of the current options in the market shows that air tents tend to be more consistent in pricing, though. That’s likely because most models use similar structural systems and materials for a good balance of durability, comfort, and convenience.
Air tents vs pole tents: the verdict
Both types of camping tents have their pros and cons, so there is no definitive answer that applies to all. We have varied needs and preferences, so it’s a matter of determining which one ticks more boxes than the other.
For example, many inexperienced campers will likely appreciate how easy it is to set up or pack away the air tents. They also offer a greater sense of stability, especially if you’re heading somewhere that is windy or rainy. However, given their price tags, keep in mind that an air tent can be a significant investment for you and may take up more room in your camping budget than you can afford.
That’s where pole tents shine. They are accessible to more people, and with so many models out there, you will have a higher chance of finding one that matches your expectations. If you believe a pole tent is the right call, just remember to maintain your discerning eye to get the best value for money without sacrificing your safety and comfort.
Air tent vs pole tent: the choice lies with you
If you’re planning to go wild camping in the UK, figuring out the answer to air vs pole tents should centre around how you can satisfy your camping needs and budget, given the unique challenges posed by the unpredictable weather and remote locations in the area. This involves carefully researching your preferred nature destinations and analysing what qualities your ideal tent must have.
Are you going somewhere far from the roads or camping facilities? A lightweight pole tent with waterproof fabric and a weather-resistant frame can make your journey more manageable and your nights more comfortable. Are you planning to take the family to the NC500 and witness the beauty of the Scottish coastlines? Pack an air tent in your car’s trunk so that you can spend more time admiring the scenery and spotting the local wildlife.
Feel free to explore your options among all the available air and pole tents. Remember, your tent can spell the difference between a disastrous trip and a wonderful outdoor experience for you and your loved ones. Happy camping!
Air vs pole tents FAQs
The primary reasons for the heftier price tags of air tents can be traced to the high level of convenience and durability they offer. Inflating an air tent takes only a few minutes and requires minimal effort. It is also manufactured with more robust materials that are less likely to develop tears or leaks, especially given that an air tent’s form and stability rely on how well-designed its air beams are.
Yes, air tents can withstand strong winds because of the engineering behind air beams. Not all air tents are made equal, though. Ensure that the model you’re considering is constructed with high-quality materials and has an excellent wind rating. Otherwise, an air tent made from lighter materials will not meet your expectations and may pose a safety risk on a windy day.
Pole tents are generally cheaper than frame tents, but both are typically much more affordable than air tents of similar capacities and ratings. Pole tents are priced lower than the other types because of their more straightforward design and lighter build. They have fewer parts, so expect the interior space to be more cramped and less customisable than most frame tents.