Rain or shine, a good tent is your home away from home. But when the skies turn stormy, a waterproof tent becomes an absolute necessity. Whether you’re a backpacker braving the elements or a car camper seeking a cozy refuge, unexpected downpours can turn a dream getaway into a drippy disaster.
This guide will help you pick the best waterproof tents, considering factors that go beyond keeping a light drizzle at bay.
- Hydrostatic Head (HH) Rating: Opt for tents with a high HH rating, preferably between 1000mm to 5000mm, indicating superior water resistance during heavy rain or snow.
- Material: Consider ease of setup and materials used. Lightweight polyester or nylon offers durability and easy maintenance, while cotton canvas provides excellent ventilation and insulation for added comfort.
- Size and Space: Choose a tent size based on your group’s size, with smaller tents ideal for 1-3 people and larger ones for 4-8 people. Ensure adequate space for everyone and their gear.
This article lists the top waterproof tents currently available in the market. It also includes a comprehensive list of “Factors” you should consider before purchasing the best waterproof tents for camping.
Best Waterproof Tents: Table
| Best Waterproof Tents | Capacity | Waterproof Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coleman Waterproof Tent | 3 people | -- | Check On Amazon |
| MOON LENCE Waterproof Tent | 1-2 people | 1000mm | Check On Amazon |
| Night Cat Waterproof Tent | 1 person | 10000mm | Check On Amazon |
| Unp Waterproof Tent | 6 people | 1000mm | Check On Amazon |
| Londtren Waterproof Tent | 4 Person | 3000-4000 mm | Check On Amazon |
| CAMEL CROWN Waterproof Tent | 4 people | 2000 mm | Check On Amazon |
| Forceatt Waterproof Tent | 2 Person | 3000 mm | Check On Amazon |
Best Waterproof Tents Reviews
1. Coleman Waterproof Tents
Coleman, a famous outdoor brand, has the Sundome Camping tent, which is our top pick for the best waterproof tents. It’s great for campers who want an easy setup. This tent fits three people comfortably and has a height of 4 feet 4 inches at the center. Made of tough polyester, it has a waterproof cover to keep you dry in bad weather.
The tent has a WeatherTec system to keep water out, with a strong floor, welded corners, and sealed seams. It’s been tested to handle winds up to 35 mph, so it stays steady in different weather. Plus, there’s an E-port for easy access to electronic devices, making camping more enjoyable.
To give you extra shelter from the weather, there are awnings over the front door and back window. And it comes with a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind during your outdoor trips.
Best Features:
- Dimensions: 6.75 x 6.75 x 23.82 inches
- Ceiling height: 7 feet
- Capacity: 2 to 6 people
- Material: polyester
- Water-resistant: 1200 Mm
- Weight: 8.71 Pounds
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Comfortable
- Reliable in various weather conditions
- Convenient gear pockets for organization.
Cons:
- Might be tight for 3 people, especially with gear. Consider if it’s for sleeping or just lounging.
2. MOON LENCE Waterproof Tent
MOON LENCE offers a range of waterproof camping tents, from snug two-person shelters to roomy eight-person ones for families. This particular tent stands out for being lightweight, windproof, and simple to set up.
One standout feature is its waterproof design, boasting a decent 1000 mm water resistance and made from durable 190T PU material. It’s also great for UV protection. With 9 lightweight iron pegs and 4 guy ropes, this tent is highly wind-resistant, providing extra security.
Best Features:
- Dimensions: 8 x 59.8 x 48 inches
- Capacity: 2 to 4 people
- Material: polyester
- Water-resistant: 1000 Mm
- Weight: 51 Ibs
Pros:
- Durable construction with a lifetime warranty
- Reliable weather protection
- Breathable mesh panels
Cons:
- Small for two people, especially with luggage. Better suited for solo camping or cozy couples.
3. Night Cat Waterproof Tent
Night Cat tent is a featherlight companion that redefines convenience and comfort. This tent is perfect for one adult or two kids in any weather. It keeps you dry and snug, even in unexpected rain or wind. This camping tent is made of fiberglass, fabric, and polyurethane. It is waterproof, lightweight, and easy to fold.
This tent is useful for people who go camping alone or with a friend. The tent is a haven for those seeking a seamless blend of practicality and durability. It comes with 24 months warranty.
Best Features:
- Dimensions: 5 x 4.7 x 4.7inches
- Spacious at 2.2 x 1.2 meters
- Capacity:1 to 2 people
- Material: Fiberglass, fabric, Polyurethane
- Water-resistant: 3000 Mm
- Weight: 4 Pounds
- Quick 1-minute setup
Pros:
- Compact and easily fits in a backpack
- Swift and easy setup
- Roomy interior for its size
Cons:
- One person only. Great for solo trips, but not for group camping.
