Tents and Tent Considerations
Types of Tents
There are a variety of different tents to
choose from when deciding to go
camping. These include, cabin tents, dome
tents, quick pitch tents, swag and
stretcher tents. All of these tents come
with a “season rating”, which determines
the quality of the tent for specific
conditions. Please see the diagram below
which outlines what ‘season rating’ tent is
most suited to the four seasons.
Season 2 (lowest rating) – Season 4
(highest rating)
Tent Positioning
It is important to choose an appropriate
location to position your tent during the
set-up phase. Where possible, try to stay
at a camp site or caravan park, as these
locations have the space and facilities to
accommodate for campers. The following
points will assist you in successfully
positioning your tent:
- Find a flat surface to pitch your
tent
- Remove rocks, sticks and other
hard objects that may puncture the
tent
- Seek a location that is protected
from the elements (e.g. wind, rain,
sun).
- Leave enough space between your
tent and the campfire.
- Do not pitch your tent directly
under trees and/or hanging
branches.
Tent Set Up Considerations
Tent pegs:
The following pegs can be used to support
your tent:
- Plastic peg - ideal in soft soil or sandy
conditions
- Metal - ideal in hard soil and grass
Light metal is effective in non windy
conditions.
Heavy metal will be needed for windy
conditions.
Groundsheet:
The groundsheet will protect the tent floor
against sharp, jagged objects that can cause
damage to the tent. They can also help
waterproof the tent in muddy or wet
conditions. The main two types are:
- A solid, tarp style
- A mesh style
Fly tightness:
Using a fly (a piece of material that sits over
the tent) will provide addition protection from
the elements, especially rain. The fly needs to
be pegged down tight.