Do you love camping with the family in the winter months? Sleeping underneath the stars with your whole family can be a real bonding experience. However, when the weather turns chilly, it is essential to be able to stay as warm as possible.
Fortunately, the best cold weather tents for family camping have been specially designed to combat low temperatures and keep the chill off. These special models help to provide the whole family with extra protection from the elements. Let’s take a closer look at these unique tents and find the perfect one for you…
Top 10 Best Cold Weather Tents for Family Camping Reviews
1. Snugpak The Ionosphere 1 Man Dome Tent
If you are going on a hiking trip, you will have to carry all of your belongings on your back. Therefore, you will need a tent and other camping equipment that is as light as possible. However, when the weather turns chilly, you will need to be fully protected from the elements.
The best of both worlds…
The Snugpak The Ionosphere 1 Man Dome Tent weighs less than four pounds, making it very easy to carry. However, this mighty model also delivers good protection from heavy rain with its 5,000mm PU flysheet. The fully taped seams and bathtub-style floor are also designed to prevent water from leaking through.
As an added bonus, you are treated to an emergency repair kit. This allows you to quickly and effectively any rips or tears that occur while you are on the trail. The tent comes complete with a handy carry bag and boasts an especially compact design.
Get a grip…
You may find that this tent is a little tricky to pitch at first. It is a good idea to practice pitching the tent at home before heading out on a hiking trip. However, with a little practice, you are sure to get a grip on things.
If you are looking for a tent that provides maximum protection from the elements, this model is a good option. The Snugpak The Ionosphere 1 Man Dome Tent comes with a number of features that deliver enhanced weather protection. However, as the name suggests, this model is not really large enough for family use.
Pros
- Weighs less than four pounds.
- Comes complete with a repair kit.
- Boasts a fully waterproof design.
- 5,000mm PU flysheet.
- Boasts a bathtub-style floor.
Cons
- Not enough space for the whole family.
2. ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian 3 Person Tent
With its bold copper color, this tent really stands out from the crowd. The ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian 3 Person Tent boasts a unique shape and low profile that are especially striking. As the name suggests, this model provides enough space for three people to snuggle up together.
But is it actually any good?
The tent body provides a waterproof level of 1,500mm, meaning that it stands up to storms especially well. The floor is waterproof to 5,000mm to prevent water from seeping through, while the seams have been factory sealed. The free standing aluminum pole system also helps to make this model especially easy to assemble.
If you like your privacy while also camping as a family, you are sure to appreciate the two separate vestibules. There is one for parents to spread out in and a separate vestibule for the kids. Each vestibule is set with mesh storage pockets that are especially strong and durable.
Extra comfort…
As an added bonus, this tent also comes complete with a gear loft. This provides an extra space to store your stuff while keeping it off the ground. This helps to maximize the amount of floor space that you have for extra comfort.
With more than eight square feet of floor space, the whole family should be comfortable inside this tent. It has been designed to be used all year round. Even when the wind starts to blow, you are sure to feel snug and warm inside.
Pros
- Quick and easy to set up.
- Waterproof and UV ray resistant.
- Fitted with eight durable zippers.
- Comes complete with a gear loft.
- Includes durable mesh pockets.
Cons
- This model is a little heavy.
3. Terra Hiker 2 Person Tent
If you are camping in the middle of the wilderness, you will not want people to stumble on your tent accidentally. This can be a real issue if the area you are staying in is especially dark. If someone trips over your tent, it could be a painful experience for everyone involved.
Seeing clearly…
Fortunately, the Terra Hiker 2 Person Tent is set with special reflective strips to enhance night visibility. They stand out clearly against the bright green fabric of the rest of the tent.
With the Terra Hiker 2 Person Tent, you are also treated to excellent weather protection. The silicone oil coating provides you with a waterproof level of 4,000mm, while there is also a double layer of protection. A special rainfly and bathtub floor have also been built into the durable 20D nylon fabric.
Goes the distance…
As an added bonus, this model weighs less than four pounds and folds up small enough to fit inside a backpack. The aircraft-grade aluminum poles are especially strong and durable while also being lightweight. They also help to ensure that this model is especially quick and easy to pitch.
