Camp Bed Setup Tips for Inside a Tent

Setting Up a Camp Bed in Your Tent

Getting a camp bed into a tent and positioned properly takes a bit of planning, but done right it transforms your camping comfort. As you prepare for summer 2026 trips, these setup tips will help you get the most from your camp bed.

Measure First

Before your trip, measure your tent inner dimensions and compare them to your camp bed opened size. You need at least 10cm clearance on each side of the bed for comfortable access. Check the tent height at the bed position too — you want to be able to sit upright on the bed without hitting the tent roof.

Protect Your Groundsheet

Camp bed legs concentrate your weight onto small points. On soft ground, they can push through a thin groundsheet. Place something flat under each leg — a small square of foam, a piece of plywood, or even a folded towel. This distributes the pressure and protects both your groundsheet and the camp bed legs.

Positioning

Keep the bed away from tent walls. Touching fabric walls causes condensation to drip onto your bedding. Leave at least 5cm gap on all sides. Position the head end away from the tent entrance to reduce drafts, and consider where the morning sun will hit — facing the tent door towards east means early morning light and heat.

Assembly Order

Most people try to set up the camp bed outside and carry it in. This works for small tents with large doors. For larger tents, it is often easier to carry the folded bed inside and open it in position. Check which approach works for your tent size before you leave home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Setting up on a slope — even a slight gradient means sliding off the bed overnight
• Placing legs on top of items under the groundsheet — stones and pegs create pressure points
• Forgetting to check headroom with your sleeping bag and pillow in place
• Blocking tent doorways with the bed, making night-time exits difficult

Browse our camp bed range and plan your perfect tent layout for the summer camping season ahead.