Camping is a great opportunity to go outdoors, experience the wonderful outdoors, and enjoy time with your loved ones and friends. However, no one wants to have an unpleasant camping experience that is a turning point in your relationship with the great outdoors for ever. The best way to ensure that everyone enjoys a good experience during your next camping adventure is to ensure that everyone is equipped with the appropriate equipment. This means having the right layers, such as rain jackets, fleece jackets, as well as a quality sleeping bag.
However, waterproof tents are definitely high on the list of items you must purchase prior to embarking on your next camping excursion. Nobody wants to get up to find a puddle of water dripping from your sleeping pad. Believe me, I’ve experienced it.
But aren’t all tents water-proof? It’s not the case; there are many elements that affect the question of whether a tent is waterproof. If you’re looking for a tent to deal with moderate summer rain or powerful winds and heavy rain we’ve covered every option and prices of the various tents.
Top overall: Mountainsmith Morrison Evo Tent
Camping is a great opportunity to go outdoors, experience the wonderful outdoors, and enjoy time with your loved ones and friends. However, no one wants to have an unpleasant camping experience that is a turning point in your relationship with the great outdoors for ever. The best way to ensure that everyone enjoys a good experience during your next camping adventure is to ensure that everyone is equipped with the appropriate equipment. This means having the right layers, such as rain jackets, fleece jackets, as well as a quality sleeping bag.
However, waterproof tents are definitely high on the list of items you must purchase prior to embarking on your next camping excursion. Nobody wants to get up to find a puddle of water dripping from your sleeping pad. Believe me, I’ve experienced it.
But aren’t all tents water-proof? It’s not the case; there are many elements that affect the question of whether a tent is waterproof. If you’re looking for a tent to deal with moderate summer rain or powerful winds and heavy rain we’ve covered every option and prices of the various tents.
Top overall: Mountainsmith Morrison Evo Tent
The Alps Mountaineering Zephyr 2 is an ideal tent for backpacking tents that are affordable for two persons. With a weight of around five pounds, it’s more heavy than premium models. However, for the price, it’s worth it. Divide the weight among two people and it’s manageable. We’ve utilized this tent in the San Juan mountains and the Utah deserts and it’s been fantastic. The two aluminum poles makes assembling effortless while the rainfly clips in the main body of the tent. Two doors with excellent zippers let you access the vestibules, providing the ideal place to store the wet gear.
The whole tent is constructed from mesh, which permits fantastic stargazing in cool, dry nights and great airflow. But the mesh construction of this tent will not permit for a lot of warmth, making this an all-season tent. The floor of the tent is a bathtub-like floor constructed from 75 denier poly Taffeta that has 3000mm water-proof rating. The tent fly too is made of 75 denier polyester that has 1500mm water-proof rating. The seams are sealed, and the high rating for waterproof make it waterproof.
Key characteristics
- Polyester coated with 1500mm for UV and water protection
- Aluminum two-pole design
- Two mesh doors and complete mesh walls
- Bathtub floor
Pros
- Super-easy set-up and teardown
- Great air circulation
Cons
- Lightly heavy
The most affordable: Coleman Sundome Waterproof Tent
The Sundome Tent from Coleman is the one you’re looking for when you are looking for a tent to use for family gatherings or camping trips. It’s reasonably priced, and even though it’s not equipped with a rainfly that covers the entire area, reviews affirm that it’s enough waterproof to stand up to the occasional rainstorm. Coleman’s WeatherTec system is a patented one with floor welded seams and inverted seams to keep rain out. The tent is available in three, two or four-person models.
It is easy to set up by using continuous pole sleeves as well as an awning with a rainfly for the protection of rain and sun. A few of the larger models also have enough space to sit in. Additionally, the large windows and a vent for the ground offer plenty of ventilation for large numbers of people within. This huge camping tent comes with a flap opening that can let an electrical cord be inserted without having to close the door.
Key characteristics
- Three, two and four choices for one person
- WeatherTec System
- E-Port to allow electricity cords to slide through
- Large windows and a ground vent
Pros
- Panel with electrical port that is zippered
- Internal storage pockets for storage
- Floors made of sturdy welded steel
- A lot of space
Cons
- Rainfly isn’t fully covered
- Doors aren’t even half mesh
Most spacious: Eureka Copper Canyon Tent
If you’re searching for a tent with waterproof construction for camping that can accommodate the entire family and can accommodate more than 12 guests, then you’ve found the perfect one. It’s the Eureka Copper Canyon tent uses almost vertical walls that provide an up-to seven foot headroom. The tent also has a divider which can turn the entire tent into two distinct areas if needed. Two large windows and doors let you breathe or shut the entire thing by covering the windows with waterproof material. A loft for hanging gear provides storage space for things like headlamps that you wish to keep near by. A rain fly that is waterproof and a the awning for the front door protect you against the weather, but I’m not sure whether this is the tent I’d take in the event of the rain to continue for the entire night.
