Outdoor Blog

How to Make a Camping Tent from Scratch

Published

5 years ago

August 25, 2019

There are so many options for accommodation when camping. From RVs and huge luxury glamping tents to ultra high tech one-man tents to making your own camping tents from scratch. Making your own tent can be an extremely rewarding activity, to sleep in something you’ve built yourself.

Sometimes you’ll be caught in a thunderstorm and need some emergency shelter, or decide on an impromptu night camping with limited materials. Whatever the reason, being able to build your own tent from scratch is a very valuable skill to have. It’s also a great trick to whip out and impress your camping mates; with a little practice you’ll be able to put up a rudimentary shelter in minutes, so next time it starts pouring in a middle of a hike, you’ll have somewhere to wait out the storm.

There are lots of different methods you can use to build your tent, depending on the materials you have available and the environment you’re in. Building your own tent can be a fun and money-saving activity, and it makes for great team bonding as well. No matter what terrain you find yourself in, one of the following camping tents should be viable and suit your needs for the night.

Some campers choose to build their own tents from scratch in order to tailor it to perfectly suit their needs. This is not an emergency camping shelter, but rather a big project requiring lots of time and materials. This article will focus on simply bustling tents with limited materials, with the main equipment you need being one or two good tarpaulins, and some rope.

How to make your own impromptu camping tent from scratch

If you find yourself on a camping trip with a few limited materials, you may want to build a tent from scratch in order to provide yourself with shelter for the night. Here we will outline several methods to build a quick shelter, with the only materials you need to bring being tarps and rope. Please note, these methods rely on you being able to find sticks and poles on location, so bear this in mind before you set off. These tents are ideal for backpacking and trekking as they are very minimal, meaning they don’t take up much space on your pack and are quite lightweight.

The ability to make your own tent from scratch can be self-rewarding but knowing what to bring is key.

Picking a location to build your own tent

When choosing the location for your tent, there are a few things to consider. Try to pick even and flat ground. Before starting to build, pick up any rocks and sticks, anything that threatens to stick in your back when you’re trying to sleep. It’s always better to pitch your tent near trees, for shade and protection from the elements. However, avoid going near dead trees, as during a storm branches could break off and fall on your tent.

It’s also a good idea to set up where the ground is slightly damp if you have a tarpaulin to use as a groundsheet of course. This will lessen the likelihood of dust blowing into your tent. You should never pitch your tent in any ditch either, as although this will help provide shelter from the wind, with even a little rain, water could pool and flood your tent, leaving you with soggy belongings and bad memories.

You should also try not to locate your tent at the bottom of any hills or mountains, as rainstorms could cause water to pour down and flood your campsite. The best place to camp no matter what is always in a wooded area, as even a few trees can do wonders in helping to keep the elements at bay. If you feel like a challenge, give camping nearby to a river or lake try, that way you can try your hand at fishing for your breakfast.

Method 1:

This first method on how to make a camping tent from scratch is ideal if you find yourself in a forest with limited materials. It’s the kind of tent you see in movies, a classic triangular cross-section a-frame tent. This design doesn’t provide much protection from critters that might come crawling, but it’s fun to build and will give you some much-needed protection in a pinch. This is our preferred method for building a camping tent from scratch, as it gives the most spacious shelter, however, you do need to be in a reasonably well-wooded area for this method to be an option.

You will need:

At least one waterproof tarp (or tarpaulin)
Posts or sticks to use as stakes
Rope, clothesline, heavy-duty string or cord

For this tent, you will need to find a spot between two trees, around 10 feet apart. You will need a piece of rope long enough to tie between the two. Tie the rope to the two trees at a medium height. The distance from the ground depends on the size of your tarpaulin, you’ll need to lay it over the top later and pull it out to make a triangle shape. If in doubt, a height that is around a third of the length of your tarp should be ideal.

When tying your rope or cord, make sure your knots are secure and the length of the rope should be parallel to the ground. The rope should be as tough and the knots as tight as possible, to ensure your shelter won’t fall down in the night. The knots you tie should be similar to hammock knots, check out some of the best hammock knots here.

