Tent for living long-term: things to consider

If we tell you that it’s possible to live in a tent for a long time, will it really surprise you? Or maybe you are just wondering what it would be like? Hopefully, we're here to dispel any myths that such long-term living is not possible. This information will be especially relevant for those who plan camping for an extended period of time.

You should remember that not all tents are suitable for long-term use, so proper preparation is required from you. But if you plan your multi-day or even multi-month camping well, it will definitely be an unforgettable experience! That's why this lifestyle attracts more and more people to it every year. Whatever part of the world you are going to, there are always opportunities for a safe and comfortable stay!

Factors You Should Be Prepared For

Before planning a long-term camping trip, you need to take into account many different factors. First of all, you will likely be a long way away from medical treatment. This means that you need to take care of your safety in advance, and purchase the necessary equipment for emergency cases, depending on the climatic features of the place where you will go. Also think about what wild animals you might encounter in the area. Take notes on how to protect yourself from wildlife attacks to feel safe in any part of the world.

But if the presence of wild animals may not always be relevant for your trip, then the weather conditions can take you by surprise. If your travel dates fall on cold weather or if you are going to an area with harsh climatic conditions, you need to take care of heating sources or a more practical tent. Harsh winters can also make issues of sanitation and hygiene more difficult.

Of course, these are just our parting words, and all of the above factors should not stop you from the idea of long-term camping. Anything is possible with the right planning!

What should be the ideal tent for a long-term stay?

Many things in the world are becoming more complicated, so nowadays people need to focus on the important aspects and prioritize. And camping is a great way to do it! The main reason for living in a tent long-term is to free yourself from the stress of city life. If you’re looking for a taste of freedom and adventure, there are also plenty of alternative living options, such as a van, trailer, or even a fancy yurt. Anyway, nature, fresh air and the fact that you are not stuck in one place will help you explore yourself and the world around you.

Surely you are eager to find out what kind of dwellings exist for year-round use? Here's what we can advise you! All models have both pros and cons, so we will look at how to choose your ideal dwelling from the variety that exists in the world.

One of the best tents for such purposes is the WHITEDUCK Regatta Canvas Bell Tent. Outwardly, it resembles a yurt, and it is a big myth that this type of dwelling cannot last long. If we are talking about such camping yurts, they are much smaller and more compact than their traditional counterparts found in various regions of the world. However, they still have ample living space inside.

This tent is made from 100% cotton and treated with a water repellent (two layers of waterproofing) so you won't have a problem in rain or snow. Do not doubt the durability of this dwelling - it is also treated with protection against UV rays and mold. The tent also comes with a stove jack so you can keep warm or cook something without having to go outside. Air vents at the top of the yurt and a spacious doorway also provide plenty of ventilation on hot summer days. In addition, it has a bell shape so you can maximize your interior space. Its design is second to none and it even offers multiple sizes to perfectly fit your group's needs.

However, all varieties of yurts have one drawback - it’s the complexity of their setting up because this process requires quite a lot of time and more than one set of hands. However, living in a yurt, due to its large size, is definitely worth it if you are planning a long-term camping trip. Your dwelling is what really matters for multi-day or multi-month stays. Plus, the sharp-angled walls of the yurt provide a low profile against gusty winds.

Here, at RMB Outdoors, we have a great counterpart to this model, the All-Season Premium Outfitter Wall Tent with Stove Jack "Hexagon". It is great even for 8 people and is resistant to all temperatures. Wind, frost, rain - you don't have to worry about any of the weather conditions, because we protected the "Hexagon" with reinforced zippers and a detachable waterproof floor. So we are proud that this model is comparable to a room in an apartment. Go anywhere in the world for winter fishing or enjoy the hot summer by choosing this option! We guarantee comfortable living conditions throughout all seasons. We have several sizes of this model, so you can choose a "mini" version for 1-3 people and still enjoy the comforts of this dwelling.

In fact, today there are very competitive models on the world market for any budget and preferences. Another one of our recommendations is the UniStrength 4 Season Bell Tent with Stove Jack. It also resembles a yurt but can come in different sizes. Therefore, if you are a group of 2-3 people, you do not need to equip a large dwelling. This model has a durable cotton waterproof canvas. Even though this kind of yurt is quite compact, you can still stand up and move around inside. As in the first case, the model comes with a stove jack to help keep you warm. However, many buyers have noticed that a lot of heat escapes from the top, so this is not the most ideal option for snowy conditions.

Of course, there are many more excellent options for long-term, mobile living solutions. It is not at all necessary to choose models that resemble a yurt in structure. A great example is The Gazelle T4 Plus Extra Large 4 to 8 Person Portable Pop Up Outdoor Shelter. You can install this model quickly and easily thanks to the pre-assembled hubs. Don't want to spend time and energy setting up a whole camp, as is the case with yurts? Then this shelter is for you! The durable construction will withstand any bad weather. There are also a lot of storage options such as storage wall nets and pockets and even additional screen room. It essentially becomes your "living room outside". So you definitely will feel comfortable in this shelter because of its spaciousness.

Tips For Even Safer Living Long Term In a Tent

With such a wide variety of options, sometimes it's hard to know what model you need and prefer. To get this confusion out of your head, we would strongly recommend that you choose a tent that’s at least 2 - 4 sizes larger than your required capacity. Crowding will make your living conditions less comfortable, even if you are surrounded by your closest friends. Whether it's a yurt or another type of shelter, make sure everyone has enough private space!

Also, find out what material your tent is made of and what features it has in advance. So far, polyester is the most common fabric in the world for making dwellings to camp full-time. This is because its durability allows you not to be afraid of windy weather or rain. We also recommend that you choose the canvas material if you are planning a long camping trip. Canvas is known for its lightness and naturalness and has natural insulating properties. Synthetic fabrics like polyester can't match this. Of course, keep in mind that this material can be a little expensive, but its properties are worth it!

Nevertheless, even if your shelter is made from sustainable materials and is designed to be lived in for several seasons, we still recommend that you take a heater and provide yourself with additional protection. Also take care of a good carpet or flooring if your chosen model of dwelling is not equipped with this. This will provide extra protection between your feet and the hard ground and will also make you feel right at home.

However, an important thing for your safety is your mental health. Only if you realize that you are good at camping for a couple of months, can you plan a longer trip. This is necessary so that you do not feel completely alone in the world or depressed, and also gain enough experience to live in the wild without the facilities and conveniences you are used to in a city.

By the way, camping for an extended period of time is not only pleasant but also beneficial because it gets rid of some fees and regulations of living in an apartment. You save more money that can be used to finance your needs and wishes.

Best Things to Take With You

We have already covered the many pros and cons of camping for a long time, and here's our checklist of things you can take with you:

1. Navigation devices. Of course, if you are going to a fairly popular camping site, you will probably have the opportunity to use the Internet and electronic devices. Otherwise, we recommend that you have a map of the living area with you.
2. Personal protective equipment and items (minimally, rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen).
3. Flashlight and campfire tools (to see the world around you at any time of the day).
4. First aid case and medicines you need at all times.
5. Adequate food and water supplies.
6. Repair kit (at least a sharp knife, duct tape, rope or wire).

Of course, this list can be supplemented depending on where in the world you are going to go and what time of the year it is. We hope that your living in a tent for a long time will leave you with pleasant emotions and give you a new unforgettable experience instead of some challenges and obstacles.