A power port with a zipper allows you to run an extension cord or any other cable inside the camper to power electronic devices. The Eureka tent can be used with air mattresses or cots due to its corner squares and vertical walls.
Key characteristics
- Vertical walls can provide maximum interior space
- Strong construction and easy to set up
- Zippered E! Power Port to provide internal electrical power supply
- Floor space 13 feet by 10 feet and seven feet internal height space
- The windows are spacious and provide the full 360-degree view as well as cross-tent air circulation
Pros
- Steep walls allow for an area for standing
- Strong frame
- Dividers create two rooms
Cons
- Too heavy to carry in a backpack.
- It is cumbersome to transport around
The best picture: Teton Sports Mounts Ultra Tent that is waterproof
The tent made by Teton sports comes in different sizes, from a small one-person tent to a 4-person one. It’s fairly light however it weighs heavier than the majority of backpacking tents. It’s the ideal tent to have in your car in case of emergencies or for impromptu night-time camping at the forest. You can use it to backpack however, you should plan to split the weight , or use a heavier backpack. It’s the Mountain Ultra. Mountain Ultra is a single wall tent with an open ceiling and doors that provide plenty of airflow and ventilation on evenings in summer and offers excellent night-time stargazing. The floor of the bathtub protects your body from the water that soaks in from the sides or the bottom when you’re sleeping.
The rainfly is waterproof. put it over the mesh when it is raining. The tent that is solo has one vestibule and door The three, two and four-person versions have two entrance points and vestibules. The rainfly folds down to the inside of the tent, which is a fast and easy method of setting the tent.
Key characteristics
- Lightweight construction
- Fully mesh top with rainfly waterproof with integrated cut-away vents
- 150D Oxford footprint ensures that the tent is in top condition.
Pros
- It is available in a range of four sizes.
- 360-degree airflow
- Affordable
Cons
- It’s a bit heavy for backpacking.
Best design: Marmot Tungsten 3P Tent
Another of our top tents that is waterproof for camping Marmot’s Tungsten three-person camping tent is a excellent choice for backpacking for three or two and plenty of room for equipment. Particularly if you are planning on spending a lot of time camping during high weather and heavy rain, having more space is an important factor. Two doors with vestibules offer an additional storage space for camping gear. A hanging mesh loft provides an ideal spot to place the headlamp or any other light source after the sun sets.
It is easy to put up even during a storm because of the poles that are color-coded and are able to snap into their appropriate positions on the tent’s body. The tent poles have pre-bent construction that allows the walls of the tent to be slightly more horizontal, which offers additional space for sleeping or hanging out. The rain fly is rated with an egress of 1500mm, which is waterproof and the floor comes with 2000mm of water resistance which makes this one of the most suitable tents to use in rain.
Key characteristics
- Tent poles that are color-coded prior to being bent.
- Two doors/vestibules
- Seam-taped Full-coverage fly
- Freestanding design
Pros
- Poles that are color-coded
- Spacious, durable design
- Lightweight backpacking
Cons
- No bathtub floor
The most comfortable camping tent for families: Wenzel Klondike Tent
The Klondike tent by Wenzel can be considered one of our top choices in the waterproof tents category for large numbers of friends or family. The screened porch made of mesh is about identical to the actual sleeping area which means there’s ample space for storage of all your equipment in a safe manner. Also, you can put in two beds to enjoy the outdoors indoors sleep that kids are so fond of. The overall size of this tent is 90 feet 2.25 feet of space. It also has 6.5ft of headroom due to the cabin style that is featured in this Klondike tent. It is also among the largest tents we have reviewed, at 25lbs, but not one you could carry in a backpack, though it comes with a bag for transport.
The water-resistant tent has a rainfly made of polyurethane, which is removable and is a roof cover. It doesn’t go completely down towards the floor, making the tent waterproof, but likely not one you’d want to use for a rainy day. However, the seams that are inverted are waterproofed against moisture and the windows are fitted with the zipper that offers some protection against weather.
Key characteristics
- A great option to camp with family and children due to its large dimensions.
