First, select a tent that fits your needs. As a general rule, 3-season tents are lighter and less expensive than 4-season tents. They're also better in hot weather and fine for most backpackers. You should then be sure you can pitch the tent in the rain, or on soft ground or snow, because all these conditions are not so easy to get out of 3-season tents! If you are an expert camper, the choice of a 4-season tent is easy! The vast majority of hikers, especially newcomers to the backcountry, will choose a three-season tent.