Imagine this: you’re deep in the wilderness, the stars are out, and you need shelter. But what if your tent is too heavy, or you want something lighter? That’s where a backpacking tarp shines! It’s a simple piece of fabric that can become your cozy haven in the wild. But choosing the *right* tarp can feel like a puzzle. There are so many shapes, sizes, and materials, and you don’t want to end up with something that doesn’t work for you.
Picking the perfect tarp means understanding what makes one great for your adventures. You want to stay dry, avoid wind, and have something that packs down small. This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a tarp a fantastic choice for backpackers and give you the knowledge to find the one that fits your needs.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features and help you understand how to set up your tarp for maximum comfort and protection. Get ready to discover the simple magic of a backpacking tarp!
Our Top 5 Backpacking Tarps Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backpacking Tarps Detailed Reviews
1. FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp Multifunctional Outdoor Camping Traveling Awning Backpacking Tarp Shelter Rain (Brown 10×10.5ft)
Rating: 9.2/10
Heading out into the wilderness? The FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp is your new best friend for any outdoor adventure. This brown, 10×10.5ft tarp is built tough to handle whatever nature throws your way, keeping you dry and protected from the sun.
What We Like:
- It’s completely waterproof and protects you from the sun’s harmful rays.
- The fabric is strong and won’t easily tear or get punctured.
- Setting it up is easy, and it can be used in many ways, like a ground cover or a shelter.
- It comes with everything you need to set it up right away.
- It’s made with high-quality materials that will last a long time.
- The price is fair for the quality you get.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a bit heavier than some other tarps, weighing 1.2kg.
This tarp is a reliable and versatile piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast. It offers excellent protection and is built to last through many adventures.
2. Clostnature Tent Footprint – Waterproof Camping Tarp
Rating: 8.5/10
Protect your tent and enhance your outdoor adventures with the Clostnature Tent Footprint. This versatile ground tarp is designed to keep your camping gear dry and your tent floor in top condition, making it a must-have for any camper, hiker, or beachgoer.
What We Like:
- Extra Waterproofing: It adds an extra layer of protection against moisture, keeping you and your gear dry.
- Tent Protection: It prevents wear and tear on your tent’s floor, extending its lifespan.
- Heavy Duty Material: Made from ripstop 190T Poly with a superior waterproof coating, it’s tough and reliable.
- Lightweight and Compact: Weighing only 9.8 oz and folding down to the size of a cellphone, it’s easy to carry without adding bulk.
- Multifunctional Use: Use it as a tent footprint, sunshade, beach mat, hammock rain fly, or general shelter.
- Included Storage Bag: It comes with a handy drawstring bag for easy packing and storage.
- Fits Clostnature 2 Person Tent: It’s perfectly sized for Clostnature’s 2-person tents.
- One-Year Guarantee: Clostnature offers a one-year guarantee on material and workmanship defects.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Tent Fit: While it fits Clostnature 2-person tents well, check dimensions for compatibility with other brands.
This footprint is a smart investment for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s a simple way to boost your camping experience and keep your gear protected.
3. Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Rain Fly – Waterproof Camping Tarp Cover with Tent Stakes & Carry Bag
Rating: 9.2/10
Stay dry and comfortable on your next outdoor adventure with the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Rain Fly. This versatile tarp provides reliable protection from the elements, whether you’re hammock camping or need extra shelter for your gear. It’s designed to be lightweight and easy to set up, making it a must-have for any backpacker or outdoor enthusiast.
What We Like:
- It’s completely waterproof, thanks to ripstop nylon and taped seams, keeping you and your gear dry.
- Everything you need for setup is included: guy lines, tent stakes, and a carry bag.
- It’s super lightweight, weighing only 26 oz, and packs down small for easy carrying.
- The tarp is built tough with ripstop nylon and a PU coating that can handle heavy rain (3000 mm).
- It’s multi-functional, working as a rain fly, shade cover, or emergency shelter.
- The generous 11 ft by 9 ft size offers plenty of coverage.
- It works great in all seasons and can be used in many ways, like for gear or quick trail stops.
- It comes with useful accessories like a carry bag and adjustable lines.
- It folds down small, making it perfect for travel or as a backup rain fly.
- It’s a dependable accessory for your hammock setup or as an emergency tarp.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the lightweight design might be less resistant to very sharp objects compared to heavier tarps.
The Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Rain Fly is an excellent choice for anyone needing reliable, lightweight shelter. Its all-in-one design and durable construction make it a smart investment for your outdoor gear collection.
4. JAICOM Waterproof Camping Tarp – 10X10ft Hammock Rain Fly
Rating: 9.4/10
The JAICOM Waterproof Camping Tarp is your ultimate shield for any outdoor adventure. This 10x10ft tarp is built tough to keep you dry and protected, no matter the weather. It’s super light and easy to pack, making it a must-have for campers, hikers, and anyone who loves spending time outside.
What We Like:
- Best Protection: Made from strong, tear-resistant 210T polyester with a waterproof coating and glued seams. It keeps you dry even in bad weather.
- Multi-style & Versatile: With 11 sets of reinforced webbing straps, you can set it up in many different ways to fit your needs. Use it as a rain fly, ground cover, or sunshade.
- Camping Companion: It only weighs 2.1lbs and packs down small, so it’s easy to carry anywhere. It’s perfect for camping, picnics, or protecting your tent and hammock.
- High-Quality Accessories: The package includes everything you need: the tarp, 11 webbing straps, 6 ground pegs, 8 adjustable ropes, and two handy carry bags.