Once you’re sure it’s securely tied, throw the tarp over the rope, with it falling equally on each side. If you have more than one tarpaulin, use your largest for this part of your tent. If the tarp doesn’t reach the ground, this means you have tied the rope too high, and you’ll need to make some adjustments. Pull out the corners of the tarp and cut a hole in each using a backpacking knife.

Then secure them to the ground using sticks as stakes. You can also use rocks to lay on top of the edges, or rope to tie them off if you have any left. If you have a second tarpaulin, you can lay it on the ground as a tent floor. For your floor tarp, we recommend using one that’s thick and durable, as it takes a lot of stress being between you and the ground. The last thing any camper wants is a hole in their floor.

Method 2:

If you can’t find two trees the correct distance apart, you can use one tree to make a tent of a different shape. This method is the simplest and requires the least materials, however, the tent is only really good for sleeping or emergency shelter as there’s not much room. If you have a long enough tarp, you can actually cover the floor with the same material, but be careful putting too much strain on it, especially if it’s not as heavy-duty as you’d like.

You will need:

One waterproof tarp (at least)
Rope or cord
Sticks to use as stakes

To create this tent, firstly tie one end of your rope around the tree, at a medium height once again. Then, pull the rope taught and stake the other end into the ground, away from the tree. Now, throw your waterproof tarp over the rope, and you have your rudimentary shelter. It’s helpful at this point to use some bungee cord, some string, even a peg to secure the tarp at its high point.

This will help prevent it from sliding down the sloped rope, so you get as much coverage as possible. If your tarp is large enough, you can wrap it around so it covers the floor and both sides of the tent. Likewise, if you have a second tarp, you can use this as a floor sheet.

Secure the lower end of the tent first, a few heavy rocks will work perfectly to pin it to the ground. Then either stake the bottom of the sides or use rocks again, to hold them outwards. Once everything is secure, you have a waterproof shelter to sleep in, it should just about fit inside your sleeping bag and pack.

Method 3:

This method produces a multipurpose and straightforward tent. It’s not 5-star accommodation, but it’ll provide you with shelter pretty much anywhere. Instead of a central post, make use of one of your hiking poles if you have them. These are ideal, especially if they’re extendable, and nothing feels better than making multiple uses out of one item when you’re camping. After all, you do have to carry everything.

You will need:

At least one waterproof tarp (or tarpaulin)
Posts or sticks to use as stakes
Rope, clothesline, heavy-duty string or cord

First of all, lay out your tarp flat on the ground. Measure the diameter of your poles or sticks, and cut holes in each corner. Make the holes a little smaller than the diameter you’ve measured, in order to make the posts secure when you put them through. Once you’ve made these holes, cut your rope into four equal lengths and thread them through, but don’t tie them yet.

When you’ve found the ideal location to spend the night, place your largest post or stick where you want the center of your tent to be, this will go to the middle of your tarp. Dig the post a little into the ground and make sure it is secure. If you don’t have a hammer, carefully use a rock to hit the post into the ground. This will be the height at the center of your tent, so keep that in mind.

Once you’re sure that your central post is well secured and stable, place the tarp over it. Then, you can proceed to pull out each corner of the tap, at a diagonal to the post and ground. Be careful as you don’t want to pull too hard and change the position of your central pole. Put small sticks to act as stakes through each corner and push them into the ground. Your tent should now look like a pyramid.

Now that you’re happy with the shape of your tent, go round and tie up the corners to your sticks or stakes. You can also add some rocks to weight down the edges of the tent, to make sure it’s secure. If you have another tarp, lay this down to create the tent floor, this can also be secured with stakes or rocks.

Now you know three different methods to create your very own camping tent using limited materials. Next, it’s time to move in and get on with building your campfire. Building a rudimentary tent is fun and a valuable survival skill, so next time you find yourself camping without a tent, you’ll be ready to impress your friends with this great camping knowledge.

The materials you use for constructing your tent can vary from season to season and different locations.

How to make a camping tent from scratch for backpacking

For backpackers, weight is everything. Specialized backpacking tents are made to be ultra-lightweight, as well as small enough to not take up all the space in your pack. However, these tents come with a hefty price tag, so why not try building your own. With a little DIY effort and elbow grease, you can make your own tent for backpacking and trekking for a fraction of the cost.

