A Perfectly Pitched Tent: Your Expert Guide from Premier Camping

If there’s one thing guaranteed to ruin your camping holiday, it’s a poorly pitched tent.
British weather is famously unpredictable, but a well-pitched shelter ensures you stay dry and comfortable even when the heavens open. At Premier Camping, we’re here to help you master tent pitching – whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or setting up for the first time. Follow our step-by-step guide to transform your camping experience.

How to Put Up a Tent: Ten Essential Tips

While every tent comes with its own instructions, these universal tips will ensure a smooth pitch:

1. Start with a Tent Footprint:
   Pegging a footprint first marks your pitch area, protects your groundsheet, and keeps the tent clean during pack-down. It also helps gauge the space needed, and gives you the chance to inspect for any stones or divots in your chosen space.
2. Secure the Groundsheet First:
   Anchor the groundsheet immediately to prevent shifting. Leave other pegging until later.
3. Lay Out the Flysheet:
   Unroll the outer layer to visualise pole placement and check all zips are closed (vital for proper tension).
4. Peg from the Back:
   Even before inserting poles, secure the tent’s rear to prevent wind lift. Adjust later if needed.
5. Guide Poles Gently:
   Feed poles into their channels without forcing them. If they snag, check for obstructions. Many tents use colour-coded poles for easy matching.
6. Push, Don’t Pull Poles:
   Avoid separating elastic-linked poles by pushing them into place, not tugging.  Push them gently so as not to snag the tent fabric.
7. Hammer Pegs Correctly:
   Angle pegs at 45 degrees with hooks facing away from the tent. Use a mallet – never stand on them!
8. Tension Guy Lines Wisely:
   Align the guylines with the tent seams and adjust tension to support the frame without strain.
9. Extend Pegging Strains Fully:
   Straps at full length reduce pole stress and snapping risk.

10. Allow for Wind Movement:
    Leave some slight slack in fabrics and lines so your tent can flex in gusts.

For Air Tents: Skip poles! Inflate beams with a pump (some models feature single-point inflation for speed).

Before You Leave: Smart Preparation

1. Inspect Your Tent:
   Check for tears, bent poles, or missing parts at home, not when you arrive on-site. Keep repair kits handy for emergencies.
2. First Time With a New Tent? Do a Trial Run!
   Pitch your tent in your garden or local park. Practice builds confidence and reveals missing components.
3. Read the Instructions:
   Never skip the manual! Even experienced campers need model-specific guidance, especially for air tents. Proper pitching extends your tent’s life and prevents damage.

4. Recruit Help:
   Enlist friends or family, especially for larger tents. Teamwork saves time and stress.

At the Campsite: Choosing Your Spot

Location is critical for comfort and safety:

• Seek Flat Ground:
  Prioritise level terrain. If pitching on a slope, face the door downhill and align with prevailing winds.
• Leave Space:
  Allow 5 metres between tents for guy lines and privacy. Avoid crowding near campfires.
• Use Natural Shelter:
  Hedges or bushes can block wind, but avoid trees (sap, bird droppings, and lightning risk).
• Avoid Wet Areas:
  Steer clear of marshland, ditches, or valley bottoms where water pools.

• Clear Debris:
  Remove rocks, sticks, and old pegs to protect your groundsheet and sleep comfortably.

A Little Extra Care Pitching Makes For a Perfect Camping Holiday!

A perfectly pitched tent isn’t just about dry nights – it’s your sanctuary after a day of adventure. With Premier Camping’s advice, you’ll build a reliable retreat in any weather.

Ready for your next escape? Explore our premium tents and camping accessories to make your next trip an experience to treasure.