Hot Tub Tents: The Perfect Solution for Year-Round Comfort
By Jennifer Rhodes · Updated
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As the days grow colder and the chill of winter sets in, many people turn to the soothing warmth of a hot tub for respite. But when the temperature drops, you're left exposed to the elements, making it uncomfortable to soak in a tub without some form of shelter.
One solution is to invest in a hot tub tent. This provides protection from the elements, privacy, and thermal insulation—all in one convenient package.
In this blog post, we'll feature five different gazebos that have all been hand-selected to work as hot tub tents—with something for every budget. We'll also discuss the benefits of using a hot tub tent, and why you should consider repurposing a gazebo into a tent large enough for a hot tub.
ABCCANOPY Ez Pop Up Canopy Tent with Sidewalls
A reliable and easy-to-use canopy tent
View on AmazonThis tent features a sturdy steel frame and has a rugged 100% waterproof fabric top. The side walls are made from the same fabric and offer plenty of protection from the sun and wind. Plus, the design makes setup and takedown quick and easy, so you're ready to go in no time.
When it's time to pack up, the frame can be conveniently broken down and stowed inside the wheeled carry bag. This makes the tent portable and easy to transport, ideal for if you don't want to leave it up over your spa all the time.
The only negative with this tent is the lack of windows. If you want to be able to see outside the tent while you're using the hot tub, you're out of luck. But what you lose in views you gain in privacy, so that one's for you to decide!
All in all, this ABCCANOPY tent is an excellent choice for anyone who wants reliable, durable protection from the elements. Great as a hot tub tent for spas of any size.
ABCCANOPY Outdoor Gazebo with Church Window Sidewalls
Stylish aesthetics and good visibility
View on AmazonAlso by ABCCANOPY, this 10’x10’ Outdoor Gazebo is another great option for creating a sheltered area for your hot tub. It is made from durable and waterproof polyester fabric, and features four walls with windows on three sides for optimal views.
The gazebo also comes with everything you need to set it up, including ground stakes for stability and a sturdy steel frame.
The downside of this tent is that it is not designed to be taken up and down very frequently. It’s perfect for providing shelter long term, but you wouldn't want to only use it for a few days here and there.
In general, it looks and feels solid and well built. The double cap on the top adds to the stylish look, and also provides a handy vent for steam to escape, so you'll have a well-ventilated tent even if you have the doors closed.
Grand Patio Patio Gazebo with Mosquito Netting and Curtains
Extra wide for more space—or larger spas
View on AmazonIf you're looking for a great way to enjoy your spa in style, the Grand Patio Gazebo could be the perfect solution. This outdoor canopy gazebo features a sturdy frame and straight leg tent design, so it's perfect for placing over larger spas.
Its heavy duty mosquito netting and curtains (both are included!) provide complete protection from the elements and insects. The canopy top will keep you dry and comfortable in winter, and cool and shaded in summer thanks to its 99% UV protection.
So, this gazebo is great for hot tubs all year round. Set it up over your spa and you have a perfectly sheltered place to relax in any weather. Plus, the heavy duty construction means it should last for years to come.
On the downside, this gazebo does require some complicated assembly, and you will want 2+ people to do this. Additionally, be sure to anchor down the legs so it stays put in windy weather. All in all, the Grand Patio Gazebo is a great choice and will make a fine addition to your hot tub area.
Quictent Ez Pop up Canopy Tent with Sidewalls and Mesh Windows
Impressive features at great value
View on AmazonThis Quictent 10x10 Canopy Tent is the perfect way to enjoy your hot tub in any weather, at a lower price point than the options so far.
This tent is made of water-resistant 420D Oxford material, with 95% UV protection. While this is a little less than what you get with some of the pricier options, it's still most of the same features for much less money.
The windows and side walls make it ideal for use in the summer or winter, and I love that the windows are mesh which gives you ventilation and means they won't steam up—unlike plastic ones. The lightweight design and easy setup make it a great choice for taking up and down more frequently too.
The Quictent also features a zippered door on two sides for easy access, as well as adjustable stakes and guy lines for extra stability. It’s great for lounging in a hot tub, as the mesh windows and walls will also help to keep out mosquitos and other insects.
However, one thing to note is that this tent does not have the stability of some of the other options, so it might be less durable depending on the conditions where you live. Also, the colors (you get a choice of three) may not be 100% accurate to the pictures.
Outvita Outdoor Gazebo with sidewalls
I will get straight to the point: this Outvita outdoor gazebo is not built to last, but will work as a temporary hot tub tent if you're wanting to spend as little as possible.
It features a white canopy and sidewalls, offering protection from the sun and light rain. The canopy also blocks harmful UV rays and provides a private, comfortable space for long soaks in your spa. The tent is simple to set up and break down, and is large enough to accommodate most hot tubs.
On the negative side, this tent is not going to last as long as some of the other options, as it's really designed for temporary use (think parties or weddings). Additionally, the materials are on the flimsy side, so you’ll need to take this down if you're expecting any heavy rain or strong winds.
Why put a tent around your hot tub?
Hot tub tents offer several benefits that can really enhance a spa experience:
- They separate the hot tub from the elements and offer protection from wind, rain, snow, and sun.
- They provide a degree of privacy, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time in the hot tub without worrying about nosy neighbors or onlookers.
- Another advantage a tent provides is insulation, which means the spa has to work less hard to keep the water warm. This saves on energy costs and also extends the life of the tub by reducing pump and heater usage.
- Finally, putting a tent around your hot tub adds a touch of style and sophistication, making it look more inviting—meaning you'll want to use it more!
Can you put a hot tub in a regular tent?
It's not recommended to put a hot tub inside a regular tent. Most tents designed for camping are simply not going to be large enough to accommodate a hot tub—even the inflatable variety. Most are also not tall enough and are lacking in ventilation, as you need to be able to sit comfortably in the spa without feeling cramped by the tent.
Gazebos on the other hand are designed for congregating in (rather than just sleeping) and therefore provide enough height, structural support, adequate ventilation, and weather protection. This makes for a much better environment for relaxation, bathing, and entertaining.
Closing thoughts
In conclusion, gazebos repurposed as hot tub tents are a great way to enjoy your hot tub outdoors in all weather conditions. Not only do they provide shelter from the elements, but they also offer added privacy and cozy aesthetics for your backyard. If you want to enjoy your hot tub in all seasons, a hot tub tent is the way to go.