FIX IT for $12 || How to Waterproof a Tent (even cheap tents!)

[@DoseofDirt]

🏕 👉 Help Support AND Shape Dose of Dirt through Patreon: www.patreon.com/DoseofDirt You can vote in polls to help decide what gear to buy, test, review, and then give away to Patreon members! All gear purchased with Patreon funds will be given away to Patreon members! ⚙Gear Links⚙ -Gear Aid Seam Grip WP: amzn.to/3wF2lag (used in this video) -Gear Aid Seam Grip SIL: amzn.to/3sWrCKS (used for my Lanshan 1 Pro) -Scotchguard Spray: amzn.to/3Gda42p (probably cheaper at Walmart) Some of the links above are affiliate links. Buying things with the links doesn’t change the amount you pay, but helps support the channel since I would get a percentage of the sale. Thank you so much for supporting Dose of Dirt!

[@indiemusicis]

As someone who is learning how to camp, i get so tired of youtubers constantly trying to convince me that the most expensive options for gear are the only way to go. that’s so stressful for a first time camper trying to build an inventory from scratch!! thank you for providing realistic and budget friendly options! this helped me out so much.

[@force10jc]

Most of those convincers are getting paid to do so. I wouldn't fault them too much. They are just trying to make a living. The best thing you can do for yourself I find is to constantly look at different points-of-view from KZbinrs, influencers, etc. Eventually, you will catch-on to what works best for you.

[@LeoTheComm]

This is America, if something is more expensive it MUST be better! Seriously, I quite literally live with everything I own strapped to my motorcycle and have owned cheap Walmart tents all the way up to top end models. What I've learned is that it doesn't matter which tent you buy or how well you care for it, it's the zippers that eventually fail.

[@ucode1]

I've never had an issue with a Coleman tent leaking. Specifically the Sundome series. They have various sizes and are fairly budget friendly for someone just starting out. Good luck in your adventures!.

[@qhughes4555]

Buy once, cry once, enjoy life..

[@paulcritchley464]

I’m only 70. Been tramping since 1978. Back in the day nan old timer said they didn’t have plastics. What I found some gear fails and some don’t. Didn’t have KZbin back then So just suck it up, make sure you can be warm and stay fairly dry. I spent a few nights out under the stars and froze my balls of. If your trialing gear, take it out for a weekend so you don’t suffer to much. Sometimes you get a gut feeling that its not going to work. Just have a look how well made it is, double seamed, pick at the edges Generally I take fresh food for a weekend I take a light weight cutting board to cut the veggies and meat, I’ve been known to be an excllent cook in the hills we tramp in a group 2-6 and more people so we share or cooking shelter first aid. Don’t be afraid at worse we can loose our live, what away to go. Relay I’ve spent may sleepless night wondering how Huey is preforming. So if you are apprehensive don’t do it. I’m for New Zealand and we have got some of the most idyllic places I could have started back in myyyy dayyy. It’s still my day Cheers have a great day

[@tomjeffersonwasright2288]

I have an old North Face dome tent that has kept me dry about 50 years. I also have my first tent, a pair of WW2 shelter halves that together make a pup tent. I bought a big jar of Kenyon Recoat3 seam sealed from Campmor that has sealed over 10 tents, and is about half left. Works great. It is water soluble before it dries, and easy to clean the brush and drips. Note: There is something about tents that attract dogs and cats, so protect your drying sealed tent or you will camp with the odor of urine for a while. Also, get a good artist brush of the right size for your use to apply sealer. Experiment for size. Also, pitch a tent at least once a year in warm weather to get the kinks and folds out.

[@BH-ro4ly]

It really depends on how you look after your tent some people are rough with there gear and it doesnt last as long due to improper maintenance. Wow your 50 year old tent is impressive, you must look after your gear very well. 👍

[@Majestiicc12]

Don’t suppose you’d be willing to email me your camping tips?

[@elwanderer7903]

Thanks for the tip on the seams. Your info on materials and if they'll stand the rain was great 😊 I'd just like to say to anyone considering spraying a tent please wear a mask even outdoors. I sprayed a tent a few years ago outside in my garden. I thought that was plenty of ventilation, it turns out the product I used contained Ether.... Which the doctor told me when I was rushed to hospital with a terrifying reaction. Great stuff for waterproofing but please be careful I'd hate to see it happen to someone else.

[@DoseofDirt]

Great tip! Thanks for adding this!

[@beatbasher]

Last time I waterproofed some boots I was proper spaced out and seeing stars. I might waterproof them again later for fun

[@Kismet-cx7fe]

So sorry that happened to you, and I’m grateful you shared it, I know many will be helped ❤❤ stay dry 🙂 and thank you.

[@elwanderer7903]

@@Kismet-cx7fe thanks it was a very scary time. I just hope my comment helps others avoid it while they work.

[@Kismet-cx7fe]

I’ll be spraying my wheelchair cover in a few days, and I now know, I will not do it in the garage & I’ll be careful to wear a mask ❤ outside as I spray … you have definitely helped me, I have a lung disorder and I try to be cautious, thanks again.

[@glennl70]

A friend of mine, who is a very experienced backpaker, gave me good advice. ( We'll went backpacking together at Mt. Ranier Natl. Forest. I hadn't been backpacking for 30 years). He told me to set up my tent in my backyard and use a lawn sprinkler to test the tents water proofing. I kept the sprinkler on for an hour. Excellent advice. It also helped me to understand how to avoid pooling of water & proper undercloth placement.

[@Matowix]

What a waste of water

[@leahharris3323]

Bought a "Coleman Go!" tent for $15 at Aldi 10+ years ago. It was my husband and I's only tent for many years but even now that we have a newer, bigger, fancier tent, the old Coleman still gets used regularly when we want a smaller/lighter tent or need an extra to outfit a friend. It's been sprayed with silicone-based waterproofing a few times over the years. I always made sure to saturate the seams thoroughly with the spray and have never had any issues with water seeping through. I do the same with our other tent and no issues there either. If you or your viewers want to save a few more $$, try just spraying the seams before splurging for the additional seam-specific product.

