Buy the right tent. Tents are constructed for three-season and four-season use, with the latter insulated for the winter months. Determine how many people typically will accompany you, because tents come in various sizes. Check the tent's construction. Look for heavy-duty zippers, strong seaming and sturdy poles. Decide on the shape of your tent. Tents come in different configurations such as domed, walled and “A” frame, to name three. Pick the shape that offers you the most comfort and adequate storage.
Choose the right place to pitch your tent. Find a relatively level area that is free of holes. Determine the direction of the prevailing wind and make sure the door of your tent faces the wind to reduce condensation and improve the ventilation.
Secure your tent stakes with a log or a large boulder if the campground isn't level. Tie your tent down to a tree or bush to add stability. Buy special tent pegs that are made for those conditions.
Pitch your tent far away from the camping area's tallest trees. During an electrical storm, those trees may attract lightning.
Place your camping stove or anything that has an open flame outside your tent. Locate all campfires at least fifteen feet and downwind from your tent.
Paint your stakes a bright color and affix colored pieces of cloth to the ropes so that no one trips over them.
