Best Waterproof Tents for Camping Dry (TOP 8 SELECTIONS)

Published October 15th, 2022 by Allen Campbell

best waterproof tents for camping dry

There’s nothing worse than being out camping and having your tent start leaking. It might ruin your vacation and make you feel very uncomfortable. In order to avoid this issue, be sure to select a waterproof tent for your next camping trip. However, with the countless number of options available, how do you choose which one is ideal for you?

In this blog post, I’ll outline the best waterproof tents for camping currently available and give you a few tips on what to look for when purchasing one. I’ll also provide a buyer’s guide at the end to help make your decision easier.

MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent

1. MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent ​

The MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent is made with a waterproof and breathable canopy that will keep you dry even in the heaviest of rains.

10+ Reviews
4.5/5
North Face Stormbreak 2 Person Tent

2. North Face Stormbreak 2 Person Tent ​

North Face Stormbreak 2 is perfect for those who want to go camping with just one other person. Even though it's small, this tent can fit two people and all their stuff comfortably.

150+ Reviews
4.8/5
NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9 Person Tent

3. NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9 Person Tent

Whether you are planning to go on a family camping trip or a large group outing, the NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9-Person Tent is perfect for you.

170+ Reviews
4.4/5

Best Waterproof Tents for Camping Dry: Summary

1. MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent

10+ Reviews
4.5/5

If you’re going camping with your family or a group of friends, you’ll need a tent that can hold everyone. The MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent is perfect for this purpose. It has plenty of room inside for up to four people and their gear, but it’s also big enough that you could probably fit five if 5th person is not too big.

The MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent is made with a waterproof and breathable canopy that will keep you dry even in the heaviest of rains. The extreme shield waterproof coating is a plus, as it will provide even more protection against the elements.

This isn’t your average waterproofing– it’s a specialized coating that can take on strong winds and walloping rains. It lasts 3 times longer than standard waterproofing. The tent also features taped seams and a waterproof floor to ensure that no water gets in.

Pros

  • Plenty of space for 4 people and their gear
  • Waterproof and breathable canopy
  • Extreme shield waterproof coating
  • Taped seams and waterproof floor
  • Easton Syclone Poles
  • Compact carry case
  • 3 years warranty

Cons

  • This tent does not include a footprint

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

I was amazed when I took this tent in strong winds and it held up without any problems. All thanks to the Easton Syclone Poles that are used for the frame. Because this tent comes with a small carry bag, you won’t have to worry about bulky luggage. The whole setup weighs around 7 pounds, which is not too bad considering the size and strength of this tent.

Talking about the headroom, there are almost 44 inches from the floor to the apex of the tent. Additionally, the MSR Papa Hubba NX 4-Person Waterproof Tent has 22 sq.ft. vestibules where you can store your gear. The manufacturer provides a three-year warranty, so you may always acquire a replacement if something goes wrong.

2. North Face Stormbreak 2 Person Tent

150+ Reviews
4.9/5

North Face Stormbreak 2 is perfect for those who want to go camping with just one other person. Even though it’s small, this tent can fit two people and all their stuff comfortably. The North Face Stormbreak 2 is constructed of waterproof and breathable fabric, so you can stay dry and comfortable in even the toughest weather conditions.

With plenty of headroom and 2 large doors, the North Face Stormbreak 2 is perfect for those who want to camp in comfort. If you want air circulation and ventilation, you can open up the doors which include a high-quality zipper. And if the weather is too bad, you can simply zip up the doors to keep yourself warm and dry.

When I went camping with my partner, I didn’t have to worry about cramped quarters or gear. The high-low ventilation system allowed us to keep cool in the summer heat and warm in the cooler weather. The North Face Stormbreak 2 is an excellent choice for those who want a light, compact, and versatile tent.

