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10 Best Waterproof Tents on the Market- Reviews and Complete Buying Guide

Best Waterproof Tent on the Market

When water gets inside your tent, it always leads to an unpleasant camping trip. When I was a kid, the first time my family went camping, it was constantly raining. I remember a stream of water flowing in- straight onto my sleeping bag! We spent the entire trip drying our clothes and cleaning out the tent. We were wet, cold, and uncomfortable.

That could have been avoided if we had bought a higher quality, waterproof tent. But, what should you consider when searching for the best waterproof tent on the market? First, you want to know how well it keeps out water. Second, you want to know how comfortable the tent is along with its sizing. And, of course, how easy or difficult the tent is to set up.

We did all the research to make the choice easier for you. Here are the quick view: 10 best waterproof camping tents available.

Quick View: Best Waterproof Tents on the Market 

  • Bessport Basic 1 – 2 Person Tent

  • Kazoo Outdoor Camping Tent 2 – 3 Person

  • Coleman Dome Tent with Screen Room

  • Hewolf Waterproof Instant Camping Tent

  • Ayamaya Pop-up Tent

  • Kazoo Family Camping Tent With Sun Shade

  • Clostnature Family Waterproof Tent

  • Tentsile Stingray 3 Person Tree House Tent

  • Hikergarden 8 Person Tent

  • QOMOTOP Waterproof Family Tent

Best Waterproof Tents Buying Guide

So, now that you know that the 10 best waterproof tents on the market are, how are you going to make your purchasing decision? This quick YouTube video can help you get started.

To summarize, here is what you should consider first when buying a tent:

  • How many people need to sleep in it?
  • Is it lightweight, yet durable?
  • Does it come with a rainfly?
  • Is ventilation good?
  • How is the waterproofing?
  • What is my budget?

One major aspect that can affect the durability, is what the tent poles are made out of. Typically, you have a choice between fiberglass or aluminum. But what is the difference?

Fiberglass vs. Aluminum Poles

You are more likely to find aluminum poles in your bulkier tents. They support the weight better, but also significantly raise the total cost. Here is what you can expect from aluminum poles:

  • They are strong and durable
  • They are also flexible and lightweight
  • Make it easy to pitch the tent
  • They corrode or rust easily
  • They conduct electricity

 

On the other hand, fiberglass poles offer these aspects:

  • Cheap and affordable
  • Can not corrode
  • Easy to replace
  • Will not conduct electricity
  • Fragile
  • Splinters when it breaks

 

Fiberglass is much safer in rainstorms, as it will not conduct electricity. If you expect to be camping during thunderstorms, fiberglass is a much safer option for you than aluminum. However, it is also more fragile.

Now that you know what each type of pole has to offer, you can factor that in when deciding on your waterproof tent.

What is the Waterproof Test?

When researching tents, you have noticed something like “passed the waterproof test with 3000mm” or “waterproof tested at 4000mm”. What do these numbers mean?

This is a pretty straightforward test. The fabric is pulled until taught, then water from a cylinder is held against the surface. When water starts coming through, that is when the test is over and you have your score.

For example, 3000mm is how much water the material could resist before it started seeping through. 1,5000mm is considered a low score, while 40,000+mm is considered high. If you want to read about the scientific process behind this test, you can read the article here.

The article also lets you know how many millimeters of water is acceptable for your area. You can apply this to your waterproof tent search and figure out which tent will keep you dry, relative to where you are going to be camping.

best waterproof tent for camping

Do You Need an E-Port?

Another feature to consider is the e-port. It is that little slit on a tent that allows for cables to be run inside. Some campers want to be out in the wilderness without access to any technology. Others, however, feel more comfortable with a place to charge their phones or have a source of electrical light at night.

If you want an e-port, but realized your tent does not have one, there are a few quick fixes you can do- aside from returning the tent. One is to run the cord through one of the doors and keep the tent tightly zipped against it.

However, you could also try using a generator. Generators can be more reliable in the outdoors, as they typically will not run out of energy. For example, you could try using a solar-powered generator when camping.

Not only will you have endless power from the sun, but you can also feel closer to nature knowing that you are making use of a reliable, renewable resource. If this interests you, there are also solar-powered lanterns and camp stoves available on the market!

What You Should Know About a Tent’s Ventilation

Camping in the summer is the most popular time. Everything is nice outside- except that it can get hot in a tent super quick. Most of us have experienced the stuffiness of a tent on a summer day. How can that be avoided?

