What are Glamping Tents Made Of?

Jun 28, 2025

Glamping tents aren’t made of fairy dust—but close! They're crafted from luxe canvas, sturdy wood, and weatherproof blends for comfort and style. Want to know why some feel like boutique hotels while others leak at 2am? Stick around—we're breaking down the materials behind the magic.

The Heart of the Tent: The Main Canvas Fabric

Cotton Canvas: The Traditional, Breathable Choice

The Key Benefit: Superior Breathability for Hot Climates

Cotton canvas is a staple in glamping tents. It’s a natural fabric known for being breathable, which helps air circulate and keeps the interior cooler in warmer weather. This makes it ideal for sunny summer getaways.

It also gives the tent a soft, natural aesthetic that’s hard to beat.

Front view of a large beige glamping tent set on a green field with cloudy skies and autumn trees in the background.

Natural Water Resistance and How It Works

One clever trait of cotton canvas is its ability to swell slightly when wet. This tightening of the fibres creates a water-resistant barrier. It blocks out moisture while still allowing air to move through.

With additional waterproof treatments, it can handle rainy days surprisingly well.

The Downsides: Weight and a Need for Proper Care to Prevent Mould

While cotton canvas is luxurious and comfy, it’s on the heavier side. It also needs to be dried out before storing. Otherwise, mould and mildew can creep in.

Caring for it properly ensures it lasts for years, but it does require a bit more attention.

Polycotton Canvas: A Modern, Durable Blend

The Best of Both Worlds: Combining Cotton's Feel with Polyester's Strength

Polycotton canvas blends the best of two worlds. It keeps the soft feel of cotton but adds the strength and resilience of polyester. This makes it popular with glampers who want something sturdy but still comfortable.

It’s a modern solution that suits both long and short-term setups.

Side angle of a spacious canvas glamping tent pitched on open grass with trees and cloudy sky in the distance.

Increased Resistance to Mildew and UV Rays

Thanks to the synthetic fibres, polycotton is more resistant to mould and UV damage than pure cotton. It won’t fade as fast in strong sun, and it’s less prone to developing damp smells.

This added toughness can save a lot of effort in the long run.

The Trade-Off: Less Breathable Than 100% Cotton

The downside is breathability. It’s not quite as airy as pure cotton canvas. So, on very hot days, the interior might feel a bit warmer.

Still, the improved weather resistance often makes this trade worth it for many campers.

Understanding Canvas Weight (GSM)

What GSM (Grams per Square Metre) Means

GSM stands for grams per square metre and refers to the weight and density of the canvas fabric. It's a simple way to measure how thick or heavy the material is. Generally, the higher the GSM, the tougher the canvas.

This figure is useful when comparing durability across tent types.

How a Higher GSM Relates to Durability and Longevity

A higher GSM means thicker fabric. That translates to longer-lasting protection from the elements. It also handles wear and tear better.

The only real downside is added weight—something to consider if you’ll be packing up often.

More Than Just Canvas: The Tent's Complete Anatomy

The Frame and Poles: Providing Strength and Structure

Steel Poles: The Strong Standard for Bell Tents

Bell tents often use steel poles for their central and support structures. Steel is strong, reliable, and great in windy conditions. It helps keep the tent upright and tensioned properly.

Plus, it’s simple to set up and take down.

Minimalist bell tent with open flap, pitched on leafy grass beneath tall trees and next to a rural road.

Wood and Steel Frames: The Foundation for Safari-Style Tents

For larger safari-style glamping tents, wood and steel frames are common. The steel offers support, while timber adds a natural, high-end aesthetic. These tents feel more like semi-permanent lodges.

They work especially well for longer stays or resort-style sites.

Guy Ropes and Pegs: The Unsung Heroes of Stability

Don’t underestimate the importance of guy ropes and pegs. They may look simple, but they’re crucial for keeping the tent steady. Proper tensioning prevents sagging, flapping, and water pooling during bad weather.

Good anchors make all the difference when storms hit.

The Groundsheet: Your Waterproof Foundation

The Material: Why Heavy-Duty PVC is Used

Groundsheets are usually made from thick, waterproof PVC. This material is resistant to punctures, mud, and heavy foot traffic. It’s easy to wipe clean and keeps moisture from seeping up from below.

It forms the protective barrier between you and the ground.

The "Zipped-in Groundsheet" (ZIG): The Gold Standard for Keeping Water and Bugs Out

Zipped-in groundsheets (ZIGs) are a brilliant upgrade. They seal tightly to the tent walls, stopping rain, wind, and creepy crawlies from entering. This feature creates a cosy, enclosed space—even in wild conditions.

For year-round glamping, ZIGs are worth seeking out.

Why a Separate "Footprint" is a Good Idea for Extra Protection

A footprint is a separate layer placed beneath the main groundsheet. It helps protect the bottom of your tent from damage and extends its lifespan. It also keeps the base clean when packing down.

If you’re camping on rough ground, it’s a smart extra to bring along.

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