1. Clean and dry the tent: Before closing the tent, ensure that it is clean and dry. Shake off any loose dirt or debris from both the interior and exterior of the tent. This will help prevent any damage during the closing process and ensure that the tent remains in good condition.
2. Remove tent stakes: Begin by removing the tent stakes from the ground. Start at one corner of the tent and work your way around, gradually removing each stake. Pull them out gently to avoid bending or breaking them.
3. Release tension from the poles: Next, release the tension from the tent poles. Most Decathlon tents have a elastic cord system or a clip system to secure the poles. Unhook or release the clips, and gently push the poles together to loosen the tension. Be cautious and do not force the poles to collapse abruptly as this may cause damage.
4. Collapse the tent: Once the tension is released from the poles, carefully collapse the tent. Start by folding in one side of the tent towards the center, then do the same with the other side. Take your time and ensure that the fabric is smooth and without any wrinkles as you fold.
5. Pack the tent: After collapsing the tent, you need to pack it into its carrying bag. Most Decathlon tents come with a bag specifically designed for easy packing. Begin by stuffing the tent into the bag starting from one end. Make sure to push out any trapped air along the way to minimize the tent’s size. Sometimes, it may be necessary to bend the poles slightly to fit everything properly.
6. Secure the bag: Once the tent is packed into the bag, securely close it. Some Decathlon tent bags have a drawstring closure or a zipper system. Make sure the bag is properly sealed to prevent the tent from falling out during transportation.
7. Clean up the campsite: Before leaving the campsite, it is important to clean up after yourself. Dispose of any trash in designated receptacles and properly stow away any camping gear or equipment. Leaving the campsite as you found it is both respectful to nature and future campers.
Closing a Decathlon tent properly not only ensures its longevity, but it also makes the next camping trip more enjoyable. By following these steps and taking the time to do it right, you can rest assured that your tent will be safely packed away and ready for your next adventure. Happy camping!