Enjoy the great outdoors, responsibly. Sustainable tents are comfortable, sturdy, and eco-friendly. We’ve compiled a list of the best sustainable tents made from recycled materials, highlighting their key features and benefits.
Sustainable Tents Made From Recycled Materials
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 mtnGLO®
- FULLY REDESIGNED – The Copper Spur HV UL series just…
- AWARD-WINNING COMFORT – New awning-style vestibules…
- STORAGE AND MORE – New 3-D bin ‘mezzanine’ in the…
- A BETTER SHELTER – New proprietary tent corner…
- ULTRALIGHT STRENGTH – New proprietary ultralight nylon…
- Recycled Materials: Big Agnes uses recycled nylon in the Copper Spur line.
- PFC-Free DWR: Big Agnes is actively moving toward PFC-free DWR.
- Durability: Proprietary double ripstop nylon with mixed denier for enhanced tear resistance.
MSR Hubba Hubba LT
- Built for adventurers who don’t want to compromise…
- True rectangular floor plan and nearly vertical walls…
- Mostly mesh body is incredibly breathable, minimizing…
- Unified hub and pole system is symmetrical making setup…
- Large rainfly has two large vestibules with StayDry…
- Durability: 20D silicone-coated nylon fly and 30D floor prioritize longevity.
- PFAS-Free: Hubba Hubba LT models use solution-dyed fabrics (80% lower carbon) and PFAS-free DWR.
- Repairability: MSR emphasizes repair services to extend product lifespan.
Nemo Dragonfly OSMO
- High-performance, high-strength OSMO poly-nylon ripstop…
- Generous doors and asymmetrical vestibules for each…
- Hubbed, pre-bent DAC Featherlite NFL poles with…
- Color-coded anodized poles, matched webbing, and…
- bluesign approved fly & floor materials meet strict…
- OSMO™ Fabric: 100% recycled yarns with PFAS-free construction.
- Performance: 4x better water repellency, 3x less stretch when wet vs conventional fabrics.
- Certifications: bluesign® approved materials and flame retardancy without added chemicals.
- Accessories: PFAS-free footprint available.
Sea to Summit Telos
- Tension Ridge raises the tent’s shape upwards for…
- Color-coded ultra-strong lightweight DAC NSL two-hub…
- Made for longevity and superior waterproof performance…
- Hangout Mode converts rainfly into semi-open shelter….
- FairShare storage system: tent packs into 3 stuff sacks…
- Coating Innovation: PeU (polyether urethane) coatings resist hydrolysis better than PU.
- PFC-Free: Stated commitment to phase out perfluorinated chemicals across products.
- Poles: Uses DAC Featherlite NFL poles (industry standard for recyclable aluminum).
NEMO Dagger OSMO
- High-performance, high-strength OSMO poly-nylon ripstop…
- Two large doors and massive trapezoidal vestibules lead…
- Pre-bent anodized aluminum DAC Featherlite NSL poles…
- Color-coded, hubbed pole set with color-matched webbing…
- bluesign approved fly & floor materials meet strict…
- Recycled Materials: 100% recycled yarns (polyester from bottles, nylon from industrial waste).
- PFC-Free DWR: PFAS/PFC-free waterproofing and flame retardancy without added chemicals.
- Certifications: bluesign® certified backpacking tent, 100% recycled REPREVE® pole bag.
- Durability: 4x better water repellency and 3x less stretch when wet vs traditional fabrics. Lifetime warranty and repair program.
- Circular Programs: Endless Promise® collection for gear recycling. Partnership with Out&Back Outdoor for trade-ins.
Kammock Mantis Recycled All-in-One
- 100% Recycled Fabric: Uses GravitasX™ 40D nylon made entirely from pre-consumer waste.
- Chemical Safety: Bluesign® approved materials ensure no harmful dyes or chemicals in production.
- Circular Economy: Upcycles manufacturing scraps into accessories like totes and packs.
- Ethical Manufacturing: Kammock emphasizes its commitment to responsible manufacturing and fair labor practices. They are Climate Neutral Certified (measures/offsets carbon emissions).
- Kammock is also a B Corp, which means they meet certain standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
- Philanthropy: 1% of revenue donated to outdoor mentorship programs via 1% for the Planet.
Vango Joro Inflatable Tent
Shop Vango Joro Sustainable Tent
- The Vango Joro Air 450 is a 4-person inflatable tent constructed using Sentinel Eco Fabric, created from 100% recycled single-use plastic.
- Vango has recycled more than 8 million plastic bottles through their camping tents and sleeping bags.
- The Joro has multiple king-sized, nightfall bedrooms, pre-angled beams for more head room, a built-in vestibule with awning and a huge front door.
- The Vango Joro Tent can be set up and taken down within a matter of minutes, using the Vango AirBeam®.
What should you look for in a sustainable tent?
When you’re shopping for a sustainable tent, consider these features:
- Recycled Materials: Look for tents made from recycled fabrics (like recycled PET bottles) for the tent body, rainfly, and even the poles. This significantly reduces the environmental impact. Check for certifications like Bluesign or similar that verify recycled content.
- Durability and Longevity: A sustainable tent should be built to last. Durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing waste. Look for high-quality materials, strong construction, and reinforced stress points. A longer lifespan is a key component of sustainability.
- Repairability: Choose a tent from a brand that offers repair services or replacement parts. This extends the tent’s life and avoids the need to buy a new one if it gets damaged. Consider how easy it is to make repairs yourself.
- Water Resistance and Weather Protection: Sustainability shouldn’t mean sacrificing performance. Ensure the tent offers adequate water resistance (hydrostatic rating) for the conditions you’ll be camping in. A good rainfly is essential.
