Location Is Everything
Your tent site decides how your night goes. A site that is level, dry and sheltered from the wind beats a pretty view every single time. Scout before you set up, not after.
The Four Checks
- Level: lie down on the spot before you commit.
- Drainage: high ground or a slight slope so rain runs away, never toward you.
- Cover: dead overhead branches and widowmakers are a hard no.
- Wind: natural barriers like trees or rock walls cut the breeze.
Set the Door Right
Point the tent door away from the prevailing wind and, in warm weather, toward the sunrise for natural light. Set the rainfly taut so it sheds wind instead of flapping.
Pro tipClear the ground of rocks and sticks before pitching. A pad will not save you from a pinecone you can feel all night.
Leave No Trace
On arrival, rotate your tent and spot any change in the footprint you will leave. When you strike camp, restore the site to how you found it — the next camper should not know you were there.
Comments (1)
The "lie down first" test sounds silly but works. My most comfortable trip yet.