How To Properly Guy Out A Tent | NEMO, by NEMO Equipment on YouTube. 4 min 17 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 17 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Pitch your tent fully and stake the corners first. A taut, square base makes the guy lines work properly.
Find the guy-out loops or tabs on the fly and body. These are the reinforced points made for attaching lines.
Tie a guy line to each loop with a taut-line hitch or a simple adjustable knot. Leave the line long enough to reach the ground at an angle.
Pull each line out at roughly 45 degrees from the tent wall. Aim it in line with the seam or pole it supports.
Stake the line into the ground and slide the tensioner to tighten it. The line should be firm but not pulling the tent out of shape.
Add extra anchors on the windward side. Face the low, strong end of the tent into the wind and double up lines there.
Use rocks or buried stakes where the ground is soft or sandy. Pile rocks over the stake to hold it down.
Check every line and re-tension after the tent settles. Adjust lines as the wind shifts or the fabric stretches.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep guy lines at a low angle, about 45 degrees, so they resist sideways wind instead of pulling the tent down.
Add a small loop of cord or a glow marker on each line so you and others can see it in the dark.
Do not over-tighten lines on lightweight fabrics, since this can tear the loops or distort the poles.
Questions
How many guy lines should I use?
Use every guy-out point the tent has in strong wind. At minimum, add lines to the windward side and the two ends.
What if the ground is too soft for stakes?
Use wider stakes, bury them sideways, or pile rocks on top. You can also tie lines to trees or heavy gear.
Can I guy out a tent without guy-out loops?
Only tie to reinforced points like pole clips or stake loops. Tying to thin fabric can rip the tent.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
