What size canopy is best? We'll teach you how to choose the right size.

When it comes to choosing the size of a canopy, there's no single "best" size, only the most "suitable" one. Choosing one that's too big takes up too much space and is heavy, while choosing one that's too small means everyone is crammed together and exposed to the sun – both are quite awkward.

We can consider the following aspects:

1. How many people will you be sheltering?

This is the most direct approach. Before buying a canopy, think about how many people will be using it:
Two or three people: For example, a couple going fishing at the beach or a family with a child having a picnic, a smaller size will suffice. This size is also convenient for storage and can be carried by one person.
Five or six friends: If it's a family outing or a gathering of friends, you'll need a medium-sized one, at least enough to ensure everyone's legs are in the shade when seated.
Large parties of ten or more people: Then you'll need a large one. If that's still not enough, sometimes you even need to set up two canopies side-by-side.

2. What items will you be placing underneath?

Besides sheltering people, you also need to consider the furniture and equipment that will be placed under the canopy:
Only chairs: If people are just sitting and chatting, there's plenty of space.
With a dining table: Once a table is set up and people are seated around it, it takes up more space. You need to consider the space needed for people to stand up from their chairs and move around, so that people don't have to squeeze past each other.
For selling goods at a stall: If it's for a small business, besides placing shelves, you also need to leave yourself room to move around. In this case, there are usually standard market sizes available.

3. How much space do you have?

Before buying, it's best to measure the area where you plan to set up the canopy:
Your own balcony or small yard: The space is fixed, so you must measure accurately. Don't buy one only to find that the supports are hitting the wall or blocking a walkway.
Campsite or park: These places have more space, but you need to consider whether the lawn is flat or if there are tree branches in the way.

4. Consider your strength and trunk space

This is quite important; many people only think about size when buying, forgetting how they'll transport it:
Portability: Larger canopies are often heavier, and the poles are longer when folded.
Will it fit in your car? It's best to check the length of your car's trunk beforehand. Don't buy a giant one only to find out the car door won't close – that would be embarrassing!

5. Don't forget "height" is also a dimension

When choosing, also consider the height of the canopy:
If the top is too low, tall people will have to stoop, which feels very cramped.
If you're using it in the summer, a slightly higher canopy will allow for much better air circulation, and it won't feel stuffy inside.