Equipment

Best European Tent Brands

This extensive guide will give you the lowdown on the best European tent brands so that you can choose the perfect piece of kit for your requirements and future adventures.

Is Europe a Good Place for Camping?

Europe is a great place for camping, with a wide range of options for outdoor enthusiasts. There are many beautiful and diverse landscapes to explore, from rugged mountains and dense forests to idyllic beaches and picturesque lakes.

Best european tent brands and scotttish view
©KB

Europe also has a rich cultural heritage, with many historical and architectural landmarks to visit, and many outdoor activities to do, like hiking, biking, fishing and more.

Some of the most popular camping destinations in Europe include:

The Alps, which offer a wide range of outdoor activities and spectacular mountain scenery.

The Pyrenees, which are known for their rugged beauty and great hiking trails.

The Lake District, which is a popular spot for camping, hiking, and water sports.

The Mediterranean, which offers warm weather and beautiful beaches.

The Scandanavian countries, which offer great opportunities for wilderness camping and outdoor activities.

The British Isles which offers a diverse range of landscapes, cultures and activities.

What is the Camping Infrastructure like in Europe?

Europe also has a well-developed camping infrastructure, with many campgrounds and RV parks that offer a range of amenities and services. There are also many companies that rent out camping equipment, such as tents, sleeping bags, and camping stoves, making it easy for travellers to camp without having to bring their own gear.

Overall, Europe is a great place to camp, with a wide range of options to suit different preferences and interests. Whether you’re looking for rugged wilderness camping, or more developed campgrounds with amenities and services, Europe has something for everyone.

European Tent Brands

These brands are known for producing high-quality, durable tents that are suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and backpacking. They are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and are often considered some of the best in the industry.

1. European Tent Brands – VAUDE (Germany)

VAUDE is a German company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment and clothing. The company was founded in 1974 by Albrecht von Dewitz in Tettnang, Germany and is currently headquartered in Obereisenbach, Germany.

Vaude backpack
©Mattia Corciulo

VAUDE is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear, such as tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and clothing, that is designed to be durable, functional and environmentally friendly.

VAUDE is a member of the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labour standards in the textile industry.

The company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental protection is exemplified in their use of eco-friendly materials, production methods, and their Green Shape label which denotes products that meet the company’s strict environmental standards.

What Materials are VAUDE Tents Made From?

VAUDE tents are made from a variety of materials, including:

Polyester: This is a synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

Nylon: This is another synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, strong, and has a high tear resistance.

Polyurethane (PU): This is a type of coating that is applied to the tent fabric to improve its water resistance and to seal seams.

Aluminium: This is a lightweight metal that is commonly used for tent poles because it is strong and durable.

Steel: This is a stronger and heavier metal that is sometimes used for tent poles, particularly in larger and heavier tents.

VAUDE also uses eco-friendly materials in their products, such as organic cotton, recycled polyester and bluesign® approved fabrics. They also have a Green Shape label for their environmentally friendly products.

Some of the most popular VAUDE tents include:

VAUDE Hogan Ultralight: This is a lightweight, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and ultralight camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a single-wall construction with a water-resistant coating.

VAUDE Karakorum: This is a 4 season, freestanding tent that is designed for mountaineering and backpacking. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and a full-coverage fly for added protection.

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VAUDE Power Lizard: This is a 4 season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating. It is also has a tall peak height and large vestibules for added living space.

VAUDE Escape Pro: This is a 3 season, freestanding tent that is designed for camping and family trips. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and multiple mesh vents for added ventilation.

These tents have been popular among outdoor enthusiasts and are known for their durability, functionality, and environmentally friendly features.

2. European Tent Brands – Salewa (Italy)

Salewa is an Italian company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment and clothing. The company was founded in 1935 by Josef Liebhart in the South Tyrol region of Italy, and is currently headquartered in Bolzano, Italy.

Salewa is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear, such as tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and clothing, that is designed to be functional, durable and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as climbing, hiking, and backpacking.

