In order to enjoy camping to its fullest, it’s important to have the proper tent. That only takes you so far, however: the tent isn’t effective unless it’s secured to the ground.
Tent stakes are designed to provide a stable foundation for the tent and should be able to withstand any number of elements, including wind, rain and even snow. While most tents come with their own stakes, you’re best served to supplement those and have a backup set in case stakes break.
Our top pick, Eurmax’s Galvanized Tent Stakes, is a 10-piece, heavy-duty set that’s made to last.
The length, thickness and overall surface area of a stake influence how strong and secure it will be in the ground. Shorter stakes should be adequate if the ground is firm and the wind is lacking. Longer stakes provide more stability, particularly if the ground is soft, wet or sandy.
Those stakes with flat tops are easy to hit into the ground and should provide more security. If the stake moves while you’re inserting it, you’re creating more room in the ground for the stake to move around in. Hitting the stake straight on a flat head should offer a more stable foundation.
Some stakes are colored or more easily spotted in the dark, which is useful if you’re moving around when the sun goes down. This way, you can avoid tripping on them at night and can easily pull them up in the morning before sunrise.
You can find a low-cost set of tent stakes for less than $10, but you’re better off purchasing a large set of fairly durable ones. These cost $10-$25, depending on the material and amount.
A. Tent stakes are designed to be reused, but inexpensive, less durable options are likely to wear down over time. Wash and dry your stakes after use to prevent them from breaking down, and always insert and pull them out carefully to avoid bending.
A. Using a mallet or hammer (or a flat rock) is the best way to safely and effectively insert stakes. You want to drive the stake straight down into the ground without bending or inserting it at an angle. Don’t use your hands or feet, as the stake could flex and you could injure yourself.
Eurmax’s Galvanized Tent Stakes
What you need to know: These are heavy-duty, durable steel stakes that offer security when camping for the largest of tents.
What you’ll love: This is a set of 10 high-quality, sturdy steel stakes. They resist corrosion and withstand regular use.
What you should consider: These are heavy and not ideal for backpacking.
Coghlan’s Rugged Plastic Tent Pegs
What you need to know: This is a brightly colored, inexpensive set of effective tent stakes best for favorable conditions.
What you’ll love: The 12 plastic pegs offer great value. The set features a rope hook for easy setup and weatherproof construction.
What you should consider: This set lacks durability and won’t stand up to hard ground.
What you need to know: These uniquely designed stakes are designed to withstand blustery elements and soft ground.
What you’ll love: The spiral design affords more stability and security during windy or wet conditions. The aluminum is durable and lightweight, and the red color stands out.
What you should consider: This is pricey for four stakes.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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