- An awning with a large front opening can be used as a the appearance of a porch, a storage space or a sleeping area
- Plenty of ventilation thanks to mesh roof vents and zippered windows.
- Three-season tent that can accommodate up to eight people.
Pros
- Value for the money.
- Spacious interior
- Good air circulation
- Resists the force of rain and heavy winds
Cons
- Heavy to transport
Tents for waterproofing: buying guideWe are the best!
The Klondike tent by Wenzel can be considered one of our top choices in the waterproof tents category for large numbers of friends or family. The screened porch made of mesh is about identical to the actual sleeping area which means there’s ample space for storage of all your equipment in a safe manner. Also, you can put in two beds to enjoy the outdoors indoors sleep that kids are so fond of. The overall size of this tent is 90 feet 2.25 feet of space. It also has 6.5ft of headroom due to the cabin style that is featured in this Klondike tent. It is also among the largest tents we have reviewed, at 25lbs, but not one you could carry in a backpack, though it comes with a bag for transport.
The water-resistant tent has a rainfly made of polyurethane, which is removable and is a roof cover. It doesn’t go completely down towards the floor, making the tent waterproof, but likely not one you’d want to use for a rainy day. However, the seams that are inverted are waterproofed against moisture and the windows are fitted with the zipper that offers some protection against weather.
Key characteristics
- A great option to camp with family and children due to its large dimensions.
- An awning with a large front opening can be used as a the appearance of a porch, a storage space or a sleeping area
- Plenty of ventilation thanks to mesh roof vents and zippered windows.
- Three-season tent that can accommodate up to eight people.
Pros
- Value for the money.
- Spacious interior
- Good air circulation
- Resists the force of rain and heavy winds
Cons
- Heavy to transport
Tents for waterproofing: buying guide
We are the best!
The author has been in the tent she slept in at the remote location of Alaska which was admittedly a flimsy non-waterproof tent that was covered with many tarps in order to keep the water out. She has travelled the country, camping from the deserts of the Southwest to the beautiful, wet mountain ranges in the Pacific Northwest. She’s spent several weeks exploring the trails in the rain and gained the experience and knowledge to remain dry and comfortable when camping in humid conditions. The woman is an authority in outdoor gear and understands what constitutes a top-quality waterproof tent.
Who are we talking about?
This guide is intended for those who want to camp or is thinking about camping in conditions that might not be ideal. There is no need for an waterproof tent for camping during summer’s perfect days. You could be content with the flimsy tent, which isn’t waterproof, that you bought at the big-box retailer. If you’re planning to go out on a date that could be wet or be colder than 60-degree evening You should consider an waterproof tent.
How did we pick
We selected these tents through doing some research, testing and asking our friends about their top tents. We picked our picks from a few most popular brands available and reviewed the qualities that made them exceptional. We took to the trails and brought our tents with us, and we tested the waterproofing capabilities during severe storms.
What we tried to test
We tried tents by camping in all kinds of conditions. Weather conditions vary, whether it’s snowing, raining or beautiful clear blue sky, going camping has become an annual event on the weekend. We’ve tried tents travelling in Iceland and backpacking in the North Cascades, and camping in Utah.
Things to Look For in Tents for Waterproofing
Your tent must have a waterproof design, but what is it that you are looking for? Find out about the tent’s characteristics to take into consideration when looking for your next tent.
Space, size, and design
There are many different styles, shapes as well as sizes for tents available, including one-person tents, dome tents for four people, and the eight-person tents that are cabin style. The location and the number of people will use the tent is vital when contemplating different options. If you intend to take your tent to backpack it’s unlikely you’ll need an eight-person tent that weighs 10 pounds. On the other hand If you plan to be camping with lots of family members and friends it’s possible to get larger tents. Additionally, taking into consideration the other features of a tent, such as vestibules to store gear or the number of doors are available could impact your choice.
Ventilation
Another factor to keep the rain from your sleeping area is condensation that builds up inside your tent. A lot of ventilation can solve the problem of condensation buildup. Take note of the amount of venting or airflow the tent is equipped with. However this comes with the price of insulation against cold temperatures. Any tent built to be used for camping during winter months will likely contain more tent fabric and less mesh.
Protection
Depending on the time you plan to go camping, you’ll have to decide whether you want an awning that is two, three or a four-season tent. Two-season tents can be used for camping in dry and warm conditions. They will typically not be waterproof, or have rainflies that are fully covered. Three-season tents are very popular and are water-proof and provide a good balance of the warmth and ventilation. It is recommended to have an all-coverage rainfly. A four (or five) seasons tents are great for snow and cold weather camping.
