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Tent stakes are rarely the first thing you think about as far as camping gear is concerned. Despite being just a footnote in your camping gear checklist, tent stakes make all the difference when it comes to securing your tent to the ground, independent of its type. Top-rated tent stakes are strong and durable. When you use them in the right way, they’ll keep your tent secure and safe in all types of weather. With that being said, we have prepared a buying guide to answer all your questions before you purchase your next tent stake.
OUR TOP PICK
MSR Groundhog Aluminum Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Unique Y-beam design
- Notch for fastening the guylines
- Easy removal using the attached reflective pull loop
Weight: 0.46 ounces per stake
Stake Length: 7.5 inches
Material: Aluminum
EDITORS CHOICE
Orange Screw The Ultimate Ground Anchors Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- One of the few stakes that come with a lifetime guarantee
- Made out of 100% recycled material
- Carries lots of power in a small package
Weight: 1.8 ounces
Stake Length: 9 1/2”, Diameter: 7/8”
Material: 100% Recycled material
BEST VALUE
REI Co-op Steel Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Sturdy, unbendable, and unbreakable
- Ideal for use in securing large tents
- Sleek simple design
Weight: 2.7 ounces
Stake Length: 8.25 inches
Material: Steel
ABCCANOPY Pegs Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Can be used for single person tents or multiple tents
- Heavy-duty stakes made of galvanized steel prevent corrosion
- Includes bonus products
Weight: 2.8 pounds (per pack)
Stake Length: 11 inches
Material: Galvanized steel
Coleman Steel Nail Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Strong and durable
- Sharp finishing makes it easier to penetrate the ground
Weight: 12.8 ounces (per pack)
Stake Length: 10 inches
Material: Plated steel
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Easily pull-able loops, easing the tearing down process
- 3 years of warranty
- Colorful, sleep design
Weight: 35 grams
Stake Length: 9.5 inches
Material: Aluminum
SE Heavy-Duty Metal Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Works well on any kind of terrain
- Has 20 PVC green stoppers
- Has anchoring flexibility due to rope-stringing eyelet
Weight: 3.84 ounces
Stake Length: 10-1/2 inches
Material: Galvanized steel, PVC
ALAZCO Galvanized Steel Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Rust-resistant galvanized steel
- Unbreakable and heavy-duty properties
- Tent anchoring in any environment
Weight: 1 ounce
Stake Length: 9 inches
Material: Galvanized steel
SE Glow in the Dark Tent Stakes
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Glow in the dark stoppers
- Secure anchoring during any kind of weather and terrain
- The sharp square-cut pointed tip
Weight: 2.2 pounds (per pack)
Stake Length: 10-1/2 inch
Material: Aluminum
- What Makes These Tent Stakes Stand Out
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Durable high-quality aluminum
- Lightweight, but equally heavy duty
Weight: 0.4 ounces
Stake Length: 6.5 inches
Material: Aluminum
While there is still some debate over which style of tent stake holds the ground best, it is generally agreed that a tent stake should be pushed into the ground at an angle of around 90 degrees to the guy line it is holding, or 45 degrees to the ground if it is holding a direct pegging point.
Chose your tent stakes carefully and don’t be afraid to change the pegs which are supplied with your tent if your intended use of the tent differs from the ideal weather conditions described by the manufacturers. In short; for windier conditions you should choose longer pegs with a wider cross-section.
If you’re a gram-counter then your tent stakes can be an area where you can make significant weight reductions. Stakes with a ‘Y’, ‘V’ or ‘X’ profile, especially ones made from aluminium or titanium can weigh as little as 9 grams per stake compared to many nail-style stakes which can be far in excess of 20 grams per stake.
Camping Expert
How To Choose Tent Stakes – Buying Guide
When you are deciding which are the best tent stakes to buy, it is important to consider a few key features. You will have to decide which stake design best suits your needs, how the stakes are used, and where they can be used. There are elements to each design that can enhance your safety and security while delivering easy use.
