The proper set-up and care of your family tent will make a big difference in your family tent lasting a lifetime of camping adventures or just a couple of seasons. Following these guide-lines will insure a lifetime of use from your family tent.

When setting up your family tent, you should always find the flattest ground possible. This may require removing small rocks and limbs if you are not camping in a designated campsite or campground. If the ground where you decide to set-up your tent has a slope and you cant find a more level space to pitch the tent then you always need to set your tent up so the slope goes to your feet. You dont want your blood rushing to your head when you sleep.

As mentioned above take notice of what is around you, such as the debris. But you should also see what might be useful, such as a tree. This can offer shade for the tent and also some protection if it rains. If there is a particular view you like you will have to choose whether to face the entrance of your tent in that direction, or if you prefer, to face the fire.

All family tents whether you have a dome tent or cabin tent require the same set-up procedure. Even those pop-up tents that say no staking required will need to be staked if you dont want them to blow away.

You should always assemble your tent poles so you can tell the difference from the long ones and the short ones. Most all tent poles today have a number or a color coding system that helps you assemble your poles properly. If you find that your tent poles dont have a coding system then you can make your own coding system by using different color tapes like red, blue or black on the tent poles.

Even if you remove most of the stones and sticks, etc, from the spot you have chosen to set up your tent, you might miss some of the debris. This can and does often damage the floor of the tent. In order to be safe rather put a tarp or plastic sheet down first. This will keep the tent floor safer and also prevent ground moisture from seeping in.

To prevent rain water from collecting underneath the tent it is advisable that you make a trench around it. In this way you will keep the water flowing away. Although your family tent is waterproof it is necessary not to touch the sides of it, because when you do that area will no longer be waterproof as the condensation has been disturbed. Rainy, wet weather can be messy, so to make cleaning the inside of the tent easier, consider placing some throw rugs in the entrance.

Storing your tent between camping trips can also help to keep it in good condition. Make sure that it is completely dry, because if it is not you well end up with mold growth and the fabric will be weakened. Also, make sure that it is swept clean of sand, etc, and wipe away any grime. The next time you unpack your tent everyone will be happy to go camping, because the tent will be as good as new if you have followed these few simple guide-lines.