Buying tent pegs? Here's what to consider

Many campers underestimate the importance of sturdy tent pegs. The standard plastic ones that come with your tent are often just enough for calm weather on soft grass. But as soon as you encounter hard ground, sand, or wind, they fall short.

Strong tent pegs ensure your tent stays put, even in unexpected weather conditions. They distribute tension evenly across the guy lines and prevent your tent from tearing or blowing over. Plus, with the right pegs, you don't have to constantly check your tent—so you can truly enjoy your holiday.

The difference between cheap and quality tent pegs is most noticeable when you need them. Investing in a good set of pegs isn't a luxury, but a smart choice for every camper.

Not every peg works on every surface. This is where many campers go wrong. Choosing the right type depends on where you're camping.

Soft ground and grass: For regular grass campsites, standard steel or aluminum pegs measuring 20-25 cm are sufficient. Just make sure they're sturdy enough not to bend.

Hard and stony ground: On mountain campsites or dry, hard ground, you need sturdy tent pegs. Heavy-duty forged steel tent pegs or special rock pegs will penetrate even the hardest ground. Choose pegs at least 25-30 cm long with a sturdy head that won't split when driven in.

Sandy soil and beach: Sand requires longer pegs (30-40 cm) with a wide surface. Screw pegs or pegs with barbs provide extra grip in loose soil.

Muddy ground: In wet, soft ground, short pegs tend to sink. Use longer ones and consider adding extra guy ropes for better stability.

Tent pegs are available in different materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Steel: The classic choice. Steel tent pegs are strong, durable, and affordable. They are heavier than alternatives, making them less suitable for backpackers. For car campers who value stability, steel pegs remain an excellent option.

Aluminum: Lightweight and rustproof. Aluminum pegs are perfect for trekking tents and situations where every gram counts. They do, however, bend more easily than steel on hard ground.

Plastic: Cheap and lightweight, but less strong. Plastic pegs are only suitable for calm conditions on soft ground.

Titanium: The best of both worlds – ultralight and strong. The higher price makes titanium pegs especially attractive to serious trekkers and mountaineers.

Besides the material, the shape also determines suitability. Round pegs are universally applicable, while V-shaped or T-shaped profiles provide extra grip in loose soil.