8 Best Tent Stakes For Hard Ground (2022 Reviews) – Tent Pegs That Don’t Bend!
Tent stakes for hard ground: the eight best options (2022 Reviews) The most recent update was made on April 22, 2021.
What are the Best Tent Stakes For Hard Ground?
When it comes to recreational campers, setting up a tent might be a difficult experience. Things don’t always go according to plan, whether it’s choosing a location to pitch or determining which pole goes where. Bending tent pegs, on the other hand, may be a source of frustration for even the most experienced campers. In most cases, the ordinary metal peg supplied with most lower to mid-range tents will be composed of low-cost steel that is fine for soft ground but will collapse under any major strain.
Related:Best Tent Stakes for Sand and Snow
Choosing the finest tent stakes for hard ground not only ensures that your tent is always stable and taught, but it also means that you won’t have to replace a bag full of pegs every year as you would with other types of stakes. There are a few things you can check for to make sure you obtain the best tent stakes for hard ground, but the material and shape are the two that will make the greatest difference in terms of performance and durability.
Top 8 Tent Stakes For Hard Ground
Titanium tent stakes have the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal available, but they are also significantly more expensive than other metals. For those who are serious about camping or who just wish to reduce the weight of their gear, titanium is the material of choice. Aluminum alloy tent stakes are also lightweight and strong, but they are less expensive than titanium tent stakes, making them an excellent choice for lightweight backpacking. In the event that you want the hardest tent post available and are not concerned with the weight, a solid or forged steel tent stake will suffice for your needs.
For this reason, we recommend always bringing along a lightweight camping hammer with you.
What Shape Of Tent Stake Is Best For Hard Ground Camping?
I believe that the ‘Nail’ style tent stakes are the finest for hard ground since they can be hammered and pounded into the toughest of soils, according to my experience. It is common for them to be hollow in design and built of either aluminum or Titanium alloy, or solid if they are constructed of steel. They are available in a variety of forms and sizes, but nearly usually include a flat head with a pointed tip (similar to a nail), as well as a length of string to aid in the removal of the stake from hard pack ground.
Y-shape and V-shape are two different types of shapes.
Because you never know what the ground will be like at your next camping destination, it is strongly recommended that you bring a selection of tent stakes to use in a number of situations. If you like, you can mix and combine.
Best Tent Stakes
The ‘Nail’ style tent pegs, which can be hammered and smashed into the toughest ground, are, in my opinion, the finest choice for hard ground. In terms of design, they are frequently hollow when made of aluminum or titanium alloy, and solid when built of steel. They are available in a variety of forms and sizes, but nearly usually include a flat head with a pointed tip (similar to a nail), as well as a length of rope to aid in the removal of the stake from hard packed soil. Apart from hard ground tent pegs, there are a variety of additional types of tent pegs and stakes that you should have on hand.
Because you never know what the ground will be like at your next camping destination, it is strongly recommended that you bring a selection of tent pegs for various situations.
MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes
WEIGHT: 0.6 oz / 16 g DESCRIPTION SIZE: 7.5″ long / 190 mm in circumference The MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes are composed of 7075-series aluminum and are designed in a Y-beam configuration to penetrate and hold in a range of different ground situations. Due to the fact that they are robust enough to be used in cold and rocky terrain while still being meant to be used in softer sand and dirt, they are a favorite all-arounder tent stake among hikers. The bright color and shiny rope make it simple to locate theMSRstakes, regardless of the time of day or night.
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Sea To Summit Ground Control Tent Peg
WEIGHT: 0.6 oz / 16 g DESCRIPTION AREA OF APPLICATION: 8 in./ 5×200 mm Its three-sided construction provides increased strength and holding capability when used with the Sea to Summit Ground Control Tent Peg. Because of its triangular design, it works well in all types of ground and will not bend when subjected to the weight of a mallet. The multi-level attachment points are especially beneficial in frozen ground when you can only penetrate a few inches into the ground due to the lack of leverage.
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Heavy Duty Rock Tent Pegs
WEIGHT: 0.5 ounces and higher in weight. SIZE: 6 inches and above in height These Heavy Duty Rock Tent Pegs are available in a variety of sizes and cap styles to meet your specific requirements. They are often composed of steel, although they may also be built of aluminum and titanium, providing a diverse range of materials to suit a variety of budgets. They are similar in appearance to a giant nail with a plastic toggle attached to the end, but they are meant to be pounded into the hardest frozen ground and even rock without bending or breaking.
return to the main menu 0.5 oz / 13 g NET WEIGHT: SIZE: 7 inches / 178 millimeters Designed in the shape of a propeller, the Tent Tools Propeller Tent Stakes feature a distinctive Y-shape that allows them to keep their position better in soft ground while also making their way into harder ground more easily.
When hammering down, the Y-shape design helps to boost tensile strength, which is ideal for camping on hard ground because of its inherent strength.
These tent pegs offer excellent value for money and are a simple update for older tent pegs. On Amazon, there are a lot of positive reviews. return to the main menu
MSR Core Tent Stakes
WEIGHT: 0.35 oz / 10 g SIZE: 6 inches / 15 centimeters Designed to be lightweight and robust, the MSR Core Tent Stakes are ideal for attaching your tent or shelter to hard ground. Despite the fact that the ground appears to be’firm as a rock,’ the solid aluminum head is sturdy enough to pound down forcefully. They are available in two different lengths: 15 cm and 23 cm. Both are equipped with a fluorescent draw string to help finding them with ator simpler. I have seen one of these pegs break after being hammered in with a heavy rock, but they never, ever seem to bend.