[@natalywithaY]

This is probably a video to sell the seam sealers lol

[@wobblysauce]

​@@natalywithaY Get some Silicone and Mineral spirits, give it a mix and you are done, and you got enough for tens of tents or other objects for the same price.

[@TheCoolwhipped]

Ive been doing the scotch guard trick for nearly a decade. I give my tent a spray before nearly every outing and i have a cheap Ozark Trails tent that has lasted me almost a decade now because of it. Take care of it and it will take care of you.

[@joedemlcla]

I have had a Teton mountain 3 for almost 5 years now. Beyond my belief, I have never had water problems, other than myself tracking it in. Very proud of this tent.

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Joseph. I have heard that Teton makes a FANASTIC tent! Been meaning to get my hands on one, but it's been a busy summer. I have several other Teton products and have loved almost every single one of them!

[@KJV7154]

Hmm well i guess im gonna look at a video on that tent now.

[@Valo160569]

I have the Teton Mountain 2, had to wash it with a brush so I applied that spray ... but used 3 cans.

[@Gator-357]

A little tip I learned years ago: get yourself a larg syringe with a curved tip and use it to apply the seam sealer then brush it out. It makes it much easier and less messy.

[@Zach_Routhier]

I have the 2016 Big Agnes UL3 MTNGLO Tent. I bought it new in 2016 and used it a ton between 2016 and 2019. I then didn't use it once throughout the pandemic and just finally took it out for 2 weeks in the Lake district of the UK where it rains A LOT. A lot, a lot. I stayed dry the entire time. The water wasn't beading off, but it didn't soak through completely or leak in any way. It was damp, but zero leaks. For a 6 year old tent that I've never water proofed once, it handled the non stop rain for 4 straight days amazingly well. I recommend Big Agnes tents and sleeping pads to anyone.

[@DoseofDirt]

Any tent that can stand up to the Lake District in the UK deserves high praise! I spent 18 months in the UK for work and know that when it rains, IT RAINS! Thanks for your comment!

[@roosterruler]

We camp around the Pacific Northwest (also soooo soggy) in our 2017 Big Agnes with equal satisfaction. So dry. So good.

[@aaronpat123]

i was a ScoutMaster for years.I agree those are excellent products.I also used Thompson water seal the original clear on seams with a ! in brush.Used on cheapo 7x7 dome tents they never leaked.For the body I did use the spray.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Aaron! Nice! I'll have to check out the thompson water seal. It's definitely worth the extra effort to stay dry! Thanks for watching!

[@d.aardent9382]

Good idea too. I will have to get small can if i can get it in pints.

[@Backwoodsandblades]

Awesome. Thank you. We just bought a $50 backpacking tent, and I am determined to make it work. We usually also put our tents under a tarp when possible, but I am not spending $800 on a tent. Bravo.

[@STho205]

Carry a $1 polyethylene paint drop sheet with you JIC. If you miss spots waterproofing, then you can become 100% waterproof in a minute for the night for a sawbuck and four or five gem clips. Then when the tent dries out, respray with the silicon waterproofer. I usually respray every year or two on my first spring outing. You have some dead time in camp so might as well spray it at 10am when the dew dries if you're in the same camp for two days. $6 can and 5 minutes a year is the cost of keeping a cheap tent alive for years.

[@thorashebear7604]

I thank you for this video! We are tent shopping. Fam of 4 that wants plenty of room for us + plenty of room for whatever we bring. It has been SO HARD finding a tent that has all the specs we want. •Has a screen room. •Enough room in the sleeping area so the screen room does not need to be used for a sleeping area. •Waterproof (at least mostly) in case we are caught out in the rain. •Under $1000 USD. •Something we can use for hunting public land + camping trips to a park. The tent I was eyeballing that looks *almost* perfect is the Gazelle T4 Plus Hub Tent. I like everything about it except that the sleeping area is made for 4 people (plus another 4 in the screen room). I think everyone knows that whatever the person rating is, it's always a tight squeeze for that many. So for the 4 of us, we prefer to get something for 6 or 8 people. In your video, you're working on small tents where you can easily reach the top of your tents. I know anything we get will be larger and I'm worried about trying to apply that seam sealer to the top of a large tent. I saw another person saying they used a spray and it worked well. Anyways, I'm hoping we could get by with a cheaper tent that has all the other specs we want and then use these waterproofing methods to keep out the moisture. Still doing some homework but happy to have found your video along the way!

[@saragreco5907]

Thank you for the application tips, specifically, the reminder to seal around vents. I've got an NorthFace Rock 32 that's now keeping water out very well. Since waterproofing, it has withstood monsoon rain (more than 3/4" each night,) for 12 nights in a row.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Sara! That is awesome! Always nice to know that your tent will TRULY keep you protected from the elements!

[@Kismet-cx7fe]

Please do tell. What product did you use to waterproof? Thank you.

[@jamesedwards6269]

Great video I have seam sealed using silicone and mineral spirits. Just get the tube of silicone squeeze it into a cup thin with mineral spirits to a syrup consistency and paint on the seams. I used a 1” brush to get a good area coated. We had a 27’ x 13’ wall tent that would leak like a screen door on a submarine after seam sealing and coating with the orange waterproofing spray from Walmart it stays nice and dry.

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, James! That's awesome that you made your own seam sealer with silicone and mineral spirits. Now THAT is some serious DIY! "Screen door on a submarine" 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Awesome you got it sealed up! Amazing what a difference it makes! Thanks for your comment!

[@wendyfoster5579]

I saw the same videos and I wondered if it worked in tent materials. Did you try it?

[@southernfixed9857]

My Eureka Spitfires (1 & 2) have been wonderful tents that have lasted me for years. The weight and size ($) were the big selling points, both were worth every penny.

[@DoseofDirt]

That's awesome! Have you had to retreat them for waterproofing yet?

