Recently looking for a 4/5 man family tent. I had in mind another Vango (to replace my ancient Vango Armadillo) but was prepared to consider anything. I visted one shop and the guy went to considerable lengths to tell that Vango tents are rubbish. Is this true or was it simlply a heavy sales pitch.

I like Vango tents, but I haven't any experience of their large dome tents I'm afraid. Usually well suited to what they are each built for anyway. Never had any complaints.

Sounds like the guy just wasn't a fan.

I used a Vango Equinox 450 for a couple of years until recently and thought it was fine. The smaller compartment could have been a bit bigger, but other than that I had no complaints. My impression has always been that you get quite a lot for your money with Vango.

What was he trying to flog you instead?

I've got 2 , a Hydra and a Venture 500. Both very well made, and the Venture is a much better tent than the Sunncamp/Gelert equivalents.
Bloke with a Big Tent will advise you if he's still around..

You could have a look over at:

http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/chatter

There's loads of chat about larger family sized tents etc.

I’ve had a venture 500 for a couple of years now and had no problems at all, as a valley bottom three season tent it’s of a much better design and manufacture quality than some tents I’ve seen.

I'm looking at the Vango Quest 600......large and pretty strong compared to most family sized/style tents. Expensive though!

Depends where/when you want to use it really. Lots of people love the Vango Diablo, but I saw two blow away on Uist last year! They are OK for summer though.The Quest is altogether stronger.....as is their new range can't remember the name, but the are huge, and really nice looking...begins with a a and based on nomads tents....on their website

Aspen?
Atoll?

Jeff, Vango tents are definitely above average, I'd be interested to know which tents the salesman you met recommended over Vango?

I've just bought a Diablo 400 which seems superb value for 200 quid. Reviews say they are good and the backup service from Vango excellent. They have been making tents a long time.

I bought a Vango Venture 600 DLX for family camping this summer and although we haven't used it yet it seemed fine when I put it up in the garden. It seemed well made and was easy to put up. Very cheap as well, I only paid £95 plus p&p from www.wildday.com. I chose it after doing some research on www.ukcampsite.co.uk and Vango seem to be well regarded on there.

Dear All,
Many thanks for your comments, I'll go for Vango.
The shopkeeper was trying to sell me an Outwell.

Sorry I missed this thread, Vango tents are great. I've had a Hydra for many years and now use if for sites/ car camping as it's a little heavy but it's surviving very well and I would buy another.