Pros

  • High-low ventilation system
  • Lightweight and compact
  • 2 large doors for easy access
  • High-low ventilation system
  • Waterproof and breathable fabric
  • Comes with a storage bag

Cons

  • No footprint included
  • A bit heavy compared to other models

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

But I found that footprint wasn’t included, which was a bummer. The footprint of your tent is vital because it stops the bottom from being damaged or worn away. I would highly recommend purchasing the footprint separately. Alternatively, you can use a tarp as a footprint, but make sure it’s big enough to cover the entire area of your tent.

If you don’t have any problem carrying an extra few pounds, the North Face Stormbreak 2 is an excellent choice for your next camping trip. The North Face Stormbreak 2 is heavier than other versions in the market. But in my opinion, the weight is totally worth it because of its great features and durability.

The North Face Stormbreak 2 is perfect for your next camping trip–it’s lightweight and easily packable, plus it comes with a storage bag.

3. NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9 Person Tent

170+ Reviews
4.4/5

Whether you are planning to go on a family camping trip or a large group outing, the NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9-Person Tent is perfect for you. It can sleep up to 9 people, so you’ll have plenty of room for everyone and their gear.

Setting up the tent is easier with 2 people, but it can be done by 1 person if necessary. Plus, the tent poles are color-coded so you won’t have trouble knowing which goes where. So, set up will be a breeze even if it’s your first time doing it.

You don’t have to worry about your tent blowing away in the middle of the night, because the NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9-Person Tent comes with a sturdy and durable frame. The 6 nano-flex fiberglass poles can withstand strong winds and the weather-resistant fabric will keep you dry even if it rains.

Even a tall person can easily stand up inside the tent, thanks to the 6.2 feet ceiling height. You can fit 3 double air mattresses inside the NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9 Person Tent with plenty of room to spare.

Pros

  • Can accommodate up to 9 people
  • Color-coded poles for easy setup
  • Sturdy and durable frame
  • Waterproof canopy and floor
  • Great ventilation
  • Keeps harmful UV rays out

Cons

  • May be too large for some campsites
  • May be difficult to set up by yourself

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

When I experienced the rain under this tent, I was surprised that there was not a single drop of water inside the tent. The waterproof polyurethane-coated canopy and the waterproof floor with taped seams kept me dry and comfortable all night long.

The bathtub design on the floor of the tent prevents water from seeping inside. I thank the mesh material for the great ventilation inside the tent. The mesh material also allows you to enjoy the view of nature while keeping the bugs out.

The 190T polyester fabric doesn’t allow harmful UV rays to come inside the tent, so you can enjoy your camping trip without any worries. The CPAI-84 fire retardant material ensures the safety of everyone inside the tent.

4. Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent

6000+ Reviews
4.6/5

For people on a budget who want a sturdy and dependable tent, the Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent is an excellent option. It’s lightweight and compact, making it simple to transport and set up. You will be amazed by the reliability and durability of this tent because it can withstand strong winds and heavy rains. Even if the weather changes for the worse, you’ll stay dry thanks to the waterproof canopy and floor.

Up to 35mph winds? No problem. The Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent can handle it. I had tested it in my backyard and it withstood the winds like a champ. The frame is also made of a robust and long-lasting material. So, you won’t have to worry about the tent collapsing in the middle of the night.

The ventilation system is one of the tent’s greatest features. It helps people to stay cool and comfortable even in hot weather conditions. Even a drop of water cannot enter inside the tent, as the flysheet is made of waterproof material.

Pros

  • Tent is Lightweight and compact
  • Easy to set up
  • Reliable and durable
  • Can withstand strong winds and heavy rains
  • Waterproof canopy and floor
  • The ventilation system avoid inside people to feel hot
  • Flysheet is made of waterproof material

Cons

  • Not enough space for more than two people

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

Additionally, the two-person tent is large enough to comfortably fit two people and all of their gear. With plenty of space, you won’t have to worry about Feeling cramped or leaving any gear outside.

One queen-sized mattress can easily fit inside, making this the perfect tent for couples or small families. The electricity port is also a great feature, as it allows you to easily charge your devices or use a fan inside the tent.

Overall, the Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent is a great choice for those who want an affordable, reliable, and durable tent. It’s ideal for couples who want to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about the weather, and it makes a great gift.

