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We know how much fun the great outdoors can be, and we want everyone to have a great experience when they decide to go camping, especially when it starts to rain without warning.

Whether you’re looking for a large waterproof tent that can accommodate the whole family or something smaller and more lightweight for weekend backpacking trips, we’ve got you covered so you can stay dry even in the worst weather conditions.

How We Uncover The Best  For You

We've spent many nights camping in wet weather. Drawing on our own experiences, we've read through thousands of reviews so we can compare the best waterproof tents on the market. We've also got some alternative options for you too so that you can make an informed decision before you buy.


Best Waterproof Tent for Backpacking

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Backpacking Tent

A Cracking Choice For Backpackers Who Want The Best Waterproof Tent

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

We Chose This Because

  • Ultra lightweight
  • Generous space for 1 person
  • Weatherproof

Things We Love

This is a great waterproof tent for backpacking, it's super light at under 4 lbs total (including the stuff sack)! It's ideal to fit onto the bottom of your backpack between pitches.

Another great thing about the tent is, although it is a one-person tent, there is enough space inside the tent for a camp mattress, sleeping bag, and personal belongings too, as well as a vestibule for extra storage should you need it.

Things To Know

This waterproof tent is free-standing, but also comes with guy ropes to tie it down in bad weather. The waterproof fly buckles on for a great level of waterproofing, and the half mesh inner tent walls provide ventilation under the camp fly. Plus, the Lynx is super easy to set up and take down – a perfect camping tent for those solo camping trips!

The Alps Lynx 1-person tent for camping is great value and will keep you dry in more than just light rain. With over 2700 5* reviews on Amazon, the people agree - this is a top-quality waterproof camping tent!


Best Waterproof Tent for Large Families

CAMPROS CP Tent-8-Person-Camping Tent

A Cracking Choice For Large Families Who Need The Best Waterproof Tent

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

We Chose This Because

  • Privacy Feature
  • Hydrostatic Fabric
  • Generous Dimensions

Things We Love

Looking for a spacious and comfortable waterproof tent for your next big camping trip? Look no further than the CAMPROS CP 8-Person Camping Tent! This roomy tent is just what you need for a relaxing getaway with family or friends, with plenty of space for up to 8 people (or less if you want luxurious living space).

The convenient curtain separator provides privacy when needed, allowing you to split the camping tent into 2 separate rooms. While the hydrostatic fabric coating helps keep you dry and comfortable in all weather conditions.

Things To Know

This waterproof tent is huge, measuring 14*9*6 feet, so this 8-person tent can easily accommodate a larger group.

Plus it's made from durable 185T Polyester and has a rainfly and 6 guy lines to keep it secure, so it can stand up to the wear and tear of a big family trip as well as the weather. So go ahead and enjoy your next trip worry-free - the CAMPROS CP Tent has got you covered!


Best Waterproof Tent for 2 People

BISINNA 2 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

A Cracking Choice For Two Campers Who Want A Waterproof Tent

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

We Chose This Because

  • Space for 2 people
  • Adjustable
  • Wind Resistant

Things We Love

Looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use tent perfect for two people? Look no further than the BISINNA 2-Person Lightweight Tent!

The free-standing tent has 2 aluminum tent poles, and 2 additional wind ropes so it's super easy to put together and won't buckle in stormy weather.

Most importantly it features a high-quality full-coverage rainfly to keep you dry in all weather conditions. Whether you're car camping or backpacking, the BISINNA 2-Person Tent is a tent we can't recommend enough!

Things To Know

It's super lightweight coming in at just under 5 lbs and has a few features that make it ideal for a comfortable camping trip with a kindred spirit.

It has a two-way zipper and adjustable velcro vents so you can keep the air fresh whether it's raining or humid, say goodbye to condensation inside your tent! It also has invisible mesh, so if you do have the vents open you will be able to keep out bugs and critters.


Alternative Waterproofing Option - Use A Camping Tarp

Aqua Quest Defender Tarp

A Cracking Choice The Best Waterproof Tarp

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

We Chose This Because

  • Waterproof
  • Heavy Duty
  • Durable

Things We Love

Have you considered tarping over your tent and camping area? This Tarp is 100% waterproof so it is a wonderful way to keep your tent and anything underneath it, protected from the elements. The tarp has a hydrostatic resistance of 20,000mm. Rest assured it's not going to let water droplets through.

They come in a range of sizes, so have a think about what your needs are. We have pointed you towards their large 20x13 ft model. This would be better for car camping than backpacking trips.

