The tarp (short for tarpaulin) is probably one of the most versatile gear to use in outdoor activities. You can use it in wilderness activities such as hiking, backpacking, and camping, or in urban activities such as beach-camping and backyard parties. A tarp can be used for a bunch of purposes and in a number of situations. Typical uses of tarps include as a shelter for humans or pets, as a footprint for your tent or as a weather protector for protection against sun and rain.
But which are the best backpacking tarps available in the market?
In this article, we will look at some of the best backpacking tarps available in the market for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities. Since the quality and durability of tarps available in the market varies considerably, we will primarily focus on high-end tarps which follow the buy-once, cry-once principle. We will also list out some of the factors to consider while picking the best backpacking tarp for your needs.
Our primarily focus will be on standard-sized personal symmetrical and asymmetrical tarps (80-150 square). These tarp sizes are suitable for setup for one to two persons, though you can get some smaller or bigger options from the same manufacturers. It is also worthwhile to mention that actual tarp sizes are generally about three to five percent less than the advertised size.
Read on to find which are the best backpacking tarps for camping and outdoors! If you are looking for a tarp tent, you can check out our article on the best tarp tents.
Best backpacking tarp list - Asymmetrical
Some of the best backpacking tarps (asymmetrical ) for camping and outdoors are listed below:| Picture | Product | Specifications | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | Kelty Noah's Camping Tarp | 9' X 9' ; 1.75 lbs. 12' x 12' ; 2.0 lbs. 16' X 16' ; 3.9 lbs. Catenary Cut | - Made with 68D polyester with 800 mm PU coating. - 3-season, waterproof. - Features stitched and taped seam. - Comes with storage sack and stakes. - Backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. | |
  | Go Outfitters Apex Camping Tarp | 11' X 9.5' ; 1.3 lbs. Hexagonal | - An Amazon Launchpad product Made with 70D PU-coated ripstop polyester. - Highly versatile with as many as 30 tie-out points, so can support many configurations. - Comes with stakes, guy-lines and ropes along with stake and storage sack. - The product sales support sustainable water projects. - Backed by two-year manufacturer warranty and “do the right thing” policy for repair and returns after the warranty period. | |
  | Chill Gorilla Pro Tent Tarp | 12' X 9' ; 1.3 lbs. Hexagonal | - Made with ripstop 210D SilNylon with 2000 mm PU coating. - 3-season, waterproof. - Comes with storage sack, guy-lines and rope tensioners. - Backed by 100% customer satisfaction guarantee for lifetime. - Also available in smaller - 10' X 10' option | |
  | Wise Owl Outfitters Tent Tarp | 11' x 9' ; 1.6 lbs. Hexagonal | - Made with 210D ripstop Nylon with 2000 mm PU coating - Double-stitched connection points with waterproof taped seams. 3-season, waterproof. - Comes with storage sack, guy-lines, rope tensioners and tent stakes - Backed by 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment. | |
  | Hennessy Hex Rainfly Asym Tarp | 12' X 9' ; 1.4 lbs. Hexagonal | - Made with 70D PU-coated ripstop polyester. - Comes with 2 tie-outs on each side and a total of 6 tie-outs, but stakes are not included. - Can be angled to provide more coverage area. - Backed by one-year manufacturer warranty. | |
  | Eagles Nest Outfitters ProFly Rain Tarp | 10.5' x 6.25' ; 1.37 lbs. Hexagonal | - Made with 100% 210D Nylon-Taffeta with PU coating. - 3-season, waterproof - Features stitched and taped seam. - Comes with storage sack, but stakes are not included. - Backed by two-year manufacturer warranty. | |
  | Eagles nest Outfitters DryFly Rain Tarp | 10.5' x 5.2' ; 1.37 lbs. Octagonal | - Made with 100% 210D Nylon Taffeta with PU coating. - More attachment points than ProFly, for wind protection. - 3-season, waterproof, windproof. - Comes with storage sack, but stakes are not included. - Backed by two-year manufacturer warranty. | |
  | Mountainsmith Mountain Shade Tarp | 12' x 12' ; 1.85 lbs. Catenary cut | - Made with ripstop SilNylon with 2000mm PU coating. - 3-season, waterproof. - Comes with storage sack and stakes. - Backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. |
Best backpacking tarp list - Symmetrical
