If you love camping but want to stay safe and dry, choosing the right tarp is essential. Before heading out on your hiking and camping trip, make sure you know how to set up a tarp tent properly and invest in the best tarps for camping.
Using a good tarp shelter has several benefits. According to Forbes, when planning a camping trip, you’ll need essentials like large tarps, air mats, sleeping bags, and a sturdy cooler packed with food. Backpackers often aim to save space and reduce weight, so a lightweight white tarp can be ideal. Look for one that’s UV-resistant, waterproof, and tear-resistant for a secure canopy tent setup.
Over time, lightweight hikers have greatly embraced tarp camping—sleeping under a tarp instead of a traditional tent. Traveling without tent poles, bug nets, and bulky walls makes a significant difference, recognized by hikers worldwide. Minimalist enthusiasts also love tarp camping as it allows them to carry less and create their own gear from raw materials.
Besides the weight advantage, tarp camping offers a unique experience connected closely to nature, unlike traditional tent camping. However, it does come with its challenges, such as exposure to rain and bugs. With the right approach, you can enjoy a dry, warm, and pleasant camping experience comparable to using a tent.
Beginners might find it challenging to pick the right spot for tarp camping. Mistakes are common, but with practice, you’ll identify great places. Avoid flat, open areas used for traditional tent camping since they often collect puddles during heavy rain. Instead, look for a slight incline that allows water to drain away. Position your head uphill while sleeping to avoid headaches.
You can set up your tarp using hiking poles or nearby trees for support. Arrange your tarp so that rain and wind come from the sides, and choose a spot where natural barriers like brush, rocks, and trees block the wind.
There are many ways to enjoy backpacking with tarps, and it can be an exciting new adventure. Learning to overcome the challenges of setting up camping tarps effectively is essential. Happy camping!