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Do take as long as it takes, the important thing is that the tent is pitched correctly so that it will stand up to the weather. Even the most seasoned camper who can pitch a large tent in say, 45 mins will then later spend more time adjusting guys or moving pegs to a better spot etc. You just have to accept that many of these very large tents will naturally take some time to pitch. If you want to be quicker, get a smaller tent!

Quote: Originally posted by juststarting on 27/6/2006

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Thanks everyone for your replys.  It takes us 2 hours just to put the tent up! and most of that time is spent pushing the poles thru the flysheet (if thats what it's called). 

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Hi Marie, that took us ages when we first started,(luckily for us we started on a 4 pole tent!), you will get quicker with practise, it just takes a bit of familiarisation.

Thanks Val, I think I know how to do it.  What threw me was (actually a good thing I think), that with the tensioners all fully loosened we actually formed both arches on the ground (by accident I should add!).  I think we'll do better next time!

Practice and more practice - that's my conclusion, or is that practice and organization - what resource have you got and how do you use it  (maybe that's too much like work that you're trying to escaping from!)

First attempt was 2 hours just for the tent (me and my 11 yr old son).

Second attempt was 2 hours for everything - tent, air beds for five, kitchen, etc (me, wife, and 11 yr old son + two smaller ones "helping").

I don't believe we could get much quicker (maybe 30mins tops) but then I think "this is camping, it's big tent, and how long did it take just to pack the car !" and what is the hurry (maybe I'll think differently when it's raining )