Some of the best backpacking tarps (symmetrical) for camping and outdoors are listed below:| Picture | Product | Specifications | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp | 10' X 10' ; 2.0 lbs. Square | - Best-selling lightweight tarp made with 40D ripstop SilNylon with PU coating with a hydrostatic resistance of up to 5000mm. - Has reinforced stitching and taped seams for maximum weather protection. - Features 12 webbing loops and 1 center loop for different setups and configurations. - Comes with no accessories or all accessories options and different shapes and sizes. - Backed by two-year “no worries” warranty. | |
  | Sanctuary SilTarp | 10' X 8' ; 1.3 lbs. Rectangle | - Lightweight symmetrical tarp made with 30D ripstop SilNylon and dense PU coating with water protection up to 5000mm. - Features 12 perimeter loops and 1 center loop for different setups and configurations. - Comes with 60 ft. reflective guy line, 6 adjusters, 6 Y-stakes and storage sack. - Backed by limited lifetime manufacturer warranty. | |
  | DD Hammocks Camping Tarp | 10' X 10' ; 1.8 lbs. Square | - Popular European tarp, made with 190T polyester with 3000 mm PU coating. - Features 19 different tie-out points for different setups and configurations. - Comes with four guy-lines and steel tent stakes, and a stuff sack for easy transportation. | |
| Hennessy Hammock - Hex Rainfly - Rain Tarp | 12' X 10' ; 1.7 lbs. Rectangular Hexagon | - Made with 70D PU-coated ripstop polyester - Comes with 2 tie-outs on each side and a total of 6 tie-outs, but stakes are not included. - Can be angled to provide more coverage area. - Backed by one-year manufacturer warranty. | |
  | Aqua Quest Defender Tarp | 10' X 10' ; 3.6 lbs. Square | - Heavy-duty tarp made with 70D ripstop SilNylon with PU coating providing hydrostatic resistance of up to 20,000 mm. - Has reinforced stitching and taped seams for maximum weather protection. - Features 19 webbing loops and 1 center loop for different setups and configurations. - Comes with no accessories or all accessories options. - Backed by two-year “no worries” warranty. | |
  | AmazonBasics Waterproof Camping Tarp | 10' X 12' ; 1.7 lbs. Rectangle | - Flat tarp made with 20D ripstop polyester and dense PU coating on both sides. - Features 12 cord loops and 1 center loop for different setups and configurations. - Comes with all accessories options and different shapes and sizes. - Backed by one-year “no worries” warranty. | |
  | Archer Outdoor Gear Camping Tarp | 10' X 10' ; 2.1 lbs. Square | - All-weather tarp made with high-grade SilNylon with PU coating. - Features 12 cord loops and 1 center loop for different setups and configurations. - Comes with 6 guy-lines, stakes and a stuff sack to carry around. |
What is a tarp and why do you need one?
As per Wikipedia, A tarpaulin, or tarp, is a large sheet of strong, flexible, water-resistant or waterproof material, often cloth such as canvas or polyester coated with urethane, or made of plastics such as polyethylene. Tarps often have reinforced grommets at the corners and along the sides to form attachment points for rope, allowing them to be tied down or suspended.
Tarps have found a lot of uses in modern day hiking, backpacking, camping and other outdoor activities. Most backpacking tarps are made from silicone coated nylon (abbreviated SilNylon), Nylon-Taffeta, polyester or from Cuben fiber. Cuben-fiber tarps tend to be lighter, but they cost much more than Silnylon/Taffeta tarps and are also not considerably abrasion proof. As a result, SilNylon/Nylon-Taffeta/Polyester tarps are generally more popular as backpacking tarps in the market.
Henceforth, in this article, we will look at some of the best SilNylon/Nylon-Taffeta weatherproof tarps available in the market.
Tarps can be both symmetrical (flat tarps) or asymmetrical (hexagonal, pyramid or other shapes).
Symmetrical tarps have rectangular or square shape with flat edges, so you can set it up in different arrangements based on the terrain and weather. Symmetrical tarps tend to have more utility as well because they can easily be used as footprints. Asymmetrical tarps, on the other hand, have hexagonal or other specific shapes and hence can be setup in a particular way only.
Asymmetrical tarps are generally lighter in weight because of catenary cuts which save on the fiber in the tarp. Moreover, asymmetrical tarps tend to be more costly too- because of the craftsmanship involved in making them. You can choose any type of design based on your preference.
Some of the different purposes that you can use your tarp are listed below:
- As an ultralight shelter: A tarp can be used as an ultralight, makeshift or weather proof shelter. It can have a freestanding, canopy setup with some tent or trekking poles and stakes or a non-freestanding set up with stakes and cords.