[@sarahdenkins3431]

I remember buying tents back in the day and they came with a seam sealer. I don't know why they don't know. Thank you so much for your advice! It is very much needed because I bought an ABCO sports tent and it says it's not safe to sleep in a heavy rain.

[@spuriouseffect]

I bought the green and white ozark trail 4 man tent from walmart 2 months ago and I've used it every day, through the wettest summer we've ever had, and it hasn't leaked a drop. Pretty amazing for a 39 dollar tent.

[@phildo87]

A quick seam sealer you can find almost anywhere in an emergency is called shoe goo. It's an adhesive just like Sean sealer but a little thicker and works great but is harder to smooth. I wouldn't replace good seam sealer but if you need some and can't wait for delivery and don't have a store nearby that sells any it's a great option.

[@jamesroush6850]

I was camping in the beartooths with my geology class over the summer. I was in a north face storm break 2p tent and I could feel the water running under my tent but inside I was bone dry. Everyone else got soaked though. It was maybe my 15th night in the tent and it had gotten rain before so it was an absolute win for me

[@tomcatt998]

Old saying >> U get what U pay for, Sometimes ___________

[@vinnyfaxx9267]

Snugpak Scorpion 3, waterproof/windproof and an absolute beast - right out of the box! There's some concern about their current gear being of let's just say, "lesser" quality. Glad I bought when I did. Love the Scorpion 3, has saved my a$$ on more than one occassion!

[@kimmurray9648]

I got a used but in good condition Eureka El Capitan 2 years ago and it has seen some extreme west coast rain on the coast of Vancouver Island. I was Literally giddy during the last downpour about how dang dry and toasty I was in my little tent. This was rainforest camping and so cosy. Love this though- I will take your advice in the future!

[@DoseofDirt]

Nice! I'm so glad that your tent kept you dry! I understand the giddy feeling! The rain starts coming and you get a little worried, but then as the storm continues and you're still dry, you can't help but file from ear to ear! 😆 Thanks so much for watching!

[@survivaloptions4999]

I'm a little late to the party, but Smooth-On makes a product called SilPoxy. It is the only adhesive I know of that can be applied over silicone and can actually bond two siliconized surfaces. That makes it ideal for both resealing existing siliconized surfaces and repairing siliconized fabric (think tear or ember burn in a silnylon or silpoly tarp or tent). Once the big tubes are opened they need to be kept in the freezer to prevent the tube from curing however, they also make little ketchup packet sized containers that you can take with you for quick repairs on the trail. Great channel. Subbed.

[@aimeysdollandtoycollection9763]

We LOVE our tent. My main thing for this one was something to have space for our family of 5 to be able to go if it happens to be a bad and rainy day. Has only had a couple drops of rain but it was lashing out hard so that was great. No leaks. Still gonna stray it just in case to be safe but still. We have the Ozark Trail 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent ⛺️

[@MerceTheCurse]

My Eureka El Capitan works great in the rain! Last weekend was a rainy camping weekend and my son said it was so comfy inside the dry tent! Great video!!!

[@pepperjack6421]

Solid, I’ve used seam sealer, silicone from the auto store, flex seal etc all with the same results.

[@DoseofDirt]

Nice! Good to know!

[@DanaCristinaDobrovici]

I'm from Romania and Decathlon's budget tents (Quechua, Arpenaz) are very popular here and I've never heard of one leaking water inside... at the seems or trough the tarp (keeping the vestibules open... is another thing :D). We have one (probably the cheapest model) and we spent weeks, at a time, camping and we never had any such problems (and I think it's a 2015 or, max, 2016 model), BUT (only actual flaw) the zippers of the inner tent are just horrible. Hope this helps, somehow, someone! :) Thank you for the videos! :) (now I need to seal a Bestway bathroom tent :) )

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks Dana! I have heard that decathlon tents are great! I haven’t had a chance to try one yet, but would really like to. Awesome that yours has lasted so long and held up so well! Romania looks like it has some amazing places to hike! Thanks so much for your comment!

[@Rekmeyata]

I live in America, and all they sell us is JUNK, probably because they think we're all rich so if the thing doesn't last we'll simply buy another, keep the cash pouring out of our pockets and into the corporation's pockets. It's the same reason why appliances here only last 4 to 7 years! I have a friend who lives in England, and their appliances are warrantied for the factory for 7 years, ours are just 1 year. Anyway, back to tents, I bought a $300 tent and I have to retreat it after every trip, and for some reason, Scotchgard does not work well even after putting on double coats, it seems like after the first rain the water repellency is used up.

[@watergirl6174]

Love my berkhaus 3.2. Just enough space to sit up. Pockets, vents, lamp hook, light 2.2kg And spacious for 1. Glow strips in dark. Loved it .

[@chuckg6039]

8 years of heavy use of my Eureka Copper Canyon 4. Been thru MANY very strong winds and rain. It's never leaked one single drop....ever.

[@xavierbreath2227]

Dude the shake the can scene made me spit my drink out! Lol. Subbed.

[@DoseofDirt]

HAHAH! I feel like I should apologize for the mess! 😆 Thanks for the sub, man! Much appreciated!

[@Guillermo-ym5yn]

I was luckier... I had just finished my coffee at McDonald's....😊

[@dojocho1894]

Eureka K2 XT 3 person 4 season expedition tent was outstanding. Owned two of them over the years went to Denali with it.

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE! Denali must have been an incredible adventure!

[@deanmartin7593]

Was at a festival last weekend and it was the first outing for my Vango Soneva air 550xl. The Saturday night was monsoon like conditions according to others at the festival. Many other tents where completely flooded. I slept through the whole thing and no water penetration in our tent.

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE! Sounds like you picked up a winner!!

[@f5fstop]

Yes, coating of a tent does wear off from use, UV, weather, etc. Yes, there are sprays, brush on products to bring back the waterproofing of the tent (or other product). And yes, I guess your video helps those new to camping. So good for you. For many, just wonder through a major sporting goods store and find all you need to keep you nice and dry in your tent. And do this every year at minimum....

