Tent Setup Tips!
 
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Tent Setup Tips!

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twdondanville
(@twdondanville)
Posts: 177
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We'll be backpacking and pitching tents in no time. Here are my favorite tips for tent setup. 

  • get your tent out now and set it up, inspect it for damage, clean it, and make sure there's nothing missing
  • always try to set up with daylight. If you can't, invest in a good headlamp. And if you know you'll be pitching in the dark, get acquainted with your tent before the trip in the light. 
  • follow LNT principle #2: pitch your tent on durable surfaces 
  • if your tent came with crappy stakes, upgrade them and the old one for gardening or something. (tent stakes article here)
  • learn how to make "Deadman" anchors with rocks and sticks if your camping on super soft soil (desert/beach)
setting stakes and guy points
  • want to go hyperlite? switch out your tent's foot print for tyvek fabric from local hardware store. 
  • bring extra paracord (and practice hitches/knots so you know how to use it) 
  • rocks are good for bashing stakes into super hard ground
  • when locating a spot for your tent, ask yourself the question, "If it rained, where would the water run?"  aka avoid low spots
  • what's easier/lighter than a tent? No tent! If the weather looks reliable, try out "cowboy camping" instead
  • bring a tent repair kit

Have an idea I missed? Share it!

 
Posted : April 4, 2025 12:13 pm
Pjrnoa64
(@pjrnoa64)
Posts: 20
Member Moderator
 

Thanks.  I bought a tent a month or so ago but I've procrastinated since.  I kind of dread the setup process.

 
Posted : July 16, 2025 8:26 pm
callmethebreeze
(@callmethebreeze)
Posts: 198
Member Moderator
 

Posted by: @twdondanville

when locating a spot for your tent, ask yourself the question, "If it rained, where would the water run?"  aka avoid low spots

This is HUGE! And often overlooked. Thankfully, I've never personally fell victim to it....because I've heard the horror stories from many who have 😱 

 
Posted : July 19, 2025 3:53 pm
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