Looking for a wild adventure? Winter camping can be the wildest experience of your life. Without the best tent for winter camping it can be an almost impossible mission. Extreme weather, difficult paths, and frozen ground are few of the oppositions that you will need to tackle.
To save you the hassle of struggling to find the best tent for winter camping, we have prepared a list of top 8 tents for winter camping.
Buyer’s Guide
There are many factors that should be considered while buying a tent. We have mentioned some for your guidance:
Weight & Packed Size
The latest tents are rather lightweight as compared to the old tents. The use of modern technology has helped in making them portable. On such harsh weather trips, always prefer a tent with less weight and a packed size. As you may need to climb mountains or walk for hours.
Size and Layout
For a single person, a tent with a space of 30 to 40 square feet is perfect. A person with average height needs a space of 20 square feet. The rest of the space can be utilized to place other camping stuff. Around 80 square feet is more than enough for a two-person tent.
Peak Height
If you don’t want to hit your head on the top of the tent every time, then consider a tent with more peak height. A tent with extra height also improves the overall space of the tent. On a long trip, it can get frustrating and almost feel suffocating if you are stuck in small tent. Tent with an extra height gives the feel of a mini room.
Vestibule
Vestibule is another important element to have in a tent. It is very useful for camping in winter. You can change your wet clothes there before entering the tent. Also, you can use it to cook food. Sometimes due to wind, it is easy to ignite a fire inside the vestibule. However, you need to be extra careful during this process. Your little negligence can burn your whole tent.
Doors
If you have to share your tent with someone then prefer a tent with two doors. One door causes many problems for both multiple people. You also get an extra vestibule with a second door. S
Waterproofing
No one wants to stay in a wet tent in winter. Weather is always unpredictable, so buy a tent that can withstand heavy rain. There are several tents available in the market that are built using waterproof material. Our list features some of the best waterproof tents as well.
List of the top 8 best tents for winter camping:
1. ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian 2-Person Tent – best tent for winter camping
Key Features:
- Material: Polyester
- Manufacturer: ALPS Mountaineering
Tents with assembly are always frustrating to manage. No one wants to waste excessive time just assembling a tent. Luckily, the Tasmanian two-person tent has been manufactured to save your time. As it can be set up in a matter of minutes.
Furthermore, as it is a waterproof tent. You will never have to worry about getting wet in the rain. With two doors, it offers two vestibules. Which have the capacity to manage the luggage of two people. The tent has been made from a very durable material. So, its reliable for use in all types of weather. However, some reviews suggested that it is not the best option for higher altitudes. All in all, from our research, we can safely say it is one of the best tents for camping in winter.
Pros
- Headroom of size 46 inches
- Extra storage
- Affordable
- Zipper windows for ventilation
- Durable material
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not recommended for higher altitudes
2. Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 and 3 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent – the best portable winter tent
Key Features:
- Material: 20D Nylon
- Manufacturer: Naturehike
Naturehike Cloud has been manufactured with a high-quality material. A 20D nylon mesh is used in the product that is scratch proof. Moreover, the company offers a lifetime guarantee so, one can invest in this product without any hesitation.
It can withstand extreme weather. The silicon material used in it helps in protecting it from rain. And it is UV-resistant as well. It is quite easy to set up. As it is lightweight it can be carried around anywhere effortlessly.
One shortcoming that may be somewhat upsetting is the height of the tent. It is not as tall as some of its competitors so, it can be somewhat inconvenient.
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to set up
- Affordable
- Various color choices
Cons
- Not as tall
3. GEERTOP Backpacking Tent for 2 Person 4 Season Camping Tent – affordable tent for winter camping
Key Features:
- Material: Polyester
- Manufacturer: GEERTOP
If you are planning on going to an area that faces a lot of rainfall, then this can be a decent option. It has been manufactured with high-quality, waterproof material. Moreover, it is a lightweight product which makes it a portable tent. UV resistance ensures that people residing in the tent are safe. It has enough space that two people can co-exist comfortably in it without any issue. It can be easily be set up even by a single person. Durability is one of the major features of this tent. Regular tents do not survive the regular wear and tear that comes with harsh weather. And become useless after one season. But this tent stays season after season as it has been made built to last. It features double doors that allow easy entrance and exit. And the two windows enhance the ventilation so, there is no sense of suffocation. It delivers great service for an affordable price. However, some users found the tent not as spacious. Another thing that could pose a problem is the zipper. As it not as durable, as we would like it to be.
