The #1 cause of moisture in your tent is from condensation. Condensation occurs when there is a change in pressure and temperature in water vapor in the air and it turns into a liquid form. This moisture from condensation usually forms inside your tent by two sources: your breath (each person can exhale up to 1 L of water a night!) and outside humid temperatures.
We’ve outlined 8 ways that you can avoid moisture from condensation in your tent!
Condensation forms inside your tent because the water vapor in the air has nowhere to escape. Ventilate your tent by keeping it open as much as possible, the more ability the air has to circulate the better! Keep your tent door unzipped, windows open and fly off if possible to let the air circulate during both the day and night.
Wet and damp gear adds extra water vapor in the air that fuels condensation. Store wet gear outside or place in a sealed bag if you are unable to store outside of the tent.
Bodies of water can often increase humidity. The more humid and the greater a temperature difference between the inside and outside of your tent the more likely you will have condensation inside your tent.
Two people sleeping in a six man tent will not create as much moisture as two people in a two man tent. The less bodies you have in a larger space reduces the amount of heat generated inside the tent and increases the amount of space for airflow.
When pressure is applied to the sides of your tent the moisture and condensation that has developed on the outside can actually seep inside. Be careful to keep all your gear away from the sides of the tent.
Cooking adds a large amount of water vapor to the air and heat inside your tent, which contributes to higher levels of condensation
A natural breeze can help circulate the airflow and maintain temperature levels. Pitch your tent so that your air vents or windows are lined up with the breeze.
Avoid camping on damp ground and areas with thick vegetation, as this is a source of water vapor and can increase condensation. If you cannot avoid these types of areas, place a ground sheet or tarp on the ground and pitch your tent on top of it.