Pyramid tents are becoming more and more popular among backpackers. But what are they? And when to use a pyramid tent? In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about pyramid tents! So keep reading to learn more!
Related: Looking to head out camping this summer? Check out our favorite hot weather tents.
What is a pyramid tent?
A pyramid tent is a type of tent with a pyramid-shaped design. The tents have a single tent pole in the center which gives the tent its shape. Pyramid tents can be excellent lightweight, weather resistant tents that can also be easily fashioned out of trekking poles and a tarp.
Pyramid tents can range from ultralight single person tents to large tipi tents.
Are pyramid tents good?
Pyramid tents are very wind and weather resistant. They have a single peak and solid walls, making them a good choice for camping in exposed terrain or in winter conditions.
In particular, the walls being so vertical mean that snow is less likely to build up on the tent.
Just bear in mind that a single-pole tent isn’t necessarily the strongest tent. You’ll have to make sure that your guylines are set up properly to ensure the tent is stable and the fabric remains taut and waterproof.
Headspace can also be limited in these tents, given the sloped walls.
Typically, pyramid tents don’t come with a footprint, so you’ll have to remember to pack your own or bring a spare tarp.
Who should use a pyramid tent?
Pyramid tents are mostly used for mountaineering and backpacking. They’re particularly popular with the ultralight backpacking crowd given that they’re lightweight, windproof, and durable and the main tent pole can be your trekking pole or ski pole.
Are they good in wind?
Pyramid tents can handle pretty strong winds but the center pole and stakes receive a lot of force. If you’re expecting a storm, you’ll need to make sure your tent is prepared.
Like all non-freestanding tents, a pyramid tent is only as strong as your stakes and guylines. You’ll want to make sure that your door is pointing away from the direction of the wind and add support to stakes in strong winds by using rocks and logs.
Tips for set up
- Stake out the tarp.
- Adjust the corners as you’re setting it up to ensure you get 90 degree angles at all corners.
- Set up the centre pole and adjust the height to get the tarp taut.
- Guy out each side of the tent and make sure the tarp is fully taut.
Some tents come with ventilation ports at the top that you can extend outwards.
Conclusion
You know what a pyramid tent is, and what they’re used for. So now it’s over to you – set up a tarp and a trekking pole and give it a shot for a night!
Next up: Should I get a black tent? Or a blue tent? Or a yellow tent? Does tent color really matter anyways?