Fold the tarp into the relative shape of the tent, but slightly smaller. You don’t want any part of the tarp to hang out beyond the edge of the tent, otherwise it’ll collect water underneath in case it rains. Fold up longer edges and tuck them under the tent.
Read the directions for your particular tent, or look closely to determine how the poles fit in. All tents are differently designed.
Some tents will need a bit of coaxing. Pull the corners apart so they’re square and make sure the poles are secure and untangled. Depending on the tent that you use, there may be plastic hooks attached to little chords that are part of the construction. Hook those onto the tent pole frame in the appropriate place, after you’ve raised the tent up some. Attach any other necessary structural components to the tent so that it stands up.
It’s better to have a stuffed and wrinkly tent next time you go to pitch it, then to have really sharp creases that’ll form holes. Remember, a tent isn’t a fashion statement, it’s a shelter from the elements.
Avoid setting up your tent in swales, divots, or hollows in the ground. Anywhere that’s lower than the surrounding area will pool with water in the event that it rains. Even if you’ve got a waterproof tent, it’ll be a tough situation when it starts floating away. The ideal ground is flat and raised up compared to the surrounding area.
Try to use the natural tree line to create a windbreak if it’s especially windy. Move closer to the trees so they’ll block off the breeze a little bit. Avoid camping in dry river/creek beds in case flash flooding occurs and avoid camping under trees, which can be dangerous in storms and can drop branches without warning on your tent.
