Sometimes it is not possible (due to uneven terrain) or desirable (depending on what nasties might be dwelling on the floor) to pitch a tent. On such occasions, and where the required trees or rocky anchors are available, a tree tent is one way to ensure you have a bug-free, perfectly flat and very relaxing night’s sleep under canvas.

But how do you set up a suspended tree tent?

Below I break down the very simple steps of erecting a three to four person Stingray Tentsile tree tent. This suspended tent is ideal for a small family of four like ours.

Here is what the tree tent looks like when unpacked from its carry-bag. Look, no pegs! In just four quick steps it converts into a fully-functioning, hanging tree tent. So check out these tips for how to pitch a tree tent, and then head off with your family to explore a new dimension of the natural world and take in the view from above.

Step 1 – Find the right location for your tree tent

This is probably what takes the longest time when erecting a tree tent – but it does get quicker as you get more experienced, and you will be able spot potential locations to pitch your hanging tree tent more quickly.

The idea is to find three anchors (healthy trees of a decent girth) in a triangular arrangement – the closer they are to an equilateral triangle the easier it is, but again, the more experienced you are, the easier it is to adapt to less than perfect tree positions. You really just need three acute angles. However, Tentsile notes that the minimum distance between trees must be 16ft to get the proper tension.

Step 2 – Attach the anchor straps

Loop the anchor straps around the three tree anchors – ensuring they are at the same height – and then pull the slack through each of ratchets.

Tighten each ratchet a little at a time – rotating around the three in turn, until the tent is lifted off the ground. Don’t over tension at this point.

Slot the two aluminum poles into the pole sleeves when you have reached about 40% tension. Then continue adding tension to the three anchor straps using the ratchets until you have as much tension as you can. Don’t worry about over-tightening them, it is not physically possible.

Make sure the ratchets are in the locked position to avoid an accidental release when the tree tent is occupied.

Step 3 – Attach the ladder

Underneath the tent there is a triangular shaped door that can be unzipped to give access to the tent from below. The webbing ladder quickly clips onto the bottom door and hangs down ready to be climbed.

With the ladder in place, the suspended tent is ready for a mosquito-free night under the stars.

Step 4 – Cover with a flysheet

Chances are, you might want more than just a thin net cover between you and the elements. Don’t worry, the Stingray comes with a waterproof flysheet. The flysheets not only keep the moisture out, but they also wrap underneath the suspended tent, affording an insulating pocket between air and ass!

And if the Cammo design is not your thing, there is a range of more brightly colored flies to choose from. Plus, there’s plenty of room for your hiking boots, clothing and other camping gear if you don’t want to leave it on the ground below. Tentsile seem to have thought of everything!

If you’re a more visual learner, check out this helpful Tentsile Stingray tent video for more tips on how to set up a tree tent. Then strike out with your family for a more aerial camping adventure. Tensile also makes a two-man Connect tree tent if you’re looking to leave the kids behind and get up in the air with your partner. The Connect is also perfect for creating super camps with other fans of the suspended tent. So what are you waiting for? Get out and explore!