Ventilation is key to avoiding a hot tent. You want air to flow through, no matter if the rainfly is on or not. Before buying a tent, check the number and placement of windows. Typically, ventilation will be much better if the windows are across from each other so that it creates a cross breeze.

Mesh windows are your best bet here- they allow air inside but keep out the bugs. In general, the more mesh in your tent, the better the air circulation. Stuffy tents typically have very little mesh and the tent material traps hot air, much like a greenhouse.

Also, check if your potential tent has a second door, or only offers one. Tents with two screen doors allow for more fresh air to get inside. Fans can be used to draw cool air through one door of the tent and push hot air through the back door.

You will also want to determine if there are air vents available, and how many you want. Air vents keep ventilation up just as windows do. Since they are on the sides of a tent, they can capture streams of air and force them to flow through your tent. This can make a major difference in temperature, especially in the hot summer months.

If you find yourself in a hot tent that just will not cool down, there are a few things you can do to ensure your comfort. Wearing cooler clothing, not using your sleeping back, instead opting for the cooler floor, and using a fan all help a lot.

Tents that are not properly ventilated can ruin a trip just as much as a leaky tent. You want to make sure that the tent you buy is comfortable in all aspects- picking the right size for you is just as important as picking a tent that does not boil you.

best camping tents for rain

Weight is Important

The weight of your tent is important. You need to think about how far you will have to carry it- can you pop it up right outside your car or are you going to be backpacking with it?

9 lbs sounds light, but if you have to hall all that, along with all your other gear, across an expansive hiking trail- you are going to become uncomfortable fast. Just bringing a slightly lighter tent could make all the difference to your back and keep you from feeling sore in the morning.

However, some people will opt for heavier tents. They are much more suited for family camping trips on campgrounds where the tent will not have to be brought far to pitch.

Again, this choice is different for everyone. Just consider your situation and picking the weight for your tent will be easy.

We hope that this education section gave you a lot to consider when picking out your new tent. The best thing that you can do, is research. Picking a tent should not be done on a gut instinct if you want to find the perfect match for you and your family. You should be sure your purchase keeps everyone sleeping in it comfortable and happy, so that they would feel excited to go on a camping trip again.

Best Waterproof Tents Comparison Table

10 Best Waterproof Tents On The Market - Review

This tent has a coating of waterproof material all over the fabric and seams. After being rained on for 8 hours, the inside of the tent may still be dry. This tent also does well with holding up in windy conditions, as it features a “wind-responsive” frame that doesn’t fight mother nature. The tent can also stay up in snowy weather.

The size of the tent is comfortable for two people and is lightweight- about 5 pounds! This makes it easy to carry, no matter how deep you are going into the woods. Bessport tents are also super easy to set up, it only requires two steps and takes under 5 minutes to have it standing. Removing the top of the tent also allows for wonderful ventilation, giving you a great view and fresh air.

In short, this is one of the best waterproof tents for camping. The waterproof fabric will keep out all elements and resist wind. The tent size is cozy for two people and very lightweight, plus you will have little difficulty setting it up.

Pros

  • Made from an extremely waterproof material
  • Lightweight, yet sturdy frame
  • Easy to set up
  • Removable top keeps air flowing
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • On the smaller side, not ideal for large family camping trips
  • The material is a little thin, not super durable

This waterproof tent is affordable and a decent size for 2 – 3 people. The material is made from cut-resistant polyester- making it durable against rocks and branches. It is lightweight and offers mesh interior pockets, adding to the already ample storage space.

Small families can fit inside with all of their gear easily, the tent is spacious and sturdy, so you won’t have to feel packed together. With two people setting it up, it should also take under 5 minutes to get it standing. Plus, the Kazoo Outdoor Camping Tent offers two windows that keep air flowing comfortably through the tent.

This is one of the best waterproof for tents for heavy rain- you can stay dry and comfortable during your trip.

Pros

  • Offers ample storage space
  • Good size for a small family
  • Durable against sharp objects
  • Easy to set up
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Zipper tags tend to fall off
  • The flooring material could be thicker

This waterproof tent is another one of the best camping tents for rain. The seams are inverted, making them better at keeping out water. This tent is also pretty sturdy, as it can withstand wind speeds up to 35 MPH. It includes a mesh screen room that can be used as a “porch” and an area to be outdoors, but away from bugs.

 

It features material that keeps the inside of the tent dark, so you can sleep in if you want- plus, it helps keep the tent cooler during the day. If staying connected is important to you, there is an opening for bringing an extension cord into the tent. However, this tent can take longer to set up than the previous tents on this list.

The screen room is one of the Coleman Dome tent’s most prominent features. It can give you a comfy area to hang out, if that’s what you are looking for. You will also stay dry in this tent, although depending on the model, water can build up outside.

Pros

  • Inverted seams keep water outside
  • Offers a screen room for relaxing or extra storage space
  • Creates a dark room for sleeping and keeps it cool
  • Unique design

Cons

  • Water can get in the screen room easier than the rest of the tent
  • 10 – 15 minutes to set up with two people

The hexagon shape of this tent is why it is one of the best waterproof tents on the market. It naturally repels water and the waterproof material keeps the interior dry. The tent also has a unique set-up system- the poles are permanently attached, making the building process very quick. Dismantling the tent is just as fast.

The hexagon style of the tent also gives it plenty of room inside. The tent can hold a queen mattress and still have room in the corners for you to store your gear. The two-screen doors on either side also allow for amazing ventilation, as a breeze can easily pass through.

This is the best tent for easy and quick set-up, if that is what you are looking for. It can take only a minute after you have figured out the simple pop-up mechanic. The tent also effectively keeps out rain and the material is durable enough to be taken out into the deep woods without worry, although it is on the heavier side. However, the elbows on the “umbrella” pop-up can easily be snapped.

Pros

  • Hexagon build offers space and keeps water from getting in
  • Very quick and easy set-up and take-down processes
  • Spacious and has room for storage
  • Fantastic ventilation
  • Durable
  • Decent price

Cons

  • Weighs about 10 pounds and can be bulky
  • The elbows on the pop-up mechanic are fragile

This waterproof tent has a unique double-layer design which can prevent condensation from getting inside. It also effectively keeps moisture out and offers a fully closable e-port to keep your electronics connected and dry.

The tent is an impressive size and includes a vestibule at the front door. This feature allows you to safely store your gear and house traveling pets close by. It also comes in a convenient circular package that makes it easy to store and carry.

The main gimmick of this tent is that it can “pop-up”. All you need to do is open the bag and set it out. However, the attached poles are flimsy and the material is on the thin side. If it rains longer than 12 hours, water can still get in the tent, despite all the waterproofing measures.

Pros

  • The double-layer design keeps out condensation and improves airflow
  • The vestibule is perfect for storing gear, leaving dirty shoes in, or housing a pet
  • The “pop-up” feature makes it extremely easy to set up
  • Packaging makes it convenient to carry
  • Can fit 4 – 6 people

Cons

  • After several hours of heavy rain, there may be some leakage
  • The connected poles are flimsy
  • The material is on the thinner side

This waterproof tent comes in a variety of different sizes, depending on your needs. There are sizes for housing 4, 6, and 8 people. However, the larger sizes are much more expensive. It also includes a built-in frame, making set-up much easier after you do it the first time.

The tent does have some issues staying upright in windy weather. You can ensure it does not cave in by taking extra precautions with your rope and stakes. However, the porch feature creates a nice space to relax in the outdoors.

Overall, this tent keeps you dry, comes in any size you need, is put together easily, and offers a porch area for sitting under. This waterproof tent is a good size for families and can help make your trip simpler.

Pros

  • Great range of sizing choices
  • Includes a built-in frame for easy set-up
  • The porch makes a nice shady area for relaxing
  • The sizing makes it a good choice for family camping

Cons

  • It can get pricey, especially the larger sizes
  • The tent does not stand up to wind well

Even under heavy rain, this tent will stay completely dry under the rainfly that comes with it. It also includes double-sided vents that keep air moving through the tent- even with the rainfly on, your tent will not be stuffy. This rain guard also does not directly contact the tent, so water will not seep through. This makes it the top choice for staying dry in heavy rain.

The tent can hold 3 people, but 2 is recommended for the size. Especially if you have gear or other materials to store inside. This tent is not the roomiest, but it offers one of the better waterproof systems. Many buyers also appreciate the simple, classic design.

On the other hand, the material is not durable in backwoods areas. Flat areas with no trees or branches are fine, but be sure to put a tarp underneath if you plan on taking this tent into rougher terrain.

Pros

  • Effective at staying dry in heavy rains
  • Offers double-sided air vents for circulation
  • Includes a useful rainfly
  • Affordable cost

Cons

  • A little on the small side, but good for two campers
  • The material is not durable and can be pierced easily

This tent has a unique design, in that it does not touch the ground! It can hold up to 880 lbs and keep you away from the moisture in the dirt. There is a detachable floor area for storing your bulkier items, so they do not weigh down the tent, and you can still have plenty of space.

 

The unique design keeps you above flowing water during heavy rains, or snow in the winter. It also offers a removable rain fly to keep you dry and is made from tear-resistant fabric. This tent, however, is the most expensive on this list. You would want to be 100% sure that it is the perfect tent for you before purchasing.

It is extremely light, weighing in at about 1.5 lbs. This makes it easy to transport. This tent is not for beginners, as it can be confusing to set up, especially the first time. You need to find three trees positioned just right to be able to successfully pitch this tent in the air.

Pros

  • The unique above-ground design keeps you dry and away from the mud
  • Three people can fit comfortably and there are storage options
  • The tent is made from durable material
  • The lightweight design makes it barely noticeable when transporting

Cons

  • This tent is highly expensive
  • The tent can be confusing to set up

For an 8 person tent, the price is good. It is extremely roomy and gives you enough space for storing tons of gear. It also makes the perfect family tent, even for a very large family. Plus, even under heavy wind and rainfall, the tent stays up and does not leak. You can be assured that you will be dry in this tent.

Pitching the tent is also straight forward and takes little time with more than one person helping. The first time setting up any tent takes awhile, but after you understand this tent’s process, you could have it up and ready in about 10 minutes.

The only thing you need to watch for is that the front door zipper does not break. In some cases, it can become stuck or the tap can snap off easily. Other than that, the tent is surprisingly durable and will stay up well, despite its huge size. This is the best waterproof tent on the market due to all these factors.

Pros

  • The tent is huge and gives you more than enough space
  • The waterproofing is sound and you will stay dry
  • Perfect for large family trips
  • Good price for the size

Cons

  • The front door zipper is flimsy
  • The front door can become jammed

This is another waterproof family tent that comes in a variety of sizes. So, you can choose the size you think will make you most comfortable- there are sizes for 4, 6, 8, and 10 people. The sizing of the tent makes it a great choice for large families, or those who have to carry a lot of gear they want to store inside.

This tent also includes an “instant set-up” design, meaning that you can have the base tent pitched in about 1 minute. For the large sizes, this is impressive and useful, especially if you have young kids.

Unfortunately, this tent is not as waterproofed as the others. Under heavy rains, there is a higher chance that it could leak. Using a rainfly is a good preventive measure to take if the weather is calling for rain.

Pros

  • Easy to set up, especially with its size
  • Tons of room and many sizing choices
  • Great for large families
  • Decent price

Cons

  • The tent can leak under heavy rainfall
  • Make sure the zipper is tightly shut, water leaks in near the door

FAQs

How do I tell if a tent is waterproof?

Inspect the seams of the tent. They should appear to be sealed. If this a tent you already own, you can pour a tiny amount of water onto the outside fabric. The water will bead if it has been treated with a waterproof coating. If the packaging is available, 1500mm is considered to be waterproof.

Can I reinforce the waterproofing?

Waterproof tent spray is available on the market. On a dry day, take the tent outside and spray the material. Make sure the seams are sealed and leave the tent to dry 24 hours in the sun.

What can I do if my tent is leaking?

If it happened once, it will likely happen again. You should invest in a waterproof tent in the future. For now, you will want to dry all your belongings and reinforce the leaking areas along with the tent. Check that your rainfly is attached correctly if you have one on.

Tents can become moldy if not dried properly. After returning from your trip, be sure to lay the tent out in the sun, around 24 hours, until it is bone dry. You do not want to pack up and store a soaked tent.

The most common areas for water to come in is the seams. Watch these areas closely during your first rainstorm in a new tent.

How can I reduce tent condensation?

After the rain is done, open up all the flaps of your tent to remove moisture. You will also want to be sure that all wet items have been removed from the tent to dry. If left inside, they will create condensation on the tent walls and make it feel sticky inside.

Leaving wet shoes outside is also a good idea in any condition- you do not want to track in the mud!

best tent for heavy rain

Our Verdict

In our opinion, the Hewolf hexagon tent and the Coleman Dome are the two best waterproof tents for couples or small families camping. They are both easy to set up and fairly inexpensive, however, they are both small and not suitable for more than 3 people. Both are well waterproofed too.

If you need a large, dry tent, the Hikergarden 8 Person Tent is the best option for you. It has an incredible amount of space and is great during heavy rainfall.

Any of these tents would be perfect for staying dry this camping season, however, your individual needs will factor into which tent is perfect for you. This buying guide should have made that choice easy, with all the pros and cons to consider.

If you are interested in any of these tents, they are all available to buy online. Run any of their names through your favorite search engine and you should see plenty of results pop-up.

Happy camping, stay dry!

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