You’re looking at the title and going “What the heck is a rain fly?” That’s actually a good question for someone who has never been camping. A rain fly is like an umbrella for a tent. It goes over the entrance to the tent, to keep rain from getting in. This is very useful to have, even if you don’t think it will rain. This is why many family tents will come with a rain fly. All tents should be waterproof, but the rain fly adds that extra layer of protection from the elements, should you need it. The family tents that come with rain flies often make them removable, but it’s recommended that you keep them on at all times, even if the weatherman does not call for rain during your camping trip. It’s better to have that protection there and not need it than to need it and not have it.

When you go camping with the family, you probably will have at least one kid with you. Kids often love camping and will jump at the chance to go. Choosing the right family tent out of the abundance of family tents available can be a challenge. Some are designed with kids in mind, while others are designed for adults. Find one that has a design that fits your needs. Some safety features for kids that some family tents will sometimes offer include the tent material being made from non-flammable materials, and the ability to lock the zipper. Bear in mind that even with these safety features, it’s unwise to put a tent too close to a fire or keep the zipper constantly locked. Teaching your kids the basics of camping safety is as important as choosing the right tent. Always know where your kids are when camping, and never leave them unattended.