Camping Accessories - The Camping Air Conditioner

Can you use a 3 season tent in winter? 6 Tips to make it possible!

Camping Accessories, Camping Tips, Tent Heater

Many first time campers are not aware of the multiple types of tents available today. They vary according to size, shape, fabric, weather specs, and other elements.

When it comes to weather conditions, 4-season tents are the ideal gear to bring for winter camping. However, a common question raised is: Can you use a 3 season tent in winter?

In short, yes, you can. But you will probably need to bring some extra camping gear and put some additional measures in place to ensure you do not freeze during a cold night.

Let’s go through them below.

What is the difference between 3 season and 4 season tents?

The 3 season tents are commonly used during spring, summer and autumn. They are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry around, fitting the need of any camper.

It commonly has meshed areas and walls to increase air circulation and allow for better temperatures during scorching days. Some models come with an instant setup, which helps them to be one of them the preferred option for many campers.

On the other hand, 4 season tents are designed for severe cold weather conditions and are commonly robust and sturdy. This kind of tent is manufactured to support heavy winter and snow conditions, which requires a strong structure (poles are reinforced).

Because of the insulation needs, they tend to use fabric with less breathability and fewer openings, which, as a consequence, significantly impact airflow through the tent.

3-Season Tent

4-Season Tent

Can you use a 3 season tent in winter?

If you already have a 3-season tent and don’t want to buy a new one, you probably wonder whether you can use it during the cold season, right?

Yes, you can. Even though they are not designed to deal with heavy winter, you can do some tricks to enhance their performance.

Some models, such as Forceatt Tent, are already coming with features that combine characteristics of both 3 and 4 season models.

For example, Forceatt Tent has its roof meshed, which is ideal for summer camping and optimal breathability.

At the same time, it also comes with a rainfly that can be installed to insulate the tent’s roof and serve as a windbreaker. It comes with robust aluminium poles that can bear light snow loads.

Forceatt Tent Rainfly

Forceatt Tent without rainfly

However, if you plan to camp in snowy conditions, we advise you to consider a 4 season model.

How to use a 3 season tent in winter?

To use a 3-season tent during winter, you must insulate it properly. There are several measures that you can do to help you with it, such as:

#1 - Using a tent insulation liner (and thermal blankets)

A tent insulation liner will help to create a thermal barrier that will avoid heat transfer from inside your shelter to the outside environment.

There are some inner tent models, such as Crua Outdoors Culla Maxx, that you can install inside your tent and ensure optimal insulation. It might be the case that Crua Outdoors Culla Maxx does not fit your tent. You can install an insulation shield with duct tapes and pegs, such as SmartShied.

Crua Outdoors Culla Maxx

SmartShied.

#2 - Insulate your tent floor

Your tent can quickly lose the warm air inside it through the floor. If you have a 3-season tent, it might be good to use reflective foam and foam tiles above your tent floor to ensure optimal insulation (as detailed in the picture below).

#3 - Use a smaller tent

The more spacious the tent, the more heat is required to warm it up. Hence, choose the smallest tent that can provide enough space for your trip

#4 - Bring an adequate sleeping bag

Be mindful that sleeping bags have different ratings directly related to the temperature levels they can handle. They are usually classified according to the EN13537 (European Norm).

When choosing your sleeping bag, make sure that it supports the temperature of your campsite. It is important to remember that using an extreme cold weather sleeping bag might not be suitable during mild winter conditions (you don’t want to be sweating all night long, right?).

#5 - Use a portable tent heater

Even if you use a 4-season tent, a portable tent heater is an excellent alternative to keep you warm during freezing nights in your shelter.

The article below details what kind of heaters you can use in a tent and what safety measures you should put in place when using them.

#6 - Pitch your tent at the perfect spot

Avoid setting your tent up in open areas with wind flow exposure. Look for locations with natural windbreakers, such as trees and even snow.

FAQ

How cold is too cold for camping?

Camping records show that people can camp in temperatures below minus 70 Fahrenheit. However, suppose you are not a very seasoned winter camper. In that case, we advise you not to risk yourself with temperatures below the 30-40 Fahrenheit (around 0-celsius degrees).

Conclusion

If you insulate it adequately, it is feasible to camp with a 3-season tent during winter. Some measures that we advise to consider when using 3-season models during freezing weather are:

a) Using a tent insulation liner
b) Insulating your tent floor
c) Use a smaller tent
d) Bring an adequate sleeping bag
e) Use a portable tent heater
f) Pitch your tent in a protected area

Be mindful that these measures have costs associated with them and mean extra gear for your trip. Take into account all the pros and cons of this approach and consider buying a 4-season tent if it looks like it will be too much hassle.

Have a warm camping.

Best tents for hot weather – 8 options to keep you cool!

Camping Accessories, Tent Air Conditioner

Tents have different materials, shapes, sizes, weights, coatings, and many other factors that might affect their suitability for you. With a wide variety of options available in the market, we understand that you might get confused when choosing the best tent for hot weather.

