When compressing and storing tents, it is necessary to take into account both space optimization and material protection. Improper operation may cause fabric deformation, waterproof coating peeling off or support rod breakage. The following elaborates on three dimensions: folding techniques, tool assistance, and storage norms, providing practical solutions.
First, folding technique: Scientific compression without damaging the tent
1. Fold by structure classification
Dome tent (with double poles crossed)
Step:
Remove the ground nails and wind ropes, and separate the inner and outer tents.
Disassemble the two cross rods from the central node and place them parallel.
Fold the tent twice along its diagonal to form a long strip, with the width not exceeding the length of the support pole.
Roll the support poles along the length of the tent (to avoid bending the poles due to lateral folding).
Principle: Utilize the symmetrical structure of the tent to reduce wrinkles and avoid local stress concentration.
Tunnel tent (multi-pole series)
Step:
Disassemble each support rod in sequence and keep the rod body straight.
Roll up the tent from one end to the other. When rolling it tightly, insert a support rod at intervals in each circle (to distribute the pressure).
Finally, fix it with the storage straps that come with the tent.
Advantage: The support rods distribute and bear the curling pressure, preventing the tent fabric from being overly stretched.
2. Layered storage method
Step:
Separate folding of the outer tent: The waterproof coating of the outer tent is prone to scratches and needs to be folded separately and wrapped in a cloth cover.
The inner tent and the floor mat are rolled around: Lay the inner tent and the floor mat flat, roll them up tightly from one end, and insert the support rods when reaching the end.
Merge and compress: Wrap the outer tent outside the rolled inner tent and compress it with a storage bag.
Effect: Layered storage can reduce the friction between different materials and extend the lifespan of the tent.
Second, tool assistance: Enhance compression efficiency
Recommendation of auxiliary tools
Tent reel: Similar to a carpet reel, it can quickly roll a tent into a cylindrical shape and reduce wrinkles.
Moisture-proof pad binding strap: Bind the moisture-proof pad to the tent for storage, saving backpack space.
Silica gel desiccant bag: Put it in a storage bag to prevent mold caused by moisture.
Third, storage standards: Long-term protection of tent performance
1. Storage environment requirements
Temperature: -20โ to 30โ (Avoid extreme high temperatures causing the rubber strips to melt or low temperatures causing the fabric to become brittle).
Humidity: โค50% (Excessively high humidity can lead to mold growth, while excessively low humidity may cause the fabric to crack.)
Avoid light: Ultraviolet rays can accelerate the aging of the waterproof coating, so it should be stored in a dark place.
2. Storage posture
Vertical hanging: If space permits, the tent can be hung vertically in a wardrobe or storage room to reduce the number of folds.
Flat storage: Lay the tent flat in a drying oven and cover the surface with dust-proof cloth.
No stacking: Avoid placing heavy objects on the tent to prevent the support poles from deforming.
3. Regular inspection
Every six months: Unfold the tent and check if the fabric is moldy and if the support poles are bent.
Before use: Ventilate and dry for 24 hours to remove any possible moisture.
Fourth, Summary and Suggestions
Prioritize the protection of materials: Ensure the tent is completely dry before compression to prevent mold.
Scientific folding: Choose the layering or winding method based on the tent structure to reduce stress concentration.
Use tools reasonably: Choose storage bags suitable for the tent type to avoid excessive compression.
Regular maintenance: During storage, conduct regular inspections to ensure that the performance of the tent is not damaged.
By using the above methods, space can be saved while the structure and performance of the tent can be protected to the greatest extent and its service life can be prolonged.
