Factory Seconds Tents: What to Check Before You Buy

Quick answer

Focus on cosmetic blemishes, zippers, seams, and fabric integrity. Factory seconds tents offer real savings, but you need to know what to look for to ensure you're happy with the purchase.

Your factory seconds inspection checklist

• Check the zippers: Run each zipper fully open and closed at least twice. A sticky or misaligned zipper is a functional issue that can be frustrating to fix in the field. Minor stiffness from new fabric is normal; catching or skipping teeth is not. If a zipper doesn't operate smoothly, ask for a different tent or a partial refund.
• Inspect all seams and stitching: Look for loose threads, skipped stitches, or areas where the seam tape (if present) is peeling. Seams are critical for weatherproofing. While a few stray threads are cosmetic, a seam that pulls apart under tension is a structural defect. Any seam that appears compromised should be a deal-breaker unless you're prepared to repair it yourself.
• Examine the fabric for holes, tears, or weak spots: Hold the fabric up to a light source to check for pinholes or thin areas. Small cosmetic blemishes like ink marks or fabric discoloration are acceptable. Any hole or tear larger than 1/4 inch is a functional defect that will compromise the tent's weather resistance. If you find a hole or tear, request a replacement or a deeper discount.
• Test the poles and pole sleeves: Assemble the poles and insert them into the sleeves if possible. Look for bent or cracked pole segments, and ensure the poles slide easily through the sleeves without snagging. Pole issues can make setup difficult or impossible. Damaged poles are a functional problem. Ask for a replacement set or a different tent.
• Assess the overall cosmetic condition: Decide if the blemish bothers you. A small ink stain on the floor might be hidden by a rug, but a noticeable mark on the front wall might be a constant annoyance. Remember, the discount is for appearance only, so be honest with yourself about what you can live with. If the cosmetic issue bothers you now, it will bother you on every trip. Pass on that tent.

Product facts

• FACTORY 2NDS: Factory 2nds tents are graded as a ‘cosmetic second’ by our tent inspectors for minor cosmetic blemishes in the fabric or construction. This means the discount comes from appearance, not performance, so you can trust the tent to function as intended.

  

Should you buy a factory seconds tent?

Best for

• Budget-conscious campers who prioritize function over perfection
• Experienced campers who can handle minor repairs like re-stitching a seam

Not for

• Campers who want a flawless, gift-worthy tent
• First-time canvas tent buyers who may not know what to inspect