If you would like to see what other options are out there, have a look at our article on the Best Camping Tarps.

Things To Know

The Aqua Quest Defender Tarp is extremely durable. It's made from robust material: 70D nylon with a heavy-duty TPU coating. The craftmanship is also exemplary as the stitching is reinforced and the seams are heat tapered.

And what's more, AquaQuest offers a Lifetime Warranty on their products. They have been making and testing waterproofing since 1994. Have a look inside Amazon for more.


Alternative Waterproofing Option Best Silicone Waterproofing Spray

Atsko Silicone Water-Guard

A Cracking Choice For Waterproofing Canvas Tents

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

We Chose This Because

  • Waterproof Layer
  • Easy Application
  • Durable

Things We Love

Another great way to ensure you stay safe and dry on your next camping trip is to invest in some waterproofing spray. If you already have a tent and don't want to spring for a new one, then waterproofing spray is a great alternative.

As well as helping your tent withstand rain, it can also extend the lifespan of your tent, so it is a great thing to do even if you aren't planning to camp in bad conditions any time soon!

You can get both silicon-based sprays and water-based ones. We have included our favorite silicon-based spray for those of you out there who are happy with your canvas tent even though it is not a waterproof tent in its original state and will need some heavy-duty waterproofing done to make it functional.

Things To Know

Of course, there are some general steps to take when applying your spray:

It's best to apply the spray on a warm and dry day, that way it will take a shorter time to dry and properly adhere to the fabric

Make sure any dirt is removed from the tent so you can spray the actual fabric itself.

To get a more even coating you might want to use a sponge or cloth to spread the spray, however, refer to the instructions before ruining a sponge you don't have to!

Leave a good gap of time for your entire tent to dry before packing it up again. A silicone-based waterproofing spray takes longer to dry. 72 hours is not unusual but it will depend on the environmental conditions

Please apply this with caution. It should be done outside with appropriate safety protection as the fumes can be quite overpowering.

You now have a perfectly waterproof tent for camping! Congratulations.


The Best Waterproof Tent for You?

When you're in the market for a new waterproof tent, there are a few key things to keep in mind in order to make sure you're getting the best possible product. Here's a quick Buyers Guide to help you make the right choice.

When you are ready to buy a waterproof tent, here are things that you will need to take into consideration:

Materials

First and foremost, you'll want to make sure that the tent is made from high-quality materials. The last thing you want is for your tent to leak or tear during a storm.

Look for tents that are made from waterproof fabrics such as nylon or polyester, and make sure the seams are sealed with tape or another waterproof material. Bear in mind that whether you buy a waterproof tent or a water-resistant tent, chances are you will need to apply waterproof spray at some point, to maintain it.

Size and Shape

Secondly, pay attention to the tent's size and shape. Find a tent that is the right size for you and your family. If you want a large tent it might be worth checking out our article on the best 10-person tents. Make sure it will be large enough to comfortably accommodate all of your gear, your sleeping pad or mattress and everyone who will be using it. Consider the height of the tent as well, as taller tents will be more comfortable in hot weather and make it easier to stand up and move around inside.

Features

Finally, take a look at the tent's features. Does it have multiple doors and windows? Is there a rainfly included? Does it come with a storage bag or other accessories? Make sure you pick a tent that has all the features you need and want.


Best Waterproof Tent - Your Questions Answered

Your answers are just a short distance away, keep reading!

Whenever I start planning a trip away and it's time to source things, I know that is when the questions start. Who is coming on the trip and what size tent do I need? Should I buy a brand new waterproof tent or should I put some investment into waterproofing the one I have already? What's trending at the moment?  So what we have done, is included some of those types of questions that other campers often ask:

Does Waterproofing A Tent Work?

Yes, waterproofing a tent can work, but it is not a guarantee that your tent will never leak. Waterproofing your tent will help to protect it from the elements and make it more resistant to leaks, but it is always possible for water to find its way in. There are a few things you can do to waterproof your tent and help keep it in good condition:

Use a waterproofing spray or sealant on the outside of the tent. This will create an extra barrier against water.

Seal up any seams with seam sealer. This will help to prevent water from seeping through any cracks or openings.

Make sure that all zippers are properly sealed and covered. Water can easily get through unsealed zippers.

Consider using a tarp with your tent. This will create an additional layer of protection in case of rain or leaks.

Waterproofing your tent can help to protect it from the elements and extend its life, but it is not a guarantee against leaks. Be sure to check your tent regularly for any signs of water damage and repair any leaks as soon as possible.