The company is known for its innovative designs and use of advanced materials, such as Gore-Tex and Pertex, which are known for their breathability, waterproofness and durability.

Salewa also has a commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. They use eco-friendly materials and production methods, such as recycled fabrics and bluesign® approved materials.

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The company is also a member of the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labor standards in the textile industry.

Some of the most popular Salewa tents include:

Salewa Rapace Gore-Tex: This is a 4-season, freestanding tent that is designed for mountaineering and backpacking. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex laminate, and a full-coverage fly for added protection.

Salewa Denali II: This is a 4-season, freestanding tent that is designed for mountaineering and backpacking. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and a full-coverage fly for added protection.

Salewa Peak II: This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating. It also has a large vestibules for added living space.

Salewa Alpenrose II: This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for camping and family trips. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and multiple mesh vents for added ventilation.

These tents have been popular among outdoor enthusiasts and are known for their durability, functionality and high-quality materials. They are also suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, including backpacking, mountaineering, and camping.

3. European Tent Brands – Robens (UK)

Robens is a UK-based company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and camping furniture.

The company was founded in the 1960s and is currently based in the town of Ipswich, in the county of Suffolk, England. Robens is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that is designed to be functional, durable and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and backpacking.

The company has a reputation for producing well-designed, innovative and high-quality equipment, using the latest materials and technologies available in the market. They also have a focus on sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production methods, such as recycled fabrics and bluesign® approved materials.

Robens is a member of the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labor standards in the textile industry.

Some of the most popular Robens tents include:

Robens Klondike Tipi: This is a spacious, freestanding tent that is designed for camping and family trips. It is made from a combination of polyester and cotton fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and multiple mesh vents for added ventilation. It also has a large front porch.

Robens Kiowa: This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating. It also has a large vestibules for added living space.

Robens Voyager 2EX: This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for camping and family trips. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and multiple mesh vents for added ventilation.

Robens Klondike Inner: This is an inner tent that is designed for camping and family trips. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and multiple mesh vents for added ventilation. It is also compatible with the Robens Klondike Tipi tent.

These tents have been popular among outdoor enthusiasts and are known for their durability, functionality and high-quality materials. They are also suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, including backpacking, camping, and family trips.

4. European Tent Brands – Ferrino (Italy)

Ferrino is an Italian company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment and clothing. The company was founded in 1887 by Giovanni Ferrino in the city of Torino, Italy and is currently headquartered in the same city.

Ferrino is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear, such as tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and clothing, that is designed to be functional, durable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and mountaineering.

The company has a long history of producing outdoor equipment and has built a reputation for producing innovative and high-quality products, using the latest materials and technologies available in the market.

Ferrino also has a commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production methods, such as recycled fabrics and bluesign® approved materials.

Ferrino is a member of the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labor standards in the textile industry.

Ferrino Lightent 2: This is a lightweight, 2 person tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of nylon and polyester fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating. It also has a quick set-up system and a good ventilation.

Ferrino Transalp 200: This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for mountaineering and backpacking. It is made from a combination of nylon and polyester fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and a full-coverage fly for added protection. It also has a good ventilation and a spacious interior.

5. European Tent Brands – Vango (UK)

Vango is a UK-based company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and camping furniture.

The company was founded in 1966 by a group of outdoor enthusiasts in the Scottish town of Falkirk, and is currently based in the same town.

Vango tent in Green
©Shell Camping With Style

Vango is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that is designed to be functional, durable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and backpacking.

The company has a reputation for producing well-designed, innovative, and high-quality equipment, using the latest materials and technologies available in the market.

Vango also has a commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production methods, such as recycled fabrics and bluesign® approved materials.

Vango is a member of the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labour standards in the textile industry.

They are also known for producing a wide range of tents that cater to different needs and camping styles, from lightweight backpacking tents to large family tents.

What Materials do Vango Use for their Tents?

Vango uses a variety of materials in their tent production, such as:

Polyester: This is a synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

Nylon: This is another synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, strong, and has a high tear resistance.

Polyurethane (PU): This is a type of coating that is applied to the tent fabric to improve its water resistance and to seal seams.

