If you love camping but also want to stay safe and dry, choosing the right tarp is essential. Before you head out on your hiking and camping trip, make sure you know how to set up a tarp tent properly and invest in high-quality tarps.
There are several reasons to use a good tarp shelter. When planning a camping trip, consider essentials like large tarps, air mats, and sleeping bags, and don’t forget a strong cooler packed with food.
Hikers often try to save space in their backpacks and minimize the weight they carry. A lightweight white tarp is great for camping because it’s simple to carry and set up. A tarp that is UV-resistant, waterproof, and tear-resistant is perfect for a durable and safe canopy tent.
Over time, many lightweight hikers have become fans of tarp camping. It allows them to travel light without the need for heavy tent poles, bug nets, and bulky gear. Minimalists also appreciate tarp camping because it lets them carry less and improvise with what they have.
Beyond the weight benefits, there’s a lot to love about tarp camping. It offers a pure, simple camping experience that makes you feel more connected to nature—something that tents can sometimes take away.
While tarp camping can be immersive, it’s not without challenges. Heavy rain can cause splatter, and you might be more exposed to the elements and bugs. However, with the right setup, you can have a dry, warm, and enjoyable camping experience, just like with a tent.
Finding the perfect spot to pitch your tarp can be tricky for beginners. Expect to make some mistakes, but over time, you’ll learn to find great spots. When looking for a campsite, avoid flat, open areas—these tend to have worse puddles during heavy rain. Instead, look for a slight incline to keep water from pooling under you.
Sleep with your head uphill to avoid headaches from blood rushing to your head. Use hiking poles to hold up the ends of your tarp. If there are trees around, you can use branches or the trees themselves to set up your tarp.
Set up your tarp so that wind and rain hit the sides, not directly. Find a spot where the windward side is blocked by natural barriers like rocks, trees, or brush.
There are many ways to enjoy backpacking with tarps, and it can be a fun new adventure. Learning how to manage the challenges of setting up and using camping tarps is key to a successful trip.
