Tent Snow Load Calculator
Estimate the snow weight on your tent fly after a snowfall — and decide whether to shovel.
Inputs
Result
A natural placement between the calculator and the explanation.
What this solves — and what it doesn't
Most 3-season tents are not engineered for sustained snow load. A 15 cm blanket of wet spring snow on a 4 m² fly weighs about 180 kg, which is more than most pole systems can hold. This tool estimates that load from snow depth and snow density (powder is light, ice is heavy), then compares to your poles’ rating.
How to read the result
Three verdicts:
- Safe (under 30% of capacity): leave it, sleep.
- OK overnight (30 to 60%): keep an ear on creaking poles; shovel before bed if more snow is forecast.
- Shovel now (over 60%): pole failure is a real risk; clear with your cook pot or a trekking pole.
Limitations
- Doesn’t model asymmetric loading (heavy drift on one side).
- Pole ratings are often optimistic; treat 60% as your actual ceiling.
- Doesn’t account for guylines adding support; well-pinned tents handle more.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just brush the snow off?
From outside, yes — but be gentle. The fly fabric may be stiff and brittle in cold; use a soft tool or your pack.
Why is wet snow heavier?
Because water content drives density. Fresh powder is ~5% water; spring snow can be 30%+, and ice is essentially all water.
Should I dig out the tent periodically?
Yes if it’s snowing hard. A short shovel every 90 min is easier than a collapse.