What Is the Best Shape of Tent for High Winds?

• 15th Jun 2015

If you are thinking about buying a new tent there are so many variables and so many different decisions to make that it can be very easy to get a bit lost. In the UK, you never know what weather conditions you are going to be letting yourself in for when you go camping. Often, rain and wind can make for a miserable experience, especially if your tent is not up to the job.

So if you like camping in areas where high winds might be experienced, say on the coast or high in the mountains, then what is the best type shape of tent to buy?

First of all, think about how much of your head space you are willing to sacrifice. If you are the type of person who simply views a tent as a sleeping space then you probably will not mind having a tent that is closer to the ground. Of course a tent that has a lower shape will be more stable in high winds than a tent that towers over others on the campsite. In this case, perhaps you should go for a low-slung geodesic design or a well-made mountain tunnel tent with tension straps. These usually high-end tents are the sort used by many serious adventurers. But since these are designed for mountain and serious winter camping they are often expensive – perhaps unnecessary for summer campsite camping.

Small dome tents can also be stable in high winds, again with a sacrifice of space and head height. But the larger the dome tents get the less stable and secure they will be in high winds. Unless you are camping solo or as a couple, it is unlikely that a small dome tent will be a comfortable option.

If you are a large family and therefore need a tent that is on the larger side, then you are probably best, if anticipating high winds, to go for a rigid frame tent. These are harder to erect than some other types of tent and can be heavy, but they can also be better at standing up to high winds. Consider the shape of the tent and how the wind moves around it.

A traditional teepee, pyramid or bell tent can be a good shape as the wind does not batter against a flatter surface, so aside from the mountain tents with their adventure-proof designs, these are perhaps the best shape to choose for summer camping for a family or group. Canvas can also be a tough and durable choice. Just think of the canvas tents that have been used by the Scouts and Guides for years – these can withstand just about anything the UK weather can throw at them.

Whichever tent shape you ultimately choose, remember that good pitching is more important than almost anything else when it comes to how your tent withstands a gale. Never pitch broadside into the prevailing wind if you can help it, peg your tent down securely and always use all your guy lines. That is what they are designed for.