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Hello to everyone, this is my first post on the forum. I'm a total camping virgin and have just invested in an Outwell Nevada M, my first ever tent. Decided to have a practice at putting it up in the garden. Unfortunately, had to abandon the attempt whilst unpacking the tent as the wind changed direction and became too strong. However, when trying to pack everything up again I had huge difficulty getting the tent back in the bag. I had noted how everything unpacked (even took photos); but no matter how I try, I can't compress it down. It has gone back in the bag, but the bag is now straining at the seams. I imagine things may be even harder after the tent has actually been erected.

Are there any tips to help packing tents down?

Thanks very much for the replies. I was hoping to have another attempt today, but its quite wet here, hopefully tomorrow will be better weather. I will try your suggestions and let you know how it goes.

Thanks again

I gave up trying to get my tent back in its bag and it's only a little tent. I invested in the small Vango Roller Bag which takes the tent, footprint, carpet, pegs, poles etc with ease. It's heavy though but makes life so much easier.

Vango Roller Bag

Hi saxacat,

Welcome to the world of camping. We have been going camping with our own tents for the last 20 years or so. Only 2 different types of tent in that time but still never do it the same way twice (infuriating or what).

We were in the Ardeche some years ago with our frame tent and when it came to packing it we had an interested Jordie spectator on the terrace above us. I made the comment that we never seemed to do it the same way. His comment was on the lines of "I have seen more divorces from packing tents than anything. Piece of advice, don't talk to each other". Believe it or not it seems to work. I have my jobs and my wife has hers and don't interfere.

Whatever shape of tent getting the air out is very important and try to get it as square as possible before trying to fold it. If you are moving from one site to another dont even try to get it in a bag, just put it in the back of the car as it is as you will be pitching again soon. We have a zipped in groundsheet and if we are moving from site to site we don't even unzip from the tent.

Good luck and just take your time. You will find the best way eventually (wish we could say the same).