5. Coleman Dome Tent with Screen Room

7500+ Reviews
4.5/5

You can easily accommodate 8 people in this Coleman dome tent without any problem because of its roomy interior of 15 x 12 ft. 2 queen-sized air beds can be fit in this tent. The height of 6 ft inches makes it easy to move around and provides ample headroom. The screen room creates a separate living space that’s perfect for relaxing, playing cards, or just enjoying the outdoors without being bothered by bugs.

From day one, the Coleman company has had one mission: to provide affordable, quality outdoor products that are fun for the whole family. Coleman’s commitment to customer satisfaction is what has made them a worldwide household name among campers and hikers.

The mesh roof makes the camping experience more enjoyable by letting you enjoy the night sky and also keeping the bugs away. The screened porch is a great spot to relax in a chair and enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by mosquitoes or other pests.

The floor is made of durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of camping, and the tent is easy to set up and take down. Rated highly for waterproofing and equipped with taped seams, the 75D polyester fabric will keep you both dry and comfortable no matter the weather.

Pros

  • Ample room for 4 people
  • Screened porch keeps the bugs away
  • High-quality materials
  • Excellent waterproof rating
  • Ventilation ports for airflow
  • High-quality storage bag included
  • Easy to set up
  • Can withstand winds up to 35 mph

Cons

  • You might need to watch youtube videos to set it up because the instruction manual is not that helpful.
  • More than 2 pockets were expected from an 8-person tent

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

The flysheet can be used as a standalone shelter, or it can be used to provide additional protection from the sun or rain. The frame has been designed for strength and stability, and the tent can be set up in minutes. The inverted seams play an important role in keeping the water out, and the welded corners provide extra reinforcement.

I have tested the Coleman Dome Tent in both hot and cold weather conditions, and it performed well in both. Additionally, the wind test showed that this tent can withstand winds up to 35 mph.

For keeping you dry inside the tent, it includes ventilation ports that allow airflow to keep you cool and comfortable. The high-quality storage bag is a plus, as it keeps the tent clean and dry when not in use.

6. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent

850+ Reviews
4.6/5

I was impressed by the pole clips that make the process of putting up the tent a lot easier. The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent is the perfect tent to take on your next camping trip with up to three other friends. With its flexible 2-pole design, it’s easy to set up and take down.

The compact design is also good for backpacking. I can assure the weather proofness as I have used this tent in a thunderstorm and it withstood heavy rains. The waterproof coating, as well as the floor and fly seams, assist in keeping water out. The tent’s high-quality polyester is also breathable and UV resistant.

There are half-mesh walls that provide enough airflow and also keep the insects out. For easier access, there are two doors that will help you get in and out of the tent without any hassle. The #8 zippers are also big enough and can be used for a long time.

Pros

  • Easy to set up and take down
  • Compact design is good for backpacking
  • Factory-sealed fly and floor seams help keep the water out
  • High-quality polyester is breathable and UV resistant
  • Two doors for easier access
  • Big, durable zippers
  • Storage pockets inside the tent help keep things organized
  • Comes with two vestibules

Cons

  • Not designed for extremely cold weather conditions

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

The storage compartments inside the tent are also a wonderful addition, as they aid in the organization of your belongings. This tent would be excellent for anybody looking for a high-quality, low-cost option.

The 2 additional vestibules are also great for storing your gear and keeping the inside of the tent clean. So you can change your clothes or shoes inside the vestibule without having to worry about dirtying up the tent.

With a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer, you can sleep soundly knowing your tent will last through multiple camping trips. I would not recommend using this tent in winter as it’s not designed for extremely cold weather conditions.

7. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

400+ Reviews
4.5/5

With a weight of only 3 pounds, this tent is one of the lightest on the market. It’s perfect for backpackers since it’s lightweight and easy to carry. It’s also super easy to set up, thanks to its freestanding design. This tent is ideal for those who are looking to shave every ounce possible, without sacrificing comfort or durability.

