Outdoor Blog

Building Your Own Tent, Is it The Best Option?

Published

4 years ago

February 17, 2020

A man with a blue hat walking in the forest.

All over the United States of America, camping is now in vogue. Once just the preoccupation of boy scouts and family holidays, camping is now rising as a hobby exponentially in young Americans. According to the North American Camping Report 2019, since 2014 there has been a 72 percent increase of campers every year. Now, both millennials and GenXers are more likely to identify themselves as life long campers.

One of the reasons for this is the growing market for luxury camping, glamping or van life, probably romanticized by outdoor adventurers on Instagram. But for young people, looking for a glamourized but slightly anesthetized experience of the great outdoors, it begs the question: building your own tent, is it the best option?

Although the rise in interest in camping seems to be related to the more commercialized, glam-camping, we think there’s a parallel factor which has led to the rise of the popularity of camping. With the world becoming awake to the risks of plastics and climate change, more and more of us are looking to get back to nature and do it in a sustainable way.

A person cutting a tree branch with a knife.

A tarp tent can easily be set up with the assistance of a tent pole, or a nearby stick.

In fact, the study found that half of all campers identified their “love of outdoors” for sparking their interest in camping. So if you love the outdoors, and want to surround yourself in nature in a way that benefits it in the long run, then primitive camping, and especially building your own tent, might be the ideal option for you.

When we buy camping tents, and many other outdoor pieces of kit, often they come in lumpy, plastic packaging. This not only can be bad for the environment but also tents and extra camping gear can weigh you down exponentially on your hike or camping experience. If you’re looking for an ultra-light, and environmentally sustainable option, then building your own tent is a perfect option for your camping trip. They’re also a fantastic option if you don’t want to sleep at a campsite.

Another reason why building your own tent might be the best option for you is that you’re a romantic! If your love for the outdoors goes beyond an occasional weekend trip into the local hills, and you’re a full-on adventure seeker who wants to fully immerse yourself in nature, there’s not much closer to it you can get than by building your own tent.

As we will go on to outline, there are a few different options for building your own tent. But many of them include utilizing parts of your natural habitat. For example, you might find a stick to prop up your tarp, or two well-spaced, string trees to tie your camping hammock to.

Although building your own tent is not for the faint-hearted, it can add exponentially to your outdoor adventure. Imagine carving out your own intimate canopy, to observe the world out of when it’s colder. Or in the summer months, why even have a shelter at all? If you know it’s going to be excellent weather on your camping trip, a tent is almost a waste. There’s nothing more invigorating than the feeling of falling asleep under a canopy of twinkling stars or waking up to a stunning sunset, with a light breeze on your face.

As we’ve outlined, there are already a couple of general reasons why people might want to think about making their own tent. One is to be more environmentally sustainable, not only in the production process but also by using natural materials to ensure that the site is left exactly how you found it, with no man-made additions. Secondly, many people are attracted to building their own tents by a romantic notion to “get back to nature”, and fully be immersed in their natural environment.

Many serious outdoor enthusiasts also choose to build their own tent, as this is an ultralight option for long hiking trips. To help you ask the following question, we will break down a few different ways it’s popular to build your own tent: building your own tent, is it the best option for you?

Tarp DIY tent

One of the most popular tents that people build for themselves is a simple tent made from tarp. For summer camping, these can be an excellent option. They might not protect you from a winter storm, but form a light summer shower, they work just fine. You can set up a tarp with stakes in the back two corners, and then prop up the front middle of the tarp with a camping pole, tent poles, or a nearby branch.

If it’s a bit colder than you expected, we recommend setting up the tarp tent in a direction that faces away from the direction of the wind. This is because although tarps are an effective way of keeping you dry, they don’t offer much wind protection. Alternatively, you could try and find a location where you’re naturally protected from the wind, like behind a big boulder, or in a thick forest. This is one of the main principles of building any shelter: you need to stay dry and out of the wind.

The main benefit of building your own tarp tent is that it’s super light. A tarp or two in your backpack will add barely any extra weight at all but will protect you and your kit from light rain. Tarps also come in useful for lots of other purposes on camping trips, for more information, check out this useful article. What you make up for in convenience though, you lose out on comfort.

Unless you want to carry around a sleeping mat, your sleep on the floor under your DIY tarp tent might not be the most luxurious sleep of your life. If it’s windy, you better have brought a thick sleeping bag! However, if you’re camping in the summer months, or you’re willing to risk a bit of discomfort in your sleep to get some extra miles in your hike, this could be the ideal option for you.

However, there are a couple of disadvantages to building your own tape tent. Firstly, as we have mentioned, it doesn’t offer much protection from the wind if any. The second main principle of finding a shelter is that it protects you from wild animals and bugs. Because of the open entrance of the tarp tent, this is not something which it can help you with.

If you plan on building your own tarp tent, make sure there aren’t any midges at that time of year, and that there are no bears or other dangerous animals in the area. But, if you’re looking to get closer to nature, then waking up to deer grazing in front of your tent, for example, might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s your call!

A good shelter can be made out of simple materials which you can find on the forest floor.

DIY leaf hut

Our second option is ideal for those looking for the ultimate back-to-nature experience. Building your own leaf hut will turn you from a casual camper to a full-on survivalist. This will not only surround you and cushion you with the stunning natural materials occupying the forest or wood, but you will also be learning some invaluable survival skills.

The idea behind building a leaf hut is to make a simple wooden frame, probably in the shape of a triangle unless you’re using a natural dip or hole, with interloping branches to make a frame. Obviously it’s only really possible to build a leaf hut in a forest or wood. Once you’ve built your simple frame, you cover it in a thick layer of leaves. This will keep you dry and warm, insulated from winds.