[@randyholcombe4234]

WalMart sells another heavy duty silicone spray by ATSKO with a bright orange cap. It works great; I have never had any tent leak after using and I don't bother with the seam sealer. The water almost flies off of the tent fabric.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Randy! That's awesome! I don't remember seeing the ATSKO brand there, but I think I've used a few other products from that brand and have been satisfied. I'll have to look for it when my scotchguard runs out! The sprays make it so easy to waterproof! Definitely worth the time it takes to make sure your tent is 100% ready to go! Thanks for watching!

[@VanishingNomad]

ATSKO is the old school stuff we used to use for boots when we were kids in the 1980's. Best stuff in history, short of thinning out a tube of pure silicone and spraying it on heavy.

[@DoseofDirt]

@@VanishingNomad Nice! Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@BADD1ONE]

My old ozark trail (discontinued) is definitely waterproof. I treat it with spray 4 times over 2 days with a large fan inside.

[@DoseofDirt]

Amazing what a difference the waterproof spray can make!

[@martyfox9099]

I've used scotch gard on my tent and it always had helped keeping them waterproof and dry it even works on seams

[@tomjeffersonwasright2288]

Good for hats, too.

[@-DEATHSTROKE]

Currently rocking a roman cradle 3p and its absolutely amazing, I've been living in it for 8 months, first through the last few months of a very hot Australian summer, and the last 6 months in Melbourne bi polar 4 season a day weather. Longest streak is 11 days straight in the rain with only a few hours to dry before another 6 days of rain afterwards, no leaks. And 47km/h winds. I cannot beat ground condensation though, and sometimes humidity gets so bad water forms ontop of the inner fly but doesnt come inside the tent, i wake up, see some very small water droplets above me and i just flick them away. I use 2 picnic rugs as an floor lining now, and every 2nd day i empty the tent, pull the rugs out and air them out and i paper towl up the condensation on the floor and spray it with glen 20. I have recently purchased eva floor mats and s mesh ground sheet to add an extra layer under the tent and then inside under the picnic rugs.

[@kaylariggs8865]

You read my mind with this video 😆 I was just trying to figure out how to waterproof a cheap ozark car camping tent I got as a loaner to take some friends camping. My husband took it on a trip a few weeks ago and it very much failed the rain test 😬

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Kayla! Glad the video was well timed! 😆 Ah dang! Nothing worse than waking up soaking wet from rain on a camping trip! UGH! If the tent has been on a lot of trips, you'll also want to clean it first! These were both pretty new, so not dirty. Would love to hear how your waterproofing experience goes!

[@kaylariggs8865]

@@DoseofDirt Which seam sealer did you use for your ozark tent? I can't seem to find material information on Walmarts website to make sure I get the right one. Also thanks for the tip on cleaning it first. It's only been out once but it did get kinda dirty in the rain.

[@DoseofDirt]

@@kaylariggs8865 For the Ozark tent (as well as the orange one) I used the Gear Aid Seam Sealer WP. It works for nylon & polyester (which almost all tents are made out of now) as well as some other fabric types. here's a link to the Gear Aid website, since it gives more information than the Amazon page: www.gearaid.com/products/seam-grip-sealant-waterproof?variant=28044147153 And here's a link to the the site that explains the different kinds: www.gearaid.com/blogs/help/which-sealant-should-i-use Let me know if there is anything else I can do to help!

[@tman5634]

Great waterproofing tips. I personally use white spirit & silicone mixture shaken up until all liquid, then brush on anything I want waterproofing. Cheap tents, footwear, jackets, hats, gloves, anything. Leave to dry for a full 24hours & ready to use.

[@cathy667]

Where do you purchase ?

[@cedarhatt-vx8kf]

@@cathy667 you make it 100% silicone 50yr clear caulking and naphtha 2 to one or adjust for consistency.

[@ogtrash_king]

I personally used a good cheap Magellan Scout from Academy. I've had it since 2010 and it has served me well. Waterproofing just started failing so this video came at just the right time for me.

[@DoseofDirt]

Nice! 12 years out of a tent is impressive! Especially since the waterproofing is just now starting to fail. sounds like you picked up a solid tent! Would love to know how the waterproofing turns out for you. Thanks for your comment!

[@rockthemountain73]

Good info on the seam goop and especially on the spray. I'm going to buy myself both asap. Thanks for sharing. Rock the Mountain Japan.

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks! Hope they work out well for you! Thanks so much for watching!

[@jerrydavis3799]

Gazelle T4 Plus Extra Large 4 to 8 Person Portable Pop Up Outdoor Shelter Camping Hub Tent with Rain Fly & Extended Screened In Sun Room, Orange no problems with leaks at all .

[@mitchellvanbelle4445]

The tarn 3 by MEC has done myself, my father, our gear, and up until recently a 120 lbs dog very well for over a decade. Resealed one time, one snapped pole fixed(thanks dog), and used between 6-12 weekends a year always 1 in the snow season.

[@ericbettis2777]

I've had a North Face mountain tent since 98, mostly used in winter conditions and never had a problem with it ever. Used it a lot at one time and have never had to tape seams or reseal.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Eric! THAT is impressive! 24 years on a tent and still no seam sealing or waterproofing required! From what I've heard, North Face doesn't make stuff like they used to, but sounds like you picked up an absolute winner! Thanks for sharing!

[@ericbettis2777]

@@DoseofDirt Like I said use to use it a lot in colorado winters not very humid only put it away wet a couple of times when in the pacific north west surfing in november. pulled it out as soon as I could to dry. Had it out last september during bear season. I was just looking for info for a mid 70's I think 6 man nothface expedition tent my dad had for research, it is badly mold and mildew you can see through wind comes through, to see if I can recover it with poly and ratio's just basically redue the whole thing, maybe?

[@ericbettis2777]

@@DoseofDirt I would not buy anything from North Face now.

[@DoseofDirt]

@@ericbettis2777 Dang, a mid 70s northface tent would be pretty rad. Just to see how much as changed. Ya, the mold and mildew can be bad. I've gotten in the habit of almost always pulling my tent out when I get home to dry off and air out in the back yard. It's a pain at the time, but I'm glad to prolong the life of my tent!

