Camping Tent Tips - FAQ

Camping Tent Tips -  Find answers to your tent camping FAQ

If you have never been camping before and are thinking of taking your family on their first camping trip, you probably have a bunch of questions.

We will attempt to answer the most frequently asked questions.

We will focus primarily on tent camping in this article and discuss Rving and beach camping in future articles.

Tent camping is for those who like the idea of "roughing it" and can do without the comforts of home.

If you can’t bear the thought of being away from your computer, tenting is not for you.

Q: Why is my four person tent barely able to hold two people?
A: A four person tent is designed for 4 adult sleeping bags, with little or no room for anything else. If you need to sleep four people I’d suggest 6 person tent, for a family of 6 and 8 person tent and so on. If you want room to move around, you might want to consider getting a tent that sleeps double the number of people in your party.

Q: My sleeping bag is made for summer weather but I want to camp in late fall. Do I have to buy a new sleeping bag?
A: No. There are several things you can do to keep warm. Wear warm pajamas or sweats to sleep in. You can also buy a liner that fits inside your sleeping bag or you can pin a blanket inside your bag. The easiest method is to use a blanket over your sleeping bag.

Q: Can I set up my tent under a tree for shade from the sun?
A: There are several reasons why it isn’t a good idea to place your tent under a tree. First, many trees have surface roots that can tear your tent and making it impossible for you to sleep comfortably. Bird droppings can stain and damage the tent fabric. Pine cones can leave residue on your tent. Also you don’t want to be in a wet tent under a tree during a storm.

Q: Is it ok to cook in the tent?
A: NEVER cook in tent. The risk of fire is high. Fuel can be spilled or the grill could tip, or a pot could boil over and cause a fire.

Q: Should I put the ground cloth in or under the tent?
A: Either way the cloth will prevent your tent from wear and tear. If you choose to put it under the tent make sure it is smaller than the perimeter of the tent. Otherwise rain water can collect and damage the tent fabric.

Q: My tent has mildew, what can I do?
A: First you have to kill the mold. Wash the effected spot with a solution of ½ cup Lysol and 1 gallon hot water, using a sponge. Than rinse with a solution of a cup of salt to a gallon of hot water. Allow the tent to dry in the sun. On a canvas tent you can use a non-chlorine bleach. A cup of lemon juice and 1 cup of salt in a gallon of hot water can be used on a colored fabric. Brush the materials off the tent. Always make sure the tent is completely before storing it.

Q: What kind of food should I bring?
A: If you are backpacking in to the campsite freeze-dried food is easier to carry, but if you are taking a vehicle what you bring can be just about anything you choose.

Q: How do I dispose of garbage?
A: The rule of thumb is what you bring in, you bring out. Most campgrounds will have dumpsites but if you are in the wilderness take it home and get rid of it there.

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