4. UNP Waterproof Tent
Looking for a top-notch, budget-friendly camping tent for six? Our pick at ElectronicsHub is the UNP tent. It’s tough, spacious, and user-friendly, perfect for family adventures in the great outdoors. Made of sturdy polyester, it shields you from wind and rain while keeping you dry. With enough room for six campers and their gear, it’s comfy and practical.
Plus, it features good airflow with vents on top and the side, preventing dampness inside. Mesh panels and doors keep bugs out while providing views and excellent air circulation. And it comes with a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Best Features:
- Easy and quick setup with 3 minutes.
- Dimensions: 10ft x 9ft with 78in
- Capacity:1 to 6 people
- Material: Polyester, Alloy Steel
- Water-resistant: 3000 Mm
- Weight: 20 lbs
- One year warranty
Pros:
- Reliable waterproof and windproof protection.
- Comfortably accommodates up to six campers.
- Portable and lightweight
- Excellent ventilation with two roof vents and a low side ven
Cons:
- We found the seams to be of poor quality.
5. Londtren Waterproof Tent
Londtren tent is an amazing option for people who are looking for instant pop-up tents. This pre-assembled tent comes with pre-assembled poles, which are set up in seconds. The tent has a spacious interior that measures 9.2×6.6 feet which can easily fit 2 to 3 people and all your equipment.
The ceiling height is 4.3 feet. The family camping tent is made from 190T polyester which is resistant to 3000-4000 mm rain. It comes with two large mesh front and back doors, which keeps the inside incredibly breathable. It weighs only 12 lbs. All in all, the family-size tent is a great choice for people looking for a camping experience.
Best Features:
- Dimensions:2×6.6 feet
- Ceiling height:3 feet
- Capacity: 3 to 4 people
- Material: 190T polyester
- Water-resistant: 3000-4000 mm
- UV 50+ protection
- Weight: 12 lbs
Pros:
- Pops up instantly in 30 seconds
- Great for camping
- Durability
Cons:
- You may find issues with the door flap. Gets difficult to open and close.
6. CAMEL CROWN Waterproof Tent
When it comes to tough, waterproof tents, consider this one by Camel Crown. It’s made of strong materials: tough polyester for the outer layer, sturdy fiberglass poles, and a waterproof floor. You’ll stay dry and safe in any weather. Plus, it’s easy to carry in its compact bag, perfect for your active lifestyle. This tent keeps you comfy even in rain or wind.
It’s great for all four seasons, with a strong polyester cover, 8.5mm fiberglass poles, and durable Oxford cloth with waterproof coating. It also comes with 4 windproof ropes and 8 sturdy iron stakes. Perfect for camping, hiking, fishing, and more outdoor activities, as well as family gatherings and field trips.
Best Features:
- Dry and secure refuge in any weather conditions
- Polyester outer shell, 8.5mm fiberglass poles, and waterproof Oxford cloth.
- Dimensions: 86.6 x 59.1 x 43.3
- Waterproof rating: 2000 mm
- Weight:22 Pounds
- Material: Glass Fiber
- Ideal for camping, hiking, fishing, surfing, BBQ, adventures, family parties, and field trips.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Suitable for various outdoor activities
- Sturdy construction
Cons:
- 2000mm is on the lower side for a 4-person tent. May not be ideal for wet climates.
7. Forceatt Waterproof Tent
Forceatt’s camping tent is definitely a great choice for backpackers and campers who are looking for superior waterproofing. The tent has a waterproof rating of 3000 mm. It measures 86.6×51.1×43.3in, which can accommodate 2 persons at a time. It’s smart, lightweight, and quick to set up and takes only 3 minutes.
It has triangle vents and rain fly which provides complete protection from rain. The adjustable vents at the top help to reduce condensation by releasing warm and humid air. It’s made of high-quality 70D polyester fiber. It comes with 7001 windproof rods, which hold up well in a thunderstorm. The tent has two D-shaped doors and a large mesh window to keep the air flowing. Also, there’s a waterproof coating in the tent’s stitching to stop the water from leaking into the tent from its seams.
Best Features:
- Dimensions:1×43.3in
- Waterproof rating: 3000 mm
- Weight:6 lbs
- Material: 70D polyester
- Two D-shaped doors
- One large mesh window
Pros:
- Fits 2 adults comfortably
- Easy to set up
- Waterproof coated seams
Cons:
- The vents might leak under rain when they aren’t shut.