- As weatherproof protection during hammock camping: If you prefer using your hammock instead of tent for a shelter, then you most definitely need an ultralight tarp to go with it to provide you protection from rain, sun, and the wind.
- As a covered canopy: You can setup your tarp on four poles and have a sun or rain protected canopy for resting, cooking or even partying. Off course, you may need a bigger tarp for such as setup.
- As a floor/footprint for your tent: An appropriately sized tarp can be used to protect the floor of your tent from wear and tear.
- As additional rainproof storage: Since most tarps are made from PU coated SilNylon/Nylon-Taffeta fiber, they are waterproof and can withstand light to medium rains. You can set up the tarp to provide cover for your boat, additional gear, car or even your pet.
- As wind blocker in campsite: You can use a well-designed heavy duty tarp and set it up like a sail to prevent the wind from spoiling your cooking or fire at night.
- As a cover for your gear: In inclement weather conditions, where you are concerned about water seeping and harming your gear stored on the ground, you can wrap a waterproof tarp around your belongings to provide an additional layer of protection.
As you can see, a tarp is a versatile gear to consider carrying on your next outdoor trip. If you are backpacking, you can consider having a tarp based ultralight shelter to save on some weight. If you are glamping, car camping or RVing, consider adding a tarp to your list of items to carry. You never know when you may need one!
In the next sections, we will look at some of the factors to consider before picking the best backpacking tarps for your next outdoor trip and share our top picks. We will also list some accessories that go well with these useful outdoor gear.
How to pick the best backpacking tarp for your needs?
Picking the best backpacking tarp can often be a challenging task, considering so many options are available in the market.
All the options we have listed above are well-designed, waterproof and reasonably durable. Typically, high-end backpacking tarps support only three seasons and cannot be used for extreme weathers, though some tarps provide better protection against Mother Nature than others.
Once you have zeroed in on your budget and the number of occupants, you can consider the following factors to pick the best backpacking tarp for you or anybody else you are buying it for:
- Building material and weather protection
- Design – Symmetrical or Asymmetrical
- Size and Weight of the tarp
- Additional Features and Considerations
Building material and weather protection
The building material for the tarp is an extremely important criterion to consider as it governs the durability, season support and weather protection that the tarp can provide. Since we are talking about only plastic-fiber tarps here, the building material can range from Silicone coated Nylon, Nylon-Taffeta to lightweight Polyester. Nylon-Taffeta tarps are generally more closely weaved and hence more wear-proof, though they can be heavier. SilNylon tarps tend to be lighter but can stretch during wind and rain. Polyester tarps do not sag due to wind or rain and hence do not require tightening in middle of the night.
The weave count and thickness of the plastic fabric is another important consideration. Most of the tarps listed above are made from 30D (30 deniers) or above ripstop polyester or SilNylon fabric. These materials are fireproof/retardant. The fabric is then coated/impregnated with a waterproof polyurethane (PU) coating to make the tarp water resistant so that your setup can withstand medium rain and wind – from 1000 to 2000 mm. Some symmetrical tarps such as the Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp and Aqua Quest Defender Tarp have a hydrostatic resistance of up to 20,000 mm, meaning that they can withstand more extreme weathers than other tarps. They tend to be heavier than others, though, with a weight in excess of 2 lbs.
Check all the manufacturing features, namely fabric and PU coating levels to identify the best backpacking tarp for your needs.
Design – Symmetrical or Asymmetrical
As discussed above, tarps can either be symmetrical – square or rectangular with perpendicular edges, or asymmetrical – special shaped such as hexagonal, pyramid or octagonal with curved edges. Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp and Sanctuary SilTarp are two popular symmetrical tarps available in the market, while Kelty Noah’s Camping Tarp and Eagles Nest Outfitters ProFly Rain Tarp are popular among Asymmetrical tarps.
Both the designs have their relative advantages and disadvantages as listed below:
Symmetrical Tarps
- Can be easily setup in different arrangements based on the terrain and weather (you can check here for some suggestions). Also, support setup in tight spots such as between trees and vegetation.
- Provide better support year round, because of the various setup systems they support.
- Because of their simple shape, can be used for other purposes such as footprints.
- Are generally cheaper in price than asymmetrical tarps of same dimensions because of simple manufacturing process
- Generally heavier than asymmetrical tarps, because of more fabric in the same size.
