Outdoor Blog
How to Replace Shock Cord in Tent Pole
There are numerous tiny components in a tent that can break, but they don’t warrant buying a whole new unit. Tent pole shock cords can easily malfunction, over time they deteriorate and become brittle, and eventually lose their elastic properties. When the shock cord in your tent pole doesn’t function anymore, you might think new poles need to be purchased. However, buying new tent poles can be very costly, and there’s a much cheaper alternative.
If you’ve ever thought about building your own tent, then you can definitely make this DIY repair. Replacing the shock cord in your tent pole is easy, all you need is a few materials and a can-do attitude! In this article, you’ll get the low down on several different techniques you can employ to repair broken tent pole shock cords. We’ll also share a little bit about why shock cords are important, as well as the measures you can take to prevent future damage. Read on to discover all this and more, and expertly replace the shock cord in your tent pole.
What is a tent shock cord and why is it important?
Modern tent poles contain shock cords, their main purpose is to keep your tent poles attached together. Earlier tent designs featured poles which simply broke apart into smaller sections, while this modern improvement keeps all your poles in one piece and makes pitching your tent easier. If a shock cord from one of your poles breaks, then you can still use the pieces separately.
However, as your tent poles are designed to be connected, it might make pitching your tent quite a challenge. It’s also much easier to lose components of your tent and poles when they aren’t attached together, so shock cords are very useful in this regard. Tent pole shock cords are made of an elastic material so that the different segments are held together with elastic once the poles are assembled. You can use a non-elastic shock cord to keep your tent poles together in one piece, but the elasticity is definitely beneficial when assembling your backcountry shelter.
What you need to replace the shock cord in a tent pole
Before settling down to repair your tent, make sure you have all the materials necessary. You can buy a replacement shock cord at your local camping store, and there are many retailers online as well. You will need:
- Shock cord (size ⅛” or smaller) with enough length for all of your poles that need to be repaired
- Scissors or sharp edge
- Measuring tape
- Sharpie or marker pen
- Lighter or matches to melt the ends
- Masking tape
How to replace a faulty shock cord in a tent pole
So, now you have all the tools required, as well as some appropriate cord to replace your old faulty shock cords, it’s time to get started repairing your shelter. Follow our steps and your tent will be as good as new!
1. If your cord is still intact, the first thing you need to do is pull apart two sections of your tent pole and use scissors to sever the shock cord inside. Once the cord is cut, your tent pole will fall apart into its different sections. We recommend laying the pieces out on the floor, taking care to keep them in the same order and orientation. It’s likely that the pole sections in the middle are identical, so the end pieces where the cord is tied are the most important part not to confuse. There should be a peg, called a grommet peg, at either end of the poles; remove these, and you’ll see the old shock cord tied on. You may need to unscrew your grommet pegs and then untie the remaining cord. When dismantling your tent poles, you could use the masking tape or marker pen to label them, ensuring no mix-ups follow.
2. Now you need to measure out the length of the cord to replace the old broken one. If you’re replacing the shock cord in multiple different tent poles, make sure you take the correct measurements for each one. Measure your pole from end to end to discover the total stretched length of cord you need, but remember the actual length needs to be shorter to allow for some stretch and tension. Use a marker pen to mark the length of cord needed, but don’t make any cuts yet! If your old shock cord hasn’t lost its elasticity, you can lay it out and mark your new cord to the same length. If you can’t use your old cord as a guide, then mark the replacement to about 8 inches shorter than the pole, or to about 75% of its total length. Remember, you will need a little extra cord to tie knots in. You’ll need to cut the cord to a longer length than your tent poles to allow for room to thread it through.
3. Take the loose end of the new shock cord and tie it securely to one grommet peg, ensuring the knot cannot slip through. Then, take the longer end and begin threading it through all the segments of your tent pole. Make sure you’re careful about the order, this part should be easy if you kept the pole pieces organized earlier on. Be careful you thread the cords in the correct orientation, male to female, otherwise, they won’t fit together when you’re finished. Once you get to the end of the pole, thread the cord through the remaining grommet peg, but don’t tie it on yet.
4. Assemble the tent pole, so all pieces are connected together, as you would when erecting your tent. The loose end of the new shock cord should be threaded through the peg, but not tied on at this instant. When all the pieces of tent pole are secure, start pulling on the cord so it stretches out the end. Keep putting tension on the shock cord until you see the mark you made earlier. When you’ve stretched the cord to the right length, make a knot here so that the peg is secure.
5. Cut the excess cord after the knot on each end, leaving about 2 inches of spare length. Then, use your lighter or matches to singe the end of the cord, so that it won’t fray or unravel. Then, fold down the cord so it’s inside the tent pole, and carefully replace the pegs on either end of the pole. There should now be no shock cord visible outside the pole, with everything tucked away and reassembled. Repeat the process for every tent pole shock cord which you need to replace.
That concludes our instructions for replacing the shock cord inside a tent pole. As you can see, it’s easy to make small repairs to your camping gear, and much cheaper than constantly buying replacements. All camping gear suffers wear and tear, but most times a replacement isn’t necessary.
You can fix holes in your air mattress, make backpack repairs out in the field, it’s amazing what you can do yourself with the right motivation. This is a great method to use if you’re at home and need to make some repairs, but what happens if your shock cord breaks while you’re out on a camping trip? Read on to discover some alternatives to this technique, if you don’t have a spare length of tent pole shock cord on hand.