Vargo Titanium Nail Peg Ultralight
WEIGHT: 0.3 ounces / 8 grams SIZE: 6″ LONG / 152 x 4 MM IN DIAMETER In this list of the finest tent stakes for hard ground, the Vargo Titanium Nail Peg Ultralight is the thinner and lighter version of the famous Nail Peg, which is also on the list of the best tent stakes for hard ground. The single piece of metal is incredibly robust considering its weight of only 8 grams, and it will not bend even when pounded into hard-packed earth. With a flat head that is a little on the tiny side but does the job, as well as a loophole with a fluorescent rope, it is perfect for fastening your tent down and recovering the stake after usage.
Monk Industries Forged Head 12″ Stake
1.375 pound / 634 grams (about) SIZE: 12 x 5/8 in / 305 x 16 mm FINISH: SILVER The Monk Industries Forged Head 12′′ Stake is incredibly hefty when compared to the other options on our list, but it is virtually unbreakable in contrast to them. They are not intended for the light hiker or the casual camper, but they will hold down anything you ask of them without flinching when the going gets tough. Although it is more suited to bigger teepee-like constructions and gazebos than a tarp or a two-person tent, it is nonetheless rather remarkable.
As a matter of fact, the stakes from Monk Industries are so dependable that they may even be used to tie boats to river banks or to secure circus tents.
Best Tent Stakes (Pegs) and How to Secure your Tent
The foundation of any excellent building is essential, and this is no different when it comes to erecting a tent. The structural integrity of your tent is dependent on your ability to use the best tent stakes to keep your guy lines in place and nice and tight at all times. In comparison to the old-fashioned wire shepherd’s hook tent pegs you may remember from your childhood camping trips, modern tent pegs are far more durable. Material science advancements, as well as some ingenious design elements, provide you with a plethora of excellent alternatives to pick from.
Our assessment of the finest tent stakes available includes information on how to use them, as well as when and where they should be used. Quick Overview: Our Top Tent Peg Recommendations include:
- Best overall: MSR Groundhog
- MSR Carbon Core
- SE 9NRC10 Heavy Duty Tent Stakes
- Best for the money: All One Tech Aluminum Tent Stakes
- MSR Cyclone Stake
- Best for the environment: All One Tech Aluminum Tent Stakes
Please keep in mind that clicking on the links above will take you to Amazon, where you may get further information, current pricing, and user reviews.
MSR Groundhog
- Excellent anchoring is provided by the Y-beam design. 0.6 ounces in weight, making it extremely light. 7000-series aluminum is strong and long-lasting
- The tapered end makes it easy to cut through tough terrain. Has a good grip on a wide range of terrain, from soft to hard and rough.
The Bad…
These are, without a doubt, the greatest tent stakes available on the market. They’re robust enough to cut through the toughest terrain and maneuver around rocks in rocky soil without bending or breaking. Once they’re in, the Y-beam design ensures that they cling the ground with superglue like superman. MSR added a small loop of rope on the end of the rope to assist you in pulling them out. If you want to make things as light as possible while yet need durability, these are the best options for tarp camping.
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter and smaller, go no further than the MSR Mini Groundhog.
We never recommend pounding tent pegs, but let’s face it, there are instances when you have no choice.
A VIEW FROM AMAZON A VIEW FROM REI
MSR Carbon Core
- Each one weighs only 0.19 ounces, making them extremely light. The gripping power of a large diameter nail is excellent. Extremely powerful and long-lasting
- These are easily identified by their high-visibility red tops.
The Bad…
If you’re looking to follow the ultralight way, the weight of them will be ideal for you. They are among the lightest tent stakes available, weighing only 0.19oz. The combination of 7000-series aluminum and a carbon fiber core results in a stake that is both robust and sturdy. When we refer to someone as “strong,” we are referring to their physical strength. Due to the fact that they are lightweight, you should avoid pounding away at them in the hopes of causing them to collapse. The stake head has a large enough surface area to allow you to apply sufficient pressure with your palm to drive these stakes in, and it also keeps the guy line in place well.
If you are concerned about your weight, then these are difficult to beat.
SE 9NRC10 Heavy Duty Tent Stakes
- Galvanized steel has excellent rust and corrosion resistance
- Yet, it is more expensive. Milled points are excellent for difficult soils. Extra-long (10.5″) — provides excellent gripping power
- Heavy duty steel — resistant to bend
- The large head provides a substantial striking surface.
The Bad…
- In cold conditions, the plastic on the skull becomes brittle and will shatter
- They’re a big burden.
When the earth is firm, you’ll need a stake that you can pound into the ground. These can withstand a lot of abuse without bending, and they are also resistant to rust and corrosion. The milling points make them very effective for penetrating hard soil, particularly when it is frozen. Despite the fact that the huge head provides lots of targets for your hits, the plastic parts will ultimately break down. Because of the 10.5″ length and reasonable diameter, you’ll have plenty of anchoring even in windy situations.
If you’re looking for a tent stake that can withstand a lot of abuse, these are an excellent choice.
All One Tech Aluminum Tent Stakes
- The design of the 7-inch Y-beam provides reasonable holding power. It is simple to notice and take out the reflective cable loop. Price
The Bad…
If you’re looking for some reasonably priced tent stakes, this could be a good option. They have a similar appearance to the MSR Groundhogs, and they aren’t too awful on softer dirt. However, that is the extent of the similarities. These are not suitable for use on tougher terrain and will break if struck with a hammer. Having said that, they are still a more cost-effective alternative than a standard hook. As long as you’re careful when putting them in and taking them out, they’ll serve you well.
They have a good hold on the ground, and the Y-beam shape prevents them from whirling around like a standard hook. The reflecting quality of the loop at the top is something we appreciate. There’s no way you’ll be tripping over these in the middle of the night. CHECK OUT ON AMAZON
MSR Cyclone Stake
- The ability to keep a strong grip on soft terrain is exceptional. It is made of 7000-series aluminum, which is both lightweight and sturdy. Because to the spiral pattern, they are extremely gripping.