You can spend time with your partner without feeling cramped in this 2-person tent that has plenty of space for both sleepers and their gear. This model is also perfect for solo campers who want more space to move around and be comfortable. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, you’ll be glad to have the waterproof and breathable canopy to keep you dry.

With the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent, you’ll never have to sacrifice safety, comfort, or weight on your backpacking trips again. The canopy is made with tough and durable Easton Syclone poles that can withstand high winds and severe weather conditions. You may count on this shelter to keep you safe and dry, even in the most challenging situations.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Durable Easton Syclone poles
  • Rainfly for added protection
  • Compressible and easy to store
  • Great ventilation
  • 2 large doors for easy entry and exit

Cons

  • May be too small for some couples

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

I was surprised by its flexibility of poles – in windy conditions, the Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent withstood better than most of the tents I’ve seen. The poles tend to bounce back and provide good stability in case of a gust.

You can also add rain fly for even better protection from the elements. If you want a durable tent that won’t weigh you down, this is a great option. The dura shield coating helps the tent withstand extreme weather conditions, and it is more than capable of protecting you from the elements. There are two large doors for simple entrance and exit, and the ventilation is excellent.

This tent can be effortlessly compressed and stored away with its rope-style bag. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is the perfect option for backpackers who want a durable and lightweight shelter that won’t weigh them down on their adventures.

8. KODIAK CANVAS Family-Tent

300+ Reviews
4.5/5

If you are planning your camping trip for the summer, make sure to check out Kodiak Canvas tents! Kodiak Canvas is a company that specializes in making high-quality, durable tents. The Kodiak Canvas Flex Bow Tent is a great option for those who are looking for a tent that can accommodate a large group of people.

A group of 4 people, can sleep comfortably in this tent. The Kodiak Canvas tent is made with a Hydra Shield material, which is a waterproof and breathable fabric. The tent also has a reinforced floor, which is ideal for those who are planning on spending a lot of time in the great outdoors.

The heavy-duty canvas fabric is perfect for those who want a tent that can withstand all types of weather conditions. Additionally, the waterproof feature of the Kodiak Canvas tent will keep you and your belongings dry, no matter what the weather is like. It is because of silicone, dry-finish treatment, which is a waterproofing agent.

The Kodiak Canvas tent is also equipped with a double-fill design, which makes the tent more durable and sturdy. You never have to worry about stuffy air, thanks to the fact that Kodiak Canvas tents allow water vapor to pass through the fabric. This avoids condensation build-up, which often leads to musty odors.

The Kodiak Canvas family tent also has a great ventilation system, which will keep the air circulating inside the tent. You will get 4 large windows in order to get the cross breeze that you need.

Pros

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Large windows for cross breeze
  • Double-fill design for durability
  • Waterproof and breathable fabric
  • Great ventilation system
  • Internal storage pocket
  • 1-foot ceiling height

Cons

  • The weight might be an issue for some campers

Final Say about this Waterproof Tent

The ventilation system of the Kodiak Canvas family tent is not only great for keeping the air circulating, but it also helps to reduce the amount of condensation that can build up inside the tent. There are 2 funnel-flow vents, which help to create a circulation of air. The Kodiak Canvas family tent also features an awning, which will provide shade and protection from the elements.

The taller people in your group will appreciate the fact that the Kodiak Canvas family tent has a 6.1-foot ceiling height. This allows everyone to move around inside the tent without feeling cramped. You will never lose your belongings because the Kodiak Canvas family tent has an internal storage pocket.

This is a great place to store your phone, flashlight or any other small items that you need to have close at hand. The company offers a lifetime warranty for its products, so you can be confident in the quality of the Kodiak Canvas family tent.

The Kodiak Canvas family tent is a fantastic choice for individuals searching for a high-quality, long-lasting tent. This tent comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you can’t go wrong with it.

Buying Guide for Waterproof Tents

While purchasing the new waterproof tent, it is very important for you to select the tent that has all the features that you desire and also fits your budget. It can be any size or shape but must have the ability to protect you and your family from the rain, sun, and wind.

Not every tent can provide the same benefits, so it is important to select the one that has the specific features that you need.