It should be noted that the Terra Hiker 2 Person Tent only measures 48 inches at the center. This means that you will not be able to stand up in this model. However, it is sure to make you feel comfortable and snug at nighttime.
Pros
- Features special reflective strips.
- Boasts aircraft-grade aluminum poles.
- Comes complete with a ground tarp.
- Lightweight and especially durable.
- Designed to be fully waterproof and wind resistant.
Cons
- Not ideal for tall people.
- Not enough space for the whole family.
4. Snugpak Cave 4 Person Tent
No matter how careful you are, there are likely to be times when your tent becomes damaged. Rips and slits can occur at any time, especially during rough weather. If your tent does become split, you are likely to find that the cold air gets in all too easily.
So what’s the solution?
The Snugpak Cave 4 Person Tent is supplied with a special repair kit. This kit includes a metal pole repair sleeve, a tent guide rope tensioner, plenty of spare cord, and an elastic loop. You are also treated to a large collection of patch materials and a special storage bag.
The high level of weather protection that this model delivers means that it is even suitable for camping in the snow. No matter how cold it is outside, you are unlikely to feel the chill. Because the whole construction is low to the ground, it helps to make the tent stable even in strong winds.
A cozy cave…
This dome tent boasts plenty of space inside and will serve as a cozy cave for up to four people to share. There are also double vestibule areas that provide plenty of space for all your gear.
You will probably find that you need to set a little time aside to fully set up this tent. You have to set up the inner tent before attaching the fly and finally securing the guy lines. However, this is a small price to pay for 100% waterproofing and protection from freezing conditions.
Pros
- Includes a basic repair kit.
- 50D Polyester No-See-Um-Mesh.
- Features DAC Featherlite NSL anodized poles.
- Ideal for use in freezing conditions.
- Enough space for up to four people.
Cons
- Takes a little time to set up.
5. CORE 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent
If you have a large family, you are likely to know how important personal space is. If you are planning a special camping trip, you are likely to want to take the whole family along. However, conflicts are sure to arise if family members are forced to crowd together.
Size matters…
Fortunately, the CORE 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent provides plenty of space for up to nine people to sleep comfortably. The special room divider means that parents can enjoy a little privacy after the kids have gone to bed. You are also treated to a large number of mesh storage pockets.
Despite its spacious design, you should be able to set up this tent in a minute or less. Simply shack out the tent and stake the guy lines into place. This means that if you are tired at the end of the day, you won’t have to waste time and trouble.
The CORE 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent is also supplied with a spacious carry bag. There is extra room inside the bag so that you don’t need to fold out this tent especially small.
A bit of a heavyweight…
It has to be said that the CORE 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent is not exactly light. This could be a bit of an issue if you are hiking to the camping site. However, if you are traveling in the car, the weight of this tent will not be an issue.
Pros
- Enough space for up to nine people.
- Very quick and easy to set up.
- Comes complete with a carry bag.
- Features a room divider.
- Includes mesh storage pockets.
Cons
- This model is rather heavy.
- The tent stakes are not especially strong.
6. Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe 8-Person Tent
Are you looking for a cold weather tent that is especially versatile? Of course, you will want the model you choose to keep yourself and your family warm in the winter. However, you should also be able to use your tent throughout the rest of the year.
A tent for all seasons…
The fully adaptable design of the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe 8-Person Tent makes it ideal for every season. This mighty model is designed to withstand the wind and the rain especially well. This is because the tent body has been made of Hydra-Shield, which is a type of 100% cotton duck canvas.
Not only is this tent fully watertight, but it is also incredibly durable and breathable. When the weather turns a little warm, you can take advantage of the no-see-um mesh and two funnel-flow vents. This helps to provide excellent ventilation while keeping dust and bugs out.
Plenty of space…
Even if you are especially tall, you will be able to stand up inside the tent as it measures six feet six inches. Even if you have a lot of camping gear, you are sure to find that there is plenty of space for the whole family. Extra space is also provided by the special foldout awning.
