6 Best Blackout Tents Reviewed In 2024, Plus Best Blackout Tent Buying Guide

While many campers like to wake up early to see the beauty of the sunrise, some can’t fight the temptation of sleeping for longer hours past sunrise, even in the wilderness. Of course, the outdoor shelter matters with this — if you are like these campers who want to sleep after sunrise, you are in the right place. The best blackout tent is what you need. Truly, it is way better than a traditional tent that can’t block sunlight and wake campers already after the crack of dawn. 

Moreover, the blackout tent, also popularly recognized as a darkroom tent, is the key to better sleep quality while camping. In fact, you don’t need to rely on restrictive sleeping masks, but you can still enjoy a highly comfortable sleep in full darkness. With that being said, blackout tents are a highly innovative solution to achieve your ideal camping adventure. 

Discover more about blackout tents and the best blackout tents today below. Scroll down for more. 

What is a Blackout Tent?

One thing to describe the blackout tent is innovation because it utilizes a special fabric that can efficiently combine light-absorbing and light-diffusing qualities. Obviously, the primary advantage of the special fabric is to keep the tent as dark as possible inside. Even with the glaring sun, the campers inside will not be uncomfortable. 

Additionally, blackout tents are closely similar to blackout curtains used in homes to keep the light out. Even though some traditional tents can offer a dark interior, blackout tents are way better and are already recognized for their advantage. Even with the hot sun, most blackout tents won’t get uncomfortable because they can block almost 99% of incoming light. 

Unlike most assumptions that it is hot to stay inside blackout tents, it is the opposite. In particular, blackout tents can stay cooler than traditional tents. The high-quality ones utilize ventilation techniques and climate control fabric to lower the interior temperature efficiently. At the same time, these tents exhibit insulation properties that contribute to making the interior cool at night. 

Now, keep reading to figure out if a blackout tent is what you need for your next outdoor camping trip. 

Who should use a Blackout Tent?

Interestingly, blackout tents are well-suited to different campers. Ultimately, the best blackout tent is ideal for campers who constantly struggle to sleep in a bright camping environment and those who love to continue sleeping even after sunrise. In particular, blackout tents are fitted to use by these campers and tent users:

• Campers with kids

More often, campers are families that decided to enjoy the outdoors. Some of these campers camp with their children. As we know, children must sleep for longer hours and also need to take naps at the same time. With that being said, it is a good idea to use a blackout tent when camping with children. The dark interior of the blackout tent provides a comfortable sleeping environment. Thus, children will remain asleep even until morning to afternoon. 

• Light sleepers

There’s nothing wrong with being a sensitive sleeper who loves camping. If you are among those campers who are light sleepers, you must know that you don’t need to sacrifice your sleep while camping. Say goodbye to wearing restrictive sleeping masks because the best blackout tent will provide a comfortable dark sleeping shelter. Therefore, you can achieve a cozy and uninterrupted sleep to start your activities with more energy. 

• Camping in hot environments

Some campers feel frustrated with leaking tents during rainy camping conditions. For that reason, some of them prefer camping in hot environments. Of course, there are also struggles camping during hot conditions, such as the glaring sun and hot temperature. Thankfully for you, there is no need to fret about those hot environment camping struggles with the best blackout tents. 

High-quality darkroom tents can efficiently block the sun from getting through the interior, and they can also keep the temperature inside at the same time. Surely, blackout tents beat the traditional ones when it comes to providing a cozy sleeping shelter that saves campers from the frustrations of the glaring sun. 

• Festival-goers

Most festival-goers utilize tents as their temporary shelter during festivals. As for them, blackout tents are high-suited because they can effectively block the bright lights out of the tent. Most festival-goers sleep on a different schedule. However, they don’t have to compromise their sleep because of that. That’s why blackout tents are the best solution for them to rest to their heart’s content and enjoy the festival.

• Astronomers

There are some campers who identify themselves as astronomers who enjoy the mesmerizing stargazing. Obviously, stargazing is a nighttime camping activity. That’s why astronomers are awake at night and need to sleep during the day to regain their energy from staying awake all night. However, it is quite challenging to sleep during the day because of the glaring sun. Luckily, it is no longer a worry with the blackout tents that allow uninterrupted day sleeping. 

From the relevant information above, it is safe to state that blackout tents are ideal for a wide range of campers and tent users. Now, if you are curious about how blackout tents work exactly, explore below. 

How Do Blackout Tents Work?

