There is a lot of unpredictability in the weather, especially in the mountains. Your camping window looks soggy, so you need a tent that will keep you dry in case you don’t have much time to camp. The worst thing you can do is get stuck in a wet tent. Besides ruining your gear, it can also damage your clothes and even your health. You don’t just stay dry because it is comfortable; you also prevent sickness by staying dry.
A rainfly on most tents prevents moisture from getting inside, but not all of them are capable of withstanding thunderstorms, winds, and torrential downpours. As a rule of thumb, I like to arm myself with the most quality camping gear possible to stay on the safe side.
The purpose of this guide is to round up the best camping tents for rain available today and to walk you through evaluating their usefulness against rain.
1. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Backpacker boulevard has a lot to say about this tent because it has stellar weather performance and unmatched portability. In terms of its feather-light nature, the 2-person version is only 3 lbs 13 oz – the equivalent of trading five cans of tomato soup for a night under the stars. This ultralight tent has earned its stripes among backpackers.
In addition to providing minimal fuss and maximum space, the tent is packaged in a sleek compression stuff sack. During breezy days, clip it up casually, and when the skies become gray, drape it down for maximum protection. Hubba Hubba NX returns triumphantly, embracing all its accomplishments.
As well as safeguarding your gear, their design genius extends to protecting it as well. The mud-covered shoes and essential gear easily find refuge outside, shielded from the rain, with twin doors (for when you aren’t solo trekking). Additionally, these vestibules prevent condensation, keeping you cozy and dry at night.
It seems that every cloud has a silver lining now. The Coleman tent, which is equally reliable yet pocket-friendly, might be more suited to casual car campers, despite its challenging to nitpick.
2. Mountainsmith Morrison EVO 2-4 Person 3 Season Tent
Take a moment to reminisce about the trip I took alone to Iceland’s dreamy terrains. A month of hitchhiking, camping, and dancing under the rain-soaked Icelandic skies in September was made easier with the Mountainsmith Morrison tent by my side. Checking out the tent’s waterproof capabilities!
This tent has served as my trusty shield from the lush North Cascades to the rugged peaks of Colorado, even to the challenging climbing challenges in Utah. Despite being a steal back then, it has seen its fair share of roughing up over the last six years. Although it is a little heavier than you would like for backpacking, it is convenient when sharing the carrying weight among several friends.
You’ll find a neat short pole that gives you that extra stretch and headroom. Additionally, a footprint is included to give the base additional protection and make it more water-resistant. You can choose between a cozy 2-person model and a spacious 4-person model. Special mention must be made of those dual vestibules and two doors – they make life so much easier when you try to avoid the infamous midnight tent tango!
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3. TETON Sports Mountain Ultra 1 to 4 Person Backpacking Tents
Taking a trip away from city lights, you can enjoy the full view of the Milky Way. Featuring a full dome mesh top, this telescope is perfect for stargazing. With a 360-degree ventilation system, the rainfly is waterproof and allows air flow to flow freely, enabling you to sleep cool and comfortably all night long. There are camping tents available for one to four people.
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A lightweight backpacking tent that packs down small and can be used for hiking, camping, and backpacking. Rainfly is waterproof and made of micro mesh to ensure a perfect fit inside the tent. You will need to purchase the footprint separately. The Mountain Ultra Tent is quick and easy to set up and take down at the end of the day.
4. Snugpak Scorpion 3-Person Waterproof Tent
Featuring a rainfly that is tied for first in waterproof ratings, this tent gives you a sense of dependability and durability. The Scorpion’s rainfly is crafted from 210T ripstop polyester layered with polyurethane. An impressive HH rating of 5000 mm makes this tent capable of enduring the most intense rainstorms. Although it trades off some thickness, the floor still holds up well against water.
This crawl-in tunnel tent from Snugpak isn’t your average crawl-in tent. Semi-geodesic design ensures this structure can withstand howling winds. In addition to being elevated to save the knees from unnecessary crawling, the tent’s porch provides a safe place for wet gear. The inner tent can be left unfurled during thunderstorms to accommodate six people (heads up, this is sitting).
A military-grade tent, built to endure all seasons and every unpredictable twist Mother Nature can throw at you. It may not come with a dedicated pocket for gear, but the design of this bag speaks volumes about its ruggedness. Although it has a lightweight and compact pack size, it is perfect for those who want a waterproof tent that can handle adverse weather.
5. ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent
Although its weight (around five pounds) is higher than its luxury counterparts, it’s still quite decent. That’s a light breeze. Despite its unsung hero status, this tent was a great performer. Because of the two sturdy aluminum poles, assembling it is easy. Dual-door design and top-notch zippers lead to vestibules, where damp gear is kept.
The ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent allows you to enjoy the nighttime magic as the stars dance across the sky. A mesh structure will not only ensure a mesmerizing stargazing experience on balmy nights, but will also ensure superior ventilation. It’s important to keep in mind that its mesh brilliance might not be as comfy in colder climates. Because of this, it makes a great three-season shelter.
In addition to a bathtub-style floor, the tent’s foundation is constructed from 75 denier Poly Taffeta that is waterproof up to 3000mm. Additionally, the fabric is made of 75 denier polyester, ensuring a waterproof seal of 1500mm. These two elements combine to form the tent’s defense against unpredictable weather conditions.
6. Coleman Evanston Screened Weatherproof Camping Tent
Featuring the well-known Coleman brand, the Coleman Evanston dome tent is a family classic for any camping trip. In addition to the 8 person model, this tent also comes in a 6 person version, which is more suitable for groups of four and six people.
Featuring a screen room at the front of the tent, this Coleman tent is a great choice. It is perfect for sitting under on a sunny day to give you a bit of shade and to keep you away from insects.
Besides being family friendly, it also comes with a lot of features. There is plenty of space inside, and you can fit two queen-sized air beds if you want some extra comfort. On the walls, you can keep flashlights, sunglasses, and other gear in mesh pockets.
As far as waterproofing goes, this tent has the worst performance in this review. Due to Coleman’s lack of hydrostatic head ratings (i.e. waterproofing ratings) for their tents, this can be difficult to measure in an objective manner. It’s true – there wasn’t a single one!
But Coleman tents can leak as a result of a heavy downpour, and we’ve heard thousands of similar stories. Screen rooms are fully open without a way to cover the sides and prevent rain from coming in.
7. THE NORTH FACE Wawona 6 Person Agave Tent
The large vestibule in the front of this tent can be used for storing gear or for additional seating. There is a huge interior height that makes maneuvering around easy. Pockets inside the organizer make it easy to keep essentials within reach. Camping gear such as headlamps, lights and tablets can be stored in ceiling pockets.
There are 10″ by 32″ (25.4 cm x 81.3 cm). The weight of the item is 20 pounds 15 ounces. Area of floor: 86.11 square feet. In addition to being stronger, the DAC MX pole set is also lighter. Setting up is a cinch thanks to the color-coded poles and trims. There is a separate footprint available.
In addition to the hybrid double-wall design and large mesh front door, the house features an excellent ventilation system. It has a durable fabric fly, canopy, and floor that are water-resistant. It is important to have external guylines in case of inclement weather.
Introducing the new 6-person tent, with double-wall construction, reengineered poles, and easier setup. There’s no need to worry since we’ve kept the vestibule that makes it feel more like a house than a tent.
8. Coleman Sundome Rainfly Tent for Camping
You should protect yourself from the weather with the Coleman Sundome Waterproof Tent. Designed for festival goers and spontaneous family trips, this tent is inexpensive yet provides a strong defense against the elements.
Rainfly is not a full-coverage feature, so don’t let that fool you. There are users who swear by the product’s weather-resistance (like me). Featuring high-tech welded floors and clever inverted seams, Coleman’s WeatherTec system protects against rainy surprises. Whatever your needs, there’s a Sundome size to fit you, whether you’re a solo adventurer, a group of festival buddies, or a family with six members.
The rainfly awning is not only a blessing during rainstorms, but also during those scorching summer days. The roomier versions have ample space to stand, so you can even dance inside! Likewise, if you like to pack your tent with friends, don’t worry. Large windows and a strategically placed ground vent keep things fresh and breezy. Invented to allow you to slip in an electric cord without compromising the tent’s integrity.
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9. Coleman Skydome 2/4/6 Person Weatherproof Camping Tent
It is my recommendation to use the Coleman Skydome 4-Person dome waterproof tent. An interior that is spacious, a vestibule that is large, and a rainfly that covers the entire roof makes this an attractive choice. After the tent has been set up, you will be able to stay dry in wet weather. Ventilation can be achieved effectively by opening the vestibules and doors of this Coleman dome tent. By removing the fly and letting air vent through the mesh roof, you will be able to get more airflow.
Despite the affordable price and the fact that budget buys are great for getting outdoors quickly, they tend to have issues with long-term durability. The skydome is unfortunately affected by this problem. Its price, easy set-up, 4-foot 7-inch peak, and 56 square feet of space make it an attractive choice for casual campers.
