How to Prop a Tent

Tents are subject to the elements and winds, sometimes requiring propping and reinforcement.

Tents get abused simply by means of the designed purpose. When taking backcountry adventures it is common to deal with high winds, inclement weather and off-camber camping sites. Once the tent is erected in these conditions reinforce the tent by propping it against these barriers. Take advantage of natural wind-breaks, anchors and materials surrounding the camping area to help with the stability of the tent.

Things You'll Need

• Tent stakes
• Guy lines
• Anchors (rocks, logs or branches)
• Shovels

Instructions

1. Dig out a snow pit in the shape of the tent footprint. Use the pit to build wind barriers. Prop the tent walls against the sides of the snow pit as an added reinforcement against wind. If you know the direction of the prevailing wind, set the tent up with the door facing away from the winds.

2. Anchor the tent to rocks, branches, logs or overhangs. Tie guy lines to the tent's guy loops (small nylon webbing loops on the outside of the tent). As a general rule, attach two guy lines with one on each side of the tent. When possible, guy out all walls of the tent.

3. Position the tent against cliffs or large rocks as a prop against wind and as a protective measure from the elements. If the ground is soft, add stakes to the pole loops and reinforce the tent via the stake attachments.

4. Push laden backpacks up against the interior walls of the tent if no other anchors are available. The added weight against the walls props the nylon tent fabric up and fights against winds. Be prepared to sacrifice inside space when propping the tent with the backpacks.

References

• Smart Camping and Hiking Tips: Smart Tent Camping Tips

Resources

• Summit Post: Featured Trip Reports