The Bad…
If you’re pitching your tent on sandy or soft soil, a standard tent hook will be ineffective, and even a good Y-stake may not be enough to hold your tent up. The likelihood is that you will require one of these. The helical shaft provides excellent grip in soft soil, and the 10″ length ensures that they remain in place even in heavy winds. The red anodized finish is appealing and makes them easy to identify while also making them simple to maintain. Despite the fact that they are heavier and more expensive than a standard Y-stake, they are unbeatable in soft soil.
Our Favorite
Our top choice was a simple one to make. They are the best in the business when it comes to MSR Groundhogs. These are strong and long-lasting because of the high-quality aluminum and outstanding manufacture. They can easily penetrate the toughest terrain, and once they’ve gotten their hands on the ground, they grip like crazy. We’re willing to spend a bit extra for tent stakes that are as dependable as these are.
Best For Budget
If you’re willing to treat them with caution and just use them in softer soil, the All One Tech are a fantastic choice for your garden. The Y-beam shape provides excellent grip while also preventing the stake from twisting in the ground while in use. If you are careful when inserting or removing the device, you will receive satisfactory performance.
How to Choose the Best Tent Stakes
Before picking a tent stake you need to consider about where you’ll be utilizing them. Your decision will be influenced by your preferred type of hiking or camping as well as the weather conditions you anticipate. Unless you’re going hiking, you’ll be hauling around all of your stuff. You want your tent stakes to be as light as possible, so make them as little as feasible. Choosing a heavier-duty stake with more holding strength and longevity is recommended if you’re just traveling a short distance before setting up camp.
We go into additional depth about each of these aspects further down the page.
What material is the tent stake made from?
The material it’s manufactured from will decide the strength, durability, and weight. There will always be a compromise between strength and weight, and this is inevitable. On one end of the scale are steel stakes, which are extremely robust but also extremely heavy. However, carbon fiber stakes, while not very robust or lasting, are extremely light and may be used in many applications. Al alloys such as aluminum and titanium are in the center of the spectrum, with titanium being the stronger but more costly of the two metals.
Length and Surface Area
The holding power of a surface is directly proportional to the length and surface area of the surface area. The surface area of your stakes has a significant influence on their likelihood of remaining in the ground. When comparing two stakes, a shorter one with a larger surface area will generally outperform a longer, thinner one. The shape, or profile, of the stake can be optimized to enhance surface area while simultaneously decreasing length.
Increasing the surface area and length of a structure increases the weight of the structure. Will you be putting up your tent in windy circumstances, or will keeping your pack weight as low as possible be your primary concern?
Tapered tips
Even if the terrain is rough or rocky, the stake must be easy to push into the ground with one hand. A tapered tip will lessen the amount of pressure that you will need to apply to the needle point. Having said that, you do not want the tip to be overly tapered. The thinner the tip, the greater the likelihood of it bending or breaking.
Flat tops
You’ll need to exert some pressure on the stake’s head, which is the top of the stake. A flat top will provide you with a more pleasant surface to press down on with your hand while pressing down on it. The flat top will provide you with additional surface area to direct your strokes if you’re dealing with really hard terrain and you need to smash them in a little.
Visibility
You’ll need to track them down when you’re packing up your belongings. Tent pegs have a sneaky habit of vanishing once the guy lines have been disconnected. A bright visibility tent stake guarantees you don’t leave them behind when you break camp. When you’re wandering around your campground, you’re less likely to trip over them as you would otherwise. A lot of people favor bright or dayglo colored heads, and we’ve even seen some that glow in the dark, such as theSE910NRC10 pegs from SE, that are perfect for camping.
Types of Tent Stake:
Tent pegs are available in a number of different designs, each of which is optimized for usage in a certain ground condition. It’s important to understand the distinction if you want the best outcomes while you’re setting up your tent. As an alternative to your standard hook stake, here are a couple of the more common varieties to consider:
- Utility stakes– These low-cost plastic stakes are rather durable and give a good deal of flexibility. The Y-shaped shaft prevents them from twisting in the ground, and the longer length and larger surface area provide them with adequate holding power. Utility stakes are a bit heavy and unwieldy for hiking, and because they are made of plastic, they are not ideal for driving into hard ground. Aluminum V-stakes are a wonderful alternative if you want something that is lightweight and affordable. The issue, on the other hand, may be identified by looking at your old aluminum hook stakes. Aluminum is a malleable metal that bends easily. The V-shape of these stakes keeps them from bending and makes them more sturdy. Because of the increased stiffness, they are appropriate for usage in a variety of soil types, including sandy, hard, and rocky soil, among others. Nail stakes / T-Stakes — These stakes are shaped like giant nails and are used to anchor objects. In addition to the pointed end, the flat or plastic T-shape head provides an excellent surface to put pressure on when driving the tool into the ground. These are often composed of steel or titanium, and they are lightweight, sturdy, and capable of working on a broad range of soil conditions. They are pricey, and because of their limited holding strength, they are better suited for usage with smaller tents. They are particularly well suited for camping due to their small weight and packability. A 3-sided Y-beam design on these stakes gives greater holding force in a range of terrains, making them an excellent choice for rough terrains. Because of the increased strength of the shaft, they can withstand being pounded into rocky terrain. Because of the increased surface area, they will be able to remain moored even in heavy winds. Snow stakes feature a broader, u-shaped shaft to provide the most surface area possible in slick snow conditions. They will frequently have holes drilled into them in order to minimize weight. When it becomes cold, aluminum becomes brittle and susceptible to shattering, hence it is frequently constructed of titanium or steel.
Different Stakes for Different Ground
Which option you should select is entirely dependent on the terrain on which you will be pitching your tent or tarp.
Tent Stakes for sandy soil
These will feature a lengthy spiral shape to provide you with more gripping strength on sloppy terrain. Tent stakes for sand such as the MSR Cyclone Stake are among the best available. If the soil is overly soft and sandy, there will be little benefit to anything planted there. You may fill some plastic bags with sand and use them as weights to protect your pegs from falling out. Alternatively, you may bury something with a large surface area and use it as an anchor to tie your guy line to that object.
Tent Pegs for hard ground
If the terrain is firm but not too rocky, a decent nail stake may be sufficient if you can get it into the ground. If you don’t want to bend them, use caution when hammering them down. A Y-stake with a narrow profile, such as the MSR Mini Groundhog, would be an excellent choice. Because hard ground provides greater friction, you may get away with cutting your length in half. -There is no pricing information available.
Tent Stakes for rocky ground
When working on difficult terrain, V-stakes or, even better, Y-stakes are the most effective.
Even a little mild beating won’t hurt them, and the sloped surface allows it to avoid hitting subsurface pebbles when it is being lowered. The MSR Groundhog stakes are particularly well suited to rough terrain. $24.95
Tent Stakes for wind
When it’s windy, your tent shakes, and the energy of the wind passes through your guy lines to pull your pegs out of the ground. The greater the thickness or width of the anchor, the greater the surface area and friction that exists between the stake and the soil. For windy circumstances, you’ll need a large surface area as well as a lengthy overall length of the sail. A Y-stake, such as the MSR Groundhog, performs admirably in the wind. The top of the “Y” should be aimed away from the tent, with the lower end following the line of the guy line back to your tent when erecting this type of tent.
How to stake a tent on rocky ground
If the ground contains a large number of tiny stones, a nail-stake with a large diameter and a lengthy length may be necessary. More rocks indicate less tightly packed ground in direct contact with the anchor, which implies less stability. When working with soil that contains larger rocks, it is preferable to use an angled form that will reflect off the rocks. Regardless of whether you choose a nail stake or something more complex like a Y-stake, you’ll need something strong because it’ll take a lot of hammering to get it buried.
If the terrain is mostly dirt, you can attach your guy ropes to a fixed point.
How to stake a tent in the snow
When it comes to setting up your winter tent, slippery and fluffy snow might be a real difficulty. You’ll need a pair of snow stakes to get the finest results possible. Push them down as deep as they will go vertically into the snow, and then pile some snow on top of them to make a snow fort. To secure a hole in the snow that is too loose and doesn’t give enough grip, employ the deadman anchor technique. The line guide should be inserted sideways into the snow stake’s top and bottom holes before the snow is packed on top of the stake.
A well-placed stick between the ice and the guy line will accomplish the desired result.
Tent Peg Tips
- Clear the space around your tent of any debris before you begin to set up your tent. You want to push your stakes into firm ground rather than into a bunch of leaves
- Otherwise, they will break. It is only necessary to lay your claim on solid ground. Sure, softer dirt makes it quicker to get the pegs in but it’ll also be easier for them to lose their grip
- Drive them all the way in. The greater the amount of the peg that is buried in the ground, the more holding power it will provide. And you won’t trip over it
- Drive them in vertically — some individuals bury them at an angle, believing that this would provide a more secure grip on the ground. At most, utilize a 10 to 15-degree angle. Although there are some disagreeing voices in the camping world on this issue, field studies have proven that vertical is the best option. Make sure the guy line is long enough that it strains against the stake at an angle, rather than straight up
- Do not use your boots to force pegs into the ground. This appears to be a convenient method, but it may cause them to bend or shatter
- If at all possible, avoid hammering them in. If you have to, be kind with yourself! Keep the peg square on the head of the nail every time to avoid bending the nail. A good method is to drill a pilot hole first, which will reduce the amount of hammering required to drive the thicker stake in. Cross them over – If the wind is blowing, you may need to apply additional force at each pegging point. Drive two pegs in close to one other, so they cross just below the surface and tie the line to the one on the side away from the tent
- Strengthen shaky stakes by laying a boulder or anything heavy on top of them in windy circumstances to provide additional anchoring. This will help prevent the guy line from sliding off
What’s the Difference between tent pegs and stakes?
In the camping culture, the terms “peg” and “stake” are frequently used interchangeably to refer to the same thing. “Tent peg” is a term used to refer to the traditional shepherd’s hook kind of tent stake, while “tent stake” refers to the more sophisticated V and Y-shaped varieties of tent staple.
My Tent Came Supplied With Stakes. Do I need to buy different ones?
On most cases, if you’re erecting your tent in soft to moderately hard soil and good weather, this is not the case. The steel shepherd hooks that came with your tent should be sufficient. Better quality pitching material will be required if you’re pitching on difficult or rocky soil or in windy circumstances.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality tent is a nice first step, but it won’t help much if it ends up flapping around in the breeze. If you’re going to be camping in difficult terrain, severe winds, or snow, it’s worth investing in the finest tent stakes for the circumstances you’ll be encountering.
Amazon.com is credited with the product image. Last updated on December 3, 2021 / Affiliate links included / Images sourced from the Amazon Product Advertising API
The 7 Best Tent Pegs for Camping in 2021
Tent makers continue to ship their new tents with flimsy wire tent pegs / tent stakes that are difficult to use. Why is this, I’m not sure, because we all have them pulled out whenever there’s a strong breeze. They never hold up, especially not in the United Kingdom. It’s just that the weather circumstances aren’t suited for British camping. I’ve written about which are the greatest tent pegs in my experience including some essential must-haves. PS: There are actually eight of them.
Overall Best Tent Pegs
It’s difficult to choose just one go-to tent peg, so I’ve decided to go with two of them. Neither are prohibitively expensive; I have a pair of plastic tent pegs and a pack of rock pegs in my camping gear. According to my observations, plastic power pegs are the best tent pegs. They’re pretty economical and they’re really visible which is fantastic for tiny kids running about. The best part is that they stand up exceptionally well in the wind. They prefer medium to hard grass, which is typical of most campsites in the United Kingdom.
Rock Pegs are the ideal tent pegs for hard ground since they are extremely durable.
Because they’re a little thinner than the plastic power pegs, they don’t hold their position quite as effectively as the hefty plastics on man lines.
Always remember to bring a mallet or a peg puller!
What are the Best Tent Pegs for Wind and Storms?
The finest tent pegs for heavy winds and storms are theDelta Ground Anchorsmade in Britain. Their construction is comprised of a super-tough nylon composite that is far stronger than the typical plastic pegs. In the variable British weather, it’s nearly hard to get a good picture of them. They bury themselves in the ground and disperse the pull of a guy line, causing the peg to pull against a larger area of the ground than before. It’s quite brilliant, and there’s a reason why they’re so well-respected in this industry.
These are the first things I look for on man lines that are immediately tugging against the wind.
Purchase Delta Ground Anchors at Amazon.com.
The Best Tent Pegs for Sand
Making the best tent pegs for use on sand or on the beach isn’t always a simple matter of weighing the pros and cons. These Triwonder Snow and Sand Pegs are one possible approach. They are designed to have a bigger surface area and, as a result, to grip more sand than other tires. Despite my success with them, I frequently carry a tarp to the beach and keep it extremely taught. They frequently just appear out of nowhere. Instead, I was able to secure these two beasts, both of which are excellent, but availability is usually a little hit and miss.
About it, I’m currently working on a blog post (although in essence, it’s simply some scrap pallet wood that has been drilled in the center and then burried in the sand). These CHONKY Sand Pegs are a favorite of mine. Check out the most recent pricing on Sand Pegs.
What are the Best Tent Pegs for Hard Ground?
The pegs I stated above are the most effective for hard ground conditions. Although some campgrounds offer hardstanding campsites, some of them require something a bit more aggressive in order to get the job done. Honestly, these are the greatest screw-in tent pegs that I’ve ever come across. They are excellent for driving deep into difficult terrain. Choose the ones that come with a drill bit attachment so that you can use a cordless drill to get them in even more quickly and efficiently. Don’t forget to bring the drill with you!
Take a look at these Screw-In Anchors.
The Best Heavy Duty Tent Pegs
If you thought the Nylon Delta Ground Anchors were robust, you should see how tough the steel Delta Ground Anchors are, which Delta manufactures as well. These are quite similar in appearance to true sea anchors. Large, expensive, and dependable. If they’re a little out of your price range, these lengthy tent pegs made of forged steel can be a good alternative. Extremely durable, and it has the ability to be pushed in 30cm or more into the earth. They’ve also got a peg puller hole that’s been sculpted into them.
These Forged Steel Pegs are just stunning!
The Best Lightweight Tent Pegs
They are not as light as the ultra-lightweight titanium tent pegs, but they are more affordable and have served me well on several hikes with no issues. These lightweight tent pegs are the best lightweight tent pegs (or tent stakes, as they are sometimes referred to) I’ve used for my wild camping equipment. Despite weighing only 12g apiece, they are incredibly light. These lightweight pegs, which are made of titanium, are also fantastic, but they are more expensive.
The Best Tent Pegs for Gravel pitches
Gravel, on the other hand, is a completely different animal. It’s possible to repeatedly drive a plastic pegin with a mallet, but the odds are good that it’ll shatter the tip off. Instead, I’ve discovered that utilizing these screw pegs is considerably simpler. They crawl and wiggle their way through the soil. You may also twist them in using the casing, which is a clever concept that involves the least amount of work.
The Best Tent Pegs for Groundsheets and Footprints
If you are not already utilizing a footprint below your tent, you should consider doing so. These basic groundsheet pegs are used to secure our footprint and external groundsheet to the ground surface. They have a modest profile, are brilliantly colored, and are reasonably priced. In addition to keeping the wind from getting beneath them and wreaking mayhem inside your tent, pegging these down is also a good idea.
The Best Alternatives to Tent Pegs
Tent pegs are not always functional. I set my tent on the concrete/tarmac when on the Mongol Rally a few years back and I decided for usingthese sand bags. You don’t even have to properly load them with sand to have them work. I filled them with rubble, rock, grit, and gravel, and they performed an excellent job of supporting the tent’s structure. While they are capable of supporting the guy lines of a large family tent, I am not confident in their ability.
They are also intended for use with gazebos and parasol stands, so having them on hand is a convenience. You can always connect your guylines to items around if you’re truly trapped. When the ground isn’t very good, tying them to stones and rolling them into place can be very effective methods.
How do you get tent pegs into hard ground?
It might be difficult to drive tent pegs into solid ground. Generally speaking, driving the pegs I advised above with a metal mallet is the ideal method, but there are instances when you need to put more weight on them. This has proven to be a successful method for me.
- Using a generous glug of water, wet the place where you want to peg
- Tap the peg into the surface a few times, just to get it to break the surface. Find a huge rock and use the weight of it to try to force it even farther into the ground
How to pull a tent peg out?
In most cases, removing pegs is a straightforward process. Here’s where you can get a fantastic single peg puller. I do, however, appreciate the metal mallets that come with a built-in peg puller as well. Extra tools are available!
- In most cases, removing pegs is a simple process. A fantastic single peg puller may be purchased from this location. I do, however, appreciate the metal mallets that come with a built-in peg puller. Plush extras:
What tent pegs to avoid?
Make sure you don’t make the same mistakes I did in the past! Avoid using wire pegs since they are only useful for pinning down the occasional flappy eyelet along the side of a tent or potentially for ground sheets that are stored inside the tent, which is not recommended. Considering that they are normally included with your tent, you might as well keep a pair in your backpack for when the worst happens. The V-shaped metal tent pegs, on the other hand, are not my favorite. I had some come with a Robens Klondike and found that the tips bent inwards when they came into contact with gravel and rock, rendering them unusable.
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Best Tent Stakes – Different kind of tent pegs explained
When you’re making preparations for your next big adventure, it’s doubtful that tent stakes would be among the first items on your shopping list. However, despite their modest size, tent stakes, also known as tent pegs, are an absolutely necessary equipment. Using the incorrect sort of tent pole might result in many sleepless nights wondering that your tent will blow away! In this article, we’ll go over the different types of tent stakes, how to use them, and what qualities to look for when purchasing a tent stake.
Why trust this guide?
During the previous several years, we’ve been traveling the world in search of adventure in every nook and cranny of the planet! With us from the windswept Arctic to the scorching heat of Australia, and innumerable plateaus, valleys, mountain ranges, and beaches in between, our faithful tent has provided us with protection and shelter on a variety of adventures. We’ve tented in a diverse range of settings that are always changing, and we’ve depended on a large number of tent pegs along the route.
You might also be interested in: The Ultimate Camping Guide for Beginners
What is a tent stake?
A set of tent stakes will be included with the purchase of any tent. Simply said, they secure your tent to the ground and prevent it from being blown away by the wind. The majority of ordinary tent pegs are constructed of metal and are in the shape of lengthy hooks. The hook secures the guy wires in place, and the lengthy stem allows them to be buried deeper in the earth. Tent pegs, on the other hand, are significantly more diverse, and may be found in a wide variety of forms, sizes, weights, and patterns.
When it comes to explorers who rely on their tent to get them through the night, understanding how they each differ and which is the best for a certain task is essential knowledge.
Why you need tent stakes
Nothing will hold your tent to the ground if it is not secured with tent pegs. Tent pegs, on the other hand, not only keep the tent from flying away, but they also keep the cloth tight. This keeps the tent from flapping and ensures that it maintains its shape while expanding the internal area. It also alleviates some of the tension placed on the support poles during windy conditions. Failure to utilize tent anchors increases the likelihood of inflicting major damage to the tent, such as rips in the fabric and broken support poles.
Instead, it’s a good idea to bring along a number of high-quality spares that are ideal for a variety of diverse terrains.
Different kinds of tent stakes
Nothing will hold your tent to the ground if you don’t use tent pegs. Tent pegs, on the other hand, not only prevent the tent from flying away, but they also keep the fabric tight. Thus, flapping is prevented, and the tent maintains its shape while expanding the internal area. When it is windy, it also helps to alleviate some of the strain on the support poles. Failure to use tent stakes increases the likelihood of causing serious damage to the tent, such as tears in the fabric and broken support rods.
A selection of high-quality spares that are ideal for different sorts of terrain, on the other hand, should be brought along.
Standard tent stakes
Standard tent stakes, also known as skewer pegs, are normally included with your tent when you purchase it for the very first time. Regular dirt that is neither too hard nor rocky, nor too soft or powdery, is the finest environment for them. In general, they’ll perform well across a wide range of surfaces and environmental circumstances. Despite their widespread use, they are available in a variety of forms, materials, and patterns. The majority of them are made of stainless steel, although there are also nylon and plastic variants available.
The Y-shaped variants, on the other hand, are often stronger.
- The best overall choice
- The best lightweight alternative
- The best value for money.
Sand and snow tent stakes
Sand and snow pegs are often distinguished from regular stakes by their appearance. It is common for them to be shorter and composed of thinner material, with a broader profile and several holes running along their whole length. As the snow or sand compacts, it helps to fill up the gaps and provide extra support.
These are often constructed of lightweight metal, making them portable and simple to transport. Alternately, you can use tent stakes that are screwed in place. They are larger in size and often constructed of plastic, and they twist into the earth to provide tremendous strength.
- The best overall choice
- The best lightweight alternative
- The best value for money.
The best overall choice; the best lightweight option; the best value for money option
Heavy-duty tent stakes
Heavy-duty tent pegs are typically constructed of hardened metal, such as titanium, which is both flexible and robust while also being less prone to bending than other metals. High wind resistance is provided through the use of a Y-shaped cross-section, which helps to prevent twisting in the ground and provides additional stability. It’s a good idea to have a variety of lengths in your bag just in case. A number of notches are available on certain models, allowing you to attach one or more man lines even if you are unable to drive the model all of the way into the ground.
- The best overall choice
- The best lightweight alternative
- The best value for money.
Rock pegs
The purchase of rock pegs is highly recommended if you know you will be camping in hard, rocky terrain. Their design is similar to a nail, with a thin cross-bar on the top, and they are capable of breaking through surfaces that few other pegs can handle.
- The best overall choice
- The best lightweight alternative
- The best value for money.
How to use tent stakes
Despite the fact that tent stakes are a modest piece of equipment, there is a great deal of dispute regarding how to use them properly. The following suggestions have proven to be effective for us thus far:
- Check to see if the area where you intend to pitch your tent is acceptable. If the dirt is too loose and you can easily drive the stake into the ground by hand, the stake will not provide much support. When driving tent stakes into the ground, they should be pushed virtually vertically, with just a minor (10 degree) slant towards the tent. This gives maximum strength and avoids the chance of the stake bending and failing
- In order to prevent guy lines from falling off the tent in heavy gusts, hooks should be oriented away from the tent. When using Y-shaped pegs, make sure the top of the Y faces away from the tent
- It’s best to use a rubber mallet or a light hammer to drive tent stakes into the ground to avoid damaging the tent. The use of your foot causes uneven pressure on the stakes, which can cause them to bend. Alternatively, a flat rock should suffice in the event that you do not have a mallet.
9 Best Tent Stakes 2022
This article provides an overview of all of the top tent stakes currently available on the market in 2022. All of the greatest ultralight tents on the market may be made lighter and safer by using high-grade lightweight tent stakes of superior quality. I’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best tent stakes available on the market.