What Is The Best Waterproof Material For Tents?

There are a few different materials that can be used to make tents. The most common are polyethylene and nylon. Polyethylene is a synthetic material that is often used as a base layer for tent walls and floors. It is known for being lightweight and durable. Nylon is another popular choice, as it is also lightweight and durable.

However, nylon is not as effective at keeping out moisture as polyethylene, so will need to be coated in a waterproof layer to stop moisture from getting through. There are several brands that offer waterproofing treatments for tents - you can check out our article on the best waterproof sprays to read about some of them.

Do All Tents Get Wet Inside?

It depends on many factors, such as the material the tent is made out of, the weather conditions, and how well the tent is ventilated. That said, in general, all tents can develop some condensation on the inside (even waterproof tents), from your breath, especially if they're exposed to humid conditions.

Grabbing a tent with a mesh roof will help stop the build-up of condensation, but you'll need a camping tarp to keep your sleeping area free of wet gear (as mentioned below).

Condensation can whip up inside the tent and make everything feel clammy. Even when it's not actually getting wet from the rain, your sleeping bag can become damp if your tent is damp. While some waterproofing treatments can help reduce condensation, it's still something you'll have to deal with regularly if you plan to camp in rainy weather. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep your tent as dry as possible:

1. Use a tarp: Tarps are great for keeping your gear dry, especially if you don't have a fully waterproof tent. Set up your tarp over your campsite before putting up your tent, and leave it in place even after the rain has stopped. That way, you'll have a dry area to store your gear and you won't have to worry about everything getting wet.

2. Ventilate your tent: Make sure to open up any vents or windows in your tent so that air can circulate. A camping fan is also great for this purpose. This will help prevent condensation from building up inside the tent.

3. Use a dehumidifier: If you're really worried about condensation, you can use a small battery-operated dehumidifier inside your tent. This will help remove moisture from the air, keeping your tent dry and comfortable. However, we advise against bringing this piece of camping gear if you're car camping and have limited space!

Are There Any Truly Waterproof Tents?

There are a few waterproof tents that are marketed as waterproof, but in reality, no tent is completely waterproof forever. In order to be truly waterproof, a tent would need to be made out of a material that doesn't allow any water to pass through it and waterproof tents can only provide this up to a certain point in time.

To make the tent itself truly waterproof, it needs to have been treated with a water-repellent coating. This will help keep moisture from entering the fabric and seeping inside. Additionally, the seams on the best waterproof tents will usually be taped or heat-sealed in order to prevent water from entering.

That being said, there are some tents that perform better in wet weather than others. For example, polyester tents tend to hold up better in the rain than nylon tents. So if you're looking for a tent that will stand up well to bad weather, it's important to read the specs and check the tent material.

What Is The Best Waterproof Rating For Tents?

The best waterproof rating for tents is something called a hydrostatic head. This is a measure of how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before it starts to leak. The higher the 'HH' number, the more resistant camping tents are.

You might be wondering how the hydrostatic head is measured. Measuring the hydrostatic head is actually pretty simple. You just need to fill a bucket with water and then place it on top of the fabric in question. Then, you need to wait for an hour or so to see if any water starts to seep through the fabric. If it does, then the hydrostatic head of that fabric is lower than the amount of water pressure that was applied.

So, what is a good hydrostatic head for tents? Well, most experts agree that a hydrostatic head of at least 1500mm is necessary for a tent to be truly waterproof. However, some tents on the market have a hydrostatic head of 2000mm or more. These are usually considered to be the best waterproof tents on the market.

For light camping in fair weather, a tent with a waterproof rating of 1500mm will suffice. If you're expecting more extreme weather conditions or plan on doing a lot of camping, however, you'll want a tent with a rating of 3000mm or higher. This way, even if it rains all day long your tent floor will not see a drop of water!

How Long Does A Tent Stay Waterproof For?

A tent will usually remain waterproof for a period of two to five years, but this lifespan can be shortened by exposure to UV light and other environmental factors, so it's a good idea to invest in waterproofing spray to top up if you camp regularly.

When considering a new tent, it's important to keep in mind the quality of the waterproofing. Some waterproof tents use a coating that can wear off over time, while others have seams that are less likely to leak. It's also important to seam seal a new tent before its first use, in order to ensure that it stays watertight for as long as possible.

The best way to keep a tent waterproof is to properly care for it and store it in a dry place when not in use. Make sure to reseal the seams annually and check for any holes or tears that may have developed over time. A little bit of maintenance can go a long way in preserving the life of your tent.

Can A Tent Withstand Heavy Rain?

The answer to this question depends on the type of tent you have. A waterproof tent made with waterproof and durable materials (a high HH level as mentioned above) will be able to withstand heavy rain better than a standard tent. However, even the best tents will eventually leak if the rain is heavy enough and lasts long enough. To help protect your tent from leaks, make sure to choose a campsite that has good drainage and is not prone to flooding. You can also seal the seams of your camping tent with a waterproof sealant before heading out on your trip.

There are some waterproof tents that have been specifically designed to withstand heavy rains and strong winds, so if you are planning on camping in an area that is prone to bad weather, make sure to get a waterproof tent for camping that can handle it.

Are Canvas Tents Waterproof?

Most canvas tents are waterproof only because they have usually been coated with waterproof layers. The natural cotton fibers in the canvas material make it slightly water-repellent (but not waterproof), so with a good waterproof coating, your canvas tent will keep you dry even in the wettest conditions.

Not all canvas tents are created equal. Some cheaper models may not have been treated with a waterproofing agent by the tent manufacturers, so it's REALLY important to check before you buy. And even if your tent is treated with a waterproofing agent, it's still important to take care of it and reapply the waterproof coating every few years to keep your tent waterproof.

Is 3000mm Waterproof Good For A Tent?

Yes, 3000mm waterproofing is good for a tent. This level of waterproofing will protect against moderate rain and light snowfall. This means that the tent fabric will withstand up to 3000mm of water pressure before leaking. If you're expecting heavy rains or snowstorms, however, you may want a tent with a higher waterproof rating, so you don't have to worry about leaks or water damage. 4000mm or 5000mm would be even better in these cases.

If you're camping in an area that gets a moderate amount of rain, you can rest assured that your tent will keep you dry. Just be sure to seam seal any open seams, and check for holes in your tent before using it in wet weather conditions.

What Is The Difference Between A 3 and 4-season Tent?

The main difference between a 3-season tent and a 4-season tent is the weight and durability of the materials used. A three-season tent is designed for use in spring, summer, and fall. It is typically made with lighter, more breathable fabrics to keep you cooler in summer temperatures, whereas a four-season tent uses thicker, more insulated fabrics to protect against extreme cold and wind.

They also tend to have less waterproofing which can be a downside in colder weather or rainy conditions. Four-season tents also have sturdier frames and poles to withstand heavy snowfall and strong winds. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use a three-season tent in winter – they just might not hold up as well in really bad weather conditions.

However, all this protection comes at the expense of weight and size, so it's important to choose the right tent for your needs. If you're looking for a car camping tent or even backpacking tents, there are both 3 and 4-season tents on the market so you have choices when it comes to picking up a waterproof tent for your next adventure!

Can You Scotchguard A Tent?

You could try using Scotchgard to waterproof a tent, but it's not guaranteed to work. Tent fabric is designed to allow water vapor to escape, so you may find that the Scotchgard actually makes the fabric less waterproof. Additionally, over time the Scotchgard may wear away and leave the fabric vulnerable to water damage.

There are however many better waterproofing sprays on the market made specifically to waterproof camping gear. We made an article covering the best ones so feel free to check that out!

Picking out the best waterproof tent doesn't have to be hard – just make sure you know what you need it for and what conditions you'll be using it in. If you're expecting bad weather, make sure to get a tent with a high waterproof rating, and if you're not planning on using the tent in winter, a lighter three-season tent will suffice.

Be sure to take care of your tent, too! Waterproof it regularly and seam seal any open seams to keep it in good condition. With a little bit of care, your waterproof tent will last you for many adventures to come.

Our Choice for Backpacking

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Backpacking Tent

Our Choice for Large Families

CAMPROS CP 8-Person-Camping Tent

Our Choice for Two Campers

BISINNA 2 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

Our Choice for Camping Tarps

Aqua Quest Defender Tarp

Our Choice for Silicone Waterproofing Spray

Atsko Silicone Water-Guard

No one wants their sleeping area to be affected by heavy rain so if you are planning a trip and need weather protection, grab one of the tents mentioned in this article today and stay warm and dry no matter the weather!

Whether you're looking for a lightweight backpacking tent or you're aiming for a waterproof family tent. By making your choices clearer, we hope this article has given you some brilliant options for your next outdoor adventure and you now have more time for fun!

Make Your Choice A Cracking One!

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