10 Tips to Prolong Your Tent’s Life

When we buy a tent, for whatever reason, we hope to think it’s going to last us quite a few uses. Read our top 10 tips to help make sure your tent lasts a little longer.

There are some things that are hard to plan for – the tree branch that blows into your tent, the rodent that takes a fancy to your flysheet, or the camper who reverses over your guylines would be three examples that spring to mind – but there are some simple preventative steps you can take to ensure you get the most out of your favourite home from home.

1. Use a groundsheet protector where possible to prolong the life of the groundsheet. This simple action has the double benefit of protecting the groundsheet and making cleaning the tent easier. Don’t want to carry the extra weight? Try doubling up a piece of kit you already carry e.g. if using a closed cell foam sleeping mat, place this under the groundsheet rather than inside the tent.
2. Reduced exposure to UV degradation by removing the flysheet or packing the tent away during the day, or if pitched in one location for a long period rig a tarp over the tent to protect it.
3. Clean and reproof the fabric of your tent from time to time using appropriate products. Never machine wash or tumble dry your tent.
4. Sweep or shake any dirt, stones or other debris out from inside the tent regularly to help protect the groundsheet from wear.
5. If storing your tent for a long period of time, make sure it is dry and clean, store in a cool dry place, pack it loosely and unpack it occasionally to air the fabric.
6. Be gentle with your poles; do not snap them together. When collapsing the pole, always start in the middle and make sure they are stored dry.
7. When camping near the sea the salt water can corrode the poles, clean the poles with pure soap and dry to remove any salt residue before packing away.
8. Applying zip lube to your pole adds an extra layer of protection and also makes it easier to slide through pole sleeves.
9. Never use chemical agents such as insecticide near or in your tent as they can damage the fabric.
10. From time to time clean and lubricate the zips on your tent (an old toothbrush works well), especially if you are using the tent for long periods.

If you have any questions about caring for your tent, download a free copy of our Tent User Manual or contact us, and we’ll be more than happy to help.