Although other tent designs have gained popularity, the A-frame is still preferred by many backpackers.
Step 1: Select a place for the tent
Locate a flat, open area that is away from stands of trees. Clear any rocks, sticks, and other sharp objects from the ground.
Step 2: Stake down the tent
Stake down the four corners of the tent. Pull the tent tight as you hammer in each stake at a 45-degree angle.
Step 3: Put up the tent poles
Assemble the tent’s support poles and erect the tent. In traditional A-frame tents, separate poles are placed at the front and back of the tent.
Tip
In modified A-frame designs, two poles at each end of the tent form a triangle with the ground. The two poles support a central ridge pole that extends the length of the tent.
Step 4: Secure the guy ropes
Secure the tent’s guy ropes to ground stakes. Make the guy ropes taut to support the tent.
Step 5: Attach a tent fly
Place a rainproof tent fly over the tent so that the corners line up with the ends of the tent. Secure the fly to the ground with stakes.
Did You Know?
The eastern tent caterpillar has been observed in the United States since 1646.
