Ever gone camping and woken up to a damp, muddy tent floor? It’s a common camping frustration! That’s where a tarp for under your tent comes in. It’s like a superhero shield for your sleeping space, protecting you from puddles, sharp rocks, and the general wear and tear of the great outdoors.
But picking the perfect tarp can feel overwhelming. There are so many types, sizes, and materials! You might wonder, “Do I really need one?” and “Which one is best for my adventures?” Getting it wrong can mean a soggy sleeping bag or a tarp that’s too small and useless. We get it – it’s a common headache for campers.
This post is here to solve that problem. We’ll break down exactly what you need to know about tarps for under tents. You’ll learn how to choose the right size, the best materials to look for, and even some clever ways to set it up. By the end, you’ll be confident in picking a tarp that keeps your campsite dry and your adventures happy.
Our Top 5 Tarp For Under Tent Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Tarp For Under Tent Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp
Rating: 9.5/10
The Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is a super useful tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. Its big size, 10 feet by 12 feet, means it can cover a lot of ground. You can use it to keep your gear dry or put it under your tent to add an extra layer of protection from the wet ground. This tarp is made to last and will help keep your camping trips comfy.
What We Like:
- It’s completely waterproof, so your stuff stays dry.
- The rip-stop fabric won’t tear easily.
- It has strong grommets so you can tie it down securely.
- The reinforced corners and edges make it extra tough.
- It’s a great value for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The actual usable size is a bit smaller than advertised (9.5 x 11.3 feet).
- It can be a bit bulky to fold and store.
This tarp is a solid choice for campers and anyone needing a reliable cover. It offers good protection and is built to handle outdoor adventures.
2. CARTMAN Finished Size 8×10 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp 8 Mil Thick
Rating: 8.7/10
When you need reliable protection from the weather, the CARTMAN Finished Size 8×10 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp is a solid choice. This tarp measures exactly 8×10 feet, so you get the size you expect. Its strong, 8 mil thickness and waterproof design make it ready for anything. Use it for camping, covering your gear, or even as an emergency shelter. This tarp is built to last and keep your belongings dry and safe.
What We Like:
- You get the exact size you order, no surprises.
- It’s completely waterproof and dustproof, keeping things clean and dry.
- The sides are heat-sealed and reinforced with ropes, making it very strong.
- Metal grommets every 3 feet make it easy to tie down securely.
- Plastic corner protectors add extra strength and look good.
- It’s a versatile option for many outdoor uses, from covering materials to acting as a ground cover.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being 8 mil thick, it’s a bit heavier than thinner tarps.
This CARTMAN tarp offers great value and dependable protection for various outdoor needs. It’s a practical solution for anyone needing to shield their items from the elements.
3. Clostnature Tent Footprint – Waterproof Camping Tarp
Rating: 8.8/10
Protect your tent and enhance your outdoor adventures with the Clostnature Tent Footprint. This versatile ground tarp acts as a heavy-duty floor saver, shielding your tent from wear and tear and adding an extra layer of waterproofing. It’s an essential item for any camper looking to extend the life of their tent and ensure a more comfortable experience.
What We Like:
- Extra waterproofing protects your tent from moisture.
- Prevents damage and wear on your tent’s floor, saving you money.
- Made from tough, ripstop 190T Poly with a strong waterproof coating.
- It’s lightweight, weighing only 9.8 oz, so it won’t weigh down your pack.
- Folds up small, about the size of a cellphone, and fits easily into its included storage bag.
- Can be used for many things besides a tent footprint, like a sunshade or picnic blanket.
- Clostnature offers a one-year guarantee on their products.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size (87″ x 59″) is specifically designed for Clostnature 2-person tents, so it might not be a perfect fit for all tent brands.
This Clostnature Tent Footprint is a smart investment for any camper. It offers great protection and versatility, making your outdoor trips more enjoyable.
4. TICONN Heavy Duty Tarp Cover
Rating: 8.7/10
The TICONN Heavy Duty Tarp Cover is a strong and dependable shield for whatever you need to protect. This 6’x8′ tarp is made of thick, waterproof material that can handle tough weather and resist tears. It’s designed to keep your belongings safe from sun, rain, and anything else nature throws at them.
What We Like:
- Premium Quality Material: It’s made from top-notch polyethylene fabric that is 5.5 mil thick. This means it’s built to last and can handle a lot of use.
- Reinforced Corners: The corners are extra strong because they are double-stitched with tough material. This stops them from wearing out too quickly.
- Easy to Use: Setting up this tarp is simple. It has rust-resistant aluminum grommets about every 18 inches, making it easy to tie down securely.
- Versatile and Multi-Purpose: You can use this tarp for many things. It’s great for covering camping gear, protecting your car, or securing materials on a work site.
- TICONN Brand Quality Commitment: The company stands behind its product with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month warranty. This offers you a risk-free way to buy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific size of 6’x8′ might not be suitable for very large projects.
- While the material is strong, the 5.5 mil thickness might not be the absolute thickest available if extreme durability is needed for very harsh conditions.
Overall, the TICONN Heavy Duty Tarp Cover offers excellent protection and is a smart choice for keeping your items safe.
