How to Prepare a Tent for Setup

With camping comes excitement, adventure and memories, but bad planning, especially when it comes to tents, could put a damper on the entire trip. Whether it’s a three-season family tent or a smaller backpacking tent, the same rules apply for preparing it for setup.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Inspect your tent before you leave for a camping trip. Erect the tent in an open space to air it out, make sure it’s ready for use and to practice setting it up in case you arrive at the campsite in the dark.

2. Ensure none of the poles or stakes are broken. If they are, buy replacements.

3. Go inside the tent and make sure it’s clean and dry. Repair any tears in the tent with patches because the rips tend to grow if you leave them.

4. Pack the tent back up and take inventory of supplies. It’s important to make sure you don’t leave any necessities behind.

5. Scout out the ideal location to set up your tent. Look for flat ground that’s clear of rocks and protected from wind for the best spot.

6. Lay down a tarp or footprint and secure it to the ground. This helps protect campers from the cold, damp ground and protects the floor of the tent from the elements.

7. Remove the tent and unfold it on top of the footprint. Position the tent so that your head will be uphill from your feet. Now, you're ready to set up the camping tent.

Tips & Warnings

• If the tent package includes a rain tarp, use it to better protect campers and the tent itself.
• Leave your shoes outside of the tent to keep it clean.
• Never store food or use an open flame in or near the tent. Food attracts unwanted critters and creatures.
• Beware of dead limbs from trees that could fall on your tent.
• Don't leave tent unzipped during the day because of possible bugs and animals.

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