Understanding Wind Speed: What 20 MPH Feels Like

Quick answer

• 20 mph wind is definitely noticeable, enough to make you adjust your plans.
• Expect leaves and small twigs to be constantly in motion.
• Hats might fly off if not secured.
• Your tent will need to be pitched strategically.
• It’s a good time to check fire restrictions closely.
• You’ll feel it pushing against you when walking.

What to check first (do this before you drive out)

Before you even think about packing the car, get a handle on the conditions. This isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety and making sure your trip doesn’t turn into a survival scenario.

• Land manager / legality: Who’s in charge of the land you’re heading to? Is it National Forest, BLM, a State Park, or private? Each has its own rules, especially regarding fires and camping permits. A quick look at their official website is your first step. I learned this the hard way once, showing up for a dispersed camping trip only to find it was closed for a special event. Bummer.

• Access/road conditions: How are the roads looking? A “20 mph wind” outside might be a gentle breeze, but that same wind can whip up dust and make unpaved roads dicey. Check recent reports or call the ranger station. A 2WD sedan might be fine on a paved road, but a high-clearance 4WD is a different story on a rutted forest service road, especially if rain is in the forecast.

• Fire restrictions + weather + wind: This is crucial. 20 mph wind isn’t a hurricane, but it can spread a campfire or a spark fast. Always check current fire restrictions. Look at the forecast beyond just temperature – precipitation, wind gusts, and even humidity play a role. A dry, windy day is a red flag for fire danger.

• Water plan + waste plan (Leave No Trace): Wind can affect your water sources. Is it blowing dust into your filter intake? Can you secure your water containers? And waste – wind can scatter trash. Make sure everything is secured, and you have a solid plan for packing out everything. LNT principles are non-negotiable out there.

• Safety (wildlife, distance to help, comms): Wind can mask scents, making wildlife encounters unpredictable. Be aware of your surroundings. Know how far the nearest ranger station or town is. And critically, what’s your communication plan? Cell service is often spotty. A satellite messenger is a good idea for remote trips, especially when conditions are less than ideal.

Step-by-step (field workflow)

Once you’re on the ground, the wind demands your attention. Here’s how to deal with it, from arrival to setting up camp.

1. Arrive and observe:

• What to do: Pull over safely and just watch and listen for a few minutes.
• What “good” looks like: You have a clear sense of the wind’s direction and intensity. You notice how it’s affecting trees, dust, and any loose objects.
• Common mistake: Driving straight to your intended spot without assessing the immediate conditions. This can lead to setting up in a terrible location.

2. Scout for shelter:

• What to do: Look for natural windbreaks like dense trees, rock formations, or depressions in the terrain.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve identified a few potential spots that offer significant protection from the prevailing wind.
• Common mistake: Choosing the most scenic spot without considering wind exposure. The view might be great, but you’ll be miserable.

3. Assess tent site:

• What to do: Examine the ground for rocks, roots, and drainage. Consider how the wind will flow around your tent.
• What “good” looks like: A relatively flat, clear spot that offers the best combination of shelter and comfort.
• Common mistake: Pitching your tent in a low-lying area that might collect water if it rains, or in a spot where wind funnels directly at the door.

4. Pitch tent strategically:

• What to do: Orient your tent so the strongest part of the tent (often the rear or sides) faces the wind. Stake it down tight. Use all guy lines.
• What “good” looks like: Your tent is taut, secure, and stable, with no flapping fabric.
• Common mistake: Not using all the stakes and guy lines provided, or pitching with the tent door directly into the wind.

5. Secure all gear:

• What to do: Pack away anything loose. Secure your backpack, water bottles, cooking gear, and anything else that could blow away.
• What “good” looks like: Nothing is left exposed to the wind. Your campsite looks tidy and organized.
• Common mistake: Leaving hats, camp chairs, or food bags out. These become projectiles or get lost.

6. Manage cooking area:

• What to do: Set up your stove in a sheltered spot, ideally behind your tent or a rock. Use a windscreen for your stove.
• What “good” looks like: You can light your stove reliably and cook efficiently without the flame being constantly blown out.
• Common mistake: Trying to cook in an open, windy area. It wastes fuel and is incredibly frustrating.

7. Monitor fire (if allowed):

• What to do: If fires are permitted, keep them small and contained. Never leave a fire unattended. Have water and a shovel ready.
• What “good” looks like: A controlled fire that poses no risk of spreading. You are actively managing it.
• Common mistake: Letting a fire get too big or leaving it to smolder. 20 mph winds can turn embers into a serious problem.