Aluminium: This is a lightweight metal that is commonly used for tent poles because it is strong and durable.

Fibreglass: This is a lightweight, strong and durable material used for tent poles in some models.

Vango also uses eco-friendly materials in their products, such as recycled polyester and bluesign® approved fabrics, which are known for their environmental sustainability.

They also have a focus on using breathable fabrics that help to reduce condensation and keep the interior of the tent dry and comfortable.

They also use their own patented TBS system (Tension Band System) which helps to increase the stability and strength of their tents in adverse weather conditions.

How Does the Vango Tension Brand System (TBS) Work in their Tents?

The Vango Tension Band System (TBS) is a patented technology that is used in many of Vango’s tents to increase their stability and strength in adverse weather conditions.

It works by attaching a set of adjustable straps, called tension bands, to the inside of the tent.

These tension bands are then connected to the tent poles, and when tightened, they pull the poles into a more secure and stable position, thus increasing the tension on the tent fabric.

This helps to prevent the tent from collapsing or flapping in strong winds and improves the overall performance of the tent in adverse weather conditions.

The TBS system also helps to distribute the wind force more evenly across the tent, reducing the risk of damage to the tent fabric and poles.

The TBS system is designed to be easy to use and can be adjusted quickly and easily, even in difficult weather conditions. The tension bands are color-coded to make it easy to identify which one to adjust and they can be tensioned from inside the tent, which is more convenient.

TBS system is a unique feature of Vango’s tents, which makes them stand out from other brands. It is a simple but effective way to improve the performance of a tent in windy conditions and adds an extra layer of stability to the tent, which will make campers feel more secure.

Here are three popular Vango tents and their features:

Vango Force 10 Helium 200: This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating.

It also has a quick set-up system, a good ventilation and a spacious interior. The Force 10 Helium has a Vango patented TBS (Tension Band System) that increases the stability of the tent in adverse weather conditions.

It also has a Protex 70D flysheet which is waterproof to 4,000mm, and a breathable inner tent.

Lands End Best European Tent Brands
©Frantisek G

Vango Odyssey Air 600XL: This is a family tent that is designed for camping and family trips. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and multiple mesh vents for added ventilation.

It also has a quick set-up system, a good ventilation and a spacious interior. The Odyssey Air 600XL features Vango’s patented AirBeam technology, which replaces traditional poles with inflatable beams, making it quick and easy to set up.

The tent also has a full mesh front door, which can be used as a sun canopy, and a darkening bedroom.

Vango Diablo 600: This is a 4-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and a full-coverage fly for added protection.

It also has a good ventilation and a spacious interior.

The Diablo 600 features Vango’s patented TBS (Tension Band System) that increases the stability of the tent in adverse weather conditions. It also has an inner tent that can be divided into two rooms, and a porch area that can be used as a storage area or as additional living space.

6. European Tent Brands – Terra Nova (UK)

Terra Nova is a UK-based company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and camping furniture.

The company was founded in the early 1990s by a group of outdoor enthusiasts in the town of Cheddar, England and is currently based in the same town.

Terra Nova is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that is designed to be functional, durable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.

Lake in Cumbria
©Matthew Daniels

The company has a reputation for producing well-designed, innovative, and high-quality equipment, using the latest materials and technologies available in the market. Terra Nova also has a commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production methods, such as recycled fabrics and bluesign® approved materials.

Terra Nova is a member of the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and the Fair Wear Foundation, which promotes fair labor standards in the textile industry.

They are known for producing a wide range of tents that cater to different needs and camping styles, from lightweight backpacking tents to large family tents and specialized tents for specific activities such as mountaineering and expeditions.

What Materials are Terra Nova Tents Made From?

Terra Nova uses a variety of materials in their tent production, such as:

Polyester: This is a synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

Nylon: This is another synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, strong, and has a high tear resistance.

Polyurethane (PU): This is a type of coating that is applied to the tent fabric to improve its water resistance and to seal seams.