Admittedly, blackout tents feature different ways to create an impressive interior that presents darkness efficiently. Besides that, these tents also have varying materials that block light transmissions. Below are the different designs and fabrics that make the best blackout tents. 

Here, go have a look: 

• Dark interior panels

As the name implies, dark interior panels are designed to be added to tents to reduce the outside light from the glaring sun excellently. The primary drawback with dark interior panels is that you won’t gain the full freedom to control stopping luminosity from entering the tent. With that being said, the best blackout tents with dark interior panel features are best suited for campers who only want their sleeping area to be dark and still want some light to go inside. 

• Rainfly that blocks out the light and sun

Some blackout tents utilize rainfly as a way to block the light and sun. In all fairness, rainfly can do a commendable job producing a cozier and darker interior. Basically, the rainfly is quite effective in having impressive darkness. Like the dark interior panels, rainfly also can’t provide total darkness in the interior. As a matter of fact, the rainfly still allows some light and glare to enter the tent, especially if the rainfly does not cover all the windows. 

Suppose that you like a blackout tent with a rainfly that will allow you to control the lightness and darkness inside. In that case, it is wise to choose one that features a reflective rainfly to have a cooler temperature inside despite the hot environment. 

• Special fabric that features light-absorbing technology

The high-quality blackout tents with special fabric features light-absorbing technology are great for blocking sunlight from entering the interior, especially at dawn and morning. If you like blackout tents with a specialized fabric, it is the best one with a climate control advantage. The reason for that is because specialized fabric with climate control can make sure that the tent interior will remain at a lower temperature and doesn’t heat up during the day. 

• Insulation layers

Blackout tents that are equipped with insulation layers are best for two reasons. First, the insulation layers can efficiently stop light from coming in inside the tent. Aside from that, the extra layers provide the necessary warmth during extreme cold camping environments. 

If your goal is to continue sleeping after sunrise, it is helpful to check the blackout tent’s description to determine how much light you can eliminate based on the percentage. Luckily, you don’t have to search elsewhere because you can find the best blackout tents in the compiled list below. 

6 Best Blackout Tents

The best blackout tent can efficiently offer more than a traditional tent. Undeniably, the main charm of the best blackout tents is their additional element that can impressively eliminate frustrating and uncomfortable light. It means that these tents let campers enjoy long hours of uninterrupted sleeping without any worry about the sun’s glare. 

Additionally, blackout tents also allow campers to have full control of their body clock even with camping. It will be just like they are sleeping in your home. Interestingly, high-quality made darkroom tents also feature insulation properties, promoting a cooler temperature at night. At the same time, these tents can also reduce heat during the day to avoid the build-up of the humidity inside. 

There’s no need to search for the best blackout tents because you can explore them in the compiled list below. Hence, you can be ready for your next outdoor camping trip. Interestingly, the list offers tents with different styles and designs to find one that suits your needs and preferences. Have a look below: 

1. Coleman Oak Canyon 4-Person Blackout Tent

Featuring highly innovative reliability and strength from an excellent hybrid pole design, the Coleman Oak Canyon 4-Person Blackout Tent is worth considering as an outdoor family shelter. One of the most highlighted features of this tent is its revolutionary sleep system to offer from the blackout bedroom. It blocks almost 99% of the sunlight, preventing the light from entering the sleeping area. Therefore, the tent is ideal for campers who are light sleepers and want to sleep at whatever time of the day. 

Besides that, the blackout tent also features impressive climate control. In fact, it can efficiently manage temperature and provide a 1°C warmer at night and a 5°C cooler during the day. At the same time, the tent is designed with windows equipped with rollable PVC covers to manage the temperature better. Meanwhile, the tent poles are constructed from quality fiberglass that can withstand bad camping conditions. 

As for the design, the Coleman Oak Canyon 4-Person Blackout Tent presents a tunnel design, two doors, windows, blackout bedroom space, and a peaked porch. The porch serves as a sheltered spot to store dirty boots and other camping accessories while protecting the entrance at the same time. On the other hand, you can zip the blackout bedroom space in full privacy to sleep at any time of the day. 

Moreover, the tunnel design darkroom tent comes with an innovative rainfly with a black coating — when combined with the very dark fabric, they can secure 99% success in blocking the sunlight. On top of that, the tent material also poses SPF 50 and fire retardant for safety advantages. When it comes to weather protection, the tent is made with great weatherproof advantage with taped seams and a fully sewn-in groundsheet to withstand any weather. 

