A Tarpaulin, or tarp for short, is a large sheet of water-resistant material that is extremely useful for camping applications. Tarps are most commonly made from durable fabrics like polyester or vinyl coated polyester which make them waterproof and resistant to tearing.
Use a Tarpaulin While Camping
There are several common camping scenarios where a versatile tarpaulin can come in handy:
Backpacking
For lightweight backpackers looking to travel fast and light, a tarp is an ultralight shelter alternative to a multi-pound tent. Combined with a sleeping bag or bivy sack, it can provide adequate coverage with a very low pack weight.
Basecamp/Car Camping
When backcountry camping from a car, space and weight are less of a concern. A large tarp set up as a casual camp provides coverage for cooking, relaxing, and outdoor activities. It also acts as backup shelter in case of unexpected rain.
Dispersed/Primitive Camping
In areas without established campsites, a tarp gives freedom to pitch almost anywhere with a level patch of ground. Just add bug netting for enclosed shelter.
Beach/Shoreline Trips
Thrown over chairs or a sleeping area, a tarp shields from sun and blowing sand while still allowing ocean views. Poles or trees are usually available for support.
Festival/Group Camping
Large groups can create shared covered areas for socializing by stringing tarps tree-to-tree over a clearing. Great for outdoor concerts/events.
Inclement Weather
When the forecast calls for rain, a tarp offers fast, easy coverage to keep gear and campers dry until the storm passes. They can even double up as an emergency tent.
Choosing the Right Size Tarpaulin
There is no single “perfect” size for a camping Heavy Duty Tarpaulin since needs vary depending on shelter application, weather conditions, and personal preferences. Consider these factors when choosing a tarp dimension:
Number of campers
Most backpacking tarps range 6×8 to 10×12 feet for 1-2 people. For car camping with 2-4 people, look at 12×14 up to 15×20 square feet sizes. Larger tarps can accommodate more sleeping spots under a single shelter.
Storage/Pack Size
Obviously, larger tarps compress but are bulkier to pack. An 8×10 foot tarp is a reasonable compromise that provides adequate coverage while still fitting well in most backpacks. 10×12 foot tarps may start to feel bulky for multi-day trips.
Guyline Coverage
The bigger the tarp size, the more guylines and stakes are required to pitch it properly which adds weight to your pack. Determine the minimum interior space requirements for your intended use to avoid oversizing.
Weather Resistance
As with tents, larger tarps generally shed heavy rain and wind better thanks to a more taught pitch and greater surface area. A 10×12 foot tarp should suffice for most wet weather conditions encountered backcountry camping. However, very wide tarps may be less manageable.
Temperature Rating
For colder weather camping, tarps made from thicker heavyweight 12oz+ coated polyester fabric will block more wind and have insulative qualities compared to lightweight silnylon models. Heavier materials are preferable in frosty fall conditions.
Bug Protection
Consider increasing the tarp size by 2 feet if planning to use a full perimeter of stakes and guylines to add walls and doors. More coverage will also be needed to attach bug mesh or netting around the interior perimeter.
Height Clearance – Tall campers with lots of gear may need extra interior headroom, especially under an A-frame pitch. A minimum of 7 feet is usually required to sit up fully inside without risk of the tarp sagging onto your head.
Tarp Maintenance and Care
With basic care, a tarp will last for many seasons of camping use. Here are some tips to maximize the life of your tarp:
Cleaning – After each trip, wipe away dirt and debris from the tarp surface with a soft cloth. For stains or mildew, mix a small amount of dishwashing soap in lukewarm water and spot clean.
Drying – Thoroughly dry your tarp away from direct sunlight before storage. Mildew can grow if kept damp for long periods.
Seam Sealing – Reapply seam sealant to taped seams and hems as needed if signs of cracking appear. This protects stitching from leaks over time.
Repairs – Small holes can be patched on the trail with Tenacious Tape or self-fusing tape. For extensive damage, reinforce with a durable material like polyester calendared ripstop on the outside.
Storage – Ensure your tarp is fully dry before compressing for transport or long term storage. Fold loosely and place in a dry breathable bag away from rodents.
UV Protection – Over several years of sunlight exposure, materials may deteriorate. Consider adding UV-blocking spray or storing indoors when not is use.
Fabric Care – Many tarps are machine washable on a gentle cycle if very dirty. Let air dry completely. For non-machine tarps, spot clean as needed.
Inspection – Check guyline attachments, seams and stress points annually for signs of wear. Reinforce weak spots to ensure structural integrity over time.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an ultralight backpacker, car camper, or casual outdoor enthusiast, a versatile camping tarp is an indispensable piece of shelter gear. Weighing just pounds and costing less than most tents, tarps open up creative pitching options for any terrain or weather scenario. Most importantly, tarps encourage an intimate connection with nature by bringing the outdoors fully into your camp.
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