1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Skandika Kota 550 Tipi Tent. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient setup, operation, and maintenance of your tent. Please read these instructions carefully before use and retain them for future reference.
The Skandika Kota 550 is a spacious 12-person tipi-style camping tent, featuring a 3-meter optimal height and a sewn-in groundsheet, designed for various outdoor activities.
Image 1.1: The Skandika Kota 550 Tipi Tent, fully pitched.
2. Safety Instructions
Adhering to these safety guidelines is crucial for a safe camping experience.
- Fire Safety: Keep all sources of ignition and open flames away from the tent fabric. The tent material is not fireproof.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation at all times, especially when cooking or using heating devices (not recommended inside the tent). Proper airflow prevents condensation and ensures fresh air circulation.
- Weather Conditions: Do not pitch the tent under trees that may drop branches. In strong winds, ensure all guy ropes are securely pegged and tensioned. Avoid using the tent in extreme weather conditions such as severe storms or heavy snowfall.
- Children: Children should be supervised by an adult when inside or around the tent.
- Site Selection: Choose a flat, clear area free from sharp objects, rocks, and potential water runoff.
3. Package Contents
Before beginning assembly, unpack all components and verify that the following items are present:
- Tent Flysheet (main tent fabric)
- Sewn-in Groundsheet (integrated with the flysheet)
- Steel Center Pole (32mm diameter)
- Guy Ropes (pre-attached or separate)
- Pegs / Stakes
- Carry Bag
- Repair Kit
Image 3.1: The Skandika Kota 550 Tipi Tent packed in its durable carry bag.
4. Setup Instructions
The Skandika Kota 550 tent is designed for easy assembly. An estimated setup time is approximately 15 minutes with two people.
- Unpack and Lay Out: Remove the tent from its carry bag and lay the tent flysheet, with the sewn-in groundsheet, flat on your chosen pitching site. Ensure the entrance is facing the desired direction.
- Peg the Base: Locate the pegging points around the base of the tent. Securely peg down the entire perimeter of the tent's groundsheet. Ensure the tent base is taut and circular.
- Assemble and Insert Center Pole: Assemble the steel center pole by connecting its sections. From inside the tent, carefully insert the assembled pole vertically into the center of the tent, pushing upwards to raise the tent structure. Ensure the top of the pole is correctly seated in the tent's apex and the base is centered on the groundsheet.
- Secure Guy Ropes: Extend all pre-attached guy ropes outwards from the tent. Peg each guy rope securely into the ground at an appropriate distance from the tent, ensuring even tension.
- Adjust Tension: Walk around the tent, checking the tension of both the base pegs and the guy ropes. Adjust as necessary to ensure the tent fabric is taut and wrinkle-free, providing maximum stability and weather resistance.
Image 4.1: The base of the central pole, securely positioned on the groundsheet.
Image 4.2: Interior view showing the central pole supporting the tent structure.
Image 4.3: Exterior view highlighting the guy ropes for stability.
Image 4.4: The Skandika Kota 550 Tipi Tent after complete setup.
5. Operation
5.1 Entry and Exit
The tent features a large entrance for easy access. Use the robust zippers to open and close the door. Always ensure zippers are fully closed to prevent insects or weather elements from entering.
Image 5.1: The tent's entrance, providing easy access.
5.2 Ventilation
The Skandika Kota 550 is equipped with multiple ventilation points to ensure optimal airflow and reduce condensation. Utilize the mesh windows and the top ventilation opening in the tent's apex.
Image 5.2: Detail of the ventilation system at the tent's peak.
5.3 Windows
The tent features several windows for natural light. Each window is equipped with a cover that can be rolled up or down and secured with hook-and-loop fasteners for privacy and weather protection.
Image 5.3: Tent windows with their protective covers.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
- Spot clean the tent fabric with a soft sponge, mild soap, and lukewarm water.
- Do not use harsh detergents, bleach, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the fabric's waterproof coating.
- Never machine wash or tumble dry the tent.
6.2 Drying
- Always ensure the tent is completely dry before packing it away. Packing a damp tent can lead to mildew growth, fabric degradation, and unpleasant odors.
- If you must pack a wet tent, unpack and dry it thoroughly as soon as possible upon returning home.
6.3 Storage
- Store the clean, dry tent in its original carry bag in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid storing heavy items on top of the packed tent.
7. Troubleshooting
- Water Leakage:
Check all seams for proper sealing. If necessary, re-apply seam sealer (available separately). Ensure the tent is pitched tautly and correctly to allow water runoff. - Tent Instability in Wind:
Verify that all guy ropes are fully extended, securely pegged, and properly tensioned. Ensure the tent is oriented to minimize wind resistance. Consider using additional heavy-duty pegs in very soft ground. - Excessive Condensation:
Increase ventilation by opening windows and the top vent. Condensation is a natural occurrence in tents, especially in humid conditions or with many occupants. - Zipper Malfunction:
If a zipper is stiff, try cleaning it and applying a silicone-based zipper lubricant. Avoid forcing stuck zippers.
8. Specifications
| Model | Kota 550 (16043) |
| Capacity | 12 Persons |
| Dimensions (Pitched) | 5.5 meters (Diameter) x 3 meters (Height) |
| Packed Dimensions | 72 x 29 x 27 cm |
| Weight | 11.5 kg |
| Flysheet Water Column | 3000 mm |
| Groundsheet Water Column | 10000 mm |
| Pole Material | Steel (32mm diameter) |
| Main Fabric Material | Polyester |
| Features | Sewn-in groundsheet, mesh windows, top ventilation, carry bag, repair kit |
Image 8.1: Technical diagram illustrating tent dimensions and sleeping capacity.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support regarding your Skandika Kota 550 Tipi Tent, please refer to your purchase documentation or contact Skandika customer service directly.
Manufacturer: Skandika
Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
