How to Live in a Tipi

The tipi is a simple and effective structure. The round, tapered design is ideal for shedding wind, water and snow. The tipi can be a viable home option in warm and cold climates and has been successfully adapted to traditional and modern lifestyles. Living in a tipi does require planning and several lifestyle changes to prepare for a new way of life. The design is ideal for a simple lifestyle with few possessions and a close relationship with the earth.

Things You'll Need

  • Tipi liner
  • Tipi ozan
  • Wood stove
  • Spark arrestor
  • Metal heat shield
  • Brick base
  • Composting toilet
  • Firewood
  • Sealed food containers
  • Furniture
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Instructions

    • 1

      Build a deck for the tipi in a permanent location. Set up the tipi on the ground for a temporary location. The ground area will become worn, and the tipi should be moved at least one time each year.

    • 2

      Add a liner and ozan to the interior of the tipi. The liner and ozan provide extra insulation, help contain heat and protect the tipi fabric from damage. The liner and ozan are not required but are common for long-term tipi living.

    • 3

      Install a wood stove on the inside of the tipi. The traditional fire pit is sufficient, but shifting winds and heavy rain may force you to close the smoke flap and extinguish the fire in cold weather. The wood stove ensures the interior of the tipi remains warm when the fire pit is not available. Place bricks on the ground beneath the stove and lean a piece of sheet metal behind the stove as a heat reflector. Install a spark arrestor on the stove pipe to prevent damage to the tipi fabric.

    • 4

      Build an outhouse or composting toilet system outside of the tipi. The tipi interior is not designed to accommodate a bathroom, and building walls reduces the space and interrupts the circular design. Walking from the tipi to the separate bathroom is one of the major lifestyle changes associated with the structure.

    • 5

      Split and store as much firewood as possible to remain warm throughout the winter. Fire is the primary heat source in a tipi, and a generous supply of wood is necessary in cold climates.

    • 6

      Clear snow from the door area, but allow it to accumulate around the tipi walls. The snow does not place stress on the structure, and it provides insulation around the walls.

    • 7

      Store food in sealed containers to maintain a clean tipi and discourage rodents and wildlife from entering the tipi. Food crumbs attract mice, and the lack of a floor makes it easy to penetrate the tipi. Be prepared to trap mice and clean the floor on a regular basis.

    • 8

      Decorate the tipi with comfortable furniture. Living in a tipi does not require complete sacrifice of comfort. Add a bed, couch, and desk, and run a power cord to the tipi if you require electricity for light and electronics.