In order to make your purchase easier, I have created a buyer’s guide which will help you to select the best waterproof tent as per your requirement. Below is the list of factors that you should consider while purchasing waterproof tents.

Tent Material

If you are looking for a lightweight tent or you are planning a backpacking trip, then you should opt for a tent made with Polyurethane-coated (PU) fabric. The waterproofness of this material is very good, it is also relatively lightweight and can last for a longer period of time.

However, you should keep in mind that this material can get brown when exposed to sunlight for a prolonged period of time. But you never have to worry about its practicality as it is one of the most widely used materials for making tents.

If you are looking for a tent that can withstand all kinds of weather conditions, then you should buy a tent made with Nylon fabric. It is known for its durability and can last for a long time. This material is also waterproof and provides good ventilation. However, it is a bit heavy compared to other materials.

Keep in mind that the tent material you select should be sealed properly in order to make it waterproof. You will end up wasting money even if you buy a tent made with high-quality material but it is not sealed properly. Check for the taped seams or welded seams before making your final decision. It will make sure that no water can enter the tent and ruin your trip.

Waterproof Coating

It doesn’t matter if you have a top-quality waterproof tent, time will take its effect and the waterproofing of your tent will start to fade away. After some time, the waterproofing will start to wear off as you use the tent more frequently. In order to make your tent last longer and protect yourself from any surprises, you should consider applying an extra waterproof coating.

There are various types of waterproofing sprays and sealants available in the market that can be used for this purpose. Not only will they help you to waterproof your tent again, but they will also give an additional layer of protection. Additionally, if you have an older tent that is not waterproof anymore, you can use these sprays and sealants to make it waterproof again.

Purchasing waterproof sprays or sealants in advance is always a good idea as you never know when you might need them. For example, if you are planning a long camping trip and the forecast predicts rain, then you can apply the waterproofing spray or sealant to your tent in order to be prepared for the worst.

Weight

If you are backpacking, then I can understand the fact that you might be looking for a lightweight tent. Some people believe that the heavier the tent, the better it is. However, that is not always the case as there are many lightweight tents available in the market that are just as good as the heavy ones.

On a backpacking trip, every ounce counts and you should try to save as much weight as possible. A heavy tent will only make your backpack heavier and it will be very difficult to carry it around. So, if you are adding a tarp to your backpack, make sure that you don’t select a very heavy tent. It is because the weight of the tent will add up with the weight of the tarp and other items in your backpack.

Don’t add unnecessary items to your tent just because they are available. For example, if you are not planning to use the rainfly, then don’t add it to your backpack as it will only add extra weight. On the other hand, if you are going on a car camping trip, then the weight of the tent is not a big issue as you don’t have to carry it around.

Ventilation

I also recommend you to select a tent that has good ventilation. A tent with poor ventilation can be very suffocating, especially in hot and humid weather conditions. You will feel like you are inside a sauna if the tent doesn’t have proper ventilation.

In order to avoid this problem, select a tent that has mesh panels or windows. The rainy season can make the tent very humid and uncomfortable, so make sure that the tent you are selecting has proper ventilation.

You should also consider the fact that a well-ventilated tent will also help you to stay warm in cold weather conditions. The air circulation will help to circulate the warmth inside the tent and you will be able to sleep comfortably.

In order to have the proper ventilation and avoid any problems, select a tent that has wide windows and doors. Additionally, look for mesh fabric in the inner tent as it will help to circulate the air and keep the tent well-ventilated.

Tent Shape

I have tested 3 common types of tents: A-frame, cabin, and dome. After extensive testing and research, I have found that the shape of a tent has a significant impact on its ability to keep out water.

If I talk about the first 2 shapes of the tent i.e A-frame and Dome, they are the best shape for the rain as the sloping walls and the flysheet help to shed water.

On the other hand, the cabin tents are not as good as the A-frame or dome tents in rainy conditions as they have vertical walls. It may be tough to keep the water from coming in if it’s raining a lot. However, they are great in terms of headroom and you will have more room to move around inside the tent.

