Is your tent leaking?
Leaks typically manifest as visible water streams through tears or poorly sealed seams in the fly fabric. In contrast, a film of water indicates condensation. All Zempire tents are built with high hydrostatic head (HH) ratings—up to 8,000mm—to maintain waterproofing even after prolonged use and UV exposure.
What is condensation and humidity?
Condensation occurs when vapour cools and turns to liquid. Humidity is the moisture content in the air—warm air holds more moisture than cold air. When cooling occurs, the moisture condenses into droplets.
Why does condensation form in tents?
Tents trap humidity from sources like wet clothes, plants, people, and even the ground. At night, this moisture-laden air cools and condenses on tent surfaces. One person can produce up to 700ml of moisture through breathing overnight!
If the tent is sealed tightly at night and temperatures drop, the internal humidity condenses, often appearing as water droplets on the inner fly.
Condensation may drip and be mistaken for leaks due to:
- Heavy condensation collecting into drips.
- Improper pitching that creates folds where water channels.
- Items touching the fly sheet causing localized collection and dripping.
Preventing condensation in a tent
- Ventilate: Keep vents and windows open to let moisture escape.
- Pitch properly: Ensure the fly is taut and the ground is flat.
- Use sleeping pods: They absorb humidity and reduce condensation.
- Ground sheets: Minimize ground moisture entering the tent air.
In summary, condensation is natural and manageable. With good ventilation and proper setup, you can reduce its impact and enjoy your camping experience in comfort.