Another great idea is to add a bough or leaf bed to the ground, to stop you from losing body heat that way, that you would usually lose through the tent floor. This is also a great option if you don’t want to carry around the extra weight of a sleeping mat if you’re backpacking, especially if you’re going on a hiking holiday.

The leaf huts are one of the most classic and recognizable shelters, and it’s also very easy to erect. However, take your time with it! Leaf huts can be very effective at protecting you from rain and wind, but they need to be built just right. We would recommend building a leaf hut with someone who has prior experience for the first couple of times, just to make sure you have the technique right. If there’d too much space between the elements of the frame or the leaves are not packed right, you might not get a waterproof shelter.

Leaf huts, thus, can be waterproof. However, you’ll never get as much protection from the elements as a sturdy tent. Because great tents are sealed, waterproofed and windproof, they’re quite hard to rival when it comes to protection from the elements.

However, you don’t always need that level of protection. And as anyone who has attended a festival in the summer will tell you, the experience of waking up in the tent in the summer, when the sun has been on it for hours, is not pleasant. Therefore, when it’s hotter, and there’s less chance of rain, a natural shelter like the leaf hut is a luxurious, indulgent option.

DIY trench shelter

As we’ve mentioned, the best time to build your own tent or shelter is in the summer. However, that only applies if you’re looking for a pleasant, relaxing time! If you’ve got a lot more adventure coursing through your veins, and you want to build a tent or natural shelter even in really terrible weather, then either are still options available for you. For example, you could make yourself a DIY trench shelter in a snowfield! It goes without saying that this is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re in it for the adventure, read on.

If you’re looking to build a shelter in the middle of a snowfield, a trench shelter is probably your best option. But how do you make one? To build a trench shelter, you need to make two walls built of snow or dig out the snow to make a trench or hole in the middle. The top of the hole can be closed with natural materials, like branches or leaves, or with a rainfly.

We would recommend using both for extra protection from the rain plus insulation and protection from the wind. If you’re looking for the extra protection of walls from the cold, that you would be missing by not having a wall tent, then this option could be worth your effort.

Obviously, if this is the route you’re going down, you’ll be bringing a really heavy-duty sleeping bag, and preferably a thick sleeping mat to avoid losing body heat into the ground. Remember to take a hardy groundsheet with you. Another trick to keep in that vital body heat is to make the hole of the trench shelter actually quite small. There’s shouldn’t be too much extra room inside the shelter, as the concept is designed to trap in as much of your body heat as possible.

People in sleeping bags on a rock in the mountains.

Bivy bags go right around your mat and sleeping bag, making a super lightweight alternative to a tent.

Bivy bags

If you’re going camping in the winter months, you might want something which offers some more substantial protection than natural, or open coverings. If you’re looking to be sleeping under the stars, but still have the ultimate protection from rain, then a bivy bag is the way to go! Bivy bags fold up super small, and are really light, and are the winners at waterproofing. You’ll barely even notice it on your back as you’re hiking, meaning you can go for longer stretches and feel less tired at the end of the day.

However, as with all DIY tent substitutes, you’re usually swapping your sleeping comfort somewhat for longer, easter hikes. With a bevy bag, you are literally in a waterproof bag, which can fit around your sleeping bag and your roll mat. So: actually a bivy can offer you just as much comfort as a tent, if the weather isn’t challenging.

With a really windy and rainy night, sleeping in a bivy is going to be challenging on your face. However, if it’s hot out, and it’s unlikely you’ll get too much rain, then a bivy bag can give you all the protection you need combined with the freedom of really sleeping outdoors. And Bivy bags are the far better option for winter, as they keep in a lot of your own body heat.

Why even take a tent?

One option is to not even use a tent! If you’re going camping in the summer months, then many of the options we have suggested will be much more palatable for you. They will protect you from a little bit of rain, but still, leave you sleeping under the stars.

However, if you’re certain that the weather is going to be nice, why even take a tent at all? Most really hardcore hikers and outdoor enthusiasts don’t mind sacrificing on comfort. The most important thing is the feeling of being utterly connected to nature.

Before taking this option, it’s imperative that you do a lot of research. Firstly you need to check that your hiking and camping location allows primitive or backcountry camping. Secondly – always check the weather forecast! If there’s even a slight chance of rain, we would recommend taking at least a tarp with you, to keep you dry in emergencies.

Remember as well, with any of these options, it’s very easy to lose a lot of your body heat through the ground. It’s best to take a sleeping mat with you. If you’re going for ultra-lightweight backpacking, then an inflatable sleeping mat is ideal.

A person wearing a blue backpack outdoors.

For backpackers who prioritize lightweight portability over comfort, there are many DIY alternatives.

Final Verdict:

So is building your own tent the best option? There are a few ways to build your own tent if you have the know-how. Some people choose to make simple one-person tents themselves. However, we wouldn’t recommend making your own fabric tent from scratch. Finding the right tent for you online can be super cheap and easy. In fact, if you want a more DIY approach towards camping, then we would recommend opting for a camping hammock.

It’s so easy to find a cheap tent online that will fit whatever needs you have. Good tents have strong, waterproof fabric, and sealed seams to avoid any water getting in as you’re sleeping. It will be almost impossible for you to make a tent as good as a shop-bought one, so why bother. Instead, your best tent could be… not even a tent. The best covering for you might be something just a little more adventurous, that connects you to nature, and even adds to your survival skills too.

Bonus tip: If you’re interested in building a DIY tent for a group, take a look at this useful video!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter