Arctic entry / vestibule
Overview
In shelter discussions, an arctic entry or vestibule refers to an enclosed or semi-enclosed transitional space between the outside and the main living area that helps buffer wind, precipitation, and temperature differences.
Key points
- On backpacking tents, vestibules are typically created by the rainfly extending beyond the inner tent door.
- These spaces provide covered storage for gear and a staging area for entering or exiting in poor weather.
- The term "arctic entry" is more common in building design, while "vestibule" is standard for tent and shelter use.
Details
A vestibule in backpacking shelters serves as a small, protected area directly outside the main sleeping or living compartment. Formed by the tent’s flysheet or a tarp extension, it allows hikers to store packs, footwear, and other gear under cover, thereby keeping the interior space less cluttered and drier. In harsher climates, a more defined transitional space can help moderate the direct inflow of cold air and blowing precipitation when the door is opened. While the term "arctic entry" originates in architecture for cold regions, its conceptual counterpart in tents is the vestibule, which plays a similar buffering role on a smaller scale.
Related topics
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