How to choose a waterproof tent
There’s an easy system for deciding how waterproof a tent is. Tents are tested and given a rating in mm (millimetres). This indicates the depth of water that the fabric can hold on top of it without leaking. The bigger the number, the more effectively it’ll keep the weather out. The minimum standard for a tent to be considered waterproof is 1,000 mm. However, if you’re planning on facing off against British weather, you might want to pick something with a higher rating. Using a waterpoof spray will also top up the tent’s rain resistance.
Other things to think about when choosing a tent include how many people you want space for, how much it weighs (think carrying it or taking it on a plane), and whether you want to be able to stand up in it.
Waterproof tent for family camping
Family camping can be a challenge even without the “great” British weather. So before heading off on a holiday, you’ll want a tent with plenty of room to keep everyone warm, dry and happy. Here are some of the most popular waterproof family tents:
- Outwell Vermont. This spacious Outwell tent has a 6,000 mm waterproof rating, as well as a large covered porch area.
- Hi Gear Hampton. With removable dividers, you can tailor the number of bedrooms inside this Hi Gear 4,000 mm tent to suit your family.
- Vango Keswick 600. This hard-wearing Vango tent has extra-strong poles, sleeps six and has a 5,000 mm waterproof rating.
- Eurohike Sendero. Available in different sizes to sleep four to eight people, this Eurohike is easy to pitch and has a 2,000 mm tent waterproof rating.
- Coleman Mosedale. Super-stable in high winds and boasting a waterproof rating of 4,500 mm, this Coleman tent is great even when conditions are tough.
Looking for more inspiration? Take a look at our guide to the best family tents for camping trips.
Tents for travelling light
If you’re carrying your own tent, you’ll want it to be as lightweight as possible. Here are some of our favourite tents for packing for an expedition, taking to a festival or travelling the world.
- Vango Nova. Great for inexperienced campers as it’s easy to pitch and pack away, this Vango tent is sturdy and has a 3,000 mm waterproof rating.
- Berghaus Cairngorm. This dome-shaped (or geodesic) tent is lightweight and sturdy, and has a groundsheet with 5,000 mm waterproofing to keep wet ground from infiltrating your sleeping bag.
- OEX Jackal. This tent is made of breathable material with room for three. Plus it has as a 5,000 mm waterproof rating.
- Eurohike Avon. This tent has a 3,000 mm waterproof rating and is and easy to get in and out of thanks to a large porch space.
- Wild Country Hoolie. It’s super-easy to pitch in a hurry, and has a 6,000 mm waterproof rating to keep even the biggest storms out.
Staying dry and warm on your next adventure will be crucial, wherever you’re headed. Check out the range of tents and other camping gear available on Gumtree to make sure you’ve got everything you need for a great trip. Camping with children? Read our tips on the best accessories for camping with the kids.