- Because of the multiple setups they support, sometimes finding the best setup can be a chore.
Asymmetrical Tarps
- Are generally catenary cut (C-shaped edges), so are generally pitched in a special arrangement, optimized for specific weather and terrain such as high standing pyramid setup.
- Because of less fabric, are generally lighter than symmetrical tarps for same dimensions.
- It is generally easier to setup asymmetrical tarps, especially for novices.
- Generally costlier than symmetrical tarps because of the craftsmanship involved.
- Have limited utility, primarily as shelters.
Based on your actual needs and the advantages and disadvantages of each type listed above, you can consider one design over the other.
Shape, Size and Weight
For any thru-hiker or backpacker, the shape, size, weight and size-to-weight ratio of the tarp are pretty important, even if you have two people carrying the supplies.
The shape of the tarp governs the ease-of-setup, coverage area and weather protection that a tarp can provide as a shelter. Asymmetrical tarps are generally hexagonal with two tie-out points on each side and two holding tie-out points across the center line. A unique asymmetrical tarp with respect to this is the Go Outfitters Apex Camping Tarp, which has as many as 30 tie-out points. Symmetrical tarps, on the other hand, have standard 13 cord loops/attachment points – 12 on the sides and 1 in the center. This arrangement makes set up as a pyramid easy.
Most of the options we have listed are personal tarps, which are suitable for one to two persons. For asymmetrical tarps, the size of the tarp can vary anywhere from 70 sq. feet for Eagles Nest Outfitters ProFly Rain Tarp (suitable for a single person or hammock) to a decent 144 sq. feet for medium-sized Kelty Noah’s Camping Tarp (can provide coverage to two hammocks) Hennessy Hex Rainfly Sym Tarp is an excellent example among symmetrical tarps that can support two persons. It is worthwhile to mention that you can often get bigger sized options from the same manufacturers, which can support 3-4 persons.
The weight of the tarps is one of the primary reasons for their popularity as ultralight shelter gear as a standard shelter or as a rainfly in combination with a hammock. Most of the tarps are ultralight, so you need not worry considerably about the size-to-weight ratio. As discussed above, catenary cut asymmetrical tarps tend to be lighter than symmetrical tarps of the same size. The weight of asymmetrical tarps can vary anywhere from 1.1 pounds for Chill Gorilla Pro Tent Tarp to 1.4 pounds for same sized Hennessy Hex Rainfly Asym Tarp. An almost similar sized Hennessy Hex Rainfly Sym Tarp symmetrical tarp weighs as much as 1.7 pounds.
Check out the shape, covered area and associated weight of the tarp to pick the best backpacking tarp option. If you can share the weight with somebody else, you can opt for bigger, heavier tarp, especially if you are looking for more livable space or coverage area.
Additional Features and Considerations
In addition to the major factors discussed above, there are some other miscellaneous considerations that can make a particular model more suitable than others for your needs.
One such consideration is the accessories and packing or compression sack that come with the tent. Almost all tarps listed above come with storage sack for the tarp. Some such as Chill Gorilla Pro Tent Tarp even come with stuff sacks for carrying stakes and other accessories. Tarps such as Eagles Nest Outfitters ProFly Rain Tarp and Hennessy Hex Rainfly Asym Tarp do not come with stakes, so you would have to invest extra if you need the stakes. Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp and Aqua Quest Defender Tarp are unique in this regard, as they have both no-accessories and all-accessories options to opt for.
The color of your tarp is another additional consideration that you must think about. If you are going to use them only as a shelter, then opt for lighter color tarps. Since ultralight tarp setups compromise on space, lighter colors tend to feel more spacious. However, if you are looking for all-purpose tarps, then standard dark colors is just what you need. Most options listed above, come in more than two standard color combinations, so you have quite a few options to choose from.
Finally, almost all manufacturers listed in this article qualify as environmentally responsible organizations that follow minimum-impact manufacturing. Moreover, some tarp manufacturers have tied up with charitable organizations to use the profits from selling such items to fund some charity activities around the globe. One such example is Go Outfitters Apex Camping Tarp , whose proceeds help support sustainable water projects. You can keep these things in mind while selecting the best backpacking tarp for your next outdoor adventure.
Which are the best backpacking tarps and what our picks are?
Kelty Noah’s Camping Tarp – Editor’s pick for best asymmetrical backpacking tarp
When it comes to backpacking tarps, Kelty Noah’s Camping Tarp is probably one of the most popular asymmetrical tarp in its class. This bestselling, 3-season tarp is made from 68D polyester with 800 mm PU coating and a forms a perfect shelter for hammock camping and backpacking. It has a catenary cut with full taped seam construction making it water and wind proof.