How to Repair a Shock Cord if it Breaks in the Field
If you’re already out on a camping trip and are struck with a snapped or overstretched shock cord, it can make assembling your shelter difficult. Luckily, there’s an easy fix if you want to repair the cord without replacing the whole length. This isn’t as permanent a solution as replacing the cord, however, it will make your tent functional for a little while longer.
If the cord hasn’t broken, and rather it’s too stretched out for your tent pole, there’s an easy fix. Just remove the peg from one end of your poles and untie the cord. Then, pull through the shock cord until it’s taught once again, and retie it at the grommet peg. The cord might not be as stretchy as before, but removing the slack will help the poles to function better.
If your old tent pole shock cord has broken, you’ll need to disassemble the pole according to our instructions above. When you’ve located the break in the cord, you’ll need to thin out the material. On either side of the break, remove a few inches of the cord’s elastic core, leaving only the braided sheath. Tie this thinner bit of cord into a secure knot, then trim and singe the excess to prevent fraying. The reason you need a thinner section of cord to tie is so that the knot won’t get stuck in the poles, and can still pass through easily.
Using string as a temporary replacement for a broken shock cord
If the shock cord in your tent pole is beyond repair, but you don’t have a new replacement cord on hand, you can use a string to attach your poles together. Keep in mind, this won’t have the same elastic properties as proper shock cord, however, it can serve well as a temporary replacement until you can make more substantial repairs. All you need to complete this DIY fix is a length of strong string and a hair bobby pin, so it’s an easy repair to make with limited materials.
Firstly, disassemble your tent pole as we explained above, including the grommet pegs at the ends. Once again, you’ll need to take care you don’t mix up the pole segments, so you can easily put them back together afterward. Remove the old shock cord and discard it, you won’t need this anymore. Measure your string to the total length of your tent pole, plus a few extra inches to tie the knots, and cut it.
Tie the string securely to a flattened bobby pin, which will make it much easier to thread back through the tent. Tie the other end to the first grommet peg, and then begin threading the string through the pole. You can do this by dropping the bobby pin down through the pole, and then carefully pulling it through from the other side. Continue until you’ve threaded the string through all of the poles and then reached the peg on the opposite end.
Because you’re using string, and not an elastic cord, you can’t pull it tight before tying off. Instead, you need to ensure enough loose sting is available so that you can disassemble the poles and fold them up. Allowing for this extra length, tie off your string on the grommet peg, and then singe the ends to prevent fraying. We recommend unfolding your poles once you’re finished, to check there’s enough slack to pack away your tent. If there are any errors, you can untie the end at a peg and make any adjustments necessary.
How to repair a broken tent pole
The shock cord isn’t the only thing that can break on your tent pole; sometimes, the outer poles themselves can be prone to breakage. If you suffer from a tent pole breakage when out on a camping trip, it can make your shelter completely useless! That’s why you need to know these easy ways to repair a broken tent pole as well as replacing the bungee cord, so you’ll be prepared for every eventuality.
The easiest way to fix a broken pole is with a pole repair sleeve, also called a splint. Often, you’ll receive one of these with your tent purchase, it’s an important piece of camping equipment you should remember to bring with you. If your tent doesn’t come with a repair sleeve, it’s inexpensive to purchase one, you never know when you might need it.
Firstly, line up the broken pole sections. If the tent pole is only bent, and not fully severed, gently bend the metal back into place. Slide the sleeve onto the pole and position it over the break. If there are pieces of broken tent pole metal in the way, try using some pliers, or otherwise a rock, to bend them back inwards. Once the sleeve is in place, use liberal amounts of duct tape to secure it to the pole, try to avoid any gaps.
If you don’t have a tent pole repair sleeve, you can use a spare stake to splint the pole. However, note that this might make assembling your tent more difficult, so you need to use your judgment to decide whether to perform the repair before or after the tent is erected. Line up the broken tent pole as before, and then use duct tape to attach the stake at either side of the break. You can cover the whole thing in duct tape, just make sure your repair is secure.
Preventing damage to your tent poles in the future
If you’ve made a repair to your tent pole shock cord, and want to avoid having to do the same again in the future, we have some advice on preserving and extending the life of your tent poles. At any time, avoid setting your poles down on the ground, especially in loose dirt, gravel, or mud. When your poles are folded up, there are openings into the hollow interior.
It’s best to avoid any debris getting inside of your tent poles, as this can abrade the shock cord and cause it to break again. It’s best to keep all of your outdoor gear out of the dirt, as a rule, this will extend the longevity of your equipment.
When erecting your tent and putting together the tent poles, try to connect the middle segment first. When putting away, separate this segment first as well. This will reduce strain on the elastic shock cord inside, helping to prevent breakages and the need for replacements. Follow these few tips, and you’ll be much more likely to avoid repairs and replacements in the future.
Final Verdict:
Replacing the shock cord in your tent pole is sometimes a necessary task, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Making small repairs and replacements to your camping gear can save a lot of money in the long run, and it’s also significantly better for the planet. Learning how to complete these small fixes is easy, and above all else, it will make you a better camper.
Bonus tip: Check out this video for some more tent pole repair tips!
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
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.
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