[@DoseofDirt]

@@ericbettis2777 Ya, agreed. No northface gear for me now. Too bad it's changed so much.

[@AusDemFelsen]

My $600 MSR tent is NOT waterproof at all (I learned it after a light rain). So thanks for your tips.

[@DoseofDirt]

DANG! Nothing worse than finding out your tent isn't waterproof while you're sleeping in it! Hope you didn't get too wet! These two things should get it sealed up nice for you! My tents were leaking like sieves and now they are sealed up tight! Would love to know how it works out for you! Thanks for watching!

[@tonygosbee3390]

@@DoseofDirt All the the sealants u'r talking about are discontinued fr Amazon.

[@johna.ludwig2311]

Yep...just used the Scotchgarde yesterday. I spray our tent once a year. We use the tent a lot, but it is always put away clean and dry when it isn't being used.

[@WayneTheSeine]

Good video. I don't know how it would work on a tent but Starbrite, who makes fantastic boating products, also makes a water-based waterproofer for boating fabrics, seats, tops, sails, and pretty much anything. It does list tents. Little to no odor. Sixty dollars a gallon but you could sure cover some stuff with a gallon. They might sell smaller quantities, but I am not sure. It also provides UV protection. Might be worth a test.

[@kelson108]

Thanks for great vid. We have a 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent 14' x 9 And just got back from a trip where one evening it thunderstormed/ rained for about 4 hours HARD!. the only water that got in this tent was near door where we had a rug to wipe feet .pretty sure it only seeped through due to the rug. Small puddle was it.rain fly and tent kept the rest of unit bone dry . Highly recommend the core tents ( been tent camping for 20 years )

[@Patat0four]

I had the worst experience with Gear-aid seam sealer. First, it would take DAYS to dry, but that is not the worst part, because once what it felt like an eternity before it looked dry, when folded, if by mistake the sealer touched itself, it to glued shut. I can't tell you the MESS I had to deal with trying to unfold a tent where seams are randomly glued together inside the tent. I had to use talc to remove any tackiness of the seam sealer, but the damage was done, I had seam sealer ripped everywhere, because of the mess I had to deal with.

[@justyouraveragejoe7359]

Awesome informative video. Just bought a big agnes tiger wall 3 and taking it camping this weekend. Weather reports dosen't look good so I'm going to give it the treatment. I live at the end of the world and thought I was going to have to order everything but the Walmart plug you gave saved me from that trouble. They carried both items. Thanks for your time and knowledge.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Joe! That's awesome!! Big Agnes Tiger Wall 3 is a solid tent! Would love to know how the trip goes when you get back! Hopefully it's a good time!

[@rousseautr]

Coughing "mistake"... too funny and much appreciated. Thank you. I needed a laugh.

[@TheAugustBurnsRedFan]

$160 North Face Strombreak 2 survived a monsoon downpour in the Everglades the very first use. Not a single drop came in. It was so dry that the ground has a perfect hexagonal dry spot when we took the tent down. Definitely the best entry level tent

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE! have to love when a tent performs in ridiculous conditions like that!

[@kirkknight5308]

I sealed seams on two Hillary tents with a caulk gun and latex caulk. Caulk the seams and use a sponge brush to push the caulk in. Be liberal with the caulk. Do a couple of feet at a time. After you caulk a section, Dip the brush in water and wipe the seam down. Do inside and out. It took me about 1 hour to do 2 4-man tents. The tents were waterproof for about 15 years. I had to spray silicone on the Flys at the beginning of every camping season, but the tents never leaked even in heavy rain. It's still the best and cheapest way I have ever found to waterproof seams. Not even close.

[@toddstowe8494]

I had a Eureka Blue Mesa 1610.... lasted 17 years. GREAT tent

[@DoseofDirt]

SEVENTEEN YEARS?! That is impressive! Hang on to that tent! Have you had to re-do the waterproofing at all?

[@dritt-drittpaniagua739]

The seam trick with great. Great video!.. but, the shaking of the can segment; I wake up screaming in the middle of the night... some things you just can't unsee!

[@RadReelingFishing]

excellent video! Thanks for the help. is it helpful to add a second coating of spray once the first one dries?

[@dcfavorite]

I'm not even going out for camping, I got an instant popup tent that I use at the park and the beach when I go out with my baby, and yes, showers do come down when we are at the park, and I'm glad I can use this technique to seal our tent so at least we have a place to hide when the rain comes down.

[@alathenasidericus]

You’re hilarious. :) What about turning the fly inside out and seem sealing it that way (as it’s done in factories) if the look bothers you? I never had to seem seal my tents. My old Coleman leaked after 5 years (it was a long time ago when Coleman used to make good affordable tents). It pretty much lived in my parents backyard in the summer. Then when my niece was 3 years old and we started car camping I bought an Outbound Popup tent. I figured I would be able to keep a watch on her as I put up the tent with how easy it was to set up. Worst mistake of my camping life. Thunder, lightning and so much rain the first night we camped in it. Since I always have a test night in the backyard, we came back inside to sleep. She found it really funny and in the morning she asked if we could sleep in the pool again. Needless to say I got rid of that tent pretty fast. Now I have the SUMA 2 and the Kohana 4 from Eureka. Middle range price but both have not leaked after about 20 camping trips.

[@DoseofDirt]

"Can we sleep in the pool again??" 🤣🤣 That is hilarious! Ya, for a double wall tent, doing the underside is a fantastic idea! These are both single wall tents, and I find the seams a lot easier to get at from the outside than in. But I also don't mind the way it makes the seems look wet. For for those that do, I think you've got the right idea! I'm glad I'm not the only one that sets up their tent in the backyard before taking it out! Makes a great excuse for sleeping in the tent at home! With all the tents I've been buying lately, the kids love it! Sleepovers in the backyard almost every week! thanks so much for watching!

