Wind, the unpredictable force of nature, can be a hiker’s nemesis when setting up camp, especially on long-distance trails. The sound of flapping tents, the relentless gusts, and the chill that pierces through every layer can challenge very core of a hiker’s soul. However, with the right preparation and tactics, battling the wind can be more manageable, ensuring safety and comfort during your camping nights.
Selecting the ideal campsite
When you are planning your route on a paper map or using HiiKER, even if there are listed camp spots on the map, you should take the following into consideration.
Natural windbreaks
Always aim for natural barriers like trees, shrubs, or rock formations. These can act as buffers against the wind. Avoid ridge tops or open meadows where the wind can be more intense.
Avoid Wind Tunnels
Valleys and passes often act as funnels for wind. If you’re hiking in mountainous terrain, be wary of setting up camp in these natural wind channels.
Assess the Wind Direction
Before setting up, feel the direction of prevailing winds. Position the foot of your tent facing the wind, ensuring the narrower profile faces the wind’s brunt.
Plan ahead
When planning your hike, use the map to identify these windbreaks. You can also place a custom waypoint on the map as a guide for where you will set up your camp.
Tent Considerations
Hyperlite’s non-freestanding UltaMid 2
Freestanding vs. Non-freestanding
Freestanding tents can be more resilient against strong winds since they can be easily repositioned before staking. Non-freestanding tents depend more on staking and guylines, so ensure they are secured firmly.
Low-profile Tents
Tents with a lower profile and aerodynamic shape can deflect wind better than taller, boxy tents.
Double-check Guylines
Ensure that all guylines are fastened securely to the tent and anchored firmly into the ground. Adjust tension as needed.
Staking Your Tent
Angle Stakes
Drive stakes into the ground at about a 45-degree angle, away from the tent. This maximizes the stake’s holding power.
Use Natural Anchors
In places where stakes might not penetrate the ground, use rocks, logs, or packed snow to anchor your tent.
Reinforce with Extra Stakes
In anticipation of heavy winds, use additional stakes to anchor your tent further.
Camp Equipment & Gear
Keep Gear Low and Centered
Store your gear in the center of the tent, keeping the weight low to prevent the tent from catching too much wind.
Cooking
Use a windscreen for your stove or cook in sheltered areas. Wind can decrease stove efficiency, wasting fuel.
Dressing for Wind
Windproof Clothing
Invest in quality windproof jackets and pants. These can significantly reduce the chilling effect of the wind on sweat-soaked clothing.
Layering
Multiple layers trap air and provide better insulation against cold winds. Always have a moisture-wicking base layer to prevent sweat buildup.
Emergency Measures
Bivouac Sack
In extreme cases where tents might not hold up, or if you’re caught in an exposed area, a bivy sack can be a life-saver. It’s compact and offers a quick shelter against the elements.
Know When to Move
If the wind is too severe and the campsite is too exposed, it might be safer to pack up and move to a more sheltered location, even if it means night hiking for a short distance.
Weather apps
As well as using HiiKER to plan your hiking spot, you should be aware of the weather you will be dealing with and staying up to date with any sudden changes to the forecast. Especially in mountainous areas where the weather is much more susceptible to change.
We have an article which lists a number of apps that will help you stay ahead of the weather.
Wind is a spectrum. It can be a welcome cool breeze on a hot day on the trail, or it could be far more insidious. Take care when hiking and camping in wind!