Buying Guide For Best Waterproof Tents
Some people think all tents are waterproof, but that’s not true. Not every tent keeps water out. Surprising, right? Let’s guide you in picking the perfect waterproof tent for your trip, ensuring you have a great time outdoors.
When searching for the best camping tents, remember these key factors:
- Capacity: How many people will be using the tent?
- Weight: How important is portability for you?
- Seasons: Will you be camping in all weather conditions, or mostly fair weather?
- Features: Do you need a tent with a lot of bells and whistles, or a simple, lightweight shelter?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a tent?
1. Types of Tents
- Double-wall tents: These tents have a rain fly that goes over the top of the tent body. This creates an air gap between the two layers, which helps to prevent condensation from dripping on you. Double-wall tents are the most waterproof option.
- Single-wall tents: They are made of a single layer of fabric that is both breathable and waterproof. They are lighter and more compact than double-wall tents, but they are not as waterproof and can suffer from condensation problems. Single-wall tents are best for use in dry climates.
- Backpacking tents: These tents are designed to be lightweight and portable. They are typically made of high-quality materials and have features that help to reduce weight, such as shorter poles and fewer seams.
- Car camping tents: Designed to be comfortable and spacious. They are typically heavier and bulkier than backpacking tents, but they offer more room for people and gear.
- 4-season tents: These tents are designed for use in all weather conditions, including snow and high winds. They are typically made of the most durable materials and have features that help to keep you warm and dry, such as a full-coverage rainfly and a bathtub floor.
2. Waterproofness
The waterproofness of a tent is measured in millimeters (mm) of water that a fabric can withstand before it starts to leak. A good waterproof rating for a tent is 1,500mm. However, it is important to note that the waterproof rating of a tent is not the only factor that determines how waterproof it is. The quality of the seams and the way the rainfly is attached to the tent body are also important factors.
3. Seam Sealing
Many tents come with seams that are already sealed. However, it is a good idea to seam seal your tent yourself before you use it for the first time. This will help to ensure that the seams are waterproof.
4. Rainfly
The rainfly is the most important part of a waterproof tent. It is a piece of fabric that goes over the top of the tent body and helps to shed rain. Make sure that the rainfly is made of a waterproof material and that it covers the entire tent body.
5. Other Features To Consider
- Ventilation: A good tent will have adequate ventilation to help prevent condensation from building up.
- Doors: Look for a tent with doors that are large enough for you to easily get in and out of.
- Vestibules: A vestibule is a small area that is created by the rainfly when it is pitched out away from the tent body. Vestibules provide a place to store gear and to take off your shoes before entering the tent.
- Poles: Tent poles are typically made of aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum poles are lighter and more durable, but they are also more expensive. Fiberglass poles are heavier and less durable, but they are also less expensive.
Waterproof Tents – FAQs
Ans: Waterproof tents are typically made from materials with a waterproof coating, such as polyurethane or silicone. Additionally, seams are sealed, and the tent often features a rainfly to provide an extra layer of protection.
Ans: Regular maintenance is essential. Check and reapply waterproof coatings as needed, pay attention to seam seals, and avoid storing the tent while it’s wet to prevent mold and mildew.
Ans: Yes, you can use a waterproof tent in hot weather. Many tents designed for waterproofing also include ventilation features like mesh windows and vents to provide airflow and keep the interior cool.
Ans: Clean your tent after each use, avoid storing it wet, and periodically reapply waterproof coatings. Check for any damage or wear and tear and repair it promptly.
Ans: Water-resistant tents can withstand light rain, but may not hold up in heavy or prolonged rainfall. Waterproof tents, on the other hand, are designed to keep you dry even in more extreme weather conditions.
Conclusion
It’s smart to have a waterproof tent, even if you’re not planning to camp in the rain. Weather can change unexpectedly, so be prepared with a good waterproof tent that can make you comfortable. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned hiker, maybe you’ve selected a tent that appears to be a good fit for you.
Here are our top recommended tents for camping:
Small Group (3-4 people):
- Easy Setup: Londtren Waterproof Tent(3000-4000mm rating) – Ideal for beginners or those who want a hassle-free pitch.
Large Group (6-8 people):
- Spacious: Night Cat Waterproof Tent (1000mm rating) – Plenty of room for a big crew, good ventilation, and easy to set up.
- Multiple Rooms: Forceatt Waterproof Tent(2000mm rating) – Connects two tents with a shared area for gear storage.