Thinking of that, we prepared this guide for you. After a thorough and extended review, we concluded that the best tents for hot weather are (keep reading below for a detailed review of each product):

Best option for family camping – Core 12 Person Extra Large Cabin Tent

Core 12 Person Extra Large Cabin Tent

Best canvas tent option (4,6, and 8 people) – Kodiak Canvas flex-blow

Kodiak Canvas flex-blow

Best option for backpackers and hikers – Hyke & Byke Zion Hiking & Backpacking Tent

Hyke & Byke Zion Hiking & Backpacking Tent

Best Budget-Friendly option – Coleman Sundome Tent

Coleman Sundome Tent

Best lightweight option (1-person tent) – TETON Sports Altos Tent

TETON Sports Altos Tent

Best pop up tent option for hot weather –Eackrola 2/4 person instant pop up tent

Eackrola 2/4 person instant pop up tent

Best Option with screen room – Wenzel Klondike 8 Person (w/ screen room)

Wenzel Klondike 8 Person (w/ screen room)

Best option with AC port –Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent

Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent

Best Tent for hot weather - product reviews

Best option for family camping - Core 12 Person Extra Large Cabin Tent

This is a spacious 12-person tent with a 16″ x 11″ floor space and a centre height of 86 inches. It features an extra-large wall straight wall that allows everyone to stand, stretch, and move comfortably in the tent.

CORE 12-person cabin tent has a waterproof rainfly which is removable to expose the mesh ceiling for amazing views.

It features an advanced venting system that uses adjustable air intake vents designed to draw in air from the ground while the mesh ceiling escapes the hot air, keeping your tent cool in the summer.

In addition, this tent option hot weather has front and back doors that make it simple to share the tent. You can use the front pull pane door for protection or the back-side D-door for simple access.

Pros

The tent is weather-resistant
It has extra-large interior space for the whole family
Spacious enough to fit 4-queen size air mattresses

Cons

It takes time to assemble.

Best canvas tent option (4,6, and 8 people)

If you are looking for a quality tent that can fit 4 to 8 people, Kodiak Canvas Tent Delux is one of the best options for summer camping.

It has large triangular windows on both ends and an extra window that offers additional ventilation and openness for views. This tent has stainless steel wire stake loops that give superior warmth and performance.

It is a spacious tent with a 6.1″ ceiling height that provides walk-around comfort, plus it has two D-shaped doors that offer simple access to the tent. This tent features a customizable gear loft and organizer pockets to store all essentials.

Pros

The tent is weather-resistant
It has extra-large interior space for the whole family
Spacious enough to fit 4-queen size air mattresses
Canvas has excellent breathability

Cons

Not fully waterproof
The vinyl floor has a strong smell.

Best option for backpackers and hikers

Hyke and Byke Zion Hiking & Backpacking is available in 1-person and 2-person versions, and it is the best tent for backpackers and hikers to enjoy all outdoor adventures.

It is built to be light sturdy enough to withstand all weather conditions. It packs into a compact 16.5″ x 5.5″ carrying bag, making it a suitable addition to your backpacking gear.

The tent has ventilation vents that allow maximum air circulation to keep the tent cool while keeping bugs out.

It won’t take you much time when it comes to assembly because it comes with everything you need for the job. The package has aluminium tent stakes, a removable gear lot, footprint floor cover, stake press, and reflective guy lines.

Pros

It comes with a spacious bag for carrying and storage
The tent is spacious and versatile
It keeps you safe from harsh weather conditions in summer
Great tent for the price

Cons

The floor material is thin and fragile
It is hard to get the contents back in the carrying bag.

Best Budget-Friendly option

Coleman Sundome is a long-lasting camping tent that can accommodate up to 4 individuals while still leaving space to stay comfortable.

This tent is suitable for camping in hot weather because it has large windows facilitating ventilation. Besides, the tent includes a ground vent that pushes warm air up and out to you comfortable even when it is scorching.

It includes a waterproof rainfly, welded corners, and inverted seams that prevent water from coming in, keeping you protected. The tent has a heavy-duty frame designed to keep the tent stable in all weather conditions. You won’t require much time when it comes to setup because it comes with everything you need.

Many campers love the Coleman Sundome tent because it has an affordable price that will suit any budget.

Pros

The tent is easy and fast to assemble
Good tent for any camper on a budget
Fitted with large windows and ground vent for ventilation

Cons

Nothing to report at the moment.

Best lightweight option (1-person tent)

When you are ready to enjoy beautiful places outdoors, the right tent will make all the difference. The Altos backpacking tent is lightweight but stable enough to handle all types of weather.

It has a rainfly that can be used as a shelter or sunshade, and it has reinforced anchor points that make the tent durable. The 3-in-1 backpacking tent packs down tight for camping and backpacking as well, and it is ideal for solo travellers.

It packs down to a compact size so that you can carry it anywhere. Its rainfly has vents for maximum airflow, and all the elements will be kept out, thanks to how the side walls are extended up. Overall, if you like camping alone, this is the best tent to purchase because it has ample space for one person.

Pros

The 1-person is lightweight and simple to setup
It is versatile and long-lasting
Well-ventilated to allow for airflow

Cons

Not ideal with strong passing wind or storms.

Best pop up tent option for hot weather

When looking for the best tent for hot weather, don’t forget Eackrola 2-person as a pop-up option. Whether you are an occasional holidaymaker, avid camper, or love outdoor activities, the pop-up tent is a must-have.

The pop-up tent will only take seconds to set up, and it is the best option for first-time campers. This tent measures 8.07 x 5.09ft, it has a centre height of 3.44ft, and the interior can accommodate up to 2 individuals.

It weighs 6.6lbs and folds compactly so that you can carry it anywhere and store it in tight spaces. Moreover, it comes with pre-assembled poles that set up the tent in seconds and a portable carrying bag.

Eackrola 2-person tent features two doors that will give you easy access, and it has extra mesh windows that will keep bugs and allow enough airflow. Overall, it is an excellent 1-person tent for hiking, camping, beach, car camping, and other outdoor activities.

Pros

The structure is stable
It has two doors and mesh for easy access and optimal airflow
Heavy-duty enough to tolerate moderate weather conditions

Cons

Folding this tent is hard and frustrating
Not suitable for taller adults.