Thanks to the bug-free interior, you can enjoy a bug-free camping adventure. So far, the tent seems a worthy choice, right? Well, there’s more to like about it. Among them is the easy setup process. In particular, you can set it up for about 10 minutes. Plus, it has a compact size of 71 x 35 x 31 cm, which offers convenience in transport at any camping site. 

Overall, the Coleman Oak Canyon 4-Person Blackout Tent is meant for light sleepers who still want to enjoy the outdoors and don’t want to wake up early. It is a great bonus that the tent is constructed with high-quality materials and special features. 

2. Ozark Trail Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent

As the name implies, the Ozark Trail Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent has an instant setup within just a few minutes. Even though it is made to accommodate up to 12 campers, you can enjoy its effortless setup with no assembly required. As a matter of fact, the tent poles are already pre-attached. That means all you need to do is unfold and extend to build. 

Moreover, the darkroom tent is constructed with quality breathable 190T coated polyester material. As for the poles, they are made from fiberglass and alloy steel materials. That’s why the blackout tent can withstand disfavored camping conditions. Adding to the wind protection is the rainfly with factory-sealed seams. Therefore, you don’t have to fret about leaks with little rain and wind. 

Thanks to the innovative blackout technology, the Ozark Trail tent stays dark during the day because the design efficiently blocks the sunlight, promoting an incredibly cooler temperature to sleep longer without any disturbance from frustrating and uncomfortable light. Additionally, the multiple skylights featuring interior ceiling panels grant control to campers in customizing the light inside. 

Not only that, but the interior ceiling panels are rollable to achieve incredible stargazing and extra interior illumination. By that, it is more convenient to complete nighttime camping activities. Aside from the interior ceiling panels, the cabin-style tent is also designed with nine large windows, presenting a great convenience to view the outdoors and enjoy nature.

Since the Ozark Trail Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent is a large outdoor shelter, it is no surprise that it is styled with removable room dividers. With that being said, you can produce separate living spaces. Also, the tent comfortably fits up to 12 campers in sleeping bags on the floor or four queen air beds. While it is designed to accommodate up to 12 campers, it is best to use the tent with only 6-8 campers for better space and comfort. 

There’s nothing to worry about with your camping gear and accessories because the instant cabin tent provides four pockets for storage. More importantly, the tent also comes with electrical port access. All in all, if you want a happy camping adventure with everyone, this darkroom tent from Ozark Trail is worth trying for with the instant setup advantage and classy designs that allow an easy view of the outdoors and impressive ventilation. 

3. Beesky Dark Room Camping Tent

Suppose you want a budget-friendly darkroom camping tent with waterproof advantages. In that case, the Beesky Dark Room Camping Tent is meant for you. With dimensions of 8 x 7 ft. and 54 inches in center height, the tent is enough to fit 4 campers. Also, the Beesky store offers an 8-person tent if you need a larger outdoor shelter. 

Moreover, the blackout tent presents a comfortable dark interior even when it is already daylight inside. Additionally, the tent’s darkroom technology can block up to 90% of sunlight. Besides the dark interior result, the tent will not become hot, promoting a cooler temperature inside for comfortable sleep even after sunrise. 

Specifically constructed with quality construction, the tent comprises combined fiberglass, alloy steel, and polyurethane materials for a sturdy and durable build. Not only that, but the camping tent is also jam-packed with special features, such as rainfly, waterproof, and windproof advantages. By that, you won’t feel that the tent is in an affordable range. 

In particular, the blackout tent is waterproof because of the 185T polyester material complemented by the 1000MM PU-treated rainfly. That’s why you will surely have a good rest while staying protected, promoting a happy camping experience. If you want this leverage for your darkroom camping tent, it proves that this tent is meant for you. 

Once again, the tent’s materials are highly commendable for stability and safety. In fact, the fiberglass poles are strong and durable, ensuring impressive stability and long service life. Hence, the tent remains stable despite windy camping conditions. On the other hand, the darkroom camping tent features a footprint that can serve as a picnic blanket or a gate mat to place muddy and dirty shoes. 

Interestingly, the blackout tent does not need professional setup skills. Even a beginner can set up the tent without any difficulty, and the process can only last for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, the outdoor shelter is also equipped with electrical port access. With that being said, you can freely run a cord to access an outside power source. 

