How to Warm a Tent

Camping in cold weather conditions can be a very rewarding experience, but it can also be a miserable one if you're not prepared. While starting a fire and having warm drinks and foods available can help keep you warm outside the tent, bringing the right gear and setting the tent up the right way can keep you warm at night. Waking up in a warm tent can help you start the day off right.

Things You'll Need

  • Tent
  • Tarps
  • Rope
  • Foam mats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a campsite out of the wind, or build wind blocks around the tent. Hang a tarp between nearby trees to block the wind, or pitch the tent under a secure overhang. Place another tarp on the ground before erecting the tent to add another layer of insulation to the tent floor.

    • 2

      Attach the rain fly to the tent even if you are not expecting rain. The rain fly adds a layer of insulation directly above the tent without sealing the tent's vents. Completely sealing the tent may cause condensation to form inside the tent when it warms up, getting clothes and gear wet.

    • 3

      Lay out a foam mat under the sleeping bags to add more insulation between yourself and the ground. Most of the body heat lost while sleeping is lost through contact with the ground. Air mattresses, while more comfortable, do not insulate as well as foam pads.

    • 4

      Exercise for five to 10 minuets before entering the tent for the night. This gets your body generating heat, which helps warm the tent and keep you warm until you get into your sleeping bag.

    • 5

      Wear socks and a hat while inside the tent and while sleeping. Pull your cloths into your sleeping bag with you to warm them up in the morning.