Aluminium: This is a lightweight metal that is commonly used for tent poles because it is strong and durable.

Fibreglass: This is a lightweight, strong and durable material used for tent poles in some models.

Cuben Fibre: This is a high-performance, extremely lightweight, and waterproof fabric that is used in some of Terra Nova’s lightweight and ultralight backpacking tents.

Terra Nova also uses eco-friendly materials in their products, such as recycled polyester and bluesign® approved fabrics, which are known for their environmental sustainability.

They also have a focus on using breathable fabrics that help to reduce condensation and keep the interior of the tent dry and comfortable.

They also use their own patented Airbeam technology, which is an inflatable beam system that replaces traditional tent poles, making it quick and easy to set up.

What is Terra Nova Airbeam Technology and How Does it Work?

Terra Nova’s Airbeam technology is a patented system that replaces traditional tent poles with inflatable beams, making it quick and easy to set up.

The Airbeam technology utilizes an inflatable, air-filled beam instead of traditional metal poles to provide the structure of the tent. The beams are made of a durable and strong material, such as PVC, that is able to withstand high pressure and maintain its shape even in windy conditions.

Best European tent brands
©Luke Ellis Craven

The Airbeam technology works by inflating the beams with an air pump which can be done quickly, usually in less than a minute. Once the beams are fully inflated, they provide the necessary structural support to keep the tent upright.

The tent is then pegged out and tensioned as normal to provide a secure and stable structure.

The Airbeam technology has several advantages over traditional pole systems: it is faster to set up, it is more stable in windy conditions and it is more durable.

Additionally, it is more packable and lightweight than traditional pole systems, making it more suitable for backpacking and camping trips where weight and pack size are a concern.

The Airbeam technology is a unique feature of Terra Nova’s tents, which makes them stand out from other brands. It is a simple but effective way to improve the performance of a tent in windy conditions and adds an extra layer of stability to the tent, which will make campers feel more secure.

Here are three popular Terra Nova tents and their features:

Terra Nova Laser Competition

This is a lightweight, 1 person tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating.

It also has a quick set-up system, a good ventilation and a spacious interior. The Laser Competition is a very lightweight tent, it is designed for minimalists, it is one of the lightest single-skin solo tents on the market. It has a minimalist design, using lightweight fabric and a single-pole design for a minimal weight, and is easy to pitch.

Terra Nova Quasar Elite

This is a 4-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping.

Walking in the Lake District
©Luke Ellis Craven

It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and a full-coverage fly for added protection. It also has a good ventilation and a spacious interior.

The Quasar Elite is designed for mountaineering and expedition, it is a very strong and durable tent that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

It features Terra Nova’s patented Airbeam technology, which replaces traditional poles with inflatable beams, making it quick and easy to set up. The tent also has a full mesh front door, which can be used as a sun canopy, and a darkening bedroom.

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Terra Nova Voyager Elite

This is a 2-person tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating. It also has a quick set-up system, a good ventilation and a spacious interior.

The Voyager Elite is a versatile tent that can be used in any season, it has a strong and durable construction, it features Terra Nova’s patented Airbeam technology, which replaces traditional poles with inflatable beams, making it quick and easy to set up.

The tent also has a full mesh front door, which can be used as a sun canopy, and a darkening bedroom.

7. European Tent Brands – Tatonka (Germany)

Tatonka is a German company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment, including tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and clothing. The company was founded in 1985 by Jürgen Weichert and is currently based in the town of Bad Kissingen, Germany.

Tatonka is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that is designed to be functional, durable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.

Stone stack in Germany withe the  European Tent Brands
©Malte Scmidt

The company has a reputation for producing well-designed, innovative, and high-quality equipment, using the latest materials and technologies available in the market.

Tatonka also has a commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production methods. They produce a wide range of outdoor equipment such as tents, backpacks, bags, sleeping bags, and clothing,

Tatonka’s is known for producing high-quality and durable outdoor equipment, with a focus on functionality, durability, and quality. They also have a reputation for offering a wide range of products to suit different needs and budgets.

What Materials are Tatonka Tents Made from?

