Makeshift tent

Types of Makeshift Tents

A makeshift tent is a temporary shelter to protect against rain, sun, or other elements. It can be assembled from readily available materials such as tarps, plastic sheets, or even large cloth pieces. Makeshift tents can differ based on their use and the materials used to build them. Here are some of the common types of makeshift tents.

• Tarp Tents

  Tarps are used to create makeshift shelters. They can be used in different configurations to create a shelter from the elements. Some common configurations are A-Frame, Lean-To, and Pyramid. A-Frame Tarp Shelters are a shelter made from a tarp that is arranged in an A-frame configuration. This creates a structure with two sloping sides that meet at a central ridgepole. The shelter is similar to a traditional house and is very stable and aerodynamic. It can be used in areas that experience heavy rain or snow.

  The Lean-To Tarp Shelter is a shelter made from a tarp that is propped against a vertical support. This creates a lean-to structure with one sloping side and a flat base. The shelter is simple to construct and requires minimal materials. It is suitable for short-term use. The Pyramid Tarp Shelter is a shelter made from a tarp that is arranged in a pyramid configuration. This creates a structure with four triangular sides that meet at a central point. The shelter is very stable and can withstand strong winds. It requires skill to construct.

• Foliage Tents

  These tents are made of natural materials like leaves, branches, and grass. They blend well with their surroundings and provide good insulation. However, they may take longer to construct and require more materials.

• Canvas Tents

  These types of tents are made from heavy-duty fabrics like canvas or duck cloth. They are usually supported by poles and create a rigid structure. They are more permanent than other makeshift tents and offer good protection from the elements.

• Hammock Tents

  These tents are made by using a hammock and a rainfly. They are lightweight and easy to carry around. They are suitable for use in areas with two supports, such as trees.

Scenarios of a makeshift tent

There are various scenarios where people use a makeshift tent. Some of them are discussed below.

• Backyard shelters

  People using their backyards as a camping site is not a new thing. Backyard camping is a fun activity for kids and adults who cannot go camping in the wild. But sometimes, they need to spice up their camping experience by building makeshift tent shelters. A backyard can have different tents. Parents can create an igloo tent out of an old hula hoop and a tarpaulin. They can also create a tunnel out of PVC pipes and mesh. A backyard can have a teepee made of wooden dowels and a canvas. The best thing about these structures is that they are safe and easy to make. So, parents can get the little ones involved and work as a team to create a fun camping environment.

• Outdoor pop-up shelters

  A makeshift tent is a great option if there is no permanent structure to protect the outdoor plants from sudden weather changes. The pop-up shelter is made from thin PVC pipes and plastic sheets. It is held together with cable ties and brackets. These temporary structures are easy to set up and disassemble, so gardeners can move them to different spots in the garden. Some of them are hoop houses that create an arch out of PVC pipes and cover them with plastic sheets. There are also A-frame structures made of two triangular frames that are joined with horizontal pipes.

• Sports events

  There are times when athletes need first-aid treatment during sports activities. Team managers create a makeshift tent using a tarp and PVC pipes to provide medical treatment to the athletes. The tent shields the athletes from harsh weather conditions. It also gives them a private space to receive medical attention. They are easy to set up, which is why they are popular in outdoor events. Apart from the PVC pipes, some tents are made from steel frames. If an athlete is injured during the event, the tent helps to control the bleeding and other symptoms until the athlete is transferred to a hospital.

How to Choose Makeshift Tents

When choosing a makeshift tent, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Portability

  When purchasing a makeshift tent, consider the one that is easy to transport and store. Buyers should look for tents that are light in weight and have compact sizes. This will make it easy for the users to set up the tents when required.

• Ease of setup

  Choose a makeshift tent that is easy to put up. It should have simple and clear instructions. Also, look for a tent with poles and pegs, which are usual components.

• Durability

  Buyers should get makeshift tents constructed with durable materials. They should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Also, portable shelters must be made with quality materials that can protect the users from the elements.

• Size and Capacity

  It is important to consider the size of the makeshift tent. Inquire about the capacity of the tent and how many people it can accommodate. Buyers should look for a tent that has adequate space for their belongings and themselves.

• Ventilation

  Good ventilation is a crucial aspect of any makeshift tent. Buyers should select a tent with mesh panels or windows to allow airflow into the tent.

• Waterproofing

  As discussed earlier, weather conditions can be unpredictable. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a makeshift tent that is waterproof. The tent should have sealed seams and a waterproof rating.

• Versatility

  To be more flexible, buyers should look for a makeshift tent that is versatile. This means it can be used for different purposes such as camping, beach outings, or backyard parties.

• Budget

  Finally, buyers should choose a makeshift tent that fits their budget. However, they should avoid compromising quality for costs.

Function, Feature, and Design of Makeshift Tents

Some of the elements of a makeshift tent are discussed below:

• Waterproof cover: The tent's outer covering is designed to protect the users from rain and other adverse weather conditions. It is manufactured from materials that do not absorb water. This helps keep the users dry. A waterproof cover can be made from plastic sheets, tarp, or any other suitable material. It is usually fastened on top of the poles and side supports.
• Structural support: A makeshift tent requires a strong framework to support its roof and walls. The framework can be made from tree branches, poles, or any other material that can support the structure's weight. The supports are arranged in a way that helps the tent maintain its shape and stability.
• Side walls: A makeshift tent needs side walls that are fixed to the structural support to protect the users from wind and other weather conditions. The side walls can be made from tarps, plastic sheets, or any other suitable material. They are fixed to the framework to provide the required shelter.
• Ventilation: A makeshift tent has a way to ensure proper air circulation inside the tent. This is important to prevent the accumulation of moisture and allow fresh air to enter the tent. The ventilation can be in the form of openings or vents on the roof or side walls of the tent.
• Easy assembly and disassembly: A makeshift tent is designed for easy assembly and disassembly. This is important for people who need to set up the tent quickly or move it from one place to another.

Q&A

Q1. Can a makeshift tent be waterproofed?

A1. Yes, it is possible to make a makeshift tent waterproof. First, one can use a waterproof material like a garbage bag, a plastic sheet, or a tarp to cover the tent. Then, to make the tent stand up, one can use a rope or string to tie the plastic sheets around the poles. Finally, one sprays the tent with a water-resistant spray to help the outer layer repel water. It is important to note that a waterproof makeshift tent will keep the inside dry even when it rains.

Q2. How does one create a makeshift tent from a tarp?

A2. To create a makeshift tent with a tarp, first, lay the tarp on the ground. Next, find the corners of the tarp and tie them to some poles or stakes that are nailed to the ground. This will make the tarp tight and prevent it from flapping in the wind. After this, take the top part of the tarp and pull it to the middle to create a peak on the tarp. This will help water run off instead of pooling on the tarp. Finally, adjust the sides of the tarp according to the desired height and side of the makeshift tent.

Q3. Where can someone find suitable materials for a makeshift tent?

A3. Suitable materials for a makeshift tent can be found anywhere, from the backyard to the garage. These materials can include tarps, sports equipment, pool noodles, and PVC pipes.

Q4. What should someone do if the makeshift tent is not stable?

A4. If a makeshift tent is not stable, add weights to the base of the tent to make it more stable and ensure that it is on level ground.