The tent has a catenary cut and four grommet points, reinforced guy-out points (15 in total) and adjustable corner guylines. The guylines are attached to the grommet points and secured into side storage pockets, though you may find the ropes to be a little on the heavier side. Still, the fixed ropes make it easier to set up the tarp as a shelter.
The Kelty Noah’s tarp comes in three sizes – 9′ x 9′: suitable for a single hammock cover; 12′ X 12′: double hammock cover; 16′ X 16′: cover to three people. Because the tarp is made from polyester, it is a little heavier than other SilNylon tarps. The tarp weight varies from 1.75 lbs. for 9 ft. option, 2.1 for 12 ft. option to 3.9 ft. for 16 ft. option.
Its bright colors help in creating a cooler area in the shade for summer camping. The tarp comes with six stakes and a rollup sack for easy storage and transportation. Like most other tarps, it does come with tarp poles and you would have to purchase them separately on rely on your trekking poles.
Moreover, like all other Kelty products, the Kelty Noah’s Camping Tarp is backed by a limited lifetime manufacturer warranty.
- High-quality, double wall 68D polyester construction which is lightweight, yet durable, with a decent coverage-to-weight ratio.
- Catenary cut, 800mm PU coating makes it an excellent weatherproof shelter.
- Simple 4 cord setup helps in making the installation as a shelter quick and easy.
- Comes with stakes and storage sack, making transportation easy.
- Backed by limited lifetime manufacturer warranty.
- Heavier than other tarps because of polyester construction and heavier ropes
- Does not come with poles, which have to be bought separately.
Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp – Editor’s pick for best symmetrical backpacking tarp
When it comes to symmetrical backpacking tarps, Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp is one of the best options to opt for. This best-selling lightweight tarp is made with 40D ripstop SilNylon with PU coating with a hydrostatic resistance of up to 5000 mm, meaning that the tarp can withstand rains up to 5 meters. Moreover, the tarp has reinforced stitching and taped seams for maximum weather protection, making it one of the best all weather tarps to have.
Since it is a symmetrical tarp, it supports a bunch of setups with pyramid, A-frame, and diamond being the most popular. Each Guide Sil Tarp features 12 webbing loops and 1 center loop for pyramid setup. The tarp can be supported on poles and tied down with stakes or using guy-lines.
The Sil tarp weighs around 1.5 pounds without the accessories, so it is not ultralight, but for a few extra ounces, you get unmatched quality and durability.
What’s more, the Guide Sil Tarp comes with no accessories (only tarp and a dry sack) or all accessories options (stainless steel stakes, guylines also included) and different shapes and sizes. We recommend that you go with the all accessories option. With all the accessories, you would add an additional 8 ounces, but you would find the quality of these items better than what comes with some other tarps.
Like all other Aqua Quest tarps, the Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp is backed by two-year “no worries” warranty.
- Extremely durable 40D SilNylon construction with 5000mm PU coating. Reinforced stitching and taped seams make it an excellent weatherproof shelter.
- 12 webbing loops and 1 center loop helps support multiple setups and configurations.
- Comes with no accessories and all accessories options. High-quality dry storage sack included with both combinations.
- Backed by two-year “no worries” manufacturer warranty.
- Heavier than some other options available in the market.
Chill Gorilla Pro Tent Tarp – Value pick for the best backpacking tarp
When it comes to value-for-money ultralight backpacking tarps, the Chill Gorilla Pro Tent Tarp is an excellent all-rounder. This asymmetrical hexagonal tarp is made from ripstop 210D SilNylon with 2000 mm PU coating. While the PU coating is not as heavy as on tarps such as the Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp, it provides decent 3-season weather protection. And moreover, the tarp weighs only 18 ounces, making it an excellent ultralight shelter.
The tent has 6 guy points and tie-down loops for multiple anchoring points. The tarp is easy to setup. At 12 ft. by 9ft., the tarp provides excellent coverage area for hammock or ground shelter for one person with gear.
The tarp comes with all accessories included – 6 guylines and tensioners and 4 aluminum stakes. The package also includes a storage sack for the tarp and a small stuff sack for accessories. The storage sack for the tarp is fully rainproof, making it an excellent buy.
