Is Tent Camping Safe?

Our homes allow us to feel comfortable and safe.

Naturally, when we leave our homes, that safety can sometimes come into question.

And that holds true for when we are out camping in a tent.

You may be wondering if tent camping is even safe.

So, is tent camping safe? While there are some things to note that could potentially cause issues, you will generally have a safe time camping in your tent as long as you keep food sealed up and away from your tent, bring the proper gear for the climate, and stay on the trail.

How exactly can one stay safe while camping and what are some things to watch out for?

Read on to find out!

Staying Safe While Camping

I’ve already mentioned that you absolutely can stay safe while camping.

But there are some things that you’ll want to look out for, as well as things you’ll want to bring or know how to get, that will keep you safe throughout your trip.

Will A Tent Protect You From Animals?

Since you’ll be tent camping in a structure that is made with a thin layer of fabric, it’s easy to let your mind start racing about all of the things that could harm you.

One of those dangers being animals such as bears, coyotes, wolves, and more.

Fortunately, those animals don’t really see us as food and generally don’t want any interaction with us.

In fact, you are more likely to be struck by lightning than to be attacked by a bear.

But there are some things that could attract animals to your tent, such as the smell of food or waste.

To keep animals away from your tent, you’ll want to:

Store your food in sealed containers (bear-proof containers work great) away from your tent. Hanging your food in trees or storing them in a bear-proof locker (if your campsite has them) is a great way to keep bears away from your camp.
Wash and store all cooking utensils away from your tent.
Never eat inside your tent.
Bring some dryer sheets with you (most animals dislike the smell and they help mask the smell of food).
Make noise. This will help alert animals of your presence, which will make them keep their distance.

Another great tip is to travel in groups.

Not only will you make noise naturally through talking to your camping buddies, but animals will also be less likely to interact with you if you aren’t alone.

Packing some bear spray isn’t a bad idea either just in case.

As for smaller animals like snakes and rodents, you’ll want to keep your tent zipped up at all times.

While they won’t usually bite through the side of your tent, a snake or rat would be more than happy to join you in your tent through an opening.

They will also be on the lookout for food, but they also wouldn’t mind the warmth that your tent provides.

Keep any opening closed up to keep small animals out!

Hypothermia While Tent Camping

One of the biggest concerns while camping is hypothermia, regardless of the climate.

Hypothermia can set in even during the summer if the temperature drops enough.

And it doesn’t have to drop that much.

In fact, your body temperature only needs to drop below 95 degrees for you to be at risk for hypothermia.

That can happen even in the summer if it’s raining outside.

Because hypothermia can set in regardless of the climate, it’s important to bring the proper gear to be prepared.

You can avoid the dangers of hypothermia by:

Bringing along a waterproof layer such as a poncho to stay dry.
Packing the appropriate clothing for your climate (extra layers or thicker clothing for colder climates).
Seeking shelter BEFORE you start to feel the effects of hypothermia.
Building a fire.
Setting up your tent and removing any wet layers of clothing (use the fire to try and dry your clothes. Hopping in your sleeping bag will also help to warm you up).

As long as you are staying aware of any drop in temperature or bad weather and act accordingly, hypothermia shouldn’t be an issue.

Know How To Get Water

Knowing how to get water is a super valuable skill, even if you plan on bringing enough water for your trip.

If you don’t plan on staying in a campground with access to water, you’ll want to know how to find a water source in the wilderness.

Since your body can only handle being out of water for roughly 3 days, running out can be very dangerous.

If you run out of water, your best bet is to stay on the trail and use your map to find sources of water along the way.

However, if you get lost, you can follow some of the tips below to find a water source:

Stop and listen: be very still and try to hear a source of running water nearby.
Follow the animals: find some animal tracks and follow them. Chances are they’re also headed for water.
Look for vegetation: it usually means there is water nearby.
Dig a well or still: this will help you ‘capture’ water. Full instructions can be found here.

And remember, always purify your water when you are getting it from an unknown source.

Stay On The Trail

Getting lost in the wilderness is very dangerous and can be easily avoided by staying on the trail.

If you plan to go backpacking or hiking, grab a trail map and know how to read it before heading out.

Even if you think you know where you are, straying from the trail and heading in the direction you think your destination is can lead to being lost.

Just a small miscalculation or obstacle can throw you off course and cause you to have to find your way out of the wilderness.

Unless you are very experienced or would like a search party to come looking for you, stay on the trail!

Extra Tips For Solo Campers

The tips above are great for everyone looking to stay safe while tent camping.

But if you plan on camping solo there are a few extra tips you should follow just to be extra safe.

After all, you’re all by yourself out there!

If you plan on making a solo camping trip, follow these tips:

Let people know where you are going and when you should be back. This will help search teams to know a general area of where to look should you not return by your designated time.
Carry a gps tracker so people can find you. They can be activated for a very low cost and allow people to see specifically where your location is at should they need to come find you.
Have a first-aid kit handy. You never know what could happen. Better to be safe than sorry!
Make some extra noise while in the wilderness. Naturally if you travel in a group you will talk and make noise, alerting wildlife of your presence. Try to make a little bit of extra noise while camping alone to make sure you don’t encounter any wildlife.

Have Fun And Stay Safe!

So there you have it, tent camping can absolutely be safe!

There are a few guidelines to follow to ensure your safety, but nothing too crazy that should prevent you from experiencing the outdoors.