Best Option with screen room

The Wenzel 8 Person Klondike Tent is an excellent option for summer camping. Its screen room and mesh on the walls provides maximum air circulation, ensuring optimal climate inside your tent.

Even though it is a big tent for eight people, one camper can easily set it up. Its screened area is removable, which might be the best option during rainy conditions. Further, it offers extra space for supply storage.

The tent offers plenty of space and has multiple mesh areas around it, ensuring constant fresh airflow inside it. The downside is its durability, which is compromised by fibreglass poles, and weak seams. However it is made of polyester with a polyurethane coating, ensuring excellent waterproofness.

Pros

Plenty of room with mesh areas
Great air circulation
Easy set up

Cons

Overall, we have concerns with its durability

Best option with AC port

Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent is a giant instant tent that can easily fit 3 queen airbeds and hold up to 12 people.

This tent is very easy to set up because of its pre-attached poles. You will only need to unfold and extend them. Everything is set for you to make your camping trip enjoyable.

It comes with two-room dividers, each with an AC port, allowing everyone to relax the tent without compromising privacy. The tent also comes with large mesh windows on the laterals, ensuring optimal ventilation.

With a considerable size, Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent has two separate doors that allow campers to access the shelter’s interior without disturbing others.

The tent is made of heavy-duty polyester that can withstand harsh weather conditions, and the doors have sturdy zippers. It has a decent ceiling height of around 80 inches, allowing tall to move inside easily.

Pros

Comes with room dividers with 3 separate rooms for privacy
Waterproof and durable
Spacious with lots of ventilation options
Comes with AC ports

Cons

It is a cabin tent and, therefore, it is not the best options for windy conditions.

Items you should consider before choosing your tent for hot weater

Some features that you should consider when looking for your summer camping tent are:

Dimensions – Overall, the bigger the tent, the better. More space will facilitate air circulation.
The number of openings – Check how many openings your preferred option has. Ideally, you would pick an option with lateral windows to ensure a fresh breeze.
Fabric – Tents are made of different materials, such as nylon, polyester, canvas, polycotton, cuben-fibre, etc. Generally speaking, Canvas tents offer greater breathability and lower heat retention.
Size and Weight – Even though there is no direct relationship between the weight of your tent and its ability to deal with hot weather, you should always consider mobility and portability as essential items for your research.

How to cool down your tent without an AC?

We have prepared a detailed article on how to cool down your tent without electricity. Simple measures that can help you are:

Choose the adequate tent fabric.
Choose the best location to pitch your tent
Set your tent up at the right time
Use battery and solar-powered devices
Use a reflective blanket.
Cool your body down
Watch for tent ventilation.
Forget about your sleeping bag.

FAQ

What is the best tent fabric for hot weather?

Overall, we recommend canvas fabric. This material has better breathability, offer outstanding insulation features, and has low heat retention. From our reviewed products, Kodiak Canvas flex-blow is an excellent alternative.

If you want to learn about tent fabrics, read our article on what tents are made of.

What color tent is coolest in hot weather?

We recommend lighter tones, such as white, yellow, light green, and so on. If you want to learn more about picking the best tent color for you, read this article.

How can I keep my tent cool?

You can use a tent air conditioner, evaporative coolers, camping fans. We have already written detailed posts about each option:

Can I install an AC unit in my tent?

Yes. There are no problems with it. However, we always recommend following safety instructions and ensure that you properly insulate your tent for your ac.

What is the best tent for tropical weather?

We recommend Eackrola 2/4 person instant pop up tent. It has wide openings that facilitate air circulation and fresh breeze inside your tent.

What is the best option for backpacking and hiking?

We recommend Eackrola 2/4 person instant pop up tent , Hyke & Byke Zion Hiking & Backpacking Tent, and Hyke & Byke Zion Hiking & Backpacking Tent. These are compact options that offer flexibility for outdoors adventures in small groups.

Conclusion

We hope that the information above helped you to choose your next tent for summer camping. Each camper will require different tent features and we tried to cover multiple requirements.

To summarise, in our opinion, the best tents for hot weather are:

Core 12 Person Extra Large Cabin Tent – Best option for family camping
Kodiak Canvas flex-blow – Best canvas tent option (4,6, and 8 people)
Hyke & Byke Zion Hiking & Backpacking Tent – Best option for backpackers and hikers
Coleman Sundome Tent – Best Budget-Friendly option
TETON Sports Altos Tent – Best lightweight option (1-person tent)
Eackrola 2/4 person instant pop up tent – Best pop up tent option for hot weather
Wenzel Klondike 8 Person (w/ screen room) – Best Option with screen room
Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent – Best option with AC port

If you have any doubts or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Dome tents vs Cabin tents – Which one you should pick?

Camping Accessories, Camping Tips

There is a wide range of tents in the market today. They vary according to their size, fabric, ability to handle weather conditions, and many other factors. Another crucial aspect you should consider before buying your next shelter is its shape. Apart from aesthetics, it can heavily influence your camping experience with it.

We have been asked this question many times: Which tent shape should I pick – a dome tent or a cabin tent? Our answer to this question is: it depends on some factors such as:

Camping conditions (rainy/windy x sunny conditions)
Desired space and portability (backpacking x family camping)
Price
Ease of setup
Preferred tent height

A dome tent usually works better for backpackers, casual campers and smaller groups who are after easy setup features. Overall, these tents perform better in rainy and windy conditions and are cheaper.

On the other hand, a Cabin tent offers plenty of room to accommodate you and your family. Some of them even come with room dividers, increasing privacy. Because of their structural arrangement, they tend to be bulkier, which translates into more expensive models.

