Hey there campers and welcome to my post where I will share my three best tents for winter camping to snuggle into this year. Recently I looked at some tips for winter camping and mentioned that you should prioritize warmth and protection from the elements above most else. And of course this includes bringing with you tents that can meet the demands of winter.
Winter is an excellent season to enjoy the surrounding nature and although some might have certain reservations about getting out there in the cold, let’s look at some reasons why winter camping is worth a try:
- Less annoying bugs – We don’t have to deal with mosquitoes and other insects that are around in summer .
- Fewer people – When you decide to camp during cold seasons, expect lesser campers in your favorite camping site meaning you get to enjoy that premium camping ground spot on your own.
- Extra challenge – If you are the type of camper who looks for new ways of enjoying mother nature, winter camping is a way of experiencing things from a whole new level.
So with that in mind, let’s check out the best tents that you can use in your upcoming snowy adventure.
My Three Recommended Tents for Winter Camping
I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are winter tents?
Winter tents are usually referred to as ‘four-season’ or ‘all-season’ tents meaning they will keep you warmer in winter but can still be used all year round. General characteristics of winter tents are robust pole architecture and burly fabrics which provide insulation and keep them standing in harsh conditions however they tend to cost more than summer tents (a.k.a 3 season tents).
What Should You Be Looking For?
Below are some of the main factors you should take into account as you shop for winter camping tents:
- Weight and packed size
- Wall type
- Durability
- Floor area and peak height
- Ventilation
- Additions
Weight and packed size
Due to heavier and more durable fabrics, stronger poles, and beefier zippers, 4-season tents tend to weigh more than 3-season ones. Having extra weight leads to specific advantages in that they are generally sturdier and more weather resistant, have better ventilation, and have more features.
However just because it is cold outside, it doesn’t mean that hiking, hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities cease to occur meaning that some are still looking for a warm tent that is lightweight as well. On the other hand, this is less of an issue for those who set up their winter camp right from the car.
Wall type
A double-wall tent comprises two distinct layers: an inner tent canopy and an outer rainfly. Single-wall tents have only one layer of fabric to keep you protected from the elements. Unless lesser weight and packed size are your top priorities, a double-wall bag is still the best choice that you can make as they give more robust and dependable weather protection with two layers of fabric between you and the elements.
Most importantly, double-wall tents have the most breathable option because air can flow freely between the tent body and the waterproof layer. Single-wall tents on the other hand, are more basic in design and rely on thickness to keep the warmth in.
Durability
The ability of cold weather tents to withstand strong winds and possibly deal with heavy snowfall is one of their most essential features. The majority of tents are made of tightly woven nylon, cotton canvas or polyester. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Nylon is resistant to wear and tear. Polyester is less sensitive to UV rays and absorbs less water and cotton is a breathable fabric that can absorb moisture. This means that condensation is unlikely to be an issue.
Floor area and peak size
This feature is another determiner of comfort. Obviously, the more space you have, as with any tent, the more comfortable you will be. However, a sleeping compartment with too much length will make it more difficult to warm up with your body heat. And too little space just makes things uncomfortable. The bare minimum should be enough head space to sit up and enough floor space to lay down your sleeping pads and winter sleeping bags.
Ventilation
As above, 4-season tents are naturally warmer than 3-season options and are designed to protect you from the elements. One aspect of this is the use of mesh. Summer tents use mesh to keep the insides cool however for winter options, less of this is used.
Winter tents still adopt the use of double walls to allow for better ventilation that than single-wall tents but without the use of so much mesh, the warmth stays in.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Doors – If you share a two-person tent, having a second entrance makes life a lot easier. It is a less critical feature for larger tents, but it will undoubtedly make life easier. Base camping and treeline tents will most likely have two doors, allowing each person to enter and exit at their leisure. Finally, a second door often means a second vestibule, which significantly increases storage space and comfort for doors.
- Vestibule – This is essential for storing your outerwear, such as boots and jackets. The less sticky stuff you bring into the tent’s main area, the better. This prevents condensation and internal frosting from forming.
- Internal storage – Even the most lightweight tents will have some form of internal storage. And the number and design of pockets and hooks are entirely up to personal preference. Most tents also have small loops for stringing guy lines across the ceiling, which helps dry wet gear after a long day in the elements.
