Avoiding newbie tent camping mistakes
Some lessons are hard-won, while others are avoided entirely through learning from the mistakes of others. Please enjoy these pearls of wisdom, learned through many uncomfortable nights in the wild that you will never have to endure. You’re welcome.
Pack it in
It would be easy to assume that tucking away your heavy pack into the corner of the tent vestibule would be the right place for it, but it can actually make life harder, as it can block the airflow coming into your tent from the gap between the rainfly and ground, which is needed to reduce condensation. Storing your pack in the centre of the vestibule will not inhibit airflow, for a happier snooze.
Drier dryer
Dry your wet gear outside your tent! The moisture coming off any damp or drying gear will build up in your tent, creating unpleasant condensation. Dry your gear in sunlight during the day instead, or stash the dampness into a dry bag to address when you’re home.
Inclined to make flatter choices
Setting your tent up on a slight incline might seem fine, but through the night you will slip down, with your feet pressing against the tent, and your sleeping bag sucking up all that condensation. If an incline cannot be avoided, putting the foot of your sleeping bag into a dry bag or your backpack will prevent your sleeping bag from getting too wet.
Open air Pitch
Through high summer, an open space can be a good choice for a campsite when the wind is low, but the moment the weather gets dicey a sheltered location will be the smarter choice. Pitching your tent closer to trees will offer greater insulation and protection from the elements. It is important to note that before you pitch look up! Assembling your tent under or close to dead or decaying trees is a recipe for disaster.
Valley of the Colds
Valleys and gullies are sinkholes for cold air. Because cold air is heavier than warm they’re naturally cooler than other locations, so unless you like freezing, the bottom of a valley is not the best location for an overnight stay.