First, you must consider the fabric you’re using. A good backpacking tent is durable, breathable, and protective. Most tents are made from ripstop nylon, and we recommend selecting this for your DIY backpacking tent. You could try to save money by using regular nylon, but if you’re in a hurry and packing away, you could damage the material, so it’s worth investing in more durable fabric.

If you’re headed out onto the trail, you might want to consider getting a mosquito mesh layer for the inside of your tents. As well as being incredibly annoying, in some places mosquitos can carry dangerous diseases, so check before you set off if this is something you need to consider.

If for any reason you end up sewing your tent fabric, remember you need to seam seal as an extra consideration. You can either use seam seal tape or paint on a sealant- read our article on how to waterproof a tent for more information. For the floor of your tent, a durable and strong tarpaulin is the best choice, and waterproof of course to prevent puddles.

This guide is for making a simple, single wall A-frame tent. It’s fully enclosed, ideal for warm weather camping, and requires only a few materials. Be careful to waterproof your fabrics, and seam seal for the best weather protection. This is a single person tent, ideal for the ultralight backpacker.

You will need:

A lightweight waterproof tarp, ideally silnylon (silicon nylon), dimensions at least 3×3 meters, or 120 x 120 inches
A ground tarp, it’s recommended to use a thick drop cloth or a durable tarp
A spool of thin nylon rope or a similar cord
5 pegs or stakes
One hiking pole that’s extendable (this is a great feature as it’s multi-purpose)
Bungee cord

Building the tent

First of all, scout for the ideal location as mentioned above. You should place your tent perpendicular to the wind, and on a level surface. Remove any rocks, sticks, and any other debris from the area.

Lay out the silnylon tarpaulin, smoothing it out as neatly as possible.

Use your stakes to peg the corners and center at the back of the tent. The back should be where the worst of the weather might be directed, it’s the strongest part of the tent. Stake the back so it’s very taught.

Next, take the two front corners and bring them together, and then where they fold in the center, lift. Peg the two corners down together in the middle, creating a slit opening in a pyramid shape.

Extend your hiking pole fully, and place it under this centerfold, creating a triangle shape. Be sure to push it firmly into the ground.

To prevent the pole from sliding out, wrap around the bungee chord covering the tent, so it’s securely attached.

To help shield yourself from the rain, and mosquitos too, tie some rope around the front flap and attach it to your peg inside. This will stop the rain coming in through the slit.

Finally, lay down your heavier-duty tarp inside, for a little protection from any dampness from the grass. Try to use the remaining rope or cord as guy lines to the ground or trees. Hopefully, this will provide some extra support to your structure and help prevent the tent from falling in.

This DIY tent has a lot of benefits. The materials are cheap, so for budget backpackers, it can provide a safe and dry place to sleep at night, which is all you really need. It won’t provide perfect protection from cold weather or bugs, but it can be quickly assembled just about anywhere.

After a long day out on the trail, figuring how to set up your makeshift tent as quick as possible is key.

Final Verdict:

Now you’re well versed in making a camping tent from scratch, check out a few of the best locations in Washington State to pitch them. None of these tents are really ideal for family camping unless you’ve got one really large or many regular sized tarps. However, setting up a rudimentary tent is a fun activity to do with your kids while teaching them a valuable skill at the same time. On your next family camping trip, locate an appropriate tree and set up a tent together using only string and tarp, you’re guaranteed to have a blast.

If you’re backpacking, knowing how to make a tent like this can save you a pretty penny. If you can deal with a bug or two, these tents will do you no wrong. We recommend investing in a good quality tarp if you plan to use these methods for your trip, a lightweight one made of silnylon is ideal.

Making your own tent for camping from scratch isn’t as hard as it seems. We recommend everyone gives it a go, even if it’s just in your backyard. You’re guaranteed to already have all the materials you need already, as the vital elements are only a waterproof tarpaulin and some rope. Everyone should have a go at this essential survival skill, as it’s both easy and rewarding.

Bonus tip: Check out this handy video on making a tent with only once tarp<span style=”font-weight: 400″>!

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