Camping is fun and adventurous. Living in tough weather conditions inside a tent sound exciting, unless it starts raining! That dripping water through the tent exteriors slowly entering is simply not what you have in mind. Watching the rain, a question might pop into your mind – “can I waterproof a tent?”. Let’s find out!

Can A Tent Be Waterproof?

Yes, most camping tents are meant to be waterproof as it is never certain how the weather is going to be. But if they aren’t pitched or not seam-sealed before using, chances are that you won’t stay safe from rain.

Whether that waterproofing is effective or not is based on four factors –

  • Tent construction
  • Tent pitching
  • Floor and rainfly fabric quality
  • Floor and rainfly waterproof treatment

Is Your Tent Waterproof?

Taking the four factors into account, it is easy to find out whether your camping tent is waterproof or not. Let’s discuss them in detail –

  • Tent Construction

While purchasing a tent, always look at its construction. Sometimes, even if the tent is made from premium waterproof materials, they don’t hold to their properties and disappoint. If you are searching for a new tent, always look at the shelter design and see if it will protect you from storms and rain. Check out the rainfly coverage, tent shape, and floor construction for better judgment.

  • Tent Pitching

As discussed above, it is always important to pitch the tent properly. This can make or break your situation. Keep small details in mind, such as whether the rainfly is tightened down properly or not. Remember that your rainfly shouldn’t be slack as it can hold more water and ruin the best waterproof tents as well.

  • Fabric Quality

Commonly tents are made from ripstop polyester, ripstop nylon, or canvas. These are water-resistant fabrics and are super lightweight. So, while purchasing a new camping tent, make sure that it is made from one of these fabrics.

  • Waterproof Treatment

When you have purchased a water-resistant tent, the next step is to dig a little deeper. There are three types of waterproofing treatments for a camping tent –

  1. Durable Water Repellent: This chemical is sprayed onto the tent, enabling the water to flow down the fabric. It doesn’t let the tent soak but wears off ultimately. That’s why you have to reapply it every 3 to 6 months.
  2. Urethane Coating: This coating seals the tent interior so that there’s no soaking issue. It is a protective layer used after DWR has worn off.
  3. Seal Sealing: This is the final waterproofing layer, a thin polyurethane film. It is placed throughout the seams of a tent so that water cannot enter even through the minute holes.

Final Glimpse

Most tents are waterproof but their ability to hold water varies. This can always be improved by selecting the right fabric and waterproof treatment. Don’t forget to pitch the tent correctly so that your camping nights are fun (even in stormy weather).