Camping tarps have a variety of uses--from attaching to a trailer for use as a rain cover to a sun shield on the beach. Tarps can be used with tents, trailers or on their own as ground cover on wet soil. They come in various sizes, shapes and fabrics. Camping tarps are an extremely versatile piece of gear.
Trail Tarps
Trail tarps are thinner and lighter than most other camping tarps. This is because they are made to fold up and fit in a backpack. Back packers have to travel light as they carry all their equipment on the trails. Trail tarps are usually made of nylon and are waterproof, light and inexpensive. A trail tarp that covers 9 feet by 12 feet can pack down to 4 by 15 inches and 3/8 inch in thickness.
Mesh Tarps
Shade mesh tarps are light and made of a mesh fabric that allows air and breezes to penetrate, but blocks 75 percent of the suns rays. These tarps come with rust resistant grommets. They offer protection from the sun and a shady spot to relax while still letting airflow through, according to A1 Tarps.
Rope Tarps
Rope tarps have grommets and loopholes for the ropes. These can be tied between trees or pitched to the ground using tent stakes. They come in all sizes, fabrics and colors.
Pole Tarps
Pole tarps are good for shelter. The tarp is pitched using two or more poles and attached to the ground with ropes and/or tent stakes. Some pole tarps can be pitched using walking poles, ski poles, boat oars or paddles. They also come in various sizes, colors and fabrics.
Polyester Tarps
Tarps made with polyester are lightweight and good in all weather conditions. They are inexpensive, easy to use and pack. The polypropylene rope is in the hem.
Nylon Tarps
Nylon tarps can be used in all weather conditions, as a ground cloth to protect the tent floor or as an attachment to a camper for rain protection. They are made from urethane-coated nylon.
Footprints
Footprints are custom cut tarps. They are trimmed to fit a specific size tent. They are used under the tent as floor protection. Footprints help maintain the integrity of the tent floor and make it last longer.
Tarp Tips
If using a footprint tarp, tuck the extra material under the tent so as not to collect rainwater. Another tarp tip for when you are pitching the tarp is to keep the wind behind you when you are working with the tarp. This will keep the tarp from slapping you in the face. Do not leave bits of shredded tarp in the environment. Pick up any pieces of tarp that have torn away from the fabric and dispose of them properly.
Member Comments