Pros
- Affordable
- Waterproof
- Double door tent
- Durable
Cons
- Breakable zipper
- Less space
4. Black Diamond Eldorado Tent – waterproof tent for winter camping
Key Features:
- Material: ToddTex Fabric
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
Black Diamond Eldorado is one of the most used tents available in the market. It is specially designed for seasoned climbers. With extra space, it can easily adjust with tall users. It also offers excessive space for luggage. Basically, it has been designed for two people. Therefore, it is the first choice of many pairs. Other notable features of the tent are a single door and aluminum poles. These poles allow easy, hassle-free set-up of the tent. If you are looking for a product that withstand harsh weather than the Black Diamond Eldorado is our recommendation. This tent is fully capable of handling rainy weather. However, this tent lacks a vestibule and a groundsheet which can be a deal breaker for some people. But if these shortcomings do not bother you than this tent can be a fine choice
Pros
- Sufficient headroom
- Double-stitched layers
- Easy setup
- Waterproof
Cons
- Vestibule and groundsheet are missing
5. Black Diamond Firstlight 2-Pack Tent – Lightweight winter tent
Key Features:
- Material: NanoSheild Fabric
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
Firstlight is another quality product from Black Diamond. It has been designed to accommodate two people at the same time. It offers optional vestibule luggage which can be a great convenience. It takes almost no time to set up thanks to the Dac Featherlite pole. This leaves enough time enjoy other activities that will serve as great memories for future. Furthermore, zipper panels made from mesh ventilate the tent well. Floors are a great concern for most people as most tents lack in this regard. However, with Black Diamond Firstlight there are no such worries as its floor has been specifically designed to ensure maximum comfort. Some users found the tent not as spacious as to cater to two people and luggage. However, whatever this tent lacks in space. It makes up for in price. It is quite affordable but can be a bit small for taller people.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Very good breathability
- Affordable
Cons
- Less space
6. High Peak South Col 4 Season Backpacking Tent – 3 person tent for winter camping
Key Features:
- Material: Nylon
- Manufacturer: High Peak
At only 9.7 pounds, the High Peak South Col 4 Season Backpacking Tent is one of the lightest products featured on our list. It is spacious enough for three people which makes it perfect to be used when camping with close friends. It is a high-quality, durable, and water-resistant product that has been made from 100% nylon. Furthermore, for better ventilation, it includes five zippers. As mentioned earlier it has been designed for three people so setting it up should not be a problem. With its easy setup mechanism, it only takes 5 minutes. It is highly spacious, so it never feels stuffy. However, while its spacious, its not as tall and be a tad bit uncomfortable for tall people.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Good ventilation
- Best for three persons
Cons
- Less height
7. Moose Racing Basecamp Base Camp 6 Person, 4 Season Expedition-Quality -Backpacking Tent
Key Features:
- Material: Polyester
- Manufacturer: Moose Country Gear
Moose Racing Basecamp is very easy to set up. It is suitable for a winter trip. It includes a vestibule that has a capacity of 42″ to accommodate extra luggage. Aluminum poles included in the package are the reason why it is very easy to set it up. It is suitable for all weather conditions. Its two doors and vents provide extra ventilation. Some other important accessories are also part of the package such as a rain cover, carry bag and stakes. It is easy to carry as it only weighs 9.5 pounds. However, some users were not happy with the material of the tent. As it is not waterproof. But if you tend to camp at areas that have less rain-fall then this product will work just fine.
Pros
- Easy setup
- Two doors
- lightweight
Cons
- No waterproofing
8. Crua Duo Combo Tent – Waterproof Hiking Camping Durable, Breathable Insulated Expedition Setup, 2 Person Tent
Key Features:
- Material: Polyester
- Manufacturer: Crua Outdoors
Crua Duo Combo Tent is an ideal tent for two people. You can carry it with you whether you are planning on fishing, hunting, or a just relaxing other camping trip. High-quality material has been used to manufacture these tents. Moreover, the tent is waterproof, and has exceptional breathability. In winter it is crucial to own a tent that keeps you warm. The Crua Duo is perfect in that respect since, it is one of the best insulated tents on the list. Furthermore, it can be used separately or combined to make a single tent. Its light blocking material ensures you get to sleep in without the sunlight piercing right through. However, it may be a bit difficult to carry for backpackers as it is a bit heavy weight.
Pros
- Versatile
- One can also combine it
- Insulated
- Light is blocked
- Easy to use
- Waterproof
Cons
- Heavy in weight
- Difficult to carry for backpackers
Conclusion
The first thing after deciding the place for a camping trip is to choose the most suitable tent. If you are planning to go on a camping trip in winter, it is not easy to stay in an ordinary tent. A special tent is required that can withstand the bad weather and can keep you warm. To help you with this mind-boggling task we have prepared a list of top tents. Choose the tent that suits you best and get ready for a wild experience.
FAQs
- What is the best tent for winter camping?
ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian tent is best for winter camping. According to our research, it has all the major features that are necessary for a good tent such as being spacious, waterproof, and durable. Capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions - What is the vestibule in a tent?
Vestibule is like a porch of a house. It is there to accommodate extra luggage. - What weight is suitable for a tent?
Always prefer a lightweight tent for camping. As you will have to carry it with you. - How many doors should be there in a tent for two persons?
Preferably, there should be two doors. With two doors both people have a separate entrance. Also, it helps with the ventilation. - Is a 4-season tent a good option for winter?
Yes, it is the best option for winter. A 3-season tent cannot withstand the weather conditions of winter camping. - Is it important to buy a waterproof tent?
Yes, you should always buy a waterproof tent. Weather is unpredictable and waterproof tent can prove to be useful in harsh conditions such as rain.
Sources:
https://thehikingadventure.com/
https://effortlessoutdoors.com/