Outdoor Man Tent

- When looking for a new tent, is there anything I should consider? What brands should I stay away from?
I have heard recommendations to purchase 2 tents. However, I am a single mom and we all need to be in one tent. I currently have a smaller 6 man tent and it is not big enough for myself, 4 children and our gear. The youngest is 1 and he requires more than usual. The tent will get quite a bit of use but only during the late spring and summer. A multi room tent is fine as long as the inner dividers are removable. In a perfect outdoor world I would love a tent with a full rain cover as well as storage vestibules (though these are not a must). I prefer to use an air matress as I need my sleep to manage four young ones on a camping trip :) Again, this is not a must. I would greatly appreciate any guidance as I know I will be spending over 200 and I can not afford for the tent not to last. Thank you!

A With the possible of exception of Cabella's, stay away from store brand private label tents!! They are not made to the same specifications and quality control standards as name brand tents. Columbia, Eureka, Coleman, Kelty, Marmot, The North Face etc are all good quality tents, some being better than others but also more costly. You only mention the age of your youngest child but I would suggest that for 1 adult and 5 growing children, you get a tent rated for no less than 8 people. Larger is even better.When the manufacturers optimistically rate a tent, their rating leaves on room for additional gear or storage unless the tent does have a vestibule or two. If you are not in a hurry to make this purchase, wait until the week right before Memorial Day to purchase a new tent. That is the when traditionally the chain stores run their largest camping ads to kick off the "camping season". (I know, I know.............people camp all year long!! )

- Can someone help me find a good tent?
I need a good tent for less than $100. I want either a "tall dome tent" or a 1-2 man tent. I was going to get this one. http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___36298 If a get a 1-2 man tent I want it to have this type of front. http://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/images/ge/gelert-eiger-2-tent.gif The reason I want that specific front for a smaller tent is that I can leave my shoes under the covered area and they will be dry after the rain/dew hits. Sorry if the price limit is too low. Also I want to be able to find it in a store because if they let me set it up there I can check the dimensions in real life.

A www,outdoorworld.com , khyam or outwell ranges are really good. get one with a 2500 or more hydrostatic head