10. Eureka! Copper Canyon 3 Season Waterproof Tent
As for the tent, it’s more like a mobile mansion than an old tent. The walls are almost vertical, giving you a whopping seven feet of headroom! It’s time to say goodbye to crouching and hitting your head on low tent ceilings. Those seeking privacy will find a handy divider dividing the cavernous space into two intimate spaces.
Its dual doors and wide windows offer a soothing breeze that will make you feel right at home. You’ll also have waterproof coverings on hand if Mother Nature decides to send down some rain. Overhead is a gear loft, a convenient place to store small items such as your trusty headlamp or your favorite suspense novel. As for rain, you should always check the weather forecast; while the Eureka! Copper Canyon is a trooper, but it might sulk in the rain.
It has a handy zippered power port. A cot or your favorite plush air mattress will look great on this cabinet with straight corners and vertical walls.
11. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV Ultralight Backpacking Tent
New awning-style vestibules expand covered living spaces and offer rain and sun protection. It’s great for keeping wind driven rain or snow out of your living room due to the dual zippers providing multiple access options. With new features inside and out, proprietary materials that are stronger and lighter, and hardware that can be set up in just a few minutes, Copper Spur HV UL series has just gotten better.
A new 3-D bin ‘mezzanine’ in the foot provides massive storage; an oversized ceiling pocket in the head adds great storage space; and media pockets facilitate cord routing. It comes with multiple interior loops for gear lofts (fits all Big Agnes gear lofts), accessories, and mountainGLO tent & camp lights (not included).
By combining three functions, the new proprietary tent corner construction and TipLok Tent Buckle streamline tent set-up: pole tip capture, rainfly attachment, and stake-out loop. There’s a keyed hole that locks the pole tips into place during setup, and a hinged design that equalizes forces between the tent body, rainfly, and ground stake.
It’s made from a proprietary ultralight nylon fabric with double rip-stop and mixed denier that’s no heavier and more tear-resistant. Pre-bent poles coupled with 4-way high-volume hubs increase strength, stability, and snow shed while creating livable space where it counts.
12. Wenzel Klondike 8 Person Water Resistant Tent
Wenzel Klondike tents make that dream a vivid reality. In addition to being a design feature, the expansive mesh screened porch also functions as a sleeping space. You can set up this tent anywhere, whether it’s to protect your prized hiking boots or to provide a sleeping area for kids.
Its luxurious cabin-like design spans 90 feet, with 6.5 feet of headroom, for a luxurious wilderness experience. The 25-pound doll isn’t too heavy, so don’t worry about mobility. This tent might not fit snugly into your backpack, but it rolls nicely into its own carry bag, ready for next adventure.
Featuring a detachable polyurethane-coated rainfly that elegantly drapes from its roof, the Klondike looks as good as it feels. It may shield you from drizzle, but it will not do you any good during a relentless downpour. Its cleverly inverted seams and zip-locked windows provide a robust barrier against Mother Nature’s whims.
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FAQs
Why is a rainfly important?
An exterior of a tent is made up of a rainfly. In addition to protecting the tent from outside elements, it keeps it stable by keeping rain, snowfall, and winds out. The material allows ventilation as well as resisting harsh weather conditions.
Does it matter if a tent is waterproof or not?
Yes, of course. Hydrostatic head ratings of 1200 mm or higher indicate that a tent is waterproof. However, that does not mean that all tent parts will be rated in this way. It is not waterproof, for instance, to use mesh. Hydrostatic head ratings are not used by all tents, as mentioned above. Consider proprietary waterproof technology or canvas if your tent lacks this feature.
What causes my tent to get wet inside when it rains?
A misplaced rainfly or condensation are the most likely causes. Ensure that the rainfly and tent body do not touch when stretching over them. The tent poles may become wet if the materials are wet when they are wet.
Waterproofing is the other answer. It is impossible to get rain into a waterproof tent, but moisture cannot escape either. If you can’t get rid of it, your body heat or humidity will collect as condensation inside the tent. In order to help that humidity escape, you can open up the vents or peel back the rainfly after the wet weather ends.
Do cheap tents have a waterproof coating?
It is possible for them to be. TETON Sports Mountain Ultra Tent, my budget pick, is made from polyurethane and has a fully enclosed rainfly to keep you dry. It is important to determine whether the rainfly is a full-length rainfly or one with a waterproof coating. Using tent waterproofing sprays, such as Nikwax, can also help seal a tent again.