8. Plan for sleep:

• What to do: Ensure your tent is fully zipped and that you’ve secured any gear inside that might shift or make noise.
• What “good” looks like: You can sleep relatively soundly, with minimal flapping or noise from the wind.
• Common mistake: Not securing internal tent items, leading to banging and rattling all night.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Ignoring wind direction	Tent damage, discomfort, difficulty cooking, fire risk	Always observe and orient your setup to minimize wind exposure.
Not staking tent properly	Tent collapses, tears, or blows away	Use all stakes and guy lines; ensure they are driven in firmly at the correct angle.
Leaving loose items unsecured	Lost gear, damaged property, potential projectiles	Pack everything away in the tent or secure it with rocks/bungees.
Pitching tent in a wind tunnel	Constant buffeting, noise, and potential structural stress on the tent	Scout for natural shelter and avoid areas where wind funnels between obstacles.
Underestimating fire risk	Uncontrolled wildfire, property loss, legal penalties	Check fire restrictions religiously; keep fires small and contained; have suppression tools ready; never leave unattended.
Not using a stove windscreen	Wasted fuel, long cook times, difficulty igniting stove	Always use a windscreen, and position your stove for maximum protection.
Not checking road conditions	Getting stuck, vehicle damage, inability to reach campsite	Check ranger reports, call ahead, and be realistic about your vehicle’s capabilities.
Assuming good cell service	Inability to call for help in an emergency	Carry a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon for remote areas.
Not securing food from animals	Attracting wildlife, potential conflict, spoiled food	Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it properly, especially in windy conditions where scents can travel further.
Ignoring potential for dust/sandstorms	Reduced visibility, respiratory irritation, damage to gear	If conditions worsen, consider hunkering down or relocating to a more sheltered area.
Overpacking the tent	Makes tent more susceptible to wind damage, harder to manage inside	Keep only essentials inside. Secure larger items outside.
Not having a backup plan for weather	Getting caught in a storm, unsafe conditions, ruined trip	Have a plan B for shelter or an alternate, more protected campsite.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If the wind is gusting over 30 mph, then reconsider camping in exposed areas because tents can be severely damaged or become unsafe.
• If fire restrictions are in place, then do not attempt to have a campfire, no matter how small, because it’s illegal and dangerous.
• If you’re in a known bear or moose area and the wind is strong, then be extra vigilant about noise and scent because animals might be more unpredictable.
• If the road conditions are questionable and the wind is whipping up dust, then it’s probably too risky to proceed with a standard vehicle because you could get stuck or lose traction.
• If your tent is not rated for high winds, then prioritize finding the most sheltered spot possible because it will be under more stress.
• If you see a lot of debris blowing around, then assume your campsite will also be affected and secure everything immediately.
• If you can’t get a clear signal on your satellite device, then try moving to higher ground or an open area because trees can interfere with signals.
• If the wind is making it difficult to light your stove, then wait for a lull or find better shelter because you’re wasting fuel and might get frustrated.
• If you have any doubt about the stability of your tent stakes, then add extra rocks or use longer stakes because a collapsed tent is a miserable experience.
• If the wind is consistently pushing in one direction, then orient your tent’s most aerodynamic side into that wind.
• If you’re planning on hiking, then wear layers and a windbreaker because the wind chill can drop the temperature significantly.
• If you’re car camping and the wind is strong, then consider parking your vehicle to act as an additional windbreak for your campsite.

FAQ

How strong is a 20 mph wind?

It’s a brisk wind. You’ll feel it pushing against you, and it’s strong enough to make walking less comfortable. Small branches will be in constant motion, and you’ll definitely notice it.

Will 20 mph wind blow my tent away?

Not if it’s pitched correctly. A well-staked tent with all guy lines deployed can handle 20 mph winds. However, a poorly pitched tent or one without proper anchoring is at risk.

Is 20 mph wind dangerous for campfires?

Yes, it’s a significant concern. Embers can travel a good distance in 20 mph winds, making it easy for a campfire to spread. Always check restrictions and be extremely cautious.

What kind of effect does 20 mph wind have on trees?

You’ll see smaller branches and leaves moving vigorously. Larger branches might sway noticeably, but mature trees should generally hold firm unless they are already weakened.

Should I worry about dust with 20 mph winds?

Absolutely. If you’re on dirt or gravel roads, expect dust to be kicked up. This can reduce visibility and make breathing uncomfortable.

How does 20 mph wind feel compared to a light breeze?

A light breeze is barely noticeable, maybe rustling a few leaves. 20 mph is a sustained force you can feel on your skin and that affects your movement.

Can I still hike in 20 mph winds?

Yes, usually. It’s best to wear windproof clothing and be aware of your surroundings. Exposed ridges or areas with loose rocks might be trickier.

Does wind affect how quickly my food spoils?

Not directly, but it can increase the risk of attracting wildlife if food isn’t properly secured, and wind can dry out exposed food items faster.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific campsite recommendations for windy areas.
• Detailed gear reviews for wind-resistant tents.
• Advanced backcountry navigation in low-visibility conditions.
• Legal ramifications of fire violations.
• Emergency medical procedures for wind-related injuries.