5. Stansport Light-Duty Rip-Stop Tarp 8′ x 10′ – Brown (U-810)
Rating: 8.8/10
Need a reliable tarp for your next adventure or around the house? The Stansport Light-Duty Rip-Stop Tarp in a classic brown color, sized at 8′ x 10′, is a versatile tool that can handle many tasks. It’s built tough to protect your gear and keep you covered.
What We Like:
- It’s super useful for lots of different things, like covering your firewood or protecting your camping gear.
- The rip-stop material stops small tears from getting bigger, so it lasts longer.
- It’s made with strong rope around the edges and extra reinforcement at the corners, making it very sturdy.
- You’ll find tough, rust-proof grommets every few feet, which makes it easy to tie down securely.
- The polyethylene is tough and laminated on both sides, adding extra protection.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s “light-duty,” some users might want an even heavier tarp for extreme conditions.
- The finished size is a bit smaller than the advertised cut size, so keep that in mind when planning.
This Stansport tarp is a solid, dependable option for many common needs. It offers good protection and durability for its price.
Choosing the Best Tarp for Under Your Tent
When you go camping, you want your tent to be a cozy and dry home. A tarp placed underneath your tent is like a superhero cape for your shelter. It protects your tent from the ground and keeps you drier. Let’s find the best one!
Key Features to Look For
You need a tarp that does a great job. Here’s what to check for:
- Size Matters: Your tarp should be a little smaller than your tent. If it’s too big, rain can run off the tarp and under your tent. If it’s too small, it won’t protect the whole bottom. Measure your tent’s floor.
- Waterproof Power: This is super important. You want a tarp that stops water from getting through. Look for a high waterproof rating.
- Toughness: The ground can be rough. Your tarp needs to be strong so it doesn’t rip or poke holes.
- Easy to Pack: You’ll be carrying it with your camping gear. A lightweight and packable tarp is a lifesaver.
- Strong Grommets: Grommets are the little metal rings around the edge. They help you tie down the tarp. Make sure they are sturdy and well-made.
Important Materials
The stuff your tarp is made of makes a big difference.
- Polyethylene (PE): This is a common and affordable material. It’s strong and waterproof. Many blue tarps are made of PE.
- Polyester: This material is often coated to make it waterproof. It’s usually lighter than PE and can be very durable.
- Nylon: Nylon tarps are often very lightweight and strong. They might have a special coating to keep water out.
- PVC: Some heavy-duty tarps use PVC. They are very tough but can be heavier.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a tarp better, and others make it worse.
What Makes a Tarp Better:
- Thicker Material: A thicker tarp is usually stronger and lasts longer.
- Reinforced Edges: Stronger stitching or bindings around the edges help prevent tears.
- High Waterproof Rating: A higher number means it can hold back more water.
- UV Protection: Some tarps have special coatings to stop the sun from breaking them down.
What Makes a Tarp Worse:
- Thin Material: These can rip easily and might not be fully waterproof.
- Weak Grommets: If they pull out easily, you can’t tie down your tarp properly.
- Poor Stitching: Loose or weak stitches can come apart.
- Not Fully Waterproof: If water seeps through, your tent won’t be dry.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a tarp under your tent is simple but makes a big difference.
How to Use It:
You lay the tarp flat on the ground where you plan to set up your tent. Then, you put your tent on top of the tarp. If your tarp is a little bigger than your tent, you can use the grommets to tie it down around the corners of your tent. This keeps it in place.
Why It’s So Useful:
- Keeps Your Tent Dry: It stops moisture from the ground from soaking into your tent floor.
- Protects Your Tent: It shields the bottom of your tent from sharp rocks, sticks, and rough ground. This helps your tent last longer.
- Adds Warmth: It can create a small barrier that helps keep a little more warmth inside your tent.
- Easy Cleanup: When you pack up, you can often just fold the tarp with any dirt inside, making it easier to clean your tent.
A good tarp under your tent is a small thing that makes your camping trip much more enjoyable. It’s worth the small investment!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a tarp for under a tent?
A: The main purpose is to protect your tent from the ground and keep it dry.
Q: Should the tarp be the same size as my tent?
A: No, it should be slightly smaller than your tent to prevent rain from running under it.
Q: How do I know if a tarp is waterproof enough?
A: Look for a high waterproof rating. The higher the number, the more water it can resist.
Q: What is the most common material for these tarps?
A: Polyethylene (PE) is a very common and affordable material.
Q: Are heavier tarps always better?
A: Not necessarily. While thicker materials can be more durable, lighter tarps made from strong materials like ripstop nylon are also good.
Q: What are grommets and why are they important?
A: Grommets are metal rings on the edge of the tarp. They are important for tying down the tarp securely.
Q: Can I use any tarp I find at the hardware store?
A: While you can, tarps specifically made for camping are often lighter and have features like reinforced edges that are better for your needs.
Q: How do I clean my tent tarp?
A: Most tarps can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Let them air dry completely before storing.
Q: Will a tarp keep my tent warm?
A: It can help a little by adding an extra layer between you and the cold ground.
Q: What happens if my tarp is too big for my tent?
A: If your tarp is too big, rain can collect on the exposed edges and run underneath your tent, making it wet.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.