HH Rating

If you don’t know about the Hydrostatic Head (HH) rating, then let me explain it to you. It is the measurement used by manufacturers to calculate the waterproofness of the fabric. The higher the HH rating, the more waterproof the fabric will be.

For example, if a tent has a HH rating of 1000mm, it means that the fabric can withstand the water pressure of 1000mm before it starts to leak.

Let me tell you how the manufacturer tests it. They take a tube of a known diameter and filled it with water. The tube is placed over the fabric and the water is allowed to flow through it. The distance between the top of the water in the tube and the bottom of the fabric is measured. This distance is known as Hydrostatic Head (HH).

Finding the Best Waterproof Tents: Bottom Line

When it comes to camping in wet weather, having a quality waterproof tent is essential. Good news, there are endless choices when it comes to choosing a tent! You can pick one depending on your needs, like opting for a lightweight model or something roomier.

I’m confident you’ll find the perfect option from my list below. Not only will these tents keep you dry, but they will also protect you from the elements and help you to enjoy your camping trip to the fullest. I’ve put together a list of these tents based on my challenging experiences so that you can make the best decision for your next camping trip.

FAQ's

Are any tents actually waterproof?

When you’re camping in the great outdoors, one of the most important pieces of gear you can have is a good, waterproof tent. After all, there’s nothing more frustrating than having to sleep in a soaking wet sleeping bag when it’s raining. But when it comes to tents, how do you know which ones are actually waterproof?

Are pop-up canopies waterproof? We answer this question here.

Look for a tent with a waterproof rating of 2000 mm or higher. This means that the fabric can withstand 2000 mm of water pressure before it starts to leak. You’ll also want to make sure that the seams are taped or sealed; otherwise, water can easily seep through any gaps. Finally, consider investing in a rain fly, which is an extra layer of protection that goes over the top of your tent.

Is 3000mm waterproof enough for a tent?

When you’re looking at tents, one of the priority factors should be how waterproof it is. This is typically expressed in millimeters, and it indicates how effective the tent will be at keeping out water. For example, a tent with a waterproof rating of 3000mm will be able to keep out water that has a pressure of 3000mm.

However, this does not imply that the tent is completely waterproof. Water can still enter through gaps in the seams or zippers, so it’s always a good idea to use a waterproof sealant on these areas before heading out into the rain. In general, a higher waterproof rating is better, but even a tent with a rating of 2000mm can provide adequate protection against light rain and snow.

How do you know when it’s time to re-proof a tent?

A tent is only as strong as the waterproofing that protects it. When the rain comes, you want to be confident that your shelter will keep you dry. But over time, even the best-quality tents can start to leak. So, When is the best time to reproof your tent?

There are a few telltale indications to look for. Start with the tent’s fabric. If you detect any cracks or holes, it’s time to waterproof your tent. Second, set up your tent and then spray it down with water. If the water beads up and rolls off, your tent is still in good shape. But if it soaks in or pools in any areas, it’s time to reproof. By keeping an eye out for these signs, you can make sure your tent stays in top condition for years to come.

Why do you need to waterproof a tent?

Any experienced camper will tell you that a waterproof tent is essential for a successful camping trip. Not only does it protect you from the elements, but it also helps to keep your belongings dry. But why exactly do you need to waterproof a tent?

For one thing, waterproofing helps to prevent leaks. Even the smallest leak can ruin a camping trip, so it’s best to be safe and water resistant. Waterproofing also helps to protect the fabric of your tent from damage.

Over time, exposure to moisture can weaken the fabric and lead to tears and holes. By waterproofing your tent, you can extend its lifespan and keep it in good condition for years to come.

So if you’re planning a camping trip, be sure to pack a waterproof tent! It could be the difference between a memorable experience and a disaster.

Allen Campbell with Master Canopies

Allen Campbell

Allen is a full time writer at Mastercanopies.com and enjoys traveling around the United States and exploring nature. He enjoys writing about canopies as he believes they are extremely crucial in having a successful camping trip whether it be a trip to the beach, mountains, or the open plains.

Learn Everything About Canopies Here: