Podcast Episode June 8, 2023

Episode 83 | Shelter Condensation


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Summary

In today’s episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we’re going to talk about managing condensation in shelters.
a picture of a tent in the middle of a field

In this Episode:

What’s New at Backpacking Light?

Shelter Condensation

  • Introduction to condensation – is it really an issue, or is it overblow?
  • Predicting vapor pressure differential
  • Climate factors that increase condensation accumulation – high humidity, low temperature, and weather conditions (especially wind)
  • Personal factors – your breath, and wet clothes and gear
  • Tent design – pros and cons to single wall versus double wall shelters
  • Campsite Selection – wind exposure, proximity to water, elevation, and terrain considerations
  • Techniques to minimize condensation – ventilation techniques for your shelter, shelter management, sleep system management, and clothing management
  • Managing unavoidable condensation – cold weather camping, and camping in rainy and humid conditions

Q&A

What temperature and humidity range do you decide to layer quilts vs just bringing a winter bag?

– JP Balisteri, via Instagram

What do you recommend to do for a pyramid shelter in pouring rain most of the night?

– Natenelson84, via Instagram

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Credits

  • Executive Producer - Backpacking Light; Show Director and Host - Ryan Jordan; Producer - Chase Jordan; Theme music: Look for Me in the Mountains written by Chris Cunningham and Ryan Jordan, performed by Chris Cunningham (acoustic guitar, lead and harmony vocals, harmonica), Chad Langford (upright bass), and Tom Murphy (mandolin), produced by Basecamp Studios in Bozeman, Montana.

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Home Forums Episode 83 | Shelter Condensation

Viewing 4 posts - 1 through 4 (of 4 total)
  • Author
    Posts
  • #3782961
    Backpacking Light
    Admin

    @backpackinglight

    Locale: Rocky Mountains

    Companion forum thread to: Episode 83 | Shelter Condesation

    In episode 83 of the Backpacking Light podcast we’re going to talk about managing condensation in shelters.

    #3783088
    Ryan Jordan
    Admin

    @ryan

    Locale: Central Rockies

    What are your strategies for managing condensation in shelters?

    #3783092
    Thom
    BPL Member

    @popcornman

    Locale: N NY

    Pitch high if weather allows. Rain or snow back side to wind low, door side high. Umbrella can b handy  wind rain blocker. Hexamid pocket tarp user. Have had issues w splash bivy sacks and condensation. Not a fan . East coast mostly.
    thanks thom

    #3783119
    jscott
    BPL Member

    @book

    Locale: Northern California

    Use a double wall.

    In some situations there simply will be condensation. Happily I try to hike in good weather so this isn’t a big deal. I dry out the tent in sun in the morning before taking off. If it’s still damp when I want to start hiking, it will dry out after set up in the afternoon.

    All the tricks about increasing ventilation have their limits if one wants to be in a tent at night. I do what I can and then live with a bit of condensation. Again, in a double wall, this isn’t much of an issue where I hike on the west coast (sierra mostly).

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