Dome tents vs Cabin Tents - which one should you pick?

TL;DR – We have prepared a table that summarises which tent you should pick according to your requirements. For more details, keep reading the article and the FAQ section below.

What is a dome tent?

Dome structures were created around 100 A.D. by Roman engineers and architects. It is believed that the first dome structure was built in the Pantheon (Rome, Italy). Among the advantages of the dome as a structure, we can highlight the following: increased stability, use of less material, improved aerodynamics to deal with wind loads, and great aesthetics.

Because of these benefits, dome tents are probably the most common existing tent shape. It usually comprises flexible-curved poles that meet at the tent’s centre based on a square floor, providing a natural dome shape.

Dome tent

Advantage of dome tents

The advantages of dome tents are numerous:

It usually is a lighter tent because of its shape and structural benefits (it tends to use less material).
Since it uses less material, it tends to be cheaper.
Dome-shaped tents are known for their stability and better aerodynamics, resulting in better performance during rainy and windy conditions.
They can free stand without stakes.
Easy setup, disassemble and pack with plenty of pop up tent options.
Ideal for backpacking and hiking adventures

Disadvantage of dome tents

Some of the disadvantages of dome tents are detailed below:

The taller the dome tent, the more unstable it will be
Not ideal for large groups
Sloped walls reduce standing headroom

What is a Cabin tent?

Conversely to dome tents, the cabin models have straight walls and look like an ancient house with a cubic shape. Sometimes called wall tents, they tend to be heavier as they require more material and structure to become stable.

Their design provides campers with more space and headroom for movement, ideal for family or luxury camping (glamping). On the other hand, a drawback of this model is its poor aerodynamic performance, meaning that you might struggle with cabin tents during rainy and windy conditions.

Advantage of cabin tents

In short, the advantages of cabin tents are:

They provide you with plenty of space and headroom.
Some big tents even come with room dividers, which is great for privacy
Ideal for tall people and family camping
They usually have higher durability

Disadvantage of cabin tents

Among their drawbacks, we highlight:

It usually takes more time to set up, disassemble and pack (even though there are instant setup options these days).
They use more material, and, therefore, tend to be more expensive
Poor aerodynamics, with bad performance in rainy and windy conditions

FAQ

Which tent should I buy - a dome tent or a cabin tent?

As previously discussed, it depends. Both come with benefits and drawbacks. We recommend cabin tents for family camping and those after more room.

Pick a dome tent if you are keen on more versatility and easy set-up.

Which tent is better for windy conditions - dome tents or cabin tents?

Overall, dome tents tend to perform better in windy conditions because of their shape. There is a caveat, though – dome tents will become more unstable as they become taller.

Which tent is better for rainy conditions - dome tents or cabin tents?

Dome-shaped models help rainwater flow, ensuring better performance under rainy conditions.

Which tent is better tall people - done tents or cabin tents?

For more space and headroom, choose a cabin tent.

Which tent is more suitable for backpackers - dome tents or cabin tents?

Dome tents usually are smaller, lightweight, compact and easy to set up. Therefore, if you are a backpacker, hiker, or are camping in smaller groups, choose dome-shaped models.

Which tent is more suitable for family camping - dome tents or cabin tents?

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Is it possible to fit an AC in these tents?

Yes. You can fit an tent air conditioner in all these tents. However, we understand that mini ac will suit better dome tents, whereas window ac or portable ac units will suit better cabin tents.

Is it possible to use a heater inside these tents?

Yes. There is no problem in using a tent heater inside a dome or cabin tent. However, you should always pay attention to the following safety measures:

Ensure that you have a carbon monoxide detector in place
Make sure that there are overheating and tip-over auto-shutoff mechanisms

Verdict

As you have seen, the choice between dome tents and cabin tents will rely on many factors, such as:

Camping weather conditions
How big your camping group is
The need for space
Your budget.

There is not a better or worse option, but only the one that will suit you better. We hope this article has helped you wish you a happy camping trip!

What are tents made of? (And how to choose the best fabric!)

Camping Accessories, Camping Tips

Among the essential camping gear, tents are undoubtedly the number one. A tent will protect you from rain, wind, extreme sun, animals and be your relaxing spot after a long hike trail or great camping day.

When searching for the best camping tent, you will find many alternatives in the market. They will vary according to their size, price, special features, and many other options.

However, one of the crucial tent elements is its material. So, what are tents made of?

Overall, the materials used to manufacture tents are:

Polyester
Canvas/Cotton
Nylon
Others (polyester-cotton, DCF, etc)

Most tents are made from polyester, nylon, cotton. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks and might suit specific camping preferences and weather conditions. Overall, our recommendation is to choose a modern camping tent, with robust material yet lightweight.

If you want to choose a suitable material for your outdoor days, keep reading this detailed article. It presents all the advantages and disadvantages of each tent material, and we hope by the end of it you will be able to choose the most suitable tent for your needs correctly.

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

What are tents made of?

As previously mentioned, tents can be built with different materials. Currently, most tents are made from polyester, canvas, and nylon. Overall, these three materials can withstand adverse weather conditions, thanks to their robust coating on the surface.

However, each of them comes with specific characteristics that you should thoroughly evaluate before picking your preferred option.

Polyester - The Material

Polyester is the contraction of the term polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It is a synthetic material, which means that it was created by the human being to imitate a natural cloth. More specifically, the polyester was invented by British chemists around 1940 and it is still widely used different industries.

Originated from polymerization, polyester is made of petroleum derivatives, water and air, which are exposed to a long manufacturing process using different temperature and pressure conditions.

