Tipis were designed to be easily set up or taken down to allow camps to be moved to follow game migrations, especially the bison. When dismantled the tipi poles were used to construct a dog- or later horse-pulled travois on which additional poles and tipi cover were placed.

Why was the teepee important?

The Plains Indians lived in tipis because they are easily disassembled and so allow a lifestyle of following game. The tipi was durable, provided warmth and comfort in winter, was dry during heavy rains, and was cool in the heat of summer.

What are tipi made for?

A tipi (also spelled teepee) is a type of shelter, shaped like a cone and traditionally made from wooden poles and coverings sewn from the hides of bison. ... The Plains peoples developed a unique portable house-form — the tipi — which was perfectly adapted to their mobile way of life.