Camping has always been one of the most popular outdoor activities. However, it can be a little overwhelming just to go outside during winter, let alone going on a camping trip. But let’s say you decide to do it anyway. You’d want a winter tent. You have so many options and you might not know which one to choose. Tents for winter may vary in size, price, and durability. But don’t you worry! We’ve come up with a list of 13 best tents for winter. And adventurers can choose the best to fulfill their needs!
How to Choose the Best Tents for Winter Camping
There are a couple of factors you should consider before buying one. For example, how many people you plan on taking on the trip, how easy it is to set up, and your budget. Just like everything else, some products are better than others. Here are 5 key features to check before getting a winter tent:
Water and snow resistance
Are you planning a family camping trip? Do you go on outdoor adventures often? Is the tent for a backyard camping? Whatever your plans are, these things need to be considered when picking a winter tent. Each winter tent is made with different capacity and resistance. Some of them are for rainy winter, and others are designed to tackle snowy days. Or if you prefer, get those suitable for all types of weather and season. That being said, camping expertise recommends choosing a 4-season tent. These types of tents tend to be extra durable.
Size
As mentioned earlier, tents can vary in size. Some tents fit 1 or 2 persons. On the other hand, some can fit up to 10 persons. When buying one, consider how many people you’re planning to take. Parents could pick one that’ll fit the entire family. So, a bigger one would be the best option. But those planning a romantic hike could get away with a smaller tent. One thing you should consider: size does not affect temperate. Each type of winter tent can retain heat all night long no matter the size.
Accessories
Just picking a tent can be difficult, and choosing accessories is even harder. Especially when it’s your first tent. To avoid this, make sure each purchase comes with everything you need to set it up. Most winter tents include accessories, such as footprints, stakes, and stuff bags or sacks. But some only include the tent. So, our advice to you is to check what each tent includes. And the more camping accessories, the better. This helps novice campers and campers in general. This also means scoring a better deal.
The setup process
This aspect is one of the most important things. Even if you get the best quality tent, it won’t matter if you don’t set it up well. To avoid this, try to get a tent that is known for its easy setup. Also, make sure it has instructions or a manual. Surprisingly, some of the tents don’t include them. Another thing to consider is the number of persons needed to arrange it. Some tents can be easily set up by 1 person, while others require more.
Weight
Finally, you also want to consider how much the tent weighs. As they vary in size, they also vary in weight. Bigger tents tend to weigh more. However, smaller winter tents can also be heavy. It depends on the material they’re made of. For example, winter tents for alpine expeditions have more layers, which means more weight. But tents for rainy winter weather are usually lighter. Also, if you plan on walking to your campsite, a lighter tent would be best. But if you’re planning on driving there, a heavier tent won’t be a problem.
PlayDo 4-Season Waterproof Cotton Canvas Bell Tent
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The first tent on our list is from PlayDo. It’s an all-seasons tent, which is great for wintertime. One of its best features is the stove hole. And you can easily cover it when not in use. A hole for electric cable is also provided. It’s one of the biggest tents and can fit 4 double mattresses. So, comfort and luxury are assured. But if less space is needed, it also comes in various sizes that fit everyone’s needs.
PlayDo 4-Season Waterproof Cotton Canvas Bell Tent comes with a carry bag. It’s big enough to fit the tent and your essentials. Material-wise, the tent is made of 300gsm waterproof cotton fabric. This material can withstand wind, moderate rain, and light snow. For good air circulation, it comes with top air vents and four windows. Each is equipped with SBS zippers. A roll-up sidewall and a frame door are parts of the design too. Lastly, the tent’s center pole ensures sturdiness.
What We Love
Keeps you warm and safe while maintaining its cool design!
Pros:
- Easy setup
- Plenty of space inside
- Includes a fire-resistant stove hole
- Sturdy
- Waterproof and windproof
Cons:
Not suitable for extreme snowy weather.