The only complaint you may have with this tarp is the distinctive odor that comes from the tarp when unpacked. You may find it a little uncomfortable, though, after exposure to outdoors, the odor quickly dissipates. The manufacturer claims this odor is due to the unique weatherproofing technique that they use.
Each Chill Gorilla Pro Tent Tarp is backed by 100% customer satisfaction guarantee for lifetime. It is available in multiple colors, you have a lot of options to pick from.
- Well-designed, value-for-money tarp made with SilNylon with 2000mm PU coating.
- A generous 12′ X 9′ asymmetrical hexagonal design, comfortable size for one person.
- Comes with all accessories – stakes, guylines and accessory and storage sack.
- Priced much lower than comparable lightweight tarps.
- Not as sturdy and waterproof than some other costlier options.
- Distinctive odor when first unpacked and used.
Go Outfitters Apex Camping Tarp – Special Pick for the best backpacking tarp
We at GearHose love to support innovative products. Go Outfitters is one such Amazon Launchpad/Kickstarter supported company that makes excellent quality products for hammock camping, and the Go Outfitters Apex Camping tarp is no exception.
This unique, innovative multi-purpose tarp is made with 70D PU-coated ripstop polyester. The Apex camping tarp is highly versatile, with as many as 30 tie-out points, so you can set it up in a number of ways and with different configurations. At 11′ X 9.5‘and 1.3 lbs., this rectangular hexagon asymmetrical tarp offers decent coverage area and an excellent size-to-weight combination.
Each tarp comes with all accessories included – stakes, guylines (cords) with stake and storage sack.
The Go Outfitters Apex tarp is backed by two-year manufacturer warranty. Moreover, the manufacturer follows a “do the right thing” policy for repair and returns, even after the warranty period has elapsed. What’s more, each product sold supports sustainable water projects and aims to provide access to drinking water to one person throughout the year through registered NGOs.
- Well-designed, high-quality camping tarp made with 70D PU-coated ripstop polyester.
- Features as many as 30 tie-out points to support many setups and configurations.
- A generous 11′ X 9.5′ asymmetrical hexagonal design, comfortable size for one person.
- Comes with all accessories – stakes, guy-lines and accessory and storage sack.
- Socially responsible manufacturer, which supports sustainable water project.
- Being a Launchpad/Kickstarter product, costlier than some other options.
Backpacking tarp accessories
If you are backpacking or thru-hiking and considering using a tarp as your primary shelter, you may have to rely on trekking poles or telescopic/adjustable tent poles to set up the tarp. If you are looking for some lightweight tent poles, you can consider the following options:
- Big Agnes Accessory Tarp Pole Set
- Vktech Aluminum Pole Set
- Mountainsmith Steel Tarp Pole Set
- HYOUT Adjustable Tarp Pole Set
Many of the tarp options listed above come with own accessories – stakes and guy-lines. However, if you are looking additional lightweight accessory set, you can consider the following options:
- Paria Outdoor Products Tent and Tarp Accessory Kit
- GEERTOP Tent Accessories Kit
- Coleman Tent Kit
- Gearupz Tent Accessory Kit
Moreover, if you are looking for only for guy-lines, cords and adjusters to support your tarp shelter, you can consider the following options:
- Kelty Guy Line Kit
- Sierra Designs Reflective Guy line Kit
- GEERTOP Reflective Guy Line Cord with Aluminum Adjuster
Finally, another accessory worth considering is a tarp repair kit or just the repair tape. You can consider the following options:
- Gear Aid Tenacious Tape for Fabric Repair
- Tear-Aid Fabric Repair Kit
- Coleman Tent Repair Kit
- Coghlan’s Nylon Tent Repair Kit
Final thoughts on the best backpacking tarps
In this post, we looked at some of the best backpacking tarps available in the market. Our focus was primarily on premium tarps that are functional, durable and reliable and not the cheap stuff that is marketed as tarp but not really durable and useful in the long run.
We looked at the multiple purposes that a well-designed tarp can be used for. Tarps can be used for shelters, weather proofing, and gear protection during camping, backpacking or hiking. Tarps can also find use in beaches and backyard parties. We listed out both symmetrical and asymmetrical tarps with a standard size of about 80-110 square feet, though in most cases you can get larger tarps from the same manufacturers.
In addition, we summarized some of the key factors to consider while picking the best backpacking tarp for yourself or somebody else. Do let us know how you found this article and if you would want us to consider anything else. Until next time, happy outdoor exploration!
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Image credits:Amazon.com