The Best Tarp 2024 - 9 Models In Tarp Test + Recommendation (2024)

👉 The key facts from this guide

When it comes to finding the best tarp for your outdoor needs, there are a few things you should consider.

Firstly: What do you want to use the tarp for? There are different tarps for different activities, so it is important to find one that is suitable for your specific needs.

Secondly: What is your budget? Tarps can cost anywhere from a few euros to hundreds of euros, so it's important to find a product that fits within your budget.

And finally: What size and weight should the tarp you need have?

Lighter and smaller tarps are easier to transport and set up, but they may not be large enough to cover all of your equipment. Heavier and larger tarps can be more difficult to transport and set up, but they offer more protection.

Now that you know what to look for, here is my selection of the best tarps for 2022:

Tarp Test Overview: Which Tarps are the Best?

Do you want to get started right away?

First is the Unigear Tarp, and I recommend it to you if you don't already have a tarp and want to get one.

Here are my 9 best compact tarps summarized in a table.

Now you can see that there are quite heavy tarps and also very light ones. The heavier tarps are all suitable for Bushcrafting or camping where you don't hike much.

However, if you go on a trekking tour, you cannot carry a 2 kg tarp with accessories. For this requirement, you should definitely rely on an ultra-light tarp, such as the AMAZONAS Ultra-Light Adventure or the Sea to Summit Escapist.

But let's now really get into the topic and start with what a tarp actually is.

What is a Tarp?

A tarp is a sheet that can be used like a tent. The sheet is usually made of a lightweight, tear-resistant material that can withstand the elements.

Tarp tents are usually of high quality and can be expensive. When choosing a tarp, make sure it is suitable for your planned outdoor activity. You can buy tarps in most outdoor stores or online outdoor shops.

Who are tarps suitable for?

A tarp can be a suitable solution for someone who wants to travel light and easy, prefers sleeping closer to nature than in a tent, or needs a sun protection while camping.

Typically, people who consider trekking as their hobby prefer to use a tarp because it is available in ultralight versions. But also Bushcrafters, who like to camp in a more natural way in the forest, mostly use a tarp to spend the night.

Tarps are also a great option for those who need extra protection from the elements. A tarp can be used as a groundsheet or to protect important utensils from the elements, making them a versatile tool for campers and hikers.

What types of tent tarps and tarps are there?

There are different types of tarps or tarps that can be used for different purposes. The most common type is the square or rectangular tarp, which is often used as a sunshade, shelter or for camping.

These tarps are available in different sizes, such as 4 x 4, 3 x 3 m or 4 x 6 m. The size you choose depends on the purpose for which you are using the tarp. A smaller tarp may be sufficient, for example, for sun protection, while a larger tarp may be required for a shelter.

The accessories for tarps include pegs and poles, which are used to secure the tarps and provide additional support. Finally, there are also triangular tarps that can be used as awnings or shelters.

What can a tarp be used for?

A tarp can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a tent, rain shelter, sun shade, awning, sleeping bag cover, groundsheet, windbreak or outdoor shelter. In an emergency, you can also use a tarp to collect rainwater or as an improvised duffel bag.

There are many display options that can be used depending on the purpose. They are well suited for a variety of activities and models.

There is the A-frame construction form, where your tarp is set up like an A. The setup can be close to the ground or higher up - either you are protected or you have more airflow.

Tarps are also waterproof and provide excellent sun and rain protection. They are a great addition to any camping equipment and the pack size usually doesn't matter.

They can be quickly and easily assembled, making them a great choice for a variety of situations.

Checklist: What distinguishes the best tarps?

When it comes to tarps, size matters. The best tarps are large enough to cover everything you need, but not so large that they are difficult to carry, unwieldy, or difficult to set up.

Square tarps are often the best choice as they provide the greatest protection and are still relatively easy to handle.

Guy lines and poles are essential for securing your tarp, and stakes can help keep it in place. Make sure you have everything you need before heading into the wilderness - a checklist will help you not forget anything important.

Here's what you need for a tarp setup:

1. Tarp
2. Guy ropes
3. Pegs for various set-up forms
4. Possibly, a tarpaulin that you use as a base

What skills you need:

• Knot knowledge
• Spatial thinking
• Estimation of the weather (where could it be windy or rainy)
• Finding the ideal location

Bestseller: My 9 most popular tarps and recommendations

Below, I have selected and evaluated the best tarps for you. Based on the facts as well as the pros and cons, you can compare the tarps.

The All-Rounder: Unigear Tarp, Waterproof, with Eyelets + 6 Pegs + 6 Ropes

The Unigear Tarp is a waterproof tarp equipped with eyelets and 6 pegs. It also includes 6 ropes for easy setup. This tarp is great for camping, bushcraft, or other outdoor activities where you need protection from the elements.

