Understanding the different types of tents and survival shelters
Different types of survival tents
Survival tents, as the name suggests, are designed to provide shelter in emergency situations. The market basically offers three types of survival tents.
1. Tube tents: this type of tent is aptly named because it looks like a tube once deployed. Very light, they are generally made from ultra-resistant materials such as polyester coated with polyurethane or mylar thermal.
2. ‘A-Frame’ type tents: These tents are simply structured with two poles on each side, thus forming the shape of an ‘A’. The tent is then suspended along this structure. Due to their simplicity, they are generally easier to assemble.
3. ‘Dome’ tents: these tents are made up of two poles which intersect to create a dome. The particularity of these tents is their stability and their resistance to bad weather.
Different types of survival shelters
Survival shelters are also essential in survival situations to protect against wind, rain or snow. They are usually lighter than survival tents, but also offer less comfort. The types of survival shelters mainly include:
1. Survival Tarps: These ultra-lightweight tarpaulins can be configured in various ways depending on the need, adding to their versatility.
2. Survival ponchos or capes: Just like a tarp, but designed to be worn on the body rather than being installed as real shelters.
How to make the right choice ?
Whether choosing a tent or a survival shelter, several factors must be taken into account:
1. Resistance to the elements: Wind and water resistance are crucial. Brand products like MSR, Hennesy Hammok Or Terra Hiker are famous for this.
2. Weight and bulk: In a survival situation, every gram counts. Choose a lightweight shelter or tent without compromising its robustness.
3. Ease of installation: Prefer tents and shelters that are easy to install in a short time.
By following these guidelines, you will be able to make an informed choice and find the equipment that will perfectly meet your needs in any survival situation.
Choosing the right tent or survival shelter suited to your needs
Complete guide: how to choose the right tent or survival shelter for your needs
For any adventurer, survival is always a major concern and choosing the right shelter is one of the most crucial decisions. Whether you’re hiking in the wilderness, spending a night in the forest, or packing a survival kit, your choice of tent or shelter can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a struggle to stay warm and dry. This guide will help you navigate the many options available and find the shelter that will best suit your needs and conditions.
Determine your shelter needs
Before you even begin browsing the different shelter options, it is essential that you determine your specific needs. Here are some things to consider:
– Output type: the choice of your shelter will be very different if you are doing a day hike, an overnight stay in the forest or a multi-day expedition in the wilderness.
– Weather conditions : your shelter must be adapted to the expected weather conditions. Are you planning a trip in hot, humid, cold, windy or snowy weather?
– Number of persons : How many people should the shelter accommodate? Some tents are designed for one person, others can accommodate two or more people.
Explore the different options: tents and survival shelters
There are many shelter options available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages:
– The tents : They are the most common choice for campers and hikers. Tents provide an enclosed space that protects you from the elements as well as insects and other small creatures. Brands like MSR, Hilleberg And Big Agnes offer a range of tents for all possible situations.
– Tarps: These simple, lightweight shelters are essentially tarps that can be erected in several ways. Although they offer less protection than a tent, they are more versatile and lighter. Aqua Quest And Sea to Summit are two popular brands of tarps.
– Bivouacs: These reinforced sleeping bags are designed to be used alone and provide minimal protection. They are lightweight and compact, making them excellent for survival situations or ultralight backpacking. Outdoor Research And Rab are known for their high quality bivouac bags.
Consider design elements
Once you’ve determined which type of shed best meets your needs, it’s time to consider design elements and features. For example, weight will be important for long-distance hikers, while interior space and shelter height will be more important for those who plan to spend a lot of time inside their shelter. Additionally, look at ventilation options, ease of assembly, weather resistance, and don’t forget the small features that can make a big difference, like interior pockets or additional anchor points.
Choosing the right shelter takes some thought and research, but it’s a worthwhile investment. With the right shelter, not only will you be more comfortable during your adventures, but you will also be better able to safely enjoy the great outdoors.
How to properly set up and use survival tents and shelters
Choosing the Right Location
The first step is to find a suitable location for your tent or survival shelter. Look for level ground, preferably on slightly soft ground to make it easier to plant your stakes. Furthermore, choose a location sheltered from the wind and far enough from waterways, as the latter attract mosquitoes and other insects.
Get to know your equipment
Each brand of tent or shelter will have its own unique features. Whether you use a template Coleman or a survival shelter MSR, it is essential to familiarize yourself with your equipment before you leave. Read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions, and if possible, do a test installation at home.
Setting up your tent or survival shelter
Once on site, start by unpacking your tent or survival shelter. Spread a tarp on the ground to protect the underside of your tent. Then assemble the structure following the manufacturer’s instructions. For a model Big Agnes, you will start by assembling the poles and positioning them before placing the tent fabric on top. For a survival shelter MSR, all you have to do is unfold it and secure it to the ground with stakes.
| Brand | Facility |
| Coleman | Hoops, then canvas |
| MSR | Unfolding and fixing |
| Big Agnes | Hoops then canvas |
Once you have set up your tent or shelter, make sure it is secure to the ground. The stability of your shelter is essential to resist the elements and for your comfort.
Use and maintenance of your tent or survival shelter
Now that your tent or survival shelter is ready for use, consider certain practices to ensure its longevity. Avoid eating or drinking indoors to reduce the risk of dirt or damage. After each use, be sure to clean and dry your tent before storing it.
To summarize, setting up and using a tent or survival shelter requires preparation and attention to detail. With the knowledge gained from this guide, you are now ready to face your next outdoor adventure with confidence.
Maintain and take care of your tents and survival shelters
Know Your Equipment
The first step to maintaining your tent or survival shelter is to understand exactly what you’re dealing with. Whether it’s a tent Vango or shelter Snugpak, you need to understand the specifics of your equipment.
Be sure to read the instruction manuals and familiarize yourself with the different parts of your tent or shelter. This will help you correctly identify all parts and know how to maintain them.
Cleaning
Cleaning your tent or survival shelter is an essential practice to maintain its durability. When cleaning your equipment, be sure to follow these steps:
- Remove all visible dirt by shaking the tent or shelter.
- Use a soft brush to remove stubborn dirt.
- Never use detergent soap or harsh cleaning products on your tent or shelter. These substances can damage the waterproof coating.
- Always dry your tent or survival shelter before storing it. Storing them wet can lead to mold and mildew.
Repair of Damage
Eventually, your tent or survival shelter may be damaged. Whether it’s a tear in the fabric or a broken pole, knowing how to repair these issues is important to maintaining the effectiveness of your equipment:
- To repair a tear in the fabric, you can use a tent repair kit, which usually includes tape, thread, and a needle.
- If a tent pole is broken, you can use a pole sleeve to repair it. These sleeves are usually included in tent repair kits of most tent brands, such as Coleman Or MSR.
Proper Storage
Properly storing your tent or survival shelter is another crucial aspect of maintaining them. Be sure to store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight which can fade or weaken the fabric. Never store it if it is damp or dirty, this can cause irreversible damage.
By following these tips, you will be able to enjoy your tents and survival shelters longer and keep them in tip-top shape for many adventures to come.
