How to Season a Swag: The Essential Guide for Camping Enthusiasts
16th Dec 2024
When you're out in the bush, your swag is your home. A properly seasoned swag ensures you get the best rest, no matter how rugged the terrain. If you're new to camping or need a refresher, here's everything you need to know.
Why Seasoning Your Swag Matters
Seasoning your swag is a must to ensure its durability. While it can be tempting to use your new swag immediately, it needs to be prepared for the rugged Aussie elements. This process helps tighten the fabric and prevents water from seeping through.
Untreated canvas swags can absorb water, leading to discomfort in wet conditions. Proper seasoning guarantees better protection against the rain and reduces the risk of mildew.
Steps to Season Your Swag
1. Set Up Your Swag
First, pitch your swag in a spacious area. Make sure it’s fully extended and ready for the next step.
2. Wet the Canvas
Using a hose or bucket, soak the canvas thoroughly. The idea is to expose it to water to allow the fabric to stretch. This step helps remove any oils or chemicals used in manufacturing.
3. Let It Dry
Leave the swag to dry completely under the sun. The heat helps tighten the fibres, ensuring the canvas will withstand any downpour during your camping trips.
4. Repeat the Process
For the best results, repeat the soaking and drying process twice. This guarantees that the canvas becomes water-resistant and flexible, perfect for long-term use.
Why Not Skip This Step?
While you might think skipping seasoning will save you time, it will actually lead to problems down the line. Untreated swags are more prone to leaking. Canvas without proper seasoning can soak up much more water, which is a huge issue when torrential rain starts to fall on your campsite.
Seasoning Tips for Better Protection
You can also invest in water-repellent sprays designed for camping equipment. These sprays can further help improve your swag’s resistance to water, giving you much-needed protection from the elements.
Why Your Camping Gear Matters
It is highly important you are prepared for all contingencies every time you go camping in Australia. With the right gear, including a properly seasoned swag, you ensure comfort and peace of mind. Along with your swag, having solid camping equipment like a good 4x4 awning or durable camp swag will make all the difference.
Research has shown that more and more Aussies are favouring camping for leisure since the 2019 pandemic, and most of them consider their camping gear to be a priority when planning trips.
Conclusion: Keep Your Swag in Top Shape
By seasoning your swag, you're not just improving its performance—you're ensuring it lasts. A well-maintained swag can last for years, providing you with reliable shelter in all conditions. Remember, the effort you put into seasoning your swag pays off with many nights of comfortable rest under the stars.
For more tips on camping equipment or to pick up a quality swag, call us today.