[@JohnS-er7jh]

i went on a last minute camping trip. I borrowed an old tent from a friend. When we were setting up, I could see a storm rolling in. Lucky there was a food store a few miles from the site. I bought a box of 30 gallon plastic trash bags. I just ripped the seams of the bags and layered it over the tent. I also put some of the plastic bags on the ground. I stayed nice and dry for days.

[@ericschnuphase9677]

Ive got a 10 person tent that my family loves, its an Ozark. And we use the scott guard on it every year. Its takes about 3 cans to fully get it done.. . We bought a new one this, same has our last one. Our last one we had for 6 years, we nomally go camping 5 to 6 times a year.

[@timetothinkbereal]

My Eureka 4-person tent I bought 15 years ago. It is more than waterproof and I have seemed sealed and sprayed once in the last 3 years.

[@psyamok3735]

I'm too lazy to paint the seam seal. So I just use that waterproof spray to saturated spray on all the seams, 3 coats. It has been great and never have a leak even on cheap tents for the past 30 years of camping.

[@destinationbydefault5272]

I have a Vango force 10 vortex. Had it 15 years +, still waterproof as the day I got it. Bit heavy and over the top for the camping I now do but it has survived the worst North Wales UK can throw at it.

[@NCTraveller]

Yep...Had an MSR Hubba Hubba 3 person from 2007. Used it maybe 5 times over the years. Always stored it inside the house, in a closet. It has worked well in the past in the rain. This month (March 2024) I used the tent and saw after the first night that there appeared to be condensation droplets inside, which was puzzling to me because the tent was well vented with both ends open, and lots of air flow. The next evening it began to rain. The rain fly became saturated over time and the whole tent was dripping water everywhere....UGH!

[@DoseofDirt]

First, I LOVE that you've been rocking that tent since 2007. Gear can last a long time if you take care of it! Sucks that your rain fly started wetting out. Hope you were able to get it water proofed again and take it back out on the trail!

[@techtrx]

I usually just put a tarp over the whole tent and call it good. Its also a sauna in the day which helps during the night

[@TheXanthoman]

Ive got a ( no longer in production ) BA Jupiters Cabin 4 . Its only rated for 1500mm/hh , but it has proved to be quite waterproof from the factory. It survived a continuous 4 day deluge in 45 mph winds , also a puddle formed around the tent , and the base of the tent was literally sitting in a 1/4-1/2"of water , the floor was all puffed up from literally floating on the water , yet after 4 days only about a tblsp ( maybe 2 ) had made it into the tent , and most of that was from water tracked in from repeated entering/exiting/reentering the tent. Also , over the years , i have tried probably close to a dozen of the major waterproofing brands , and have found " Atsko Waterproof Extreme " to be far superior to all of them . Another slightly cheaper but just as good alternative , is to mix one tube of pure food safe 100% silicone caulk with a gallon of low odor paint thinner and apply it with a brush , also works great for turning bed sheets into waterproof tarps. Just my 2c worth

[@rhapsodymusiclessons]

Thanks! Just bought the Scotch Waterproofer for my Alvantor pop up screenhouse/tent and wanted to check out a video first. Nice, clear explanation. Appreciated!

[@LostBoy1026]

Great video!! I have a Lightheart gear tent the solong 6. I've had it in some serious storms for a few days at a time with no leaks yet. I did pay the company to seam seal it though 😢. Extra money. I dont understand why they dont just seal it for free for the money they are charging for the tent!!?? Only thing that happened after a few days of rain was it soaked up water and started to sag a little bit. I tightened the guylines and fixed it enough. But yeah no leaks. Oh its made of silnylon. Should have just sealed it myself and saved $$.

[@DanielShinkle]

I have a Cabela's cabin tent that I bought about 20 years ago. Until about two years ago, it would stay dry in a downpour. When it started leaking, I re-sealed the seams and sprayed waterproofing on the rain fly. It still leaks. Next step is the hose test to try to diagnose the exact location of the leak(s)

[@ilustradsn]

Thank you for the advice, we should all share information and help each others like this !! ⛺️ 😊

[@DoseofDirt]

Hope it helps! Thanks for your comment!

[@olafsodyssey6509]

Hello there. I purchased a Clostnature 2P tent from Amazon. I've camped in heavy rain with winds gusting as high as 30 mph without a single leak. I did recently treat it with Cabelas waterproofing spray, just to be safe.

[@tylervandeveer4792]

North Face Wawona 6 was amazing. It got destroyed in some intense storms from Arkansas down to the gulf in Texas but it was a great tent for 2 weeks. 60mph+ winds and I slept great. To bad you can't buy that model anymore.

[@amandajoe1902]

In all honesty, my tent NH cloud up 2 has yet to fail me since 2019, but... I can see the seam seal tape starting to deteriorate. Hopefully I could use the info from your video to save it. Thanks for sharing 😊

[@jamesbowen5573]

You know I used to actually do that to my tents. But then I had an epiphany one time when I bought a military poncho where all the coding came off of the Hood. That was when I bought a can of clear Flex Seal. Apply the Flex Seal everywhere on both sides, and it is not only water-resistant it is full Out waterproof. Just make sure you set the tent up before you apply this stuff. And leave it up at least a day in direct sunlight. So it won't become tacky when you roll it up. I tried it on a cheap I got at Walmart first. And it works like a charm. A lot of tents come with a rainfly and have a lot of ventilation netting. Obviously you don't waterproof The netting. You waterproof the rainfly which is extremely easy. Then you waterproof the floor and around the edges of the bottom that are not covered by the rain fly. But wait there's more. I see a lot of bushcrafters with their fancy several hundred dollar pants on that have waterproof knees and butt area. Guess what. Get some masking tape to set down on the material so you have a flatline to make it look professional and you can use the black Flex Seal. You can put a couple of coats on it to make it thicker. Now you can kneel down on wet ground without your pants getting super wet. You can also cover the inside and outside of the boot area of your pants. Measuring up a little past where the top of your boots come and waterproofing from there down. You do not want to cover all the pants or they become like leather pants with no ventilation. Then you're going to have a sweaty crotch. Only do the back part of the jeans, the knees, and the bottom of the pants legs about a foot from the bottom up all the way down. There are a lot of cheap little tricks so you don't have to buy all that fancy gear. You can do the same thing to any backpack, and all of a sudden you don't need a cover. Whether it is an old canvas Alice pack, or a nylon job. And you don't have to retreat it every year. Only if you get excessive wear or have to repair a rip. Which is as easy as sewing it up and then reapplying the Flex Seal. And no I'm not a Salesman for the stuff. I just think it works great with bushcrafting and camping gear. A lot better than the Silicon crap. I don't know how many years I used that silicon on my pants legs, and every damn time they got wet anyway. My boots too. I also do it on cheap tarps and ground sheets. You can buy them super cheap online and coat them yourself. And they are way better than the expensive crap. I put it on a bandana once just to see how good it would be. It worked out pretty good, I have a waterproof bandana I can cover stuff with in the rain. Clearly not big stuff.

