Sleeping outdoors is a great experience that can bring your outdoor adventures to new heights. Of course, sleeping outdoors with nothing more than a tent as protection can be a challenge. That's why it is important to learn about how to find outdoor shelter, how to select a camping spot, and how to pitch your tent. Read on for information on all of your outdoor living options.

Sleeping Without a Tent
Having no roof above your head gives a unique sense of freedom and makes you part of nature at night. Here are some tips on sleeping under the stars.

• Staying outside all night could bring you close into contact with the nocturnal wildlife that might just give you some (pleasant or unpleasant) late night surprises. Check with the local experts for the presence of possibly threatening wildlife or swarms of mosquitoes.
• Not using a tent gives you the least protection from the elements. Make sure to check the weatherforecast and the night temperatures before considering a night in the open air.
• Even though they provide the best views, it is best to avoid sleeping on mountain tops. The increased wind and unreliability of the weather make them too unpredictable.
• Most people who sleep without a tent still bring a sleeping mat and a sleeping bag. Lying on the bare ground with your clothes as your only cover is not recommended even under the best of conditions.

Makeshift Tents and Outdoor Natural Shelters
Tents are the best protection against rough weather conditions but at times, you might find yourself outdoors without one. You will have to be resourceful and create a shelter out of other equipment that you might be carrying with you should the need arise to find some protection. Some possibilities include:

• Wind- and waterproof covers including fly sheets, ponchos and ground sheets/plastic sheets.
• Rope to tie down the sheet.
• Poles such as walking sticks, hiking poles, trees, bushes, loose branches and sticks.
• Natural shelters such as trees, caves and rock faces. Note that a tree with a large diameter trunk will offer good protection from wind and rain, but you should move away from it in the instance of lightning.