Understanding wind, tents and terrain can make the difference between an enjoyable hike or a terrible one so, with a little help from tent manufacturers, we’ve written this in-depth, three-part article to help you get the most out of your tent in strong winds and storms.

Understanding the effects different landforms have on wind and the best ways to utilise or mitigate those effects can greatly reduce the stresses placed on your tent… and you!

Understanding stakes, guylines, tent orientation, set up technique, rain, snow and human factors is essential when we pitch our tent for or during strong winds and storms.

We review and compare four of the most popular DCF tents for two people: X Mid Pro 2, Duplex, Triplex and the Stratospire Li. We’ve used all four tents on multiple hikes over a wide range of conditions to help you select the one that suits you best. Two people sharing a tent has significant implications for ease of setup, space, condensation and liveability that don’t apply to solo hikers.

Tent stakes are one of the most important items of backpacking gear! They make the difference between a secure night’s sleep and a miserable one spent in and out of the tent as it collapses around you. Here’s how and why you should be installing your stakes differently.

Tent stakes and anchoring techniques for different substrates, what guylines to use and how to choose which tent stakes to take on your next hike.

Many of us in mild climates don’t truly grasp what strong wind forecasts mean, especially extrapolated from the comfort of home to a mountaintop in a tent. Understanding what the forecast you’re relying on actually means, makes for a safer, more enjoyable hike.

Looking out from our warm cosy nest: a lightweight sleep system that works makes all the difference for an enjoyable hike. Our post provides some insight into what might work for you, too.