As a consequence, it comes with special features, such as:

Durability – Polyester fibers are robust and very difficult to tear. Overall, it is a chemical-resistant material and does not stretch, shrink, or wrinkle, retaining its shape. Therefore, if you pick a tent with this material, you should not worry about tent replacement anytime soon.
Waterproof – Due to its manufacturing process and the tight space between its fibers, polyester is hydrophobic and quickly dries. Thus, it suits well for outdoor clothing and gear manufacturing. However, these same features make the material less breathable, which can create a moisture trap inside your tent.
Easy maintenance – Because of the features mentioned above, tents made with this material are easy to clean and maintain. You can easily wash your tent and expects it to be dry in a matter of minutes.

Some of its drawbacks are:

Non-biodegradable – Unlike many natural fibers, Polyester is non-biodegradable, which means that it can take several years to decompose.
Rough texture – Depending on the manufacturing process, it can be coarse.
Overall, synthetic fibers are not resistant to UV rays and can deteriorate and wear off after prolonged sun exposure.

Polyester Tents

Polyester is the common material for tent fabrics. This material is affordable, and it can withstand different types of weather. As detailed before, polyester materials are incredibly durable and can come with additional coats to improve their performance, especially water resistance.

Advantages of polyester tents

It is lightweight. If you decide to purchase a tent made from polyester, you won’t have to worry about carrying it
Polyester does not shrink or get heavy when it gets wet. Even when it is wet, a polyester tent can be brought down and packed quickly, and it will remain lightweight.
Overall, it is one of the cheapest options.
It can easily maintain its stability and shape during rainfall or wind.
A polyester-made tent is water-resistant, making it ideal for rainy conditions. Because they don’t absorb water easily, they do not get saggy or heavy such that carrying will be hard.
The other plus of polyester tents is their superior resistance to UV rays.

Disadvantages of polyester tents

With a last of use, a polyester-made tent won’t serve you for long
Because the material is not breathable, you will see more condensation in your tent. Further, you can suffer from the heat trapped in your tent.
It doesn’t offer much insulation – you might need a tent heater or a tent air conditioner)
With excess exposure to harsh sunlight rays, the coating on the surface might be damaged, exposing you to UV rays.
Compared to nylon, polyester is less stretchable
It is non-biodegradable and made of a non-renewable resource. Therefore, it is not an eco-friendly solution.

Polyester tent - Our Recommendations

For up to 4 people – KAZOO Waterproof Backpacking Tent Ultralight 4 Person Lightweight

It Comes with two doors – easier access for multiple people.
Spacious and easily fits four campers.
Waterproof – ideal for rainy conditions.
Two porch areas, ensuring optimal camping conditions
Ceiling vents specifically designed to provide better ventilation.

For up to 10 people – CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent

Straight Walls with Spacious Interior – Move around freely in this giant tent.
Water Resistant Exterior – Durable polyester – 68D
Electric Access Ports – Easy to pass an power cable through to run your electrical devices.
Advanced Venting System – To keep your tent cool on warm evenings, the tent adjusts vent ports that draw cool air in from the ground and expels hot air out through a large mesh ceiling for ample cross-ventilation.

Canvas - The Material

Known for its durability, strength and sturdiness, the canvas is a plain-woven fabric made of cotton and linen. It can be blended with synthetic fibers and coats during its manufacturing process to improve its resistance to water infiltration. Combined these features offer a great outdoor fabric alternative.

The manufacturing process for canvas consists of firmly weaving yarns in a plain weave. The vertical threads are held on the loom, whilst the horizontal is introduced by crossing under and over the vertical warp.

A curiosity about Canvas:

Canvas is a derivative of the latim word “cannabis”, as it was firstly woven with cotton and hemp. Around 1500 BC, the Indians started to replace the hemp by cotton.

Because of its tightly woven yarns, the main characteristics of the canvas are:

Sturdiness and durability: It is a strong fabric and difficult to tear. Canvas is known for its heavy-duty features, presenting an excellent alternative for outdoor camping gear.
Waterproof – Canvas fabric has great waterproof features, enhanced by extra PVC coating layers. Some coating treatments can qualify the material with “marine grade”, allowing it to be used as sails and awning.
Heavyweight – Overall, this material is significantly heavier than nylon and polyester tents.
Breathability – The lack of space between the yarns and threads, make the material less breathable than other cotton alternatives.
Eco-Friendly – Major part of its composition is biodegradable (cotton)

Canvas tents

Overall, campers prefer canvas tents because of their heavy-duty features, which results from their weaving manufacturing process. Canvas tents are also an excellent insulator, ensuring optimal temperatures inside them.

Some people love its style and design, which creates a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere. These tents are generally used for glamping (luxury camping).

Advantages of canvas tents

Canvas-made tents are resistant to tear. The double-stitched construction makes it hard to cut, and even if a cut happens, two ply-threads prevent the propagation of the tear
The canvas material is the most sturdy, strong, and durable fabric in the market. With its unique weave construction, it can serve you for at least ten years.
Canvas material has good insulation that ensures you are comfortable in different weather conditions. Its heavy weave helps reduce heat, wind, and noise to make the tent’s interior cozy. Because of its insulation, it is known to be the most comfortable than most tents in the market.
Cotton can stay cool even in the hot summers, thanks to its low heat retention properties.

Disadvantages of canvas tents

The cotton canvas material is bulky, and it can’t be used comfortably by backpackers. However, they are the best when camping in a windy location.
Keeping in mind it is a heavy fabric. Therefore, you will need more heavy poles to keep it upright and stable. This makes them useless for light travelers and backpackers
Cotton canvas is a natural fabric that is prone to mildew and mold. Compared to other materials, maintaining a tent made from cotton canvas is difficult.
Tents made from cotton canvas can be “pricey”, making them unsuitable for occasional campers or those on a budget. Although this is understandable because they have unique characteristics that ensure it lasts long.
In extreme temperatures, cotton changes colors. Mostly, excess exposure to oil, heat, and dust cause cotton tents to turn yellow.

