Camping is an excellent way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the great outdoors. However, one thing that can put a damper on a camping trip is inclement weather. Nothing is worse than waking up in your tent soaking wet from rain or dew seeping in overnight. The key to a comfortable camping experience is investing in a high-quality waterproof tent. In this article, we will discuss the 5 best waterproof tents to keep you dry on your next adventure.
What Makes a Tent Waterproof?
When shopping for a waterproof tent, there are a few key features to look for:
- Waterproof fabric – The tent fabric should have a waterproof coating or be made of waterproof material like polyurethane-coated nylon. This prevents moisture from seeping through.
- Fully taped seams – Seam tape is applied over all stitched seams to seal the needle holes and prevent leakage. Full taping is better than partial taping.
- Sturdy poles – Fiberglass or aluminum poles that flex in the wind but don’t snap under pressure are important for maintaining the tent’s waterproof integrity in wet weather.
- Rainfly – A separate rainfly covers the tent to provide extra moisture protection and ventilation. Make sure it extends several inches past the floor.
- Bathtub floor – The floor fabric extends up the bottom sides of the tent to keep water from seeping in under the walls.
- Waterproof zippers – Zippers should have storm flaps over them or be made of water-resistant materials to prevent leaks.
Keeping these features in mind, here are 5 of the best waterproof tents:
- Coleman Dome Tent with Rainfly
- Type: Dome
- Capacity: 4-6 people
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
Coleman is renowned for their high-quality and affordable camping gear, and their dome tents are some of the best for the money. The dome shape sheds wind and rain, while the rainfly provides an extra waterproof barrier. The bathtub floor keeps water from flooding the tent from below.
- Coated polyester fabric with fully taped seams
- Welded corners and inverted seams prevent leaks
- Rainfly extends over the door
- Strong fiberglass poles
- Mesh roof vents and windows improve airflow
This tent strikes the perfect balance between protection, spaciousness, and ease of setup. The excellent ventilation also reduces condensation. It’s lightweight and packs down into an included expandable carry bag.
- ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 2-Person Tent
- Type: Dome
- Capacity: 2 people
- Weight: 5.8 pounds
ALPS Mountaineering specializes in rugged, weather-resistant tents built to last. The Lynx 2 is ideal for wet-weather camping trips for two people. The polyester taffeta floor and fly resist water penetration, while the factory-sealed floor and taped seams keep the interior dry.
- 75D 185T polyester taffeta floor and fly
- Fully taped seams
- Aluminum poles are corrosion-resistant
- Extra guy lines and stakes for stability
- The vestibule over the door protects the gear
This lightweight tent is quick and easy to set up but still feels sturdy and secure in stormy conditions. Excellent ventilation prevents condensation build-up. The extra headroom also gives it a roomy feel.
- Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2 Tent
- Type: Double wall dome
- Capacity: 2 people
- Weight: 3 pounds, 13 ounces
Big Agnes makes ultra-lightweight backpacking tents built to withstand rugged alpine environments. The Copper Spur HV UL 2 uses super lightweight nylon ripstop and aluminum poles to shed wind and rain. The double ripstop walls prevent tears, and the fully taped seams create a watertight seal.
- Nylon ripstop fabric with polyurethane and silicone coating
- Double ripstop walls and floor
- Fully taped seams
- Structural arch poles for stability
- Large mesh panels and vents
- Integrated fly clips
Weighing less than 4 pounds, this tent is ideal for multi-day backpacking trips and mountaineering where you’ll encounter rain, wind, or snow. The cross-ventilation keeps condensation minimal even with the rainfly on.
- MSR Hubba NX Solo Backpacking Tent
- Type: Dome
- Capacity: 1 person
- Weight: 3 pounds, 15 ounces
MSR makes meticulously crafted tents designed for solo adventurers facing extreme weather. The Hubba NX solo tent has an Xtreme shield coating and taped seams that keep rain out. The composite hub-and-pole system with color-coded clips allows a fast, intuitive setup.
- Xtreme shield polyurethane and silicone fabric coatings
- Gore-Tex rainfly vents moisture
- Easton Syclone tent poles
- Unified hub-and-pole system
- StayDry door canopy
- 20D nylon floor resists abrasion
This tent keeps you dry in the most torrential downpours but also ventilates well to minimize condensation. Weighing just 3.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry on long trips but provides bomber protection.
- Hyke & Byke Zion Two-Person Backpacking Tent
- Type: Dome
- Capacity: 2 people
- Weight: 4.8 pounds
Hyke & Byke is an up-and-coming camping brand that makes quality gear at affordable prices. The Zion tent lives up to its waterproof claims thanks to the proprietary taped seams and durable fabric coatings. The lightweight aluminum poles make setup a breeze.
