Tent Care

Important Tips

Small things make a big difference.
Everything you need before your next adventure.

Important Tips and Care

Setup & Site Selection

  • Put a ground cover down to protect your tent.
  • Choose a flat, sheltered site free from sharp objects.
  • Avoid pitching directly under trees, and where possible, position the entry away from the prevailing wind.
  • Peg out the base fully before inflating, so the tent stays stable and the air column sits under even tension.

During Your Stay

  • Check air column pressure each morning. A little softness after a cold night is normal as air contracts in low temperatures, not a sign of a leak.
  • Before inflating, check nothing is caught in the valve seat. Trapped fabric is a common cause of a leak.
  • Keep guy lines and anchor straps out and tensioned at all times. Don't over-tighten, as this can pull the tent out of shape.
  • Carry your repair kit. A small puncture is a five-minute fix on-site, so keep it with your gear rather than at home.
  • Keep vents open, even in cooler weather. It reduces condensation build-up inside the tent overnight.

Packing Down

  • Never pack your tent away wet. If you have no choice, dry it fully as soon as you're home to prevent mildew.
  • If mildew does appear, clean it with warm water and a soft brush. Skip the soap and detergents, which can affect the waterproof coating over time.
  • Use a peg puller to remove pegs. Never pull pegs out by the tent fabric or peg loops, as this can tear them.

Air Column Tent Care

Please read thoroughly to ensure your tent performs as it should.

Before Every Trip. Pitch your tent at home before your trip to check the air columns for wear and tear, and check for any mildew from last time.

Deflation of Air Columns. A small amount of air loss over a few days is normal. Air naturally contracts and expands as temperatures shift, especially overnight or with rain. Check the columns every morning, top up every couple of days, and check the fitting is secure.

Leaking Air Columns. A little morning softness is normal for any inflatable tent. If it deflates quickly, you may have a hole. Your repair kit will fix it in minutes.

Inflation Level. Firm, not over-inflated. The Gather = 6 PSI. The Nook = 5 PSI. Too much pressure strains the seams and valves.

Weather Adjustments. Cold, wind, or rain approaching: pump up a little extra. Hot weather: let a touch out, as air expands with heat.

Repair Kit. Always packed, never left at home. It's the fastest fix for a puncture on the spot.

Storage. Store it loosely in a cool, dry, ventilated spot. Avoid compressing it into storage for long periods, which puts unnecessary stress on the seams and air column.

Safety. Never cook, use an open flame, or run a gas heater or barbecue inside the tent. Always keep vents open.

Zip Care. Use two hands on zips and clear any grit or sand from the teeth first. Never force a snagged zip. Always peg down the tent and secure the guy lines.