Our recommendation - Canvas Tents

For up to 8 people – TETON Sports Sierra Canvas Tent

Great waterproofness and breathability features
Extremely easy to set up
Different sizes to match your requirements (from 6 to 12 people)
Built-in ventilation ports to facilitate air circulation

Nylon - The material

Nylon is also a synthetic polymer made from oil derivatives. It is characterized by its exceptional strength, elasticity, and heavy-duty features. Because of these attributes, the material is used in a wide range of camping apparel, such as tents.

Nylon was created in the decade of 1930s by DuPont. During World War 2, Nylon was widely implemented in the military field, used to produce parachutes and military tents.

Similarly to polyester, it is created via a polymerization reaction, resulting in the following characteristics:

Durability – It has excellent durability, with good wearing and tearing resistance.
Elasticity – the material is highly flexible and able to stretch. Consequently, many sports brands have introduced it in its activewear composition.
Flammability – Even though it can melt if exposed to high temperatures, Nylon has low flammability.
Lightweight – The material is extremely light and easy to carry around.
Maintenance – It is effortless to maintain. You can wash it and let the material dry (it quickly dries)
Cost – It is a low-cost option compared to natural fibers (i.e. cotton/canvas). However, overall, it is more expensive than polyester.
Waterproof – The material is considered waterproof and can be used as outdoor furniture covers, tents, and tarps.

UV/Light Resistant – Nylon can be damaged by long exposure to Ultra-Violet rays. This means that its colour can fade with direct sunlight exposure, and the material can lose its strength and elasticity. However, it can be mixed with other chemicals to improve its performance and resistance.
Non-biodegradable – As previously detailed, its manufacturing process uses oil derivatives and chemical reactions, making it a non-biodegradable option

Nylon Tents

Nylon tents are lightweight, durable and affordable. They usually come with special coatings (polyurethane, silicone, or acrylic) to improve its resistance to different weather conditions.

However, they have limited insulation and might not be a good alternative for hot summer days. Further, as a polymer, it does not have great breathability, which might impact your comfort.

Advantages of Nylon tents

Nylon tents are stretchy and strong.
Compared to canvas and polyester fabrics, nylon material has a high strength to weight ratio. Meaning it remains stronger while being lightweight
Nylon-made tents require less maintenance. They don’t support the growth of mold and mildew, and they are the best for camping in damp areas. You can store them in your preferred spot during the off-season, and they won’t need much attention.
Nylon tents are abrasion-resistant. It can withstand any abrasive force in the wilderness.
Some nylon tents have a coating on the surface to resist harsh outdoor conditions.
Nylon alone is not entirely waterproof, but it is mixed with silicone to make SilNylon. This combination makes nylon waterproof and durable.
A great option for hikers and backpackers, as nylon tents are extremely light.

Disadvantages of canvas tents

Compared to polyester, nylon has a low condensation rate, and it is not breathable. If you decide to add a waterproof coating on the outside of the tent, breathability will be decreased. This leads a tent to be stuffy and uncomfortable on hot summer days.
Even though a nylon tent has some primary resistance to sunlight, when it is excessively exposed to UV rays, its protection layer weakens, and the tent can deteriorate. For instance, if you love to camp in high-altitude areas in the summer, your tent will be highly exposed to UV rays. So, consider getting a UV protection spray to reduce the exposure.

Our recommendation - Nylon Tents

For up to 3 people – Naturehike cloud up (1,2 and 3 campers options)

Lightweight tent, ideal for hiking and backpacking (2-person tent weights only 2kg!)
Easy to pitch and store
Naturehike is well-known for its outstanding quality.
Special designed vent ports, to improve air circulation.

Others

As the technology evolves, multiple material innovations appear to address campers problems. Hybrid tents combine different materials and leverage their best features. Some other options are detailed below.

Polyester-Cotton Tents

Polyester-cotton tents mix polyester and cotton. According to manufacturers, it finds the sweet spot for breathability, UV resistance, and waterproofness. Whilst the polyester helps with lighter weight and strength, the cotton brings breathability. Further, conversely to canvas tents, you won’t have mold problems.

Polyester-Cotton Tent – Psyclone Tents Fixed Floor for 6 or 8 people.

Cuben Fibers

Being also named Cuben Fiber (DCF) Tents, these tents are made of highly robust fibers. Overall, they are very light but also very expensive compared to nylon, polyester and canvas options.

They have outstanding waterproof features and are easy to carry, being ideal for hikers or backpackers. However, we do not recommend it being your first tent.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2

FAQ

What is the best tent for summer camping?

If you are camping in summer, you are probably after an option that can provide you with good insulation and breathability. Canvas tents are a great alternative, since they lower heat retention. Be mindful that these tents might be heavier!

What is the best Tent for winter camping?

Rather than recommending a specific material, we suggest checking the tent’s coating specifications. As previously shown, canvas tents offer better insulation, however there are multiple nylon and polyester options with great insulation coatings.

The challenge with polyester and nylon tents is that high humidity levels can cause condensation inside them. If you think you will still feel cold, you can have a look at tent heaters options.

What is best tent for rainy weather?

Nylon and polyester have better waterproofness when compared to other options. However, before buying them have a look at the tent coating specifications. There are numerous coating options, such as polyester urethane (PU), polyether urethane (PE), and silicon. This article details a comparison between PU, PE and silicon coatings.

