Blackout tent buying guide
What is a blackout tent?
A blackout tent has darkened sleeping areas that either minimise or completely block out light. Its main purpose is to help you sleep better during camping trips.
Why use a blackout tent?
Blackout tents, also known as dark-room tents, are ideal for:
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Camping in countries or seasons with early sunrises.
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Families with children who struggle to sleep in when it’s light out.
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Campers who nap in the bright light of day.
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Festival-goers who want to lie in after staying up late the night before.
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Camping in brighter night-time conditions, such as during a full moon.
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Blocking the torch lights and car headlights of fellow campers at night.
What to look for when buying a blackout tent
Light-blocking strength You can choose from full blackout tents – the darkest options – or those that simply diffuse the glare. If you want a completely dark bedroom, look out for designs that promise to block up to 99% of daylight.
Climate control Check reviews to make sure your blackout tent won’t overheat, as darker fabrics tend to trap warmth more than lighter materials. A blackout tent with added ventilation, made from fabrics that reflect the sun, should keep you comfortable. Some models are up to 5°C cooler during the daytime and around 10°C warmer at night.
Communal areas For short trips or campers on a budget, a one-room blackout tent will suffice. However, having a non-darkened communal area that's separate from the sleeping space is a wise choice for longer holidays.
Windows Let in light when needed by opting for a tent with windows in the darkened bedroom. This also allows for extra ventilation.
Cost Blackout tents can be reasonably priced, with some basic models starting at less than £30 for a two-man, one-room dome design. As with all tents, the more features you’d like to have, the more expensive it’s likely to be.
SPF protection The light-absorbing qualities of blackout bedrooms also protect you from the sun. This is particularly useful if you have sensitive skin or want to keep damaging UV rays away from young family members in the high heat of the day.
FAQs
Are blackout tents worth it?
If you struggle to sleep when it’s light out, a blackout tent is a smart choice. Dawn breaks early in many seasons and countries, so it could mean the difference between getting a full eight hours or waking up at 4:30am. At high latitudes, such as near the Arctic Circle where there’s daylight 24 hours a day at certain points in the year, a blackout tent is a must.
Do blackout tents get hotter?
In the past, the darker the tent, the hotter it was inside. However, new technology means that blackout tents are often climate controlled, so they’re designed not to overheat. Check the features and reviews of the model you’re considering to make sure it won’t get too hot.
Are blackout tents good for winter?
In winter, blackout tents are usually a little cooler than non-blackout tents. If you want to use them in wintry conditions, choose a climate-controlled option that traps heat. Here’s more advice on buying a tent for cold climates.
For more information on the features to look out for when buying a tent, read our expert guide.