If you're interested in buying a pop-up canopy but aren't quite sure where to start. Below is a list to help you choose the features that are right for you.

Durability

You want your canopy to withstand anything thrown at it, whether it's gravel, food, or a sudden downpour. Look for fabric that can be wiped clean and make sure all seams are well sealed. Not only does this prevent internal spills, it also protects you from sudden showers. For this purpose, the fabric is usually coated with PVC or similar plastic, preferably oxford or polyester.

Stability

You want your canopy to withstand high winds and rain, so choose one with weighted sandbags and nails. It would be helpful if the canopy was weighted at the bottom for wind protection. If you expect a lot of wind, you will need a tie-down kit, which holds the canopy to the ground like a tent. However, these kits should only be used on loose ground as you will need to hammer the nails into the ground.

Safety

When purchasing any type of canopy or tent, safety must be a key consideration. Make sure all materials are fireproof, which is especially important if you plan to cook in or near it. The structure must be strong and the materials light enough to avoid injury in the event of an accident. You can check whether the canopy has passed the relevant US or EU standard by contacting the customer service department of the company you wish to buy from, or by going directly to Trade Standards.

Multifunction

It is especially important to choose a canopy that is suitable for versatility. Canopy tents come in all different shapes and sizes, so you need some flexibility. The best canopy types have removable panels on all sides so you can decide where your access points are.
You may also want to place two or more canopies side by side to create a larger covered space. If that's the case, it might be worth sticking to the standard size (10 x 10ft) so you can easily pair them.

Easy to use

Last but certainly not least, you want your canopy to be user friendly. Look at the fasteners, ideally you want them to be easy to handle, Velcro or zippers are often the best options for ease and speed. Make sure that all zippers are fairly durable, especially if they are under load.

By far the easiest canopy type to build is the accordion type. You stand the canopy upright on the ground and pull the four corners apart - the concertina will open at this point. Then all you need to do is make sure the roof is in place and pull out the telescopic legs to lift the roof into the air. Then, the concertina mechanism is all neatly hidden under the fabric. Getting one of those things right is easy, but if you have a choice, get a helper and you'll get it done in half the time.

Finally, check to see if your canopy comes with a carrying case so you can pack it and store it away when not in use.

Picking a suitable pop-up canopy tent will make your outdoor activities go much more smoothly.