Type
The type of stake that you need depends on the activity in which you are planning to use it. You should match the design of the stake to the type of terrain you will be camping on to ensure that the stake will work for your specific situation.
Some stake designs are better for anchoring into hard ground. These stakes feature a sharp point, strong top, and are made of galvanized steel. With a hammer, you should be able to drive these stakes into about any surface.
If you are looking to use stakes on a softer surface, such as sand or snow, then there are specially designed stakes that will suit your needs. Some of these have a concave shape, which gives a better grip, and features holes in the middle. The holes allow sand and snow to fall through, further anchoring the stake in place.
For backpacking, you would want a stake that is ultra-lightweight. Weight is important when you have to carry it on your back — a lightweight material will be the perfect option for you.
Durability
One of the most important features of a tent stake is its durability. Unreliable stakes could leave you in a dangerous situation without shelter. Stakes need to be strong and durable to have the ability to withstand harsh conditions. The most durable stake would be one made of metal as they are less likely to break or deteriorate. A plastic stake may be fine to anchor a day shelter on soft ground, but if you want a more durable option, then steel or aluminum is the way to go.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, it is important to find a stake that has a sharp pointed end. The point will make driving your stake into terrain easier while a stake with a wider head allows you to use a mallet with ease without risking breaking or bending your stake.
Value
The value of a set of stakes goes beyond what you paid for them. To get the best value out of stakes, you should select designs that offer good durability and are made from high-quality materials. You can save yourself time and money in the long run by investing in a good set of stakes that will last you for years.
Design
The vast majority of stake designs will be the same. What does differ between designs is the top of the stake. There are a wide variety of stakes that have a unique design on the top end. Some models are more minimal and feature a single hook, while others come with a plastic piece that has a hook or eyelet to thread the cord through. The ability to tie off a cord in a variety of ways allows you to anchor your tarp, shelter, or tent efficiently. Some stakes feature elements of high -visibility, ensuring that you don’t trip over them in the night or leave them behind. For any adventurer, it is a personal choice as to which design is wanted.
Material
Different materials are used in tent stake design. Top-rated stakes are always lightweight, durable, and highly visible. Here are some of the materials used in different tent stakes:
Metal Alloy: This material is most commonly used in stakes that are provided with the tent as it is one of the cheapest materials available. These stakes offer a cheap solution but depending on the alloy, they can bend and break easily.
Steel: This material is heavier, but usually much stronger. To extend durability and reliability, it is best to get galvanized stainless steel, which gives the stakes anti-corrosive and anti-rust qualities.
Aluminum: For a strong but inexpensive stake, the best option is aluminum. Aluminum is widely available and delivers lightweight strength.
Titanium: Titanium tent stakes have the strength of steel, but weigh even less than aluminum. Titanium products are expensive but they deliver on durability and give you years of reliable use.
Plastic: The upsides to plastic are that it is lightweight and can easily be colored to give a high visibility design. The downside is that plastic is less durable and more prone to breaking.
Carbon: Carbon is a great choice if you want to invest in a stake for backpacking. Most carbon stakes are encased in aluminum, which increases their strength and makes them lightweight.
Visibility
Top-rated stakes are designed to be less prone to damage. The high-visibility feature is a visual reminder to take them with you at the end of your trip and reduces the chance of you tripping over them at night.
Size and Length
The size and length of a stake can give you the ability to drive the stake further into the ground and give you a larger anchor point. Larger stakes take up more space but offer better stability for larger tents. It is up to you and your needs to decide what size stake you need.
Type of Ground
The type of ground is also an important consideration for which tent stake design you will use. There are different features of a stake that cater to different terrains. Some designs are stronger and are better for use in the hard-packed ground. Others have a design that will allow a strong grip in loose terrains, such as snow stakes. It is recommended to match your stake design to the type of ground it will be used in. This will ensure that their design is matched to suit perfectly your needs on any adventure.
Intended Use
It’s always important to consider what you need to use your stakes for. Some stakes can be used for tents, canopies, or landscaping materials. Others are best suited for specific elements, such as sand or snow stakes. Remember that not all stakes with their intended uses will suit your needs.
FAQs
Q: How do you get tent stakes into the hard ground?
The process of getting your stake into hard ground involves four simple steps:
- Pretreating the soil
- Using the right tools
- Creating a starter hole
- Being willing to compromise
The process requires patience, and if done with caution, the tent will remain steadfast If you are struggling to drive a stake vertically, pounding it in at an angle perpendicular to the ground will be easier. A good tip to keep in mind while pounding your stake in the ground is to listen for a change in sound. If you hear a sharp noise, it means you’ve hit solid rock and it’s time to reposition the stake.
Q: How many tent stakes do I need?
Usually, you would only need 1 stake per tent corner. Thus, an average of 4 stakes would get the job done. If the wind is calm, then setting up a freestanding tent without the stakes will not be a problem. It is always recommended to bring twice the number of stakes than necessary in case you bend any or need some extras for guylines. Guylines will help keep your tent stable in strong winds. Bringing extra stakes helps, especially if you are not familiar with the spot you’ll be camping at and aren’t aware of the type of soil.
Q: What can I use instead of tent stakes?
Instead of tent pegs, you could use several everyday materials. You can carve a stakeout of wood relatively easily. Making your wooden stakes from greenwood found at your camp spot is a great way to save weight in your backpack. A knife is essential if you leave your tent stakes at home and plan on carving your own.
Another simple alternative to tent stakes is to wrap up 8-inch screws with tape, both of which can be found in any hardware store. steel screws penetrate the ground easily but their gauge (thickness) will affect how well they stay put in the ground. The biggest advantage of using screws is that they do not bend and go through the hard ground easily.
Just in case you forget to bring stakes or a carving knife to create some, there is an alternative way to keep your shelter steady. Look for a heavy log, or a big rock near your shelter and bring it closer to your shelter. Use your guy lines and tie them around the rock or the log. Keep the log at an angle where your guy lines can easily go around the log/ rock and not distort the shape of your shelter. Another option is to tie your guylines to nearby structures such as trees, fences, poles, or even the alloys of your car.
Q: What are camping stakes and why do I need them?
Stakes are an accessory that is specifically designed to help you anchor down a tent, ensuring that it will not blow away in strong winds. Most tents come with a set of stakes included in the purchase, however, the stakes that are provided, can be poor-quality and break within a few uses. If you want to ensure that your camping gear stays where it’s meant to, it is best to ensure that you are prepared. By investing in a durable set of stakes, you can expect them to last throughout the years, which will save you money in the long run.
Q: Can I reuse my stakes?
Yes. The best tent stakes ideal for multiple uses. The best tent stakes can be reused for years, as long as they are taken care of. The easiest way to reuse them is by ensuring that they can easily be driven into the terrain in which you will be camping. By matching the terrain to the stake, you are ensuring that the stake can complete a job and do that job again without breaking. If your stakes get a little dirty, a quick soak and wash with soap water will ensure they can be dried and stored for use at a later time. As long as you are using the stakes properly you can save yourself money and use one set for years.
Q: Is it better to get plastic or steel stakes?
Plastic stakes are a great lightweight alternative for casual use on soft ground. However, if you are looking for multiple uses throughout the years, plastic is not recommended. For long-lasting durability, it is better to invest in metal stakes. Metal provides strength and durability and can easily be used, cleaned, and stored.
Globo Surf Overview
When it comes to your outdoor anchoring needs, finding the best tent stakes is important. With a durable and lightweight stake set, you can be prepared for any adventure. You can have peace of mind using the best tent stakes because they will ensure that your experience is positive and stress-free. The best tent stakes withstand any terrain and any weather condition. If you know exactly what you need and what terrain you will be exploring, you can save time and money by investing in the best tent stakes for your needs.
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Do you own one of the stakes that made it onto our list? Let us know how it has worked for your outdoor needs in the comments section below.