- Premium Service: JAICOM offers a 24-hour solution for any satisfaction issues, giving you peace of mind when you buy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the tarp is very durable, some users might want more detailed instructions on setting up various configurations.
This JAICOM tarp is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Its durability, versatility, and included accessories make it a valuable addition to your gear.
5. Gold Armour Rainfly Tarp Hammock
Rating: 9.2/10
Stay dry and comfortable on your next adventure with the Gold Armour Rainfly Tarp Hammock. This versatile shelter offers top-notch weather protection, keeping you safe from rain and wind. It’s super lightweight, making it a great choice for backpackers and campers who want to travel light.
What We Like:
- It’s made of high-quality material and is very durable.
- It has a 5,000mm waterproof rating, so it will keep you dry.
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry around.
- You can use it in many ways: as a tent tarp, hammock shelter, or even a ground sheet.
- It comes with everything you need: stakes, ropes, and tensioners.
- It’s a great companion for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- It’s backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a 5-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s versatile, some users might prefer a tarp with more specific features for certain activities.
The Gold Armour Rainfly Tarp Hammock is a reliable and practical choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. Its durability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to your camping gear.
Your Backpacking Tarp Buying Guide: Stay Dry and Light!
Backpacking tarps are awesome! They are super light shelters you can use instead of a tent. They keep you dry from rain and offer shade from the sun. This guide helps you pick the best tarp for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a tarp, keep these things in mind:
- Size: Tarps come in different sizes. A bigger tarp gives you more room but weighs more. A smaller tarp is lighter but might not cover all your gear. Think about how many people will sleep under it. A 3×3 meter (about 10×10 feet) tarp is good for one or two people.
- Shape: Many tarps are rectangular. Others are hexagonal or have special shapes for better wind protection. Rectangular tarps are easy to set up in many ways.
- Tie-Out Points: These are loops or grommets where you attach guy lines (ropes). More tie-out points mean you can set up the tarp in more ways. Strong tie-out points are important so they don’t rip.
- Weight: Backpackers want to carry less. Look for tarps made from lightweight materials. Every ounce counts when you’re hiking!
- Packability: How small does the tarp fold up? A tarp that folds small is easy to fit in your backpack.
Important Materials
The material of your tarp makes a big difference in how it performs.
- Silnylon: This is nylon coated with silicone. It’s strong, lightweight, and waterproof. It can stretch a bit when wet.
- Silpoly: This is polyester coated with silicone. It’s also strong and waterproof. It doesn’t stretch as much as silnylon when it gets wet. This makes it easier to keep taut.
- DCF (Dyneema Composite Fabric) / Cuben Fiber: This is the lightest and strongest material. It’s also very waterproof. It’s also the most expensive. If weight is your absolute top priority, DCF is the way to go.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Seam Sealing: Good tarps have sealed seams. This means the stitches are covered with a waterproof coating. This stops water from leaking through the sewing holes. Unsealed seams can lead to leaks.
- Ripstop Weave: This is a special way of weaving fabric. It makes the material stronger and stops small tears from spreading. If you get a small hole, it won’t turn into a big rip.
- Waterproof Coating: The silicone or polyurethane coating makes the tarp waterproof. A good coating will last a long time. Cheap coatings can wear off.
- Reinforced Corners and Tie-Outs: Stronger corners and tie-out points mean your tarp will last longer. They are less likely to rip when you pull on them.
User Experience and Use Cases
Tarps are super versatile!
- As a Primary Shelter: You can pitch a tarp in many ways. You can make a simple A-frame or a lean-to. This works well in good weather or when you want to save weight.
- As an Awning: You can use a tarp to create a shaded area outside your tent. This is great for cooking or relaxing in the sun.
- For Gear Protection: Set up a tarp over your campsite to keep your backpacks and other gear dry if it rains.
- For Group Shelters: Larger tarps can be set up to provide shelter for a whole group.
Tarps are a fantastic option for experienced backpackers who like to keep their gear light. They can be a bit trickier to set up than a tent, especially in windy or rainy conditions. But with practice, you can create a very effective and lightweight shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of using a backpacking tarp?
A: The main benefit is that tarps are much lighter than most tents. They also pack down smaller, saving space in your backpack.
Q: How do I choose the right size tarp?
A: Think about how many people will use it and how much gear you need to cover. A 3×3 meter (10×10 ft) tarp is good for one or two people.
Q: What does “silnylon” mean?
A: Silnylon is a strong, lightweight fabric made from nylon with a silicone coating. It’s very waterproof.
Q: Is DCF material worth the extra cost?
A: If you are a serious backpacker who prioritizes the absolute lightest gear, then yes, DCF can be worth it. It’s the lightest and strongest material available.
Q: What are “tie-out points”?
A: Tie-out points are loops or holes on the tarp where you attach ropes (guy lines). These help you set up the tarp and keep it secure.
Q: Why are sealed seams important on a tarp?
A: Sealed seams stop water from leaking through the stitching. This keeps you dry when it rains.
Q: Can a tarp be used as a tent?
A: Yes, a tarp can be pitched in many ways to create a shelter, similar to a tent. It’s a great option for minimalist camping.
Q: How do I set up a tarp in the wind?
A: You should pitch the lowest side into the wind. Use plenty of guy lines and stakes to keep it secure.
Q: Do I need a groundsheet with a tarp?
A: It’s a good idea to use a groundsheet or a footprint under your sleeping area. This protects the bottom of your tarp from punctures and keeps you drier.
Q: How do I clean and care for my backpacking tarp?
A: Gently rinse your tarp with cool water and mild soap. Hang it to dry completely before storing it. Avoid harsh chemicals or machine washing.
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.