Paddling Articles by Kevin Callan

Kevin Callan is the author of several books and guides about canoeing and camping. The folks at paddling.net have a collection of his articles that will appeal to canoeist's and campers alike.

From "Storm Proofing Your Tent"

• First things first, you need a good tent. A three-season with minimum waterproof rating of 600 mm for the flysheet and 1000 mm for the floor.
• The more ventilation systems the tent has the better it will keep condensation out and your sleeping bag dry.
• Slab on generous amount of seam sealer on a new tent, prior to your trip.
• A tent's weakest link is the door's zipper. Position the tent door away from the prevailing winds to reduce the chance of water seepage.
• Place a plastic tarp inside on the tent floor, not outside. Having it outside will just help collect the water. When the water begins to soak through, and it eventually will, having the tarp inside guarantees a protective layer between your sleeping pad and the soggy tent floor.
• Nylon guy lines loosen when wet. Attach shock cord loops to each one. This will guarantee they keep taunt and absorb any stress placed on the tent fly when the gale force winds begin to howl.
• Sew on extra stake loops to the sides of the tent. Most tents only come with three of four; that's not enough to stop the fly from flapping in the wind.
• Tie two three foot lengths of parachute cord at the front and back of the tent, attached to the poles and not the fabric. Double stake each one.
• When packing up, stuff your tent into its storage bag rather then rolling it. Not only is it less harsh on the fabric, it also reduces the bulk in your pack.
• The moment you get home pitch the tent in your backyard to properly dry it out. The moment mold and mildew set in, your tent will never hold up against wind and rain again.

Kevin Callan's books at Amazon

Comments

[Jon]

Nice Tips. Some tents you can also use silicon spray for water proofing. Be sure the the material is adequate and wont damage it.