How to Fold Up a Pop Up Tent

What You’ll Need

A flat, clear area (floor or ground) large enough for the tent
Your pop-up tent (with its carry bag or strap)
Optional: a friend to help if the tent is large or stiff

Step-by-Step

Clear the area and remove everything from inside. Take out all gear, sleeping bags, and any loose items. Check the pockets and under the floor for stray objects that could block the fold.
Lay the tent flat on the ground. If the tent is still popped up, press down on the top center until the roof is level with the base. This starts the collapse and makes the next steps easier.
Push the two side poles together. Stand at one end of the tent, grab the two poles that run along the sides (or the two ends of the frame), and push them toward each other so the tent folds in half like a taco. The poles should cross or overlap in the middle.
Twist the poles into a figure-eight. With one hand on each side of the folded tent, twist your hands in opposite directions—one clockwise, one counterclockwise—so the frame forms a figure-eight or an “S” shape. This is the key step that releases the tension in the spring poles.
Bring the two circles together. While holding the twist, bring your hands together so the two loops of the figure-eight stack on top of each other. The tent should now collapse into a flat, circular bundle about the size of a large pizza.
Secure the bundle and store it. Place the folded tent on the ground, press down gently to flatten it, and wrap the included strap or put it into its carry bag. If the bag has a drawstring, pull it tight and tuck the excess inside.

Common Mistakes

Forcing the fold without twisting: If you try to push the poles together without the twist, the frame will fight back and the tent will keep springing open.
Folding while the tent is wet or dirty: Dirt and moisture can get trapped inside the bundle, leading to mildew and a heavier, harder-to-manage fold. Always dry and shake out the tent first.
Rushing the twist: The figure-eight must be fully formed before you bring the circles together. A half-twist will leave the tent partially open and hard to control.
Not clearing the area: A small stone or twig under the tent can snag the fabric or pole when you press down, causing a tear or a bent pole.
Folding against the pole’s natural direction: The poles are designed to bend a certain way. If you feel strong resistance, you’re likely twisting the wrong way—reverse the direction.

Tips

Practice indoors first: On a carpet or mat, the tent won’t slide as much, and you can focus on the motion without worrying about dirt.
Use your knee as a helper: When you bring the circles together, you can kneel on the bundle to keep it flat while you secure the strap.
Watch a quick video if you’re stuck: Many tent brands have short folding demos on their websites or social channels. Seeing the twist in motion often clarifies the technique.
Fold the same way every time: Your tent’s poles will “learn” the fold if you consistently twist in the same direction. This makes future folds faster and easier.
If the tent is too stiff, ask for help: A second person can hold one side while you twist the other. This is especially helpful for larger 4-person pop-ups.

Troubleshooting

The tent won’t stay folded: You probably didn’t complete the figure-eight. Unfold it completely and start over, making sure the poles cross fully before bringing your hands together.
The poles are tangled or bent out of shape: Stop immediately and gently straighten the poles by hand. If a pole is kinked, you may need to replace it—check with the manufacturer for spare parts.
The carry bag is too small: The tent may not be folded flat enough. Press down on the bundle with your knee or hand to flatten it more before zipping the bag. If it still doesn’t fit, you may have missed a fold—unfold and retry.
The fabric is caught in the poles: This happens when the tent is folded too quickly. Unfold, check that the fabric is free from the frame, and fold again slowly, guiding the fabric with your free hand.
You can’t remember the twist direction: There’s no universal rule—each tent is different. Try one direction; if it resists, try the opposite. The correct direction will feel smooth and require less force.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to fold a pop-up tent?

Once you’ve practiced a few times, it takes about 30 seconds to a minute. The first few attempts may take longer as you learn the twist.

Can I fold a pop-up tent by myself?

Yes, most pop-up tents are designed for solo folding. Larger models (6-person or more) may be easier with two people, but the same technique works.

Why does my pop-up tent keep springing open?

You’re missing the figure-eight twist. The twist is what releases the tension in the poles—without it, the tent will always pop back open.

Is it okay to store the tent folded in its bag?

Yes, that’s the intended storage method. Just make sure the tent is completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew.

What if my tent doesn’t have a carry bag?

You can use a large elastic strap or a bungee cord to keep the bundle secure. Many outdoor stores sell generic tent straps that fit most models.

Can I fold a pop-up tent with the poles inside the fabric?

Yes—the poles are usually sewn into the fabric, so you fold the whole unit together. Never try to remove the poles unless the tent is designed for that.

Sources: Coleman. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.