Naturehike Ultralight 4 Season Backpacking Tents
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Naturehike Ultralight 4 Season Backpacking Tent is one of the best tents for winter. It’s considered is a lightweight tent with 2.34lbs of weight. And even with the snow skirt, it only weighs 2.45lbs. Its ultralight characteristic makes the tent great for backpacking. The dimension is 82.6 x 33.4 x 37.4 inches, yet it’s easy to carry. The setup instruction is available inside the carry bag.
It’s designed with two air convection skylights at the top to ensure effective airflow. Small magnets around the tent door provide automatic closure. Its setup is one of the easiest and you can do it yourself. The tent is made of nylon coated silicon, which helps prevent water from seeping in. A rainfly and footprint are also included, both from the same material. All of these characteristics make this tent a great option for solo travelers.
What We Love
Easy, light, and cozy, great for backpackers.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Includes footprint
- With UV 50+ sun protection
- Only takes 5 minutes to set up
- Water, wind, and snow proof
Cons:
It comes in a 1-person size only.
BaiYouDa Backpacking Tent
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BaiYouDa Backpacking Tent could easily be the best tent for camping in winter. It’s a very versatile tent. It’s perfect for all seasons, especially for winter, thanks to the included snow skirt that makes it snow proof. Its simple doom tent can be effortlessly set in a few minutes. It features an outer layer that if not in use serves as a storage space. The tent is made of 210T polyester and B3 Nylon airy mesh combined. It also comes with 2 aluminum poles that ensure stability.
One of its best features is its water-resistant and sand-proof features. Size-wise, it’s super portable with 5.9lbs of weight. It measures 6.3 x 6.3 x 18 inches. For better air circulation, it comes with dual doors and a ventilation window. All these make it great for hiking, climbing, or backyard camping. Lastly, this tent is suitable for every type of camper.
What We Love
It’s perfect for any outdoor trip.
Pros:
- Sediment and dust resistant
- Double door design
- Snowproof
- With UV protection
- Quick setup
- Available in two colors.
Cons:
It doesn’t include stuff sack.
Eureka! K-2 XT Backpacking Tent
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If you’re looking for a tent for extreme weather conditions, this one will do. Eureka! K-2 XT Backpacking Tent has everything you need. It’s specifically made to be durable. The roomy interior measures 52sq. ft. and fits 2-3 persons. It also features an organizer wall and some loops for gear. The tent is 4ft. tall when expanded and weighs 11lbs. Also, it includes poles, stakes, and guidelines needed to set up.
It comes with rainfly to keep water and snow out. Made with a StormShield Plus protection, the fly has a great water-resistance feature. Besides, it protects you from raindrops going in and out. Four zippered tent vents are also included, two on the roof and two on the fly. Do you consider yourself an adventurer? Well, this is the perfect tent for you!
What We Love
This tent can withstand any kind of weather!
Pros:
- Includes an organizer wall
- All weather-proof
- Equipped with rainfly
- Good air ventilation
- Sturdy
Cons:
It doesn’t include a footprint.
HIKERGARDEN Tent-8-Person-Camping-Tents
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This tent is the best option for big families. It’s also one of the biggest available on the market. You can even stand up inside. Its dimensions are 14 x 9 x 6 feet. And it can fit 3 queen air mattresses. Or if you prefer sleeping bags for camping, this tent can fit up to 8 of them. Due to its size, the tent works better for outdoor adventures.
HIKERGARDEN Camping Tents are made of 1000mm polyurethane hydrostatic, making them completely water-resistant. This material also provides a more durable quality. A separate curtain is included if you want divided rooms. Even better, the curtain can be used to project movies! The tent includes one 2-way zipper and poles that allow easy setup. Therefore, only 2 people are needed for it. A carry bag is also provided to ensure easy packing and storing.
What We Love
So big, even the family pets can fit inside! Your four-legged babies don’t even need an extra camping tent for dogs.
Pros:
- It comes in 3 different colors
- Waterproof
- Divided rooms
- It comes with a carry bag
- Includes rainfly and storage
Cons:
Not suitable for snowy winter.