What makes you like more about the Beesky Dark Room Camping Tent is that it guarantees a no-risk purchase for outdoor shelter. The store provides incredible 1-year quality assurance. Conclusively, the tent is a great choice for solo or group camping. You can sleep longer until you desire and have plenty of room to stretch out and be comfortable. 

4. CORE 6-Person Tent with Blackout Technology

At one look, there’s no doubt that the CORE 6-Person Tent with Blackout Technology is not a tall-friendly camper tent. Of course, it is not a tall tent, to begin with. In particular, it only features a 66 inches maximum height. With that being said, it is a dome-style camping tent. However, it still successfully draws campers because of its great features. 

Moreover, the blackout tent is specifically built as a 4-season outdoor shelter that offers a cool sleeping and resting area. That’s why you can be confident in utilizing it for different camping conditions. Besides the strength to withstand unwanted weather, the tent also boasts CORE H20 Block Technology and an adjustable ground vent, promoting ideal ventilation. 

As for the blackout technology, it stops 90% of sunlight from getting inside. As an effect, it is cool to stay inside the tent with no worries about hot temperatures. Do you enjoy stargazing or late-night campfires bonding? Well, you can do that without any fear of headaches due to late sleep and early waking up. 

Thanks to the incredible blackout technology, you can sleep more and be comfortable at any time of the day. You can finally say goodbye to frustrating sunlight problems with a camping adventure. Now, going back to the vent, the tent boasts an advanced venting system with the back wall vent, drawing cool air from the ground. 

Besides the advanced venting system, the CORE 6-Person Tent is also equipped with a vented rainfly and adjustable panels — they offer an impressive airflow to keep campers feel comfortable inside. At the same time, the panels on the ceiling put controls on the campers with light and ventilation. 

On top of fantastic features, the blackout tent is created with a simple setup process. There’s no sweat and stress because the tent presents color-coded fiberglass poles and sleeves. Impressively, you can camp in no time. Meanwhile, the CORE 6-Person Tent with Blackout Technology boasts a warranty guaranteeing the utmost satisfaction on purchase. 

If you don’t want your camping tent to have total darkness on the interior, this one is meant for you. It is darker than traditional tents but still allows you to have a little sunlight to enjoy. After all, you can control the light and ventilation. For that reason, it deserves great consideration, right? 

5. Coleman Rocky Mountain Blackout Tent

Presenting a tunnel design, the Coleman Rocky Mountain Blackout Tent is a well-structured outdoor shelter that offers adequate space for a decent camping adventure for families and group campers. A great thing about it is that it is a tall-friendly blackout tent. Interestingly, it features an excellent full head height and area that fits up to 5 campers.

Moreover, the tent boasts a tapered-off end section that produces a cozy and breezy feel inside the blacked-out bedroom space. In addition, the tent also comes with higher walls than other traditional tents. As a result, there is more space for campers to stand straight without bending. If you are a tall camper, the tent is great for your comfort. 

Besides that, the length of the tent is extended beyond the hanging canopy. In the area, you can use it as sheltered storage for dirty shoes and camping gear or a resting space to enjoy a chill time. The 4 PVC-covered windows, on the other hand, can offer a nice way to view and observe the outdoors without worrying about any bad weather. 

Impressively, you can adjust the windows to control privacy, ventilation, and light inside. Aside from the primary windows, there is also an added window in the bedroom which is great if you don’t want the bedroom to be in full darkness. Therefore, you can also use the bedroom as a breezy area to bond and rest with everyone. In short, the tent is a great choice if you want the ultimate balance of privacy and light control. 

The Coleman Rocky Mountain Blackout Tent is specifically designed to handle harsh weather camping conditions and withstand wet weather. In particular, the tent comprises PU-coated fabrics, fully integrated flooring, and sturdy fiberglass pole construction. Also, it is equipped with a large flysheet on the outside that adds stronger weather protection. Don’t worry about zipping the tent because it will still be comfortable inside, thanks to the breathable polyester material.

Regarding the blackout effect, the tent has the power to block 99% of sunlight, promoting a 5°C cooler temperature inside. With an impressive pack size of 70 x 32 x 30 cm for a huge structured tent, the blackout tent is undeniably meant to be a great to-go 5-person camping tent. 

6. Quechua Waterproof Pop Up Camping Tent

Obvious of the name, the Quechua Waterproof Pop Up Camping Tent is a super easy to set up tent you can have. That’s why it is meant for beginners since it only takes seconds to set up. What’s great is you don’t have to set it up with ropes and pegs when there is no strong wind. 