The great thing about all this space is that the tent will serve you well if the weather takes a turn for the worse. The whole family can relax in the main area and play games while waiting for the rain to stop.
Pros
- Enough space for up to eight people.
- Set with four large mesh windows.
- Made of breathable hydra-shield canvas fabric.
- Very easy to set up.
- Provides good ventilation.
Cons
- Weighs 79 pounds.
7. Coleman Dome Tent with Screen Room
While family camping trips can be a lot of fun, the appeal can quickly wear off if you are all squashed together. In order to prevent conflicts from arising, you will need to make sure that each family member has plenty of space. Fortunately, the Coleman Dome Tent with Screen Room has enough room to comfortably sleep up to eight people.
Sleeping like a queen…
Alternatively, there is also enough space inside this model to fit two queen sized inflatable air beds. If you are camping with a smaller group, this is sure to ensure that everyone is especially comfortable. There are few things in life more luxurious or decadent than sleeping underneath the stars on a huge inflatable mattress.
The generous six foot ceiling height is sure to make the interior of this tent feel especially spacious. There are also plenty of other great features that are designed to enhance the feeling of space. This includes extended window awnings and a large porch at the front.
Built to last…
This screened porch can also be used as a large storage space for all your belongings. The frame of the Coleman Dome Tent with Screen Room is especially strong while being lightweight. It has been specially designed to stand up to torrential rain and even especially strong winds.
The overall durability of this tent is mainly due to the patented WeatherTec System. This system boasts a whole host of impressive features such as protected seams, waterproof floors, and zipper protection.
Pros
- Enough space for up to eight people.
- Quick and easy to set up.
- Boasts excellent storage options.
- Comes complete with a screen room.
- Features extended window awnings.
Cons
- The ceiling is rather low.
8. CORE 9 Person Extended Dome Tent
Do you crave plenty of space when you go camping? This is especially important if you are sleeping underneath the stars in a large group. If the weather is rather chilly, you are likely to want to spend time unwinding in your tent.
Embracing pure space…
As the name suggests, the CORE 9 Person Extended Dome Tent is designed to sleep up to nine people. However, this doesn’t mean that the members of your group will have to be crowded together. In addition to separate sleeping zones, this tent also provides you with a large living area.
The ceiling is set at over seven feet from the ground, meaning that even tall people will be able to stand op with ease. The available space is also enhanced by the mesh storage pockets and special gear loft. This allows you to store your belongings out of the way to maximize the available ground space.
The whole interior is also set with a generous number of hanging hooks. Technology lovers will also appreciate the electrical cord access port. This will allow family members to charge their devices and install a light for evening use.
Come rain, come shine…
This tough tent is completely waterproof thanks to the innovative H20 Block Technology that uses heat to seal the seams. There is also a very durable rainfly that delivers full protection from the rain. Despite the fact that the 68D polyester fabric is thin and lightweight, it is also especially tough and durable.
Pros
- Enough space for up to nine people.
- Boasts an electrical cord access port.
- Features fully taped seams.
- Comes with an adjustable ground vent.
- Ideal for tall people.
Cons
- Not ideal for use in high winds.
- The flooring is rather thin.
9. Coleman 2000028058 Tent 17X9 Weathermaster 10
Do you truly believe that more is merrier when going on a camping trip? In that case, you will want to assemble a large group of people to share the experience with you. Of course, you will need a tent that is large enough to allow you all to sleep under the same roof.
Enjoying protection from the elements…
The Coleman 2000028058 Tent 17X9 Weathermaster 10 is one of the largest tents that has been designed for cold weather camping. The tent comes complete with Coleman’s patented WeatherTec system. The seams and zippers are fully protected from the wind and rain, while there is an especially strong frame and waterproof floors.
Thanks to the special color coded assembly, putting up this tent is especially quick and easy. Each of the tent poles boasts a different colored band, which corresponds to the appropriate pole sleeve. Simply match the pole with the sleeve and the whole tent can be put up in record time.
As an added bonus, you are supplied with a durable carry bag. At the end of your camping trip, simply stow this tent in the carry bag and you will be good to go.