Best Tent Stakesfor Backpacking 2022
The following are the finest tent stakes for 2022:
- Tent stakes: MSR Mini Groundhog – Best Overall Tent Stake
- MSR Carbon-Core Tent Stakes – Best Ultralight Tent Stake
- Coghlan’s ABS Plastic Tent Pegs – Best Budget Tent Stake
- MSR ToughStake – Best Tent Stake for Snow Camping
- Vargo Ti Shepherds Hook
- Orange Screw Ultimate Ground Anchor
- TOAKS Titanium V-Shaped
- REI Co-Op Snow Stake
Best Tent Stake Overall
Weighing 0.35 oz / 10 grams 6 inches / 15 centimeters in length Pros:Lightweight Strong Pull cord with high visibility. Compact It is simple to use Cons: There isn’t any anything. Sac Can be tough to remove I highly suggest these user-friendly and lightweight tent stakes for anybody planning a journey into the woods or on an overnight camping excursion. They provide the finest value for money while still being durable and lightweight. The tri-beam stake is constructed of aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum and is capable of driving into a wide range of soil types while withstanding even the most extreme situations.
The stakes can be readily removed from the ground due to the paracord loop, but if you want to carry as light as possible, you may leave the paracord loop attached to the stakes.
However, there are several difficulties that need to be addressed.
It’s best to give them a little sideways kick to loosen the dirt surrounding them before attempting to lift them out of the ground.
As a whole, the MSR Mini Groundhog is the most effective tent stake currently available on the market. It offers the best value for money in terms of price, weight, and strength.
Best Ultralight Tent Stake
Weighs 0.2oz (about 5.5g). 6 inches / 15 centimeters in length Advantages: Extremely light weight. The diameter is large to ensure adequate gripping force. Extremely powerful and long-lasting. Extremely conspicuous Cons:Expensive These Carbon-Core tent stakes from MSR are another another excellent alternative for ultralight campers, weighing only 0.19oz. Although they are extremely lightweight, they are also sturdy and durable, due to the carbon fiber core and 7000-series aluminum used in their construction.
- They will not hold up to heavy pounding, but the stake head is wide enough that you may apply reasonable pressure with your hand to drive them into the ground without damaging them.
- It is essential that you carry these lightweight stakes in your bag if you want to travel with as little weight as possible.
- These Carbon-Core tent stakes from MSR are another another excellent alternative for ultralight campers, weighing only 0.19oz.
- Their strength, on the other hand, is proportional to their weight.
- Once they’re set, they’re also a vibrant red hue that really pops out against the background.
- If you are looking for the greatest lightweight tent stake available on the market, this is the product for you.
Best Budget Tent Stake
3oz/8.5g (about) 6 inches (15 centimeters) in length Pros:Affordable Lightweight This is a very prominent item. When on solid ground, it is quite stable. Cons: The product has a short shelf life. It is difficult to set up. It is not adaptable. Looking for a low-cost tent stake that is yet functional? With a weight of only 0.3oz, these plastic tent pegs from Coghlan’s Tent Pegs make an excellent lightweight tent staple. On addition to being very noticeable due to its brilliant yellow color, it also performs well in all sorts of terrain despite the fact that it is made of plastic.
It is impossible to install them with hand and foot in really hard ground, and it is also difficult to put them with a hammer.
As a whole, these are the finest hiking tent stakes on a tight budget. It is possible that they are as light or lighter than the majority of pricey titanium tent stakes at a fraction of the cost; nonetheless, they lack the strength and longevity of the more expensive tent pegs.
Looking for a low-cost tent stake that is yet functional? With a weight of only 0.3oz, these plastic tent pegs from Coghlan’s Tent Pegs make an excellent lightweight tent staple. On addition to being very noticeable due to its brilliant yellow color, it also performs well in all sorts of terrain despite the fact that it is made of plastic. Even when hammered into hard ground, the Coghlan’s Tent Peg will hold up, but it is not as durable as the majority of the other tent pegs reviewed in this article.
In addition, the pegs are too tiny and too wide to be totally successful when used in softer ground.
It is possible that they are as light or lighter than the majority of pricey titanium tent stakes at a fraction of the cost; nonetheless, they lack the strength and longevity of the more expensive tent pegs.
Best Tent Stake for Snow Camping
1.5 ounces / 43 grams 9 inches / 22 centimeters in length Advantages: It is made of lightweight aluminum. Snow and sand are no match for this product. Form that is rigid and curved Cons:Bulky Soft soil is the only type of soil that is acceptable. However, they are only suitable for use in soft sand or snow and have the highest holding power of all the pegs reviewed here. Other than in emergency situations, do not even consider utilizing them. They are a specialized snow and sand tent stake that is buried into the sand or snow and then has a cable attached to it that is tied to the tent guyline from the ground level of the stake.
- As a result, this tent stake has the strongest holding force of all of the tent pegs reviewed in this article.
- However, they are only suitable for use in soft sand or snow and have the highest holding power of all the pegs reviewed here.
- They are a specialized snow and sand tent stake that is buried into the sand or snow and then has a cable attached to it that is tied to the tent guyline from the ground level of the stake.
- As a result, this tent stake has the strongest holding force of all of the tent pegs reviewed in this article.
More Tent Pegs for Backpacking
Weighing in at 8g (0.3oz) 6.6 ounces / 16.5 centimeters Pros:Ultralight Both firm and rocky soils are suitable for this product. Compact and packs away little It is quite simple to remove from the ground. Cons: It does not come with a stuff sack. The necessity for directional positioning is essential. The Vargo Ti Shepherd’s Hook is a titanium stake that is extremely lightweight, making it an excellent choice for ultralight trekkers. The stakes are sold in a set of six and are remarkably adaptable, allowing them to be driven into a variety of different types of ground.
- The hook design also makes it simple to remove, even in the most difficult of terrain.
- The flexibility and durability of the Vargo Ti Shepherd’s Hook are outstanding, however there is a drawback to the hook’s capacity to be flexible.
- To acquire a decent placement with lightweight stakes, you must be careful not to stomp too hard, since this is often the case.
- A stuff sack, on the other hand, would be greatly welcomed to keep them all together.