Specifically featuring an extra dark interior, the blackout tent is best for all-day sleeping with no more interrupted rest caused by glaring sunlight. The specialized patented outer fabric gives the tent the ideal 99% blackout effect. As for reducing the warmth inside the tent, you can look forward to the flysheet that can do the job well. 

At the same time, the flysheet features two impressive fixed and extended side panels —  they create amazing airflow that circulates well. During sunny and warm camping days, the UPF 50+ coating on the fabric will keep you protected and comfortable. On the other hand, there’s no need to get stressed about water leakages since the tent is made of waterproof materials, promoting high strength to withstand rough conditions. 

If you are a beginner and a light sleeper who can’t handle too much heat, the Quechua Waterproof Pop Up Tent is the one that can give you what you need. 

Best Blackout Tent Buying Guide

Don’t know where to get started when buying the best blackout tent? You don’t have to get stressed because we’ve got your back. Luckily, you won’t get lost in making a great buying decision because there is a buying guide with important factors below that you can consider before deciding your final choice. Explore them below: 

Type of Blackout Effect

As already stated above, there are different ways how blackout tents work. Since there is a ranging level of darkness, you need to consider your needed level of light. If you are highly sensitive to light while sleeping, it is necessary to check your prospective blackout tent’s ability to shut down sunlight. 

Size

Even with blackout tents, size does really matter before making a final buying decision. You always need to check the size if you are camping with a large group to avoid feeling stuffy and crowded inside. After all, comfortability can make or break a camping adventure. 

Moreover, if you are camping with adults, it is wise to buy a blackout tent intended for double the amount of camper you’ll bring with you. For instance, 2 campers should take a 4-person tent to ensure adequate space to stretch out and also an area for storage at the same time. However, if you are camping with kids, you don’t have to choose double space. 

Ventilation

If you want to feel comfortable while sleeping inside the tent during daylight, you need to strictly consider ventilation. In that case, you must choose a blackout tent with numerous windows and mesh vents. These features can promote ideal airflow. Besides that, tents with ground vents are great to buy because they can reduce humidity and lower the temperature. 

Design

Design is also important when buying a blackout tent, like any other factor. When checking the design, you must reflect on your needs. For instance, if you only need a tent for sleeping, it is fine to choose a dome-style tent. Meanwhile, if you want to stay inside the tent and rest, a cabin-style tent is great because it has high walls and a pointed roof, promoting a comfortable standing room. On the other hand, a tunnel-style tent combines both styles, offering an ideal cozy sleeping area. 

Ease of Setup

You don’t want to struggle in setting up a blackout tent? Don’t worry; the instant or pop-up has an edge on fastpitch advantages. However, it doesn’t mean that traditional installation is inferior. In fact, the traditional installation promotes superior sturdiness. Luckily, the ones above have ideal ease of setup. On top of that, choose tents with color-coded steel or fiberglass poles that can strongly withstand high winds. 

Storage Pockets and Electrical Port Access

If you want to effortlessly organize camping gear and accessories, it is wise to choose a blackout tent with numerous storage pockets. After all, keeping your things off the ground will make the tent more spacious. 

Choosing a blackout tent with electrical port access can guarantee an ultimate camping luxury adventure. The E-port’s special opening lets you run an electric cord inside to use all your electronic devices. 

Price

It is wise to check the price of everything you buy since it is important to get what you pay for, especially for hard-earned money. With that being said, it is best to buy from trustworthy brands that have great quality and price. Best of all, you must always prioritize your needs and preferences before making a final buying decision. 

Final Thoughts 

Indeed, there’s more benefit to choosing the best blackout tents than buying traditional ones. Greatly, a darkroom tent can be your shield from glaring sunlight. It offers an innovative peaceful, comfortable sleeping environment for quality sleep when camping. 

If you spend long nighttime activities, you need to sleep more until you regain energy for other activities you planned. That’s why the blackout tents are designed. They are an especially innovative outdoor shelter for light sleepers and kid campers’ use. 

Now, if you don’t know what to choose, you can start here. The compiled list above offers varying features and advantages. You will like the Quechua Waterproof Pop Up Camping Tent if you want a tent for beginners that is easy to set up. The Coleman Rocky Mountain Blackout Tent is meant for you if you want a highly durable tent that can withstand harsh weather camping conditions. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some frequently asked questions about blackout tents and other related topics that can help you learn more about specialized darkroom tents.