Camping is an excellent way to spend time with the family. It provides a time to relax and get away from the stresses of day-to-day life. But camping also brings on the stress of setting up a tent. Movies often show the problems that occur when the tent is set up incorrectly or poorly. By setting the family tent properly, your family will be able to avoid these unnecessary problems and maintain a relaxing and fun camping trip.
Choose a Comfortable Location
When you arrive at the campground, you will probably begin looking for the perfect spot to set up your tent. In choosing a spot that will be the most comfortable, find a one that is level. Because it is likely the ground will have a minor slope, position the tent so the head of the sleeping bags will be at the top of the slope. You will want to make sure there is no debris, such as rocks, tree limbs or tree roots. Clear any debris from the tent location. Rake the area if needed. You can use leaves and grass under the tent to add additional comfort. Look around the campsite for added comfort. A tent that is in the summer sun all day will get extremely warm inside, so position it under a tree or in a grove of trees that will provide some shade.
Choose a Safe Location
Make sure the tent is safe. Setting it next to the fire might provide additional warmth at night, but it is also a hazard, so pitch the tent upwind of the fire at least 15 feet away. Setting the tent next to a river or a similar water source is another popular, but dangerous, location. While this provides a cool and relaxing spot, if it rains, your tent will be in danger of a flash flood. Choose a high spot in the camping area to avoid this danger. To avoid wandering wildlife from entering your sleeping area, set the tent away from garbage receptacles. Trash attracts animals. Also, do not keep food inside the tent.
Set Up the Tent
Because family tents come in many sizes and designs, follow the instructions that came with it. You should set a waterproof tarp underneath the tent. This provides additional comfort, but more importantly, it keeps ground moisture from soaking through the tent bottom. It will also prevent rocks and debris from puncturing the tent. Make sure you use the stakes even if the tent instructions claim they are not needed. Stakes prevent the tent from blowing away during a storm. Make sure the stakes are strong enough to withstand heavy wind. You can purchase stronger stakes from any sporting goods store. You can also use rocks or other heavy items to hold down the stakes until you can purchase stronger ones.
