Crafting a Two-Man Viking A-Frame Backpacking Tent: Tips and Tricks for Success

Backpacking requires versatility and innovation, especially when it comes to shelter. A two-man backpacking tent is not just about comfort but also about efficiency and ease of setup. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of building aViking A-Frame tent. This unconventional tent style offers a spacious and comfortable space, perfect for two people or a couple with small children.

Tent Design and Design Philosophy

Building your own tent allows you to tailor it to your specific needs, optimizing space and ease of use for your adventures. A notable feature of the Viking A-Frame tent is its triangular shape, reminiscent of a classic A-frame structure. This design, grounded in the good old Pythagorean Theorem, provides perfect symmetry and stability.

Materials and Construction

Materials

For your Viking A-Frame tent, you'll need the following main components:

8’ by 6’ painters drop cloths (inexpensive, pre-hemmed, and waterproof) Canvas webbing (1/2” to 3/4” wide, ~20 strips, 18” long) Long closet dowels Clover dowels or poles 2x4 lumber 1x4 or 2x6 lumber PVC pipe (half a 4” piece) Grommets and ties or fabric strips Tarp and mats for floor

Instructions

Start by cutting your drop cloths according to the dimensions mentioned: a 3.5' x 12' and four 6' x 9' pieces. Pair the 6' x 9' pieces and sew their 9' sides together to create a 12' length. Then, sew the 12' piece to the long skinny 12' cloth to form the main body of the tent. For the doors, reduce the length by about 18” and add rolled hems, then sew the extra length onto the short ends. Cut these pieces diagonally and attach them to the sides. Ensure the doors have ties or grommets for better weather protection and reduced wear.

Hardware

For the ridge and bottom poles, use closet dowels or PVC pipes. Attach a center support to the top of the ridge pole, and create triangular bases for the poles with holes for the ridge pole and extra reinforcement. If needed, cut the excess fabric to make tubes or fold it under the poles.

Setting Up the Viking A-Frame Tent

The setup process for your Viking A-Frame tent requires careful attention to detail to ensure stability and ease of use. Follow these steps for a flawless setup:

Insert the ridge pole and bottom poles as described, ensuring the tent forms a perfect triangle. Secure the ridge pole with ropes from each end to the opposite corners, either by tying them off or staking them to the ground. Wrap or stake the shorter ropes diagonally to the ground, creating an X shape on each side to stabilize the tent. Lift the tent to the proper height and position, securing the bottom corners with poles and additional support. Stake out the ropes to keep the tent from leaning or swaying.

Once you have completed the setup, invite a friend or family member to help with securing the tent and tying down the ropes. With a sturdy tarp and comfy mats, your Viking A-Frame tent is ready to provide shelter for your outdoor adventure.

Refer to the step-by-step setup guide for a more detailed process or for tips and tricks to make your setup smoother and more efficient.

By following these tips and tricks, you can build and set up a functional and comfortable two-man backpacking tent that is easy to use every time you hit the trail.