Emergency Tent Pole Fix for Wild Camping UK
How to Repair a Broken Tent Pole in the Wild (Step-by-Step)
If you've ever been deep into the woods and heard that dreaded snap, you'll know the sinking feeling of a broken tent pole. During a short woodland hike with my son Max, we stumbled across some discarded tent poles. While they weren’t damaged, I saw an opportunity: what would I do if my tent pole had broken on a wild camp? Could I fix it on the spot with what I carry in my pack?
The answer? Yes. Let me walk you through a simple but strong DIY tent pole repair that could save your wild camping trip.
Why This Fix Matters for Wild Campers
Tent poles rarely break – until they do. Whether from high winds, gear failure, or clumsy packing, having a backup plan can make the difference between a miserable night and a saved campout.
When you’re camping wild in the UK or anywhere remote, walking out to replace a broken pole isn’t always an option. That’s why knowing how to splint a broken pole with paracord and a sturdy stick is a skill every wild camper should have in their back pocket.
Gear Used for This Emergency Tent Pole Repair
Here’s what I used:
Broken tent pole – Simulated using a discarded one found in the woods
Sturdy stick – Slightly shorter than the pole segment
Paracord – Always worth keeping in your kit
Knife – To cut the paracord and trim the stick if needed
Lighter – To burn the paracord ends and prevent fraying
Step-by-Step: How I Repaired the Pole
Step 1: Sourcing the Splint Stick
I found a straight, sturdy stick about the same diameter as the tent pole. The key is that it's not too long or stiff to prevent natural flex when pitching.
Step 2: Making the Loop
With paracord, I created a loop. This knot technique acts like a tourniquet system. You can lash tightly while also tucking the end securely into place.
Step 3: Wrapping the Splint
I held the stick flush to the pole break and began wrapping the paracord tightly. The tighter, the better. This holds the splint against both sides of the break.
Step 4: Locking the Cord
Once lashed, I threaded the paracord end through the loop I made earlier. Then, pulling the other end of the loop through, it locked the whole wrap in place. Strong and secure.
Step 5: Final Touches
I trimmed and burnt off the paracord ends to stop fraying. Then I reattached the metal pole insert, and that was it. One fully functional, bushcraft-fixed tent pole.
When to Use This Fix
During a multi-day wild camping trip
When stuck miles from a trailhead
If you forget to pack a repair sleeve or duct tape
When weight and gear minimalism matter
This isn’t just for UK camping. Wild campers in the USA, Canada, Australia—anywhere where tent failure can compromise your night outdoors—should learn this trick.
Key Takeaways
Always carry paracord – it's a problem-solver in many situations
A good stick can work wonders as a splint
Wrapping tightly and securing the loop is key to structural strength
This quick fix will keep you going until you can properly repair or replace the pole
Why I Love Wild Camping Even When Things Go Wrong
What I love about wild camping is this: it throws challenges your way, and forces you to think, adapt, and improvise. Whether it's setting up in the wind, running out of water, or repairing gear on the fly, it all adds to the experience.
And these little moments – like rigging a bushcraft fix with my son watching on, learning in real time – that’s what it's about.
Have you ever had to fix something in the wild? What’s your best on-the-fly gear repair trick?
Leave a comment below — I’d love to hear your story.
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