In addition, the cylindrical shaft does not have as much holding force as tri-beam designs have. These stakes, on the other hand, are a must-have for lightweight trekkers since they are extremely practical.
Orange Screw Ultimate Ground Anchor
The weight of the item is:1.8oz/51g The length is 9.5 inches (24cm). Advantages: Excellent holding power. It is simple to set up. Visibility is excellent. Made from environmentally friendly materials. Cons:Bulky Soft, loose sediment is the best candidate for this product. There is no stuff sack included in this package. Heavy The Orange Screw Ultimate Ground Anchor may be an excellent choice for campers who prefer camping on the beach or in areas with soft silt, according to the manufacturer.
Instead, you use a plastic tube that threads through the top of the anchor to provide more leverage to assist you in screwing the stakes in by hand, rather than using a screwdriver.
When it comes to hiking, the Orange Screw is only useful on soft ground and is not recommended for anything other than very soft, sandy soils.
Their use of recycled materials makes them particularly appealing to those who are concerned about the environment.
TOAKS Titanium V-Shaped
The weight is 0.68oz / 17g. 6.6 inches / 16.5 centimeters in length Advantages: The profile is light in weight. The design is simple and stackable. In softer ground, this has excellent holding power. Cons: When installing by foot, extreme caution must be exercised. It’s difficult to get rid of. Flimsy The Toaks Titanium V-shape tent pegs have a lot going for them, and that’s a good thing. Their v-shape construction allows them to hold up well in softer ground, but they also perform well in hard packed dirt and gravel.
They are also extremely light, weighing only 0.6 oz.
The Toaks Titanium V-shaped tent pegs, on the other hand, are not without their drawbacks.
Overall, the Toaks Titanium V-Shape tent stakes are a lightweight design that can be packed up into a tiny stackable shape for easy storage and transportation.
REI Co-Op Snow Stake
1 ounce / 28 g total weight 9.6 inches / 24 centimeters in length Pros: This is an excellent choice for winter camping. Affordable Lightweight Color that pops out at you Cons: It is difficult to push into the ground. The REI snow stake is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative for tent stakes for snow camping in the backcountry. It weighs 1oz, which is a very modest weight considering its massive size. For the vast majority of individuals embarking on a backpacking or ski touring journey into the backcountry, this will be sufficient equipment for snow camping.
They might also be utilized in soft sandy soils, but they should not be used in any other type of soil or environment. Overall, the REI Snow Stakes are the greatest low-cost tent stakes for snow camping that you can find.
MSR Blizzard Tent Stake
1.19oz / 34g – 1.19oz / 34g 9.6 inches / 24 centimeters in length Pros: This product is ideal for soft snow and sand. The red tint makes them more visible in the snow. Easily transportable Cons: This product is not good for hard ground. The concave form of the MSR Blizzard Tent Stake makes it ideal for use in both sand and snow conditions. Furthermore, the numerous holes located throughout the length of the stake serve as strong anchors, even in the softest of soils. If you’re putting these stakes in snow, hammer them vertically into the ground; but, if the snow is exceptionally soft, they’ll hold better if you lay them horizontally.
They’re composed of aluminum and weigh only 1.19oz, making them a very lightweight option.
For snow and sand camping, they are generally considered to be excellent choices.
Buyers Guide
In order to make an informed decision about tent pegs, it is important to understand a few basic facts:
Types of Tent Pegs
Shepherds Hooks are the thin pegs with the hook form on the top that are used for shepherding. The lightest of all the peg designs, these are also the most prone to bending when handled incorrectly or incorrectly. Shepherds hooks are normally stronger than Y stakes, but they are also a little heavier and thicker. V stakes are similar in appearance to Y stakes, with certain types being more packable. Nail Pegs are simple and typically robust, but they must be a little heavier and thicker than Shepherds hooks in order to be effective.
They are often inappropriate for use in difficult soil.
Material
When it comes to tent stakes, titanium is widely regarded as the strongest and lightest material available. This increase in strength and weight savings comes at a higher cost, though. Tent stakes made of aluminum are the most cost-effective, lightest, and most durable option available. These are the components that the majority of tent makers choose to use. Carbon tent stakes are an extremely specialized product with a high price tag to match. They are both extremely robust and remarkably light in weight.
Steel tent stakes should be avoided at all costs, since all of the other materials listed are superior alternatives.
Weight
The weight of almost all tent stakes these days is really low, but if you have all of the best ultralight hiking gear and want to save a few grams here and there, they are a nice alternative to consider.
If you’re replacing broken items, I’d advocate purchasing the best you can afford rather than purchasing new items and discarding the old ones.
Durability
All of the tent stakes in this review are going to bend and fall apart. Try to smash them into hard ground or apply pressure on them with your hiking boot in an attempt to sink them into the earth, and they may bend. I prefer to get a couple of more than I really require in order to utilize them as replacements when I accidentally bend them out of shape. You can bend and straighten them if needed but normally they will never be the same again when they have been bent once.
Holding Power
How powerful does the wind have to be in order to pull the tent stake out of the ground, or worse, bend it? A bent tent stake will cause the guy rope to come loose, thus it is usually preferable to avoid this situation. The gusty gale is the worst type of wind that can cause problems for the tent peg because it causes the guy ropes to pull hard and then relieve stress on the tent stake. This frequently results in the tent peg becoming loose in the ground and either bending or pulling loose. The snow and sand stakes outperform all other types of stakes in soft conditions because of their bigger surface areas, although V and Y shaped stakes do exceptionally well in most other soils.
Conclusion
The MSR Mini Groundhog tent stake is the most effective tent stake in general. The MSR Carbon-Core Tent Stakes are the best lightest tent stake available. The Coghlan’s ABS Plastic Tent Pegs are the best budget tent stake on the market. The MSR ToughStake is the ideal tent stake for use in snow and sand.
