Tent Essentials

Whenever you venture into the great outdoors, it's best to go prepared for the unexpected. No matter how organized you are, there will always be times when you need to do some running repairs on your camping gear so it's wise to pack some essentials. The most common thing to run out of is tent pegs, often due to over enthusiastic hammering in when erecting the tent, leaving your once pristine pegs looking like wriggly spaghetti! Hard ground, poor weather and incorrect use can all leave you with pegs that are not useable. Without all the correct pegs in your tent, the stability and structure of your 'home from home' will be compromised. Make sure you always carry spare tent pegs with you.

Another potential problem is the loss of a tent pole. Whilst modern tent pole design and manufacture means you have excellent durability and flexibility; incorrect use, severe weather or simply boisterous children can mean damage to your poles, which in turn would affect your camp. Many tents come with repair kits which are great for small or temporary adjustments, but it's worthwhile investing in spare poles to affect a more permanent solution. Of course the fabric of any tent is what protects you from the outside elements. Tent waterproofer is essential. Any damage to this will mean that the outside may not stay outside!

It's prudent to equip yourself with a small tent repair kit in case of rips or loss of waterproofing. This could include sealing tape, fabric patches and tent waterproofer. With a bit of time taken to gather together your tent repair kit, you'll keep warm and dry.