Vestibules
The vestibule you have in your tent can extend the living space of your tent by allowing an outdoor area for cooking or storing items. Particularly if you’re camping in cold or rainy conditions, the ability to make use of your vestibule to put on dirty or wet shoes in and outer layers can be a game changer.
Rating HH
A HH score (Hydrostatic Head) will determine how waterproof the fabric of your tent. It is expressed in millimeters. It will determine the amount of water that the material will be able to hold before to soak through. For instance the tent that has the HHH rating of 2,000mm could theoretically be able to hold a 2000mm column of water, or around 78in , before letting the water flow through. The HH rating of your tent should range from 2000 and 5000mm for a good waterproof tent. The fabric in your tent might have an high HH rating of 5000mm and your tent won’t be able to withstand rain if it was not constructed with sealed seams as well as other features for waterproofing. This brings us to the next section.
Construction
Apart from waterproof tent material It is important to ensure that the construction of your tent offers additional protection against the elements. The tent is likely to leak water, even with the best waterproof fabric, if it does not have seams that are waterproof. Welded corners are something you should consider as they’re more durable than seams that are taped. Be sure the fabric that is touching the ground is sturdy enough to stand up to even the smallest amount of water. The prospect of waking up to a puddle inside your tent is something you do not wish to occur.
Quickly set up
The last thing you’d want to do when arriving at camp at night after the sunset is over is deal with an arduous tent setup. A tent that is easy to set up might not be top of the list to think about however, in the real world it’s a must. Particularly if you’ll be camping on your own so being able to build your tent by yourself is crucial. Tents with a lot of poles in odd arrangements may look great but putting them up can be a nightmare for you.
Portability
If you are using your tent exclusively for car camping, this may not be your most important factor however the portability factor is crucial when you decide to backpack. Your weight as well as the size of your tent can make the difference between an enjoyable hike or a miserable, painful one. If you are planning to go hiking with your tent make sure you choose one that is designed to be backpack-friendly or a tent that weighs under or around five pounds (carrying is possible to split it among two people to decrease the weight further).
Tents with waterproof properties FAQ
Q: Are tents made of waterproof material actually water-proof?
This is contingent on the watertight rating also known as hydrostatic head, or the HH. Any tent that has an HH of more than 1,000mm is considered to be waterproof. Below that, it is considered as water-resistant. But, even a top-quality waterproof fabric will allow water to pass through with the right time and pressure.
Do tents loose their waterproofing?
Similar to waterproof jackets tents may become less waterproof over time in the event that they are not cared for correctly. The waterproof coating of the surface of a tent will wear away with time. Be sure to put a footprint to shield the base of your tent. Additionally, ensure that it is completely dry prior to storing it in order to preserve the waterproofing of your tent for as long as you can.
Q What makes a tent waterproof?
You can determine the level of waterproofness of a tent through the materials it’s constructed of and its rating of its waterproofness.
For instance, consider for instance the MSR Hubba Hubba two-person tent Flooring Fabric 30D Ripstop nylon 3000mm Xtreme shield polyurethane and DWR. 30D nylon is 30 deniers, which is how thick the material is. It is then coated with a polyurethane layer (that MSR calls Xtreme Shield) which can endure 3000mm of water pressure on it.
It is essential to have a good waterproof rating for your floor covering, especially in the event that you are planning to camp in areas with a lot of rain because water could collect on the floor and seep into the flooring.
Q: What is the best waterproof rating for an outdoor tent?
The water resistance ratings for tents vary between 1,000mm to 5 mm. Jackets that are waterproof typically range from 10,000mm to 30,000mm, however, tents must be able to pack, and those with more resistant to water are stiff and heavy. A good waterproof rating for camping tents is anything over 2 m.
Question: For how long will tents last if they are water-proof?
It’s all about how you look after them! A tent that is waterproof can last for 10 or 20 years provided you take care of it.
For you to ensure that your tent lasts for as long as it is possible:
- Dry it thoroughly immediately after use, especially in the event that it becomes wet from condensation or rain.
- Check that it’s 100% dry prior to storage This will prevent the weird mildewy smell that you’ve experienced in tents that were older.
- Re-seal seams that leak with seam sealer or patch kits. sealing agent or patch kit.
- It is recommended to apply the Durable Water Respellant (DWR) layer in the event that it becomes less water-proof.
- Do not machine clean or dry your tent. Instead, use the sponge and soap for cleaning any spots.