Tatonka uses a variety of materials in their tent production, such as:

Polyester: This is a synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

Nylon: This is another synthetic fabric that is commonly used in tent production because it is lightweight, strong, and has a high tear resistance.

Polyurethane (PU): This is a type of coating that is applied to the tent fabric to improve its water resistance and to seal seams.

Silicon: This is a type of coating that is applied to the tent fabric to improve its water resistance and to seal seams.

Aluminium: This is a lightweight metal that is commonly used for tent poles because it is strong and durable.

Fibreglass: This is a lightweight, strong and durable material used for tent poles in some models.

Tatonka also uses eco-friendly materials in their products, such as recycled polyester and bluesign® approved fabrics, which are known for their environmental sustainability. They also have a focus on using breathable fabrics that help to reduce condensation and keep the interior of the tent dry and comfortable.

They also use their own patented technologies, such as inflatable beams systems, to improve the performance of their tents in adverse weather conditions.

8. European Tent Brands – Exped (Switzerland)

Exped is a Swiss company that designs and manufactures outdoor equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, mats, and camping furniture.

The company was founded in 1997 by Ruedi and Ursula Gautschi and is currently based in the town of Stans, Switzerland. Exped is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear that is designed to be functional, durable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.

Swiss mountains and lake with  European Tent Brands
©Christian Regg

The company has a reputation for producing well-designed, innovative, and high-quality equipment, using the latest materials and technologies available in the market. Exped also has a commitment to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and production methods.

They also have a focus on producing lightweight and compact equipment, making it easier to carry on backpacking and camping trips.

They are known for producing a wide range of tents, sleeping bags and mats, that cater to different needs and camping styles, from lightweight backpacking tents to large family tents and specialized tents for specific activities such as mountaineering and expeditions.

Here are three popular Exped tents and their features:

Exped Mira I

This is a 3-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating. It also has a quick set-up system, a good ventilation and a spacious interior.

The Mira I has a unique design that allows for a lot of headroom and space for gear storage, and it is lightweight and easy to set up. The tent also has a full mesh front door, which can be used as a sun canopy.

Exped Venus II DLX

This is a 4-season, freestanding tent that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating and a full-coverage fly for added protection.

It also has a good ventilation and a spacious interior. The Venus II DLX is designed for harsh weather conditions, it is a very strong and durable tent that can withstand heavy snow and winds. The tent also has a full mesh front door, which can be used as a sun canopy, and a darkening bedroom.

Exped Synmat UL 7

This is a lightweight and compact sleeping mat that is designed for backpacking and camping. It is made from a combination of polyester and nylon fabrics and features a double-wall construction with a waterproof coating.

It also has a quick set-up system, a good ventilation and a spacious interior.

The Synmat UL 7 is a lightweight and compact sleeping mat that is designed for backpacking and camping, it is made with a unique microfibre insulation that provides warmth and comfort. It is also lightweight, durable and easy to pack.

Can you Go Wild Camping in Europe?

Yes, it is possible to go wild camping in Europe, although the laws and regulations regarding wild camping vary from country to country. In some countries, such as Norway, Sweden, and Finland, wild camping is allowed in most areas, as long as it is done responsibly and with respect for the environment.

Swedish houses by the sea with the best European Tent Brands
©Ferhat Deniz

In other countries, such as the United Kingdom and Ireland, wild camping is generally not allowed, although there are some exceptions, such as Scotland where wild camping is allowed on some areas with the landowner’s permission.

In most countries in Europe, wild camping is not officially permitted, but it is generally tolerated if it is done discreetly and with minimal impact on the environment.

It is important to check the laws and regulations of the specific country or region where you plan to wild camp, and to get permission from the landowner if necessary.

When wild camping in Europe, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles, which means leaving the area as you found it and not leaving any traces of your presence. This includes not building fires, not leaving any trash or litter, and minimizing the damage to vegetation. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the local wildlife and not to disturb them.

Overall, wild camping is possible in Europe, but it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations, and to camp responsibly and with respect for the environment.

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