You can also use Nikiwax, which is an easy to use technical cleaner with UV protection for cotton, canvas and synthetic tents. It cleans and improve waterproofness of your tent, and protects against UV rays.

What is the Best Tent for hiking and backpacking?

If you are backpacking or hiking, you will need a tent that is easy to transport and pitch. We recommend using nylon tents, given their lightweight and resistance. If you are an advanced camper and have an extra budget, have a go at DCF tents.

What is the cheapest tent?

Nylon tents tend to be the cheapest alternative. However, the prices will vary according to coating specifications, tent size, and many other factors.

What is the most expensive tent?

Tends made of Cuben Fiber/DCF tend to be the most expensive ones. The manufacturing process for this type of fiber is complex and costly.

Can you wash your tent? What is the easiest tent to maintain?

Nylon and polyester tents are easier to maintain and wash. They dry quickly and do not create mould. On the other hand, canvas tents require higher maintenance levels and constant monitoring to avoid mould growth.

Can you wash a tent in the washing machine?

We do not recommend washing your tent in the washing machine. It might damage and tear your tent.

Bottomline

We hope that by the end of this article, you have a clear understanding of what tents are made of. As discussed different tent materials will provide you with different advantages and disadvantages.

If you love camping, we recommend having more than one to suit your specific needs. Apart from the material, always check the coating specifications. They can also dramatically improve your experience under a tent.

Tent with AC Ports – What are the Best Options?

Camping Accessories, Tent Air Conditioner

Camping is one of the best ways to get outdoors and enjoy nature, but summertime can also be a bit uncomfortable if the weather is too hot. That’s why tents with AC ports are an excellent option for those who want to camp during the summer.

These tents allow you to keep cool and comfortable while you sleep, making for a much more enjoyable camping trip. Our recommendations for tents with AC ports are:

Bushnell Shield Series cabin – Best Medium-sized tent (6 people)

Bushnell Shield Series cabin

Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent – Best Large Family Camping Option (12 people)

Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent

The Wenzel Klondike 8-Person – Best option with screen room (8 people)

The Wenzel Klondike 8-Person

Coleman Elite Weather Master – Best Heavy-Duty option

Coleman Elite Weather Master

WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent – Best Luxury Tent with AC port

WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent

Let’s check the detailed review of each of them below.

Best Tent with AC ports - Our top recommendations

#1 Bushnell Shield Series 6-person Cabin Tent

The Bushnell Shield Series cabin is one of the unique shelters on the market with an AC flap for window AC units. It has a simple setup design with pre-attached holes,
allowing you to finish setup within 2 minutes.

This tent has a reflective coating on the underside of the rainfly, which helps block UV rays, helping the tent stay cooler and darker.

The Bushnell Shield Series cabin tent has an open floor plan with an 80-inch center height. It is tall enough for most campers to stand upright and walk around without hunching over with such a height.

It comes with two removable room dividers that allow you to create up to three separate sleeping spaces for up to 12 campers.

Moreover, it has storage compartments that can store all items you need. The tent comes with two AC vents for setting up the cooling system, and it has a built-in heat shield that makes the AC effective.

What you will love about this tent is its durability, and you can trust it all year round. It
is not only a good choice for summertime, but the waterproof construction makes
it great for use even in winter or cold months.

Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and durable tent for outdoor use, this tent is the
best to purchase.

Pros

Spacious tent, fitting tall and short campers
Storage pockets
Equipped with room dividers for privacy
It has heat shield technology that keeps tent cool

Cons

You can find cheaper alternatives
This tent is bulky

#2 - Ozark Trail 16x16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent

Here is another massive instant tent that can comfortably accommodate 3 queen airbeds and hold up to 12 people (Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent).

Setting up this tent is simple, thanks to its pre-attached poles, which only need to be unfolded and extended. Everything is set for you to make your camping trip enjoyable.

It is fitted with two-room dividers, each with an AC port, allowing everyone to relax the tent without compromising privacy. T

he tent has large mesh windows on the sides for ultimate ventilation and ensuring your tent stays cool. Its spacious design and room dividers make it an excellent choice for family and friends.

It is equipped with two separate doors that allow campers to get in and out of the tent without disturbing anyone’s privacy.

The tent is made of heavy-duty polyester that can withstand harsh outdoor elements, and the doors have sturdy zippers that provide simple access to the tent. It has a decent ceiling height of around 80 inches, allowing you to move inside comfortably.

Pros

It has 3 separate rooms for privacy
Includes rainfly that ensures your tent stays cool
Waterproof and durable
Spacious with lots of ventilation options

Cons

Not ideal for windy locations

#3 - Wenzel Klondike 8 Person Tent

The Wenzel Klondike 8-Person tent with AC port is best for large families or friends who love camping. It is worth investing in this tent because it can occupy eight sleeping bags or two queen-sized mattresses.

Wenzel 8-Person tent is fitted with zippered windows with inside flaps and a door that separates the entry room, helping add privacy in the tent.

It is well ventilated to keep you cool, including a seam-sealed fly which can be removed, mesh roof vents, and three side windows with zippers for simple access.

The tent has a fiberglass roof frame with steel uprights and corner elbows, making it strong. Besides, it includes a pin and ring to make the setup easy.

Constructed from polyester with a polyurethane coating, the tent can withstand the test of time without fading or tearing. Still, it has double-stitched seams and all fabrics that will stop water from getting inside the tent, making it great for using all year around.

The entry room has mesh walls that provide adequate airflow, and it can be zipped to act as spacious. It has accessory pockets sewn into the tent walls, and you can use them to stash small and essential items.