- Ethical Manufacturing: Consider brands that prioritize fair labor practices and ethical manufacturing processes. Look for certifications like Fair Trade or companies with transparent supply chains.
- Lower Environmental Impact Production: Some manufacturers are taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of their production processes, such as using less water or energy, or using dyes with a lower environmental impact.
- PFC-Free Water Repellents: Avoid tents treated with perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). PFCs are harmful to the environment and human health. Look for tents that use PFC-free durable water repellents (DWR).
- Weight and Packability: While durability is important, consider the weight and pack size of the tent, especially if you’ll be backpacking. A lighter tent reduces your energy expenditure on the trail. Balance durability with weight.
- Versatility: A versatile tent that can be used in a variety of conditions can be more sustainable than owning multiple specialized tents.
- Brand Transparency: Choose brands that are transparent about their sustainability practices and materials. Look for companies that are actively working to reduce their environmental impact.
Crucial Reminders:
- “Recycled” Isn’t Always 100%: Even tents with recycled content may have some components that are not recycled. Look for details on what parts are made from recycled materials.
- Manufacturer Updates: Tent specs change! Always confirm the exact materials, DWR, and ethical practices on the brand’s website for the specific tent you’re considering.
- “Greenwashing” Alert: Be wary of vague “eco-friendly” claims. Look for specific details like “recycled content,” “PFC-free,” or certifications like Bluesign or Fair Trade.
- Ethical Manufacturing is Harder to Verify: Look for certifications like Fair Trade or B Corp, or for brands that are transparent about their supply chain.
FAQs
How can I identify eco-friendly tents when I’m shopping?
First, look for tents made from recycled materials, like those made from plastic bottles or old fabrics; this info is usually mentioned in the product description. Next, check for certifications like the Bluesign® label, which means the tent was made with environmentally friendly practices and safe chemicals. You can also look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes and show a commitment to sustainability on their websites. Additionally, make sure the tent is not made with harmful chemicals like PFCs. Finally, read reviews or ask other campers about their experiences with eco-friendly tents to help guide your choice.
What materials are used to make a tent?
Tents are made from a mix of materials that help keep you protected while you’re camping. The outer layer, called the fly, is usually made from nylon or polyester because these fabrics are lightweight and waterproof, and keep rain out while being easy to carry. Inside, the tent body often uses the same materials but can also have breathable mesh panels to let air flow in and keep bugs out. For the tent poles, you’ll find materials like aluminum or fiberglass—aluminum is strong and lightweight, while fiberglass is a bit heavier but less expensive. Lastly, the tent floor is often made from durable materials like polyethylene or coated nylon to protect against moisture and wear. All these materials work together to create a cozy shelter that can handle whatever nature throws at you!
What tent material is best for camping?
When it comes to choosing the best tent material for camping, nylon and polyester are two of the top contenders. Nylon is super lightweight and strong, making it perfect for backpackers who want to carry their gear easily. Plus, it usually has a great waterproof coating, keeping you dry during rainy nights. On the other hand, polyester is a bit heavier but is really good at resisting UV rays, so it won’t fade or weaken in the sun as quickly. If you’re planning to camp in various weather conditions, look for tents made from ripstop nylon or high-denier polyester, which are tougher and more durable. Some tents even use a blend of both materials to give you the best of both worlds.
Are there any eco-friendly tents that use bamboo for frames?
Yes, Bamboo is a fantastic choice because it’s super strong, lightweight, and grows quickly, making it a sustainable material. Companies create unique bamboo frame tents that are perfect for camping or glamping. These tents often combine bamboo poles with durable, weather-resistant fabrics to create a cozy and stylish shelter in nature. Additionally, modern designs like bamboo yurts not only look amazing but also provide great insulation and stability against the elements. So, if you’re looking for a tent that’s both cool and kind to the planet, bamboo options are definitely worth checking out!
What are the drawbacks of using poly-cotton blends for tents?
Using poly-cotton blends for tents has some drawbacks that you should know about before heading out on your camping trip. First, these tents are generally heavier than those made from pure polyester, which can make them a bit harder to carry and set up, especially if you’re hiking to your campsite. They also have a larger pack size, meaning they take up more space in your car or backpack. Another important point is that poly-cotton tents need to be weathered before you use them, which involves soaking them in water and letting them dry to help the fabric tighten and become more waterproof. Lastly, they tend to dry out slower than other materials, so if it rains, you might end up waiting longer for your tent to dry out after the storm passes.
How do non-toxic coatings in eco-friendly tents work?
Non-toxic tent coatings protect you from water and the environment without using harmful chemicals. Instead of using traditional PFAS (forever chemicals) that can be dangerous, companies are developing awesome alternative coatings that keep your tent dry and safe. For example, some brands like NEMO and Diamond Brand use special polyurethane-based treatments that repel water just as effectively as old-school chemicals. These eco-friendly coatings work by creating a microscopic barrier on the fabric that makes water droplets slide right off, kind of like how water beads up on a freshly waxed car. These new coatings are not only better for your health but also help protect the planet by avoiding toxic substances that can harm the environment.
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- The Average Cost of Tent Camping in the US: Comprehensive Guide for Budgeting
- The Best Waterproof Tents Made Without Harmful Flame Retardants
- The Best Non Toxic Tents for Healthier Camping
Resources
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on sustainability and its importance in protecting the environment.
- The Conversation website has a section dedicated to articles on sustainability
- Columbia University’s Earth Institute has a section on sustainability and the growing awareness of environmental issues. [source]
- The United Nations has a Small Grants Program that supports local communities and non-governmental groups working on sustainability initiatives.
- Nature Sustainability has research articles on topics related to sustainability, such as clean energy and resource use efficiency.