[@BackpackingWithJason]

Great tips my friend. The dancing 😂😂😂

[@DoseofDirt]

haha! Thanks, Jason! Sorry you had to see that...🤣

[@BackpackingWithJason]

@@DoseofDirt 😂😂

[@tylersmyth8861]

I have the REI tent that comes in their backpacking bundle (I think the tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag was like $250 on sale). First time taking it out was at a music festival that was an absolute downpour with crazy gusts of wind for 3 days. Not a single drop of water in the tent, even with the roof vents open the whole time. I’ve taken it out in some more bad storms since and it’s held up great without seam sealer, nikwax, or really even proper care just shoved in the stuff sack dirty and thrown in the closet. It’s a bit heavy, but damn is it a well made tent and the price is definitely right.

[@mikebachar3276]

Just getting into overlanding found your channel. Thanks for all the useful information and the humor.

[@BakerBaker1-9]

Good vid 👍 - past several years I've always sprayed the seems with camp dry ...that very same 3m product - I guess I'll be going a step further with seem seal ...

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Baker! Ya, sometimes miss church for camping. The hair is definitely staying! 😆 I'll have to try the camp dry as well. Several people have mentioned that it works great! Thanks for your comment!

[@nancydroodlez]

I want to tell you about my 25 year old Kelty 2 person tent with rain fly- It's amazing has never leaked! I'm going to give her some love this season with the tips you've outlined. Also, I splurged on a proper ground cloth for $20, I'm looking forward to using that instead of a tarp. Thanks for the advice!

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE! I love hearing about gear that lasts decades! I've got a 20 year old Kelty pack as well!

[@user-ki3dj9pu9y]

Nice video, bought an entry level tent definitely gonna do this, and replace those fiberglass polls with aluminum ...

[@DoseofDirt]

Love it! Good way to save some serious money!

[@yahusrevus]

I dunno why... But, the KZbin algorithm has actually been crushin' it for me the past week or so. Recommended this video to me today (even though I had never heard of the channel before) and I'm pretty glad. Liked & Subscribed for sure, my dude. P.S. If mom had a problem with the hair then she definitely didn't appreciate the shake. Just sayin'. LOL

[@DoseofDirt]

😂😂😂😂 I'm still waiting for the text from mom when she sees the video... 🤣🤣 Sometimes it's scary how well the KZbin algorithm knows us, isn't it? LOL! So glad you found the channel and truly appreciate your support and kind words!

[@dannyrobinsonjr]

Naturehike Cloudup 2, I have an ultralight and regular version both in silnylon. Both have stood up to insane thunderstorms and winds in all 4 seasons in the midsouth for 3 years now.

[@prowannab]

I have used regular Thompsons water seal in a garden pump type sprayer for years. Set the nozzle to a mist. Spray the seams first, Then go over the entire tent. Let dry for 1-2 days in the sun and repeat at least twice. I have a 10 person ozark tent that I use for deer camp, and we stay dry everytime. I've used this method on various tent sizes over the years and always works. I also use this for pop up tents. CAUTION! You must have a dry place to let the tent dry for a minimum of 5 days. This allows the sealant to fully cure and air out. If not the tent will smell of the chemical and if put away wet the tent will mold. I think I paid maybe 20 bucks for the sealant and the sprayer.

[@DarkMetaOFFICIAL]

you can get some denatured alcohol, any kind of pure silicone like some basic caulk, and a small artists paintbrush. you dilute the silicone in a small dish, with the alcohol so it's somewhat liquidy but not too runny. paint it onto all your seams, inside and out, liberally. you'll see it coating every visible part where water can seep. do it in direct sunlight to see really easily, it will coat it fully and let it dry and cure for 48 hours in shade. this is ultimate durable 100% seal. and using the basic spray sealant on any fabric gives you a bone dry inside. besides any condensation. but this is a tremendous little hack. total game changer. you can do 100's of pieces of gear for many years with a single tube of silicone and a little alcohol. fraction the cost of any sealant or tape and stronger

[@ripptydevibes2581]

The best method from clothing to gear that I found is CAULK. The most expensive window caulk tube you can find in the box store. You want it to last. Mix spirits with window caulk until it is a runny liquid and simply brush paint whatever it is, the spirits help the caulk penetrate every fiber throughout, then the spirits evaporate. Leaving a 100% saturated and penetrated, flexible rubber impregnated seal. You can buy a $400 rain coat or an $80 raincoat and they are the same, they need to be painted or they are both garbage.

[@dananorth895]

I've recently experimented with nik wax silicone sealer, it's water based and your supposed to add it to the wash. At 12-15.00 for 10 oz thats about 3.5 loads total. Instead I put about 1/8 cup in a quart size sprayer from the .99 cent store and add water and shake. Spray on and brush or wipe, then allow to dry. I've done two canvas laavu tents (total 4 canvas ponchos), one washload of nylon tarps. And still have enough to do the hilti tent that leaks like a seave, I done know from where though. Might have to make up some 100% silicone and oderless thinner sealer and do the floor. You have to use a mixing paddle and drill to get it right though and only mix what you intend to use. The remainder will thicken over a week or so. I've used that on tarps, hats, backpacks, jackets, etc. Just brush or roll on 2-3 coats allowing to dry each time. Still have a vaavu set I think I'll wax with some pants and bags/haversacks.

[@remmid4678]

Saved my pockets and research I love glamoing etc on a budget that actually works way to go🎉😂❤

[@johncampbell4084]

Great channel and appreciate all the dedication that goes into the channel and engagement with the audience.

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, John! Truly appreciated! Sorry for the slow response! We just moved into a different house and it's been a bit of a week! 🤪 But we'll be back at it by next week with more videos!

[@johncampbell4084]

@@DoseofDirt no need to apologize at all. All you content creators are allowed your mental health, life outside of this and time with family.

[@DoseofDirt]

@@johncampbell4084 Thanks, John! Sometimes we all just need a break! Appreciate your understanding! 👊

[@AustinJQueen]

Humble Brag: TarpTent 3 person backpacking tent for trekking poles. Double pitch. Incredibly lightweight spacious for a backpacking tent and sooo good. On my second one after pitbull puppies barreled through the mesh lol

[@DoseofDirt]

I've wanted to try a TarpTent for a while now, but just haven't gotten around to it! And your experience is exactly why I hesitate letting my huskies into my Zpacks triplex! LOL!

[@richeyrich2203]

All good ways to help aid in water resistance. Note: use a ventilator mask when spraying the PFAS scotch guard. It’s pretty nasty stuff. Also, the tents are made of polyester, but it’s not comparable to your shirt by any stretch of the mind. It’s good to retreat quality tents with Seem sealer and water repellant every few years or so anyhow

[@Jack_Move]

An original Cabelas 4 season Alaskan Guide tent.. Have used for years in the rain & Snow & have Not had to Waterproof it yet, Also holds up Stupid Good to high winds & Insulates the cold out fairly well. Normally run a Propane heater in it when it gets around 15Deg or less outside.

[@ColinAverill]

I have a Coleman 6 person tent. Had some rain on our camping trip last year. Tent failed miserably, but in its defense, we got 3 inches of rain in 12 hours, so take that as you'd like. That said, take a guess why I'm here!

[@The_Bearded_B]

I had an Ozark trail 4 person and the first time I took it out it rained at night and the tent worked great. The next time that it rained while I was camping was about a year later and my daughter was with me and she was getting nervous because of the weather, she finally fell asleep and about 30 mins later the water just started pouring in the tent and started on her forehead.

[@kassieopea]

Walrus Terramoto 2.0 is a fabulous tent. I had it in a Hurricane situation in WV and it was dry.

[@DoseofDirt]

Nice! That's a tent I hadn't heard of before! Thanks for sharing!

[@hidiyates335]

Would you consider doing another water test on those tents after you waterproofed it yourself showing the differences?

[@DoseofDirt]

I definitely need to do that! I actually left them up for another 3-4 days for some rain after doing the waterproofing. They performed really well! I also sprayed them with the hose and tried my best to make it seem like rain, and they did well in that scenario as well. But yes, I've been watching the weather for some good rain so i can set these up and show how well they do! Thanks for watching!

[@moinab]

I have the blue Ozark Trail tent. I did a diy mineral spirits and silicone seam sealer, and the spray on waterproofing. Took it out this week and it performed like a champ in a 2 hour Florida thunderstorm.

[@Steph_7d7]

I usually buy tent waterproofing by the gallon every once in a long while. I fill a pump sprayer and drench the tent outside and inside, let it dry for a couple days and then use a spray can of waterproofing on the seams on the inside. Its expensive but it works and i have lots left over to do it a few times or a few other tents if need be. A gallon is definitely overkill but in the long run ive saved money by buying in bulk. My woods tent which was old but treated every few years held up to hurricane dorian without any damage and i credit the waterproofing / uv protection as the reason it held up so well. Im not advertising any specific products as much as im in agreement with the idea of just giving it a waterproofing treatment for efficacy and longevity.

[@pamelabaker1806]

Ozark Trail 8 person instant tent. I've had it for years and it hasn't leaked. I do always spray my tent with scatch guard when I set it up for the first time and about once every year.

[@ZuluLima47]

just found you lol. went camping this Last weekend and got DUMPED on in a Coleman echo lake 6. it rained hard for a few hours and even hailed. I think it rained so hard it just plain went straight through the fabric. it was a damp night but luckily I had a cot so I dried out fast the next morning

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Zulu! Glad you found the channel! Cots for the win! I've never tried a cot, but would like to. Seems like it could make for a comfortable night's sleep! I've found that a fresh treatment of the waterproofing spray can prevent tents from 'wetting out' like that. Hope you're able to stay dry on the next trip! But even on a rain day it's always good to be in the woods! Thanks so much for your comment!

[@ZuluLima47]

@@DoseofDirt cots are awesome if you can handle them in your system. that tent could definitely use a treatment as its a few years old now and sat for a couple years. I actually need to find a bigger tent so 2 cots can fit and was looking at the Coleman festival.

[@DoseofDirt]

@@ZuluLima47 Nice! Always good to have company!

[@nelsonjasper7017]

Best extra protection from the elements is a tarp. Depending on the size of the tent, get a tarp that will completely cover the tent. Tucking the tarp under the sides of dome tent. If a canvas wall tent, a 12×16 tarp will keep a 8×10 tent top sides dry. A 16×20 tarp will do the same for 10×12 & 12×14 canvas wall tent.

[@codypomeroy9040]

I homeless for almost four months now. On last day of April, staff bought to provide us Ozark Trail 3 person tent size which I use for two months now. It was almost waterproof thank god, just that bottom and door leaking bit. So today I bought a new tent, Stansport 2 person tent for $35 sale price (original is $55) at local hunting gear store only find out on review that this tent isn't waterproof at all and is absolutely junk so I didn't set up yet. Hopefully next day after this after I buy waterproof spray will work on new tent I bought.