Stake it out…
It should be noted that the plastic tent stakes that are supplied with this tent are not especially strong. This could be a bit of an issue if you are camping in stormy weather. However, you can easily fix the problem by purchasing a set of stainless steel tent stakes before setting out.
Pros
- Enough space for up to ten people.
- Very quick and easy to set up.
- Comes complete with a room divider.
- Boasts a hinged front door.
- Set with welded floors and inverted seams.
Cons
- The tent stakes are a little weak.
10. Coleman 8-Person Tent for Camping
Are you looking for a tent that you can use all year round? Thanks to the special WeatherTec System, the Coleman 8-Person Tent for Camping is a great option. This mighty model delivers excellent weather protection so that you will be safe and sound if a storm strikes.
Let the wind blow…
With waterproof floors, protected seams, a wind strong frame, and zipper protection wind and rain will be kept at bay. However, there is also plenty of ventilation to help cool things down in the scorching summer months. If you get too hot, simply unzip the outer material and take advantage of the durable mesh lining.
This mesh allows the breeze to enter the tent to keep everyone feeling cool. However, the mesh keeps bugs and dirt out to provide the protection you need. You will be able to sit in this tent and gaze out at the scenery without getting bothered by bugs.
Pitch perfect…
One of the great things about this tent is that it has been designed to be especially easy to pitch. This is ideal for those times when you arrive at the camping site at the end of a long road trip. You will not have to spend time struggling with this tent after dark and when you are tired.
However, taking down the tent again is not quite the same story. It is a good idea to allow plenty of time to pack this tent away. A little extra care should be taken with the zippers as they are not especially strong.
Pros
- Enough space for up to eight people.
- Measures six feet in the center.
- Delivers excellent weather protection.
- Very easy to set up.
- Provides impressive ventilation.
Cons
- The zippers are rather weak.
Best Cold Weather Tents for Family Camping Buying Guide
The main consideration when searching for the best cold weather tents for family camping is likely to be warmth. However, as with any other type of tent, there are also plenty of other things to think about. There are some key factors to look for when searching for an especially warm tent for your family.
The Space
The size of the tent that you choose is one of the most important considerations. The best cold weather tents for family camping will need to provide plenty of space for every member of your family. It will be especially useful if there are separate vestibules to provide family members with privacy.
People who are especially tall will appreciate a tent that comes with a high ceiling. In order to maximize the interior space, the tent should come with plenty of storage areas. Mesh pockets built into the sides and storage hammocks are sure to be especially useful.
On chilly winter nights, the whole family is likely to want to spend time inside the tent. There should be a large communal area where you can unwind and play games. An extendable awning will also help to maximize the available space.
Protection from the Elements
The best cold weather tents for family camping need to be suitable for use in the fall and winter. Therefore, it is essential to choose a model that delivers enhanced weather protection. The seams need to be fully sealed to stop wind and rain from getting inside.
The tent will also need to come with a rainfly that falls at least halfway down the tent. A bathtub-style floor with sealed corners will also help to keep out the wind and rain. It is also important to check out the waterproof rating to make sure that the tent will stand up to heavy rain and storms.
Other Important Features
The zippers need to be especially heavy-duty and waterproof to prevent leaks and rust. In order to stand up to high winds, the pole structure must be especially sturdy. It is also a good idea to choose a tent that comes with strong steel stakes rather than plastic ones.
Camping somewhere that doesn’t get very cold?
If you’re going on holiday or plan to camp in a country that has far warmer weather than these tents were designed for, please check out our reviews of the best tents for hot weather.
So, what is the Best Cold Weather Tents for Family Camping
The best cold weather tents for family camping should make it possible to camp even in the heart of winter. They will need to be especially durable and able to withstand the elements especially well. They should include all the elements of a top-quality tent with the addition of being extra warm.
Even if the outside temperature dips to freezing, you can be sure that your family will stay warm inside this tent. The…
Snugpak Cave 4 Person Tent
…helps to retain heat remarkably well. You are also sure to appreciate the repair kit that is supplied with this model.