Pros

Spacious and Comfortable
Waterproof and durable material
Multiple ventilation points

Cons

It takes time to set up
Tent does not come with a cord access port

#4 - Coleman Elite Weather Master 6 Tent

Here is another family-friendly tent designed for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping. The Coleman Elite Weather Master is 6 feet 8 inches tall, making it high for taller people to move comfortably inside. Furthermore, the floor size is enough to fit two queen-size mattresses with more room for other gear.

It has built-in LED lighting that offers illumination for 81 hours on three different settings. You can use the light for hands-free studying maps for the next day’s hike. Other than that, there is an E-port for connecting your portable air conditioner.

Coleman Elite WeatherMaster tent has an illuminated wall switch that allows you to choose between high, low, and nightlight modes on the CPX 6-compatible LED light. The LED lighting operates on powerful 4 D-cells or a CPX 6 cartridge.

There is an included rainfly that smoothly attaches for weather protection. The construction of this tent is heavy-duty, where it has inverted seams that increase weather resistance a wind-responsive frame with guy-out angles, and poles. What’s more, it has a welding technology that strengthens the floor and eliminates needle holes.

You will love this tent because it has a bug-free area that allows you to have a peaceful nap or sleep other than having AC ports.

Pros

Built-in illumination
Water-resistant, fade-resistant, and extremely durable
Spacious interior
Massive screen porch that gives extra living space and gear storage

Cons

Not suitable for using when scorching
Tent does not have instant setup system

#5 - WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent

WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent our preferred luxurious tent model. You can choose from different sizes, which can acommodate up to 10 campers – refer to the image below to better understand potential arrangements for beds.

With lateral openings, electric ports, and internal pockets, an AC unit can be installed easily. It comes with a tremendous value-for-money relationship when compared to other luxury tents.

Its structure is sturdy and comes with galvanized steel poles. Another impressive feature is its double-stitched seams with reinforced corners for added strength – this model is very resistant.

We also love the sophisticated and modern design! The tent is made of duck cotton canvas, with excellent waterproofness and optimal insulation.

Pros

The tent is spacious and comfortable
It has vents for ventilation that will facilitate window AC installation
Easy set-up
Great Brand

Cons

It is heavy

FAQ

Can you put a window AC in a tent?

Yes, you can. We wrote an article detailing how to do it – you can read it here.

Make sure that you choose the adequate AC size and properly insulate your tent!

Which are the best AC options to use in a tent?

Different types of ACs can be used in a tent – you can read our detailed guide on how to choose the best tent air conditioner for you. Overall, you can choose between window AC and Portable AC options.

A portable AC offers you the flexibility to install it anywhere in the tent, and it doesn’t need much work to set up. However, It takes longer to cool a tent and it is not that effective in a hot climate (check the best battery-powered tent air conditioners reviewed by us)

A window AC is more effective and reliable. The drawback comes when we are talking about portability and installation requirements.

Can I make a DIY AC port on my existing tent?

Yes, you can. However, while it is easy to make an AC hole in your tent, it is not a great idea not unless you have confidence in your sewing skills.

If you don’t have enough precision and adequate skills, you will end up making unnecessary holes in your tent fabrics, leading to leaks and potential permanent damages to your equipment.

We recommend sticking to the options shown in this post.

Is there an mini AC unit for small tents?

Yes, there are multiple alternatives available in the market. We recommend Evapolar Evachill. It is a very efficient device that can USB power supply. Read our detailed review of this product.

How to insulate my tent for AC?

We recommend considering the following points:

Use a tent tarp
Use duct tape and/or pool noodles to suppress any minor leakage
Insulate your tent floor
Cover your tent with thermal blankets
Check your tent material
Use a tent with AC Ports

If you want to read a detailed guide for each of these points, read out our article on insulating a tent for AC.

Can an AC cause fire in my tent?

No, it can’t cause a fire. It is entirely safe to use a camping tent with an AC port along with an air conditioner in your tent.

However, make sure all the wiring is intact and done perfectly. Ensure you follow all the safety measures of using an AC in a tent.

Is there and DIY Tent Air Conditioner Solution?

Yes, there is. We have prepared a detailed step-by-step approach to build your DIY camping air conditioner in this article.

What is the perfect size for my tent?

The capacity of your tent will depend on how many campers you are hosting and the gear you have. The best tent should have ample headroom to help tall campers move comfortably in the tent.

Besides, it should have enough floor space to accommodate all your gear. So, depending on the number of campers you are hosting and your equipment, you will decide which capacity to choose.

We recommend having at least 25% extra capacity (i.e. if you are camping in a group of 4 people, having a tent for 5 or 6 would be ideal).

How to cool my tent without electricity?

These measures will help you have a cooler tent:

Choose the adequate tent fabric
Choose the best location to pitch your tent
Set your tent up at the right time
Use a battery-powered air conditioner
Use solar-powered devices (solar AC or Camping Fans)
Use a reflective blanket
Cool your body down
Watch for tent ventilation
Forget about your sleeping bag
DIY Tent Air Conditioner

Read our detailed guide on each tip on this post.

Verdict

After reviewing all the options available in the market, we found that these four alternatives are the best. Do not hesitate to buy the following models according to your requirements:

Bushnell Shield Series cabin – Best Medium-sized tent (6 people)
Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person Instant Tent – Best Large Family Camping Option (12 people)
The Wenzel Klondike 8-Person – Best option with screen room (8 people)
Coleman Elite Weather Master – Best Heavy-Duty option / Medium-sized tent alternative
WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent – Best Luxury Tent with AC port

We hope this article has helped you on your choice – if you have any doubts, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Happy summer camping!