I’m in the PNW and have an extra REI Groundbreaker two-person tent. I’m exploring ways to adapt it for winter camping by possibly sewing additional layers to the tent fabric. I know basic hand sewing, but I’m unsure which materials would be best for insulation and moisture protection. I’m considering repurposing material from an old mountaineering tent. Any advice or suggestions would be very helpful!
Winter tents generally don’t offer more warmth—they’re built to withstand wind and snow loads better. For winter camping, focus on your ground and sleeping insulation. A wind-blocking tent doesn’t need to be heavy fabric as long as you have a good R-rated pad and a warm sleeping bag or quilt.
@Freddie
This is the correct approach.
@Freddie
For a DIY project, check out LoneWolf902 on YouTube. He has tutorials on converting regular tents into winter-ready setups.
I’d recommend keeping your tent as is because sewing might compromise its structure. Instead, look into upgrading your rain fly to a more durable one with proper anchors. Your warmth largely comes from your sleep system, so invest in that instead.
Tents provide shelter from wind and rain, while your sleeping setup should keep you warm. The main issue with regular tents in winter is their inability to handle snow loads. If snow isn’t a concern, just ensure you have some minimal airflow to manage condensation while blocking cold drafts by adding paneling to the mesh areas.
A secondary fly that blocks wind could help. It should fit snugly over your existing setup and ideally extend to the ground to minimize wind ingress. I have a similar setup that transforms my tent for four-season use.
The main issue with your tent is the large vent on top and minimal rain fly coverage. Extending the rain fly to closer to the ground could help block wind. Ensure you maintain some venting to avoid excessive condensation.
We’ve used a 3-season tent in cold Minnesota winters. Two foam sleeping pads were key. The tent interior would stay in the mid-30s Fahrenheit.
Consider extending your tent’s rain fly to the ground to create a buffer zone. Also, check the tent poles—fiberglass might not withstand cold and wind as well as aluminum poles, which some places custom-make.
Covering your tent with a blue tarp above and beneath could work. Alternatively, consider a dedicated hot tent with a wood stove or a portable propane heater, ensuring proper ventilation for safety.