Quick answer: Yes. Tent fabric is thin nylon or polyester and is no barrier to a rodent that smells food. The fix is the same one the National Park Service gives for bears: never bring food, toiletries or cooking utensils into the tent, and store them in a locker, locked vehicle or approved container. A tent with no food smells is rarely chewed.
Mice are more common campsite visitors than bears, and a hole in the floor is the usual sign. They are after crumbs, wrappers and toothpaste.
This guide covers prevention and what to do about a hole.
Related: tent camping gear checklist, food storage when leaving camp and tent care and storage.
Why Mice Chew Tents
Rodents follow food smells. The NPS Shenandoah food storage page says to keep anything you put in your mouth or on your skin with your food, and never in a tent. That includes lip balm, toothpaste and snack wrappers left in a pocket.
Prevention
- Empty the tent of food, wrappers and toiletries every time you leave or sleep.
- Store scented items in a locker, locked hard-sided vehicle or approved container.
- Clean up after meals immediately, per NPS, and keep the site clear of crumbs.
- Zip doors when you are out.
- Store the tent clean and dry at home, since MSR notes stored tents should be clean and in a breathable bag.
If You Find a Hole
A small hole can be patched with tent repair tape from the inside and outside until you can do a proper repair. Check the floor coating around the hole, and clean the tent, since the rodent was drawn by a smell that may remain.
Honest Limits
We did not find an agency source on rodents and tents specifically, so this applies the food storage guidance written for bears. Patch products vary; follow the maker instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mice get into a tent?
Yes, by chewing thin fabric if they smell food.
How do I keep mice out of my tent?
Keep all food and scented items out of it.
Does zipping the tent help?
It helps with entry through doors, not chewing.
Do mice chew for no reason?
Usually there is a smell: crumbs, wrappers, toiletries.
Where should food go?
Locker, locked hard-sided vehicle or approved container.
Can I patch a chewed tent?
Yes, with tent repair tape or a patch kit.
Will mice chew my stored tent?
They can nest in it. Store it clean in a bin or breathable bag off the floor.
Do mothballs keep mice away?
We found no agency guidance, and chemicals can damage fabric.
Is this a problem in campgrounds?
Yes. Rodents are common in busy campgrounds.
Are mice dangerous?
They can carry disease and contaminate food. Keep them out.
Bottom Line
Mice chew tents that smell like food.
Keep food and toiletries out of the tent and stored properly.
Sources: NPS, Shenandoah Food Storage; MSR, How do I keep my tent clean and dry (manufacturer).