Black Diamond Eldorado Tent
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Black Diamond Eldorado Tent is a classic 2-person compact tent. Despite its size, it has enough room to fit taller campers or extra gear. The tent dimension is 87 x 51 x 51 inches and it weighs 4.41lbs. Its weight is perfect to assure stability but isn’t too heavy to carry on a backpacking trip. Eldorado tent is great for all types of harsh weather, even when it’s snowing and freezing. It also comes with a compact footprint that protects the tent’s ground.
It features a single door and two zippered vents at the top. The two internal aluminum poles provide easy setup. This simple design makes Eldorado tent one of the most stable for windy days. Also, it’s what makes it one of the best tents for winter. If you’re willing to spend more, this tent should be your choice.
What We Love
For extreme adventurers, the Eldorado tent is the best choice.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Includes footprint
- Completely waterproof
- Can withstand heavy snow
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons:
More expensive than most of the best tents for winter camping.
Eureka! Alpenlite XT Backpacking Tent
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Once again, Eureka! has made it to the list. This time it’s the Eureka! Alpenlite XT Backpacking Tent. This tent can withstand all types of weather, including snowstorms. It features a six-pole A-frame design to ensure sturdiness. Yet, its design provides easy setup, even during harsh weather conditions. Just like any other Eureka! tents, this model comes with a StormShield rainfly. This guarantees not only rain but snow protection too.
Each purchase includes storage options such as pockets, a gear loft, and a flashlight loop. The tent’s floor size is 7ft.6 in. x 4ft. 6in. and it weighs 7lbs. You will get additional accessories like poles, clips, stakes, and guylines. It also comes with a carry bag that fits all the accessories. A cold-weather PU transparent window is located at the top, providing extra lighting. Because of this, it could be considered the best tent for camping in winter.
What We Love
Harsh weather is never an excuse for Eureka!’s tents.
Pros:
- Includes rainfly
- Bright interior
- All weather-proof
- Has storage options
- It comes with a carry bag
Cons:
It only fits 2 persons.
Forceatt Camping Tent
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Forceatt Camping Tent is a tent designed with two D-shaped doors and vestibules. Depending on the size, up to three persons can fit in. It weighs 5.5lbs with 88.6 x 53.1 x 43.3 inches dimension. Due to its lightweight characteristic, it’s highly recommended for backpacking trips.
The tent includes a welded floor design to protect it from getting wet. It also contains a full-coverage rainfly that adds extra protection. The setup can be done in a few simple steps and takes only around 3 minutes. The 7001 series aluminum poles and guyline provide wind resistance and protection. You can count on a snag-free experience with the zippers it brings. Finally, micromesh is included at the top. Get ready for some awesome stargazing from the comfort of your tent!
What We Love
Great quality and budget-friendly.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Waterproof and windproof
- Two sizes are available
- It comes in 4 colors options
- Includes stuff sack
- The setup only takes 3 minutes
Cons:
Not suitable for snowy winter.
HILLMAN Lightweight Backpacking Tent
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This HILLMAN tent is great for outdoor camping adventures. It comes with two doors and a double layer. It’s made of waterproof materials with double stitched seams and sealed taps. Say goodbye to those annoying water leaks! The inner tent material is 210T breathable polyester and fine nylon mesh for comfort purposes. It also includes two aluminum poles required for its setup. HILLMAN Season Lightweight Backpacking Tent is a great wintertime tent indeed!
Despite its 3-person restriction, the interior has enough space to fit an air mattress. The design provides easy setup. Also, a carry bag, flysheet, and windproof reflective ropes are included in every purchase. The tent’s stable frame produces a comfortable environment for everyone in it. It’s also lightweight (only 5.6lbs) and portable, making it perfect for traveling. Feel free to take one of the best tents for winter anywhere!
What We Love
Whether you’re a hiking, climbing, or camping person you can always count on this tent.
