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PACKING & MAINTAINING TENT
1. Let the tent air dry in the sun before packing it away. If it rains while you're
camping, it's important to let the tent thoroughly dry inside and out before
packing it away, or you'll have a mildewy surprise next time you want to go
camping. Hang it up on some low-hanging branches, or on the clothes line
when you get home to let it dry out thoroughly, and then pack it away
securely for next time.
2. Roll up each item separately and pack them individually. If you've got a stuff-
sack in which to pack your tent, it can seem difficult at first to get the whole
thing back in there. There's no secret way to fold a tent, and it's usually better
to roll them up as opposed to folding them, anyway. Lay each item--the tent
itself, and the rain fly--and fold them lengthwise, then roll them up as tightly
as possible and insert each into the sack.
3. Don't fold tents the same way each time. It's important to not form creases in
your tent, which can start weak spots in the fabric that will widen into holes.
Roll, stuff, and cram your tent, but avoid folding it and pressing sharp creases
into it.
4. Add the stakes and poles last. When you've got the fly and the tent in the
bag, stuff the poles and the stakes carefully in on the side. It'll likely be pretty
tight in there, so be gently and don't catch the poles on the edge of the tent
and rip it.
5. Open up and air out tents regularly. Sometimes, it can be a while between
camping trips. It's a good idea to open up your tent semi-regularly and air it
out in the yard to make sure there isn't any moisture ruining the fabric or mice
taking up residence in your abode. You don't have to pitch it, just take it out,
shake it out, and put it back in a different way.