Tents may be termed loosely as extremely elementary makeshift arrangements for shelter with a basic frame, which is usually covered with a heavy canvas or similar material. No matter what the type, tents are all very transportable and locomotive accommodations built for the sole benefit of a very mobile traveler.

If we look back at history, tents had come into proper use with the advent of war. Used to shelter soldiers, able and injured, they were a very cheap option for temporary settlers. Other uses outside warfare have of course developed over the years. They are widely used by people who prefer a nomadic life style, die-hard campers, hunters, and so on. These days designer tents have come up, which look sophisticated and stylish enough to house a meeting, a banquet or any similar other public event. The top of the tent which is normally a little decorated, with a tiny flag attached to it, is known as the apex. The area following the apex is the apron, while the rope that is attached to the apex is known as the guy rope.

Tents may be broadly classified into two basic types. They are the marquee (a very large structure with multiple poles) and a pavilion (a structure with a pointed roof). These days, shapes vary from a cone and a bell to a lean-to and a wall.

Over the years, the types of tents available have gone much beyond the traditional marquees and pavilions. Of course, the traditional tents haven't been wiped off completely. But they certainly have taken the back seat since the introduction of camper-friendly, lightweight synthetic tents that are now extremely popular.

Traditional tents usually signify the yurts and the wigwams (also known as tepees). Yurts are circular tents with strong wooden poles used mostly by Arabian Bedouins. Wigwams, on the other hand, are traditional homes for Native Americans and are usually made out of wood and hide.

Modern tents may be of various types. There are light, easy-to-pack ones, as well as heavy and durable ones. There are some which are suitable for cold conditions since they maintain a warm interior, while others are more suited to a warm climate. Tents which are suitable for single accommodation are known as pup tents and are perfect for lone travelers who treasure their privacy. Tents suitable for large accommodation are also easily available.

The point therefore remains that no matter what budget, what social need, what taste, there is a tent available for everybody in the market today.