Outdoor Adventures with Tarpaulin Camping, Hiking

Involves using a lightweight Heavy Duty Tarpaulin as a temporary shelter when enjoying outdoor adventures and activities. While some may think of tarp camping as a bare-bones or budget-friendly alternative to traditional tent camping, it actually provides a very versatile and customizable shelter option.

The Basics of Tarp Camping

At its most basic, tarp camping involves hanging a waterproof tarp overhead to provide coverage from rain, sun, or snow. However, tarps can be pitched in a variety of configurations depending on your needs and the environment. Some common styles include:

A-frame:

Erecting the tarp in a triangular shape stretched between two trees or poles. Great for sheltering one or two campers.

Lean-to:

Securing one edge of the tarp vertically while the other edges slope down to the ground. Creates a covered living space on one side.

Poncho/uber lean-to:

Similar to a lean-to but with the tarp forming a more covered living area beneath rather than just sheltering one side.

Benefits of Tarp Camping

Some key benefits of tarp camping include:

Lightweight and Packable: Most backpacking tarps weigh 1-3 lbs, packing down smaller than a traditional tent. Great for multi-day trips.

Customizable Shelter:

Tarps are versatile - you can choose your pitch style based on conditions, available anchors, and camping group size.

Lower Cost:

Tarps provide basic overhead shelter for a fraction of the price of even the most affordable backpacking tents.

Improved Views and Ventilation:

Unlike enclosed tents, Tarpaulins UK allows for unobstructed views of the sky and surroundings. Greater airflow too.

Simple to Set Up:

No fiddling with poles, connectors, zippers, or tight spaces. Basic tarps are quick and easy to pitch.

Getting Started with Tarp Camping

For those new to tarp camping, here are a few tips to help you get comfortable with the basic setup:

Choose a versatile tarp:

Look for a large, lighter-weight, fully waterproof tarp in the 7x9 to 10x10 foot range. This provides coverage for 1-2 campers along with gear.

Experiment at home first:

Practice different pitch styles in your backyard before a trip. This will help you learn techniques and identify any gear needs.

Bring reliable anchors:

Tarps rely on solid anchor points like trees, stakes, or trekking poles. Plan B options are important too in case of sparse vegetation.

Pack guylines and stakes:

Include plenty of lightweight cords and stakes to perfectly pitch and gun out the tarp. This helps prevent sagging and buffering from wind/rain.

Consider a bug net or doors:

For some areas and seasons, integrate a hanging net or doors to protect sleep space from insects without a full tent.

Layer sleeping gear:

With less structure overhead, use an insulated sleeping pad and a warmer sleeping bag rated a few degrees lower than without a tarp.

Have fun experimenting! Tarp camping encourages creativity - try unconventional pitches, change as the weather shifts, and enjoy more camping flexibility.

Choosing the Right Tarp for Outdoor Adventures

When selecting a tarp to take your camping adventures to new heights, consider the following factors:

Material Options for Tarps

Silnylon: Durable, fully waterproof, low weight, ideal for most conditions. More expensive.

Polyester: Cheaper, water resistant, bulkier than Silnylon. Works well as a basic option.

Size and Shape Considerations

Dimensions: For solo use, 7x9 ft works. 8x10 ft shelters 1-2. Larger sizes for groups.

Shape: Most versatile are rectangular or triangular. Ovals fit slopes better. Choose a shape that suits your needs.

Bathtub floor: Additional floor adds coverage underneath. Choose this for wet areas or large bugs.

Other Important Tarp Features

Guyline loops: Reinforced loops for securing guylines across the tarp.

Seams: Fully taped seams prevent water ingress. Look for this on silnylon tarps.

Guyline/stakes: Include stake loops, lines, and stakes for fully pitching the tarp.

Colors: Lighter pastel colors provide warmth. Dark colors capture more sun. Choose based on location.

The right-sized Tarpaulin made from durable, waterproof material and equipped with features like loops and seam sealing allows for cozy and protected shelter during any outdoor adventure.