What To Look For
Rain tents keep rain from entering the tent causing wet bedding and other problems. The best rain tents have quick-dry features so that when it is time to pack up the tent, it does not soak the rest of your gear. Look for weather-proof materials such as nylon and polyester. Most rain tents also offer silicone-coated seams for extra rain protection. According to Camping Life Magazine, ConsumerSearch.com and Backpacking Magazine, one of the best rain tents is the Big Agnes Big House 6, which can sleep six people together in one room and offers coated polyester for excellent rain protection. The North Face Trailhead 8 is a large, three-room tent that also offers excellent rain protection. The small Nemo Losi 3P is a rain-proof backpacking tent for up to three people.
Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall that new shoppers fall into is the idea that they need an expensive tent to protect them from the rain. This is not the case. Many lower-budget tents offer some of the same rain protection features as their more expensive counterparts. Whenever possible, stay away from heavier fabrics such as canvas and do not purchase a tent that is not coated for rain protection. Lightweight tents are also best for rain protection because they do not sag under water weight.
Where To Buy
There are many places to purchase rain-proof tents. However, REI and Bass Pro Shops offer superior selection, prices and customer service. Both of these stores offer online stores as well as physical stores. Shopping is easy both online and offline. The staff is knowledgeable and can easily help you find the perfect rain tent for your camping needs. These stores offer a wide range of tent brands, including The North Face, Coleman, Eureka, Nemo, Big Agnes and Columbia.
Cost
A good quality rain tent does not have to break the bank. The Nemo Losi 3P costs right around $400 as of August 2010. The larger Big Agnes Big House 6 costs around $360. The North Face Trailhead 8 costs on average about $500. Other quality rain tents will cost between $200 and $500 depending on the size and other features.
Accessories
Accessories to consider in addition to the rain tent are water-resistant sleeping bags or bedding, detachable vestibules for greater ventilation, and waterproof tarps to place under the tent to protect the bottom of the tent from mud and other damaging factors. In colder climates, a tent heater is another accessory that will make the camping experience more enjoyable.
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