Tent Vestibules: What they are and why they are useful

When choosing a tent, you need to consider what’s important to you, to improve your camping experience. An important factor to consider is the vestibule. In this blog, we discuss what a vestibule is, how it can be used, and what to consider when looking for a tent.

What is a tent vestibule?

An integrated vestibule (also known as a porch) is built directly into the tent’s design to create a small, covered area, outside the inner tent. Using the same material as the flysheet, this excess fabric creates a shelter to protect your belongings from the elements, provides you with extra space, and creates an organised area for all your equipment. By having a dry space to store all your equipment, you can maximsie the sleeping space within your tent, and stretch out without your backpack or wet kit getting in the way!

A vestibule is a suitable place to store all your muddy and damp clothing, shoes, and kit as it reduces the amount of moisture you would otherwise bring into your tent. Bringing your wet items inside your tent is a recipe for condensation build-up, which after a long day hiking, is the last thing you need when trying to catch a few Z’s.

A vestibule can also provide the perfect shelter for your four-legged friends to sleep if they get too hot inside your tent. Close enough to be near you without taking up room in your tent and a nice breeze so they can sleep soundly!

Types of vestibules

Depending on the design of the tent, a vestibule can come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Most tunnel-style tents will have a front entrance and vestibule, while dome-style tents offer a side entrance and vestibule.

The different styles of openings and vestibules required depend on how you prefer to use your tent. If you like to use the vestibule whilst in your tent, a front vestibule will mean all of your kit is directly in front of you. Meanwhile, a side vestibule will offer space to the side of you. You’ll need to consider how the vestibule will be used and what your preference is when it comes to using it in bad weather.

Cooking in a Vestibule?

It is important to note that even though a vestibule can appear to be an attractive place to set up your camp kitchen, we always advise you to cook your feast outside your tent.

Although well-ventilated, there is still the risk of carbon monoxide building up, and the potential damage to your tent such as damaging the fabrics and coatings with fires and hot water. Do not put yourself in danger; take your stove outside and all these factors can be avoided by cooking outside your vestibule.

Terra Nova and Wild Country offer a range of tent designs and vestibules to suit your requirements. Take a look at tents with vestibules here.

The Southern Cross 2 is a notable example of a 4-season tent with not one, but 2 large vestibules which makes it a terrific choice for any camping trip. With 2 doors for each camper, there is adequate space for all your belongings! But if solo camping is more your style, we also produce plenty of 1-man tents with integrated vestibules, take a look at our full range of tents.

So, next time you are shopping for your tent, consider the benefits of the vestibule and how it can benefit your camping experience.

Think of your vestibule as a place for space, protection, and organisation.