- Tent pole – As we consider tent pole quality, four-season tents will have more robust (and heavier) poles that can deal with strong wind gusts.
- Stove jack – Stove jacks, also called flashings, are heat-safe exit points commonly found in larger 4 season tents. This feature allows a tent stove’s flue pipe to extend through the tent’s roof or sidewall. The majority of stove jacks are square cloths with a round hole in the center measuring 10-18 inches wide. Typically, the diameter of the stove jack hole is 5-8 inches.
FAQ
What features should I look for in a winter camping tent?
When shopping for a winter camping tent, there are a few key features you should look for to ensure that you stay warm and dry during your trip. First and foremost, make sure that the tent is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of winter weather, with sturdy poles and a durable, waterproof material. It should also come with a vestibule or separate area for storing gear and removing wet or snowy outerwear before entering the sleeping area as well.
How do I properly care for my winter camping tent?
To ensure that your winter camping tent lasts for many cold-weather trips to come, it’s important to take proper care of it. Before packing your tent away after a trip, make sure that it is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew from forming. You may want to set it up in your yard or another well-ventilated area to let it air out fully. Avoid storing your tent in a compressed state, as this can damage the poles and fabric over time. Instead, loosely fold or roll the tent and store it in a dry, cool location. If you notice any tears or damage to the tent, repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Finally, be sure to clean your tent regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or other contaminants that can wear down the fabric over time.
My three recommendations broken down
So, based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. FireHiking Hot Tent with Wood Stove Jack
This first product is for solo campers heading out for some winter camping fun. It is incredibly lightweight, built for warmth and supported by a POM rod that can fully expand to keep the vent from collapsing. The vent design can also be opened increase air exchange, allowing fresh air into the tent interior when needed. See its specifications below:
- Brand: FireHiking
- Weight: 5.18 pounds
- Dimension: diagonal length – 126 inches; height – 63 inches
- Shape: Hexagonal
- Material: 66D polyester fabric
- Occupancy: 1 person
- Waterproof: Yes
Other inclusions it has:
- Single door
- Aluminum alloy support pole
- Replaceable silicone stove jack
- Tear-resistant fabric
Why have I chosen it?
This product is perfect for winter camping in all conditions whether hiking or driving. It is roomy enough for 6-foot campers and if not on the move there is a stove jack for your firewood stove for extra warmth. If you are moving about however, at a packed size of 19.5 x 6.25 x 6 inches, it perfectly fits into your backpack.
2. Crua Temperature Regulating Inner Cocoon Tent
This next option provides comfort, ease in its setup and convenience as you keep warm inside. It is light and noise-insulated and great for those in extra cold or snowy areas. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Crua
- Weight: 15.43 pounds
- Dimension: 81.6 x 52.8 x 48 inches
- Shape: Round
- Material: HH5000mm breathable polyester
- Occupancy: 2 persons
- Waterproof: Water resistant only
Other inclusions it has:
- Patented ‘M2’ Insulation
- Modular technology for easy installation
- Airframe structure
- Can be used inside other tents as well
Why have I chosen this?
As stated above, this winter tent provides you with a comfy shelter amid the snow-covered camping sites. Due to its revolutionary insulation technology, it will keep you warm inside with modular technology making it possible for you to set it up within 60 seconds. This is a great option for winter hikers.
3. DANCHEL Outdoor Cotton Canvas Yurt Tent
And finally, our last option is an exceptional heavy-duty winter tent that provides a family with comfort and space. This tent is both snow proof and waterproof to provide protection from the elements and two stove jacks for internal warmth when a stove is added. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Danchel
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Dimension: 118.11 x 118.11 x 78.74 inches
- Shape: Round
- Material: 285GSM 100% breathable cotton canvas with heavy-duty waterproof PVC ground sheet.
- Occupancy: 2 – 4 persons
- Waterproof: Yes
Other inclusions it has:
- Two stove jacks
- Four windows
- Four roof vents
- Heavy-duty groundsheet
Why have I chosen this?
This tent is made to withstand strong wind and thick snow. The stove jacks are located on the wall and the roof with wall jacks that may be used to connect to power stations etc. It is tall enough to stand upright once inside and the windows allow you to see the outside without having to open the door.
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Conclusion
There you have it, my three best tents for winter camping to snuggle into this year. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