Pros:
- Available in 2 sizes
- Excellent wind resistance
- With UV protection
- Includes carry bag for tent and accessories
- Warranty of up to 24 months after purchase
Cons:
Only for rainy winter days.
ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr Tent
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ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr Tent is a free-standing tent for camping. It’s considered one of the best tents for winter for many reasons. First, the setup is quick and easy. The two aluminum poles guarantee its sturdiness. Second of all, it’s made of polyester, providing UV protection and a water-free experience. Also, this tent features a polyester rainfly for extra protection. The two vestibules are great for extra storage space.
There are two doors, one on each side. Forget about bumping others just to get out! The mesh walls and doors provide good air ventilation. Its dimension is 6.2 x 7.5 ft. and it weighs 6lbs. Up to three persons can fit in it. The interior is equipped with convenient storage pockets and a gear loft.
What We Love
Comfort, protection, and a cool design all in one.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- It comes with storage pockets and gear loft
- Plenty of head space inside
- Great ventilation
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
It doesn’t include a footprint.
FLYTOP Double Layer Backpacking Tent
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FLYTOP Double Layer Backpacking Tent is one of the best tents for winter. Cataloged as a 3-4 season tent, it can withstand any weather, even heavy rain or snow. It’s suitable not only for regular camping but also hiking. A double layer protects the tent. And it features two zippered doors to ensure comfort. Double-stitched and tape-sealed seams guarantee its water resistance. It comes in two sizes fitting from one up to four persons.
With 5.9lbs of weight, it’s a great option for all adventurers, especially backpackers. It comes with a practical design that allows for easy installation and dismantling in no time. It requires only two aluminum poles and includes convenient snappy clips. When packed in the carry bag, it’s only is 6.3 x 6.3 x 18 inches wide. Lastly, its best feature is probably the center hanger. Hang a small LED lantern on it, and you’re set for an intimate dinner inside the tent.
What We Love
Not even harsh snow can stop this tent from ensuring your comfort.
Pros:
- Easy setup
- All weather-proof
- UV protection
- It comes with 2 doors
- Lightweight
- Includes carry bag
Cons:
Small compared to other tents of the same capacity.
GEERTOP Backpacking Tent
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GEERTOP Backpacking Tent is probably the best tent for camping in winter. It’s a 4-season lightweight tent and is completely waterproof. It’s made from rugged 210T anti-tear checkered polyester that endures wear and abrasions. This material also allows snow and rain to glide off faster. The special coating of the tent provides UV protection. The seams are not only double stitched but also sealed. Hence its super water resistance.
The tent comes with a double layer feature for extra weather protection and ventilation. Also, these are removable, so you can use one of them for extra privacy. This GEERTOP tent fits up to four persons. A great option for a small family! Due to its design, it can be set up by one person and it takes no time. On top of all, it includes a stuff sack that makes it easier for traveling and packing.
What We Love
It assures warmth during great adventures for all family members.
Pros:
- UV resistant
- It comes with a double layer tent
- Two colors are available to choose from
- Stuff sack included
- All weather-proof
Cons:
It only comes in one size.
Coleman Sundome Tent
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Finally, we’ve reached the top of our list with Coleman Sundome Tent. It features the exclusive WeatherTec System to ensure dryness no matter the weather. And it comes with welded corners and inverted seams for extra water protection. It’s also windproof, able to withstand 35+ mph winds. The size options range from two up to six persons. But even its smallest size can fit a queen-size air bed.
The two-pole structure allows you to set it up in just 10 minutes. Mesh pockets inside the tent provide extra storage for essentials. Stay connected with technology through the included E-port for electrical power. All of these make it one of the best tents for winter! It simply won’t disappoint.
What We Love
Coleman offers quality, protection, and comfort without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Available in 6 sizes and 2 colors
- All weather-proof
- Includes an E-port
- 1-year limited warranty
- Includes rainfly
- Roomy interior
Cons:
There’s only one door available.