- Proprietary taped seams
- 1200mm PU coating and DWR coating
- 68D 190T nylon taffeta rainfly and floor
- Mesh walls improve airflow
- Lightweight aluminum alloy poles
- Weighs less than 5 pounds
This lightweight backpacking tent punches above its weight in bad weather. Condensation and sogginess are kept at bay by the mesh canopy ventilation. Top-notch materials and smart pole design make it quick and easy to pitch.
Waterproof Tent Comparison Table
| Tent | Type | Capacity | Packed Weight | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coleman Dome | Dome | 4-6 | 16.5 lbs | Polyester fabric, taped seams, rainfly, fiberglass poles |
| ALPS Mountaineering Lynx | Dome | 2 | 5.8 lbs | Polyester fabric & fly, taped seams, aluminum poles, vestibule |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2 | Double wall dome | 2 | 3 lbs, 13 oz | Nylon ripstop fabric, double ripstop walls, fully taped seams, arch poles |
| MSR Hubba NX Solo | Dome | 1 | 3 lbs, 15 oz | Xtreme shield PU & silicone coatings, Gore-Tex rainfly, color-coded pole clips |
| Hyke & Byke Zion | Dome | 2 | 4.8 lbs | Proprietary taped seams, PU & DWR coatings, nylon taffeta rainfly & floor, mesh walls, alloy poles |
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Tent
With all the technical specifications, choosing the right waterproof tent can feel overwhelming. Follow this criteria to select the best model for your needs:
- Capacity – Consider how many people need to fit comfortably.
- Packed weight – Ultralight backpacking tents weigh 5 pounds or less. Car camping tents can weigh 10+ pounds.
- Weather resistance – Make sure the fabric ratings and coatings can withstand the rain, wind, and humidity levels you expect.
- Pitching ease – A simple and quick setup is important, especially in the rain. Practice first!
- Durability – Opt for reputable outdoor brands with durable materials if camping frequently.
- Ventilation – Mesh panels and vents prevent mugginess.
- Extras – Vestibules for gear, roomy interior space, and flexibility are nice bonuses.
Prioritize waterproofness first, then choose based on weight and capacity needs. Investing in a quality waterproof tent is worth the money for weather protection and camping enjoyment.
Waterproof Tent Care Tips
To get the longest life from your waterproof tent, follow these care tips:
- Select a level, debris-free site with natural wind barriers.
- Use a separate ground sheet to protect the floor.
- Peg out all guy lines for stability.
- Close all vents and entrances when not in use.
- Avoid touching the inside of the rainfly.
- Shake off excess water before packing up.
- At home, air dry completely before storage.
- Use a mild soap and sponge to spot clean; avoid harsh chemicals.
- Apply a tent waterproofing spray 1-2 times per year.
- Check for mold if stored wet; clean and re-coat if needed.
Taking proper care of your tent will maintain the waterproof coatings and maximize its lifespan. Periodically re-treating with a spray-on waterproofing product will replenish the durable water-repellent finishes.
FAQs About Waterproof Tents
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about waterproof tents:
How is a canvas for waterproof tents?
Canvas is not very water-resistant. While waxing can help repel some moisture, canvas absorbs water when wet. Modern synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon have more effective waterproof coatings.
What temperature rating do I need for camping in winter?
If camping in freezing temperatures, look for a 4-season tent rated to withstand high winds, snow loads, and the coldest conditions. The rating should be 0 degrees F or lower.
Are mesh tent walls waterproof?
No, mesh walls are air permeable so they allow both airflow and moisture through. The mesh should be paired with a waterproof rainfly.
How do I seal tent seams?
Urethane-based seam sealing products can waterproof tent seams. Clean and dry the fabric first, then apply a thin seam sealer along the stitch lines. Allow to cure fully before use.
Can I put a tarp under my tent?
Yes, a tarp can act as an extra ground cloth to protect the tent floor from moisture seeping up from wet ground. Make sure it’s slightly smaller than the tent’s dimensions.
What causes tent condensation?
Condensation inside a tent is caused by warm interior air contacting the cold exterior fabric. Proper ventilation is key to allow airflow and reduce condensation.
How do I clean mildew from a tent?
Mix a very mild bleach-and-water solution. Sponge it onto affected areas and rinse thoroughly. Make sure the tent dries fully before storing it.
How can I make my old tent more waterproof?
Spray-on waterproofing treatments can rejuvenate aging tent fabrics. Gear Aid and Nikwax make heavy-duty waterproofing formulas for tents and tarps.
My Closing Words
Bad weather can put a damper on camping, but a reliable waterproof tent will keep you cozy no matter the forecast. The best waterproof tents are made of coated synthetic fabrics, with fully taped seams, sturdy poles, and rain fly protections. With proper setup and care, they stand up to the elements and provide a homey shelter to retreat to after a day outdoors.
