The primary function of a tent is to provide a sheltered area from the elements, such as wind and rain. This will will then serve three purposes:

• Basic outdoor accommodation.
• A living area for genral daily use.
• A storage area for essential camping equipment.

The majority of modern tents are a "Dome" type structure. Unlike the more traditional "Ridge" tents, they create an efficient living space, right to the edge of the ground sheet.