Data updated 9 hours ago

Unigear Hammock Rain Fly Waterproof Tent Tarp, 9.8x9.8ft, UV Protection and PU 3000mm Waterproof, Lightweight for Camping, Backpacking and Outdoor Adventure

• STAY DRY IN THE RAIN: Unigear tent tarp is made of super strong 210D rip-stop Oxford fabric, PU 3000mm waterproof. It offers an excellent protection against rain, sudden downpours, snow and high winds. Open size is 300x300cm/10x10ft
• NO MORE RIPPING & LEAKING: To offer a safer and tougher shelter, all the 8 fix points on the rain fly are reinforced a triangle dual layer. Besides, all fix points are used double reinforced stitches, which can prevent ripping and leaking even in extreme conditions
• BLOCK THE SUN: Coated with PU Inner layer, Unigear lightweight tarp can provide a UV protection in the sun. Perfects for hammock camping, backpacking, hiking, or other adventure
• MULTIPLE USES: The rain fly can be widely used as survival tarp, hammock shelter, outdoor kitchen cover, simple tent, tent footprint, ground sheet and instant shade. Come with 6 stakes and 6 ropes, you can set up different shapes easily
• Camping Companion: No matter the occasion, our lightweight tarp tents are must-have camping and tent accessories for the adventurer in your life

$25.99

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Cheap and reliable, the Unigear Tarp is my recommendation for beginners. The tarp is a successful compromise between robustness, lightness, and flexibility.

Facts:

• Sizes:
  • 3 x 3 m
  • 3 x 4 m
  • 3 x 5 m
• Packed size:
  • 3 x 3 m: 28.7 x 18.29 x 10.41 cm
  • 3 x 4 m: 31 x 19.8 x 10 cm
  • 3 x 5 m: 38 x 17.1 x 13.6 cm
• Weight:
  • 3 x 3 m: 1.02 kg
  • 3 x 4 m: 1.29 kg
  • 3 x 5 m: 1.67 kg
• Water column: 3000 mm

Advantages

Does not rustle

Cheap

Robust

Seams cleanly sewn and tear-resistant

Disadvantages

Only 8 attachment points

Lightweight for Trekking: Sea to Summit Escapist 15D Tarp / Tent Tarp

The Sea to Summit Escapist 15D Tarp is a great tent tarp for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without having to worry about the weather.

Amazon
Offer

-6%

Data updated 9 hours ago

Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp Ultralight Shelter, Medium

• Ultralight and compact; made from tape seam-sealed waterproof 15 denier Ultra-Sil Nano nylon
• Eight hypalon and bar-tack reinforced tie-out points
• Reinforced corners with cord lock and guy lines (which can be adjusted from under the tarp)
• Color-coded guylines on the apex, corners and midpoints simplify pitching
• Tarp can be pitched in a variety of configurations using trees or trekking poles, and adjusted for extra protection in changing weather conditions

$215.97
List Price: $229.00

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This tarp is made of a waterproof and breathable material (silicone-coated nylon fabric) that will keep you dry and comfortable in any weather (water column of 1200 mm). The tarp also has a UV-resistant coating that protects you from harmful sun rays.

The tarp can be used as a standalone shelter or as an addition to your existing tent (such as the Ultra-Mesh Bug Tent from the same company). The tarp comes with all the necessary materials for setup, including guy lines and stakes.

Facts:

• Size:
  • Medium: 2 x 2.6 m
  • Large: 3 x 3 m
• Packed size:
  • Medium: 8.5 cm x 19 cm
  • Large: 9 cm x 23 cm
• Weight:
  • Medium: 300 g
  • Large: 440 g
• Water column: 1200 mm

Advantages

Very lightweight

Eight Hypalon guy points

Brand product

Eyelets have support for the tip of a trekking pole

Reflective guy lines

Reinforced corners with cord closure and guy line

Disadvantages

Expensive

Purchasing criteria: Using these criteria, you can compare and evaluate tarps

When buying tarps, you should compare and evaluate them based on weight, shape, model, pitching options, waterproofed, and size.

If you want to use a tarp as a sunshade or hammock, you should also pay attention to it.

Rectangular tarps are great for use as tent tarps, as they are small and offer good protection. However, when choosing a tarp, be sure to consider your needs.

How big should a tarp be?

The size of the tarp you need depends on the size of the area you want to cover. A 2x2 meter tarp is sufficient to build a small tent or protect a picnic table, while a 3x4 meter tarp covers an average-sized tent and still has some extra space.

I recommend that you buy nothing less than a 3x3 meter tarp if you have no special requirements. I own a 2.8x2.8 meter tarp and a 3x4 meter tarp and am very satisfied with them. The 3x4 meter tarp is still light enough, and I have enough space for another person or my equipment.

Weight of a Tarp

With a tarp, the weight can vary greatly. It always depends on the size of the tarp and the material used. The rule of thumb here is: the bigger, the heavier.

Furthermore, you should also pay attention to the material used. I will introduce the individual materials with their advantages and disadvantages below.

Also remember that the accessories of a tarp add weight. If you want to travel ultralight, you can either choose stakes that are extremely light or carve your own on site. You can also save weight on the ropes by looking for very thin and tear-resistant cords.

Thickness of a Tarp

Choosing a thick tent tarp can be life-saving in many ways while spending time in nature. It not only provides better protection, but also makes the tarp more stable when set up like a tent with hiking poles.

Thicker tarps are also more stable than thin tarps. The disadvantage is clearly the weight. Thicker tarps also weigh more and are hindering for ultra-light trekking.

What does a good Tarp cost?

The cost of a good tarp can vary depending on the brand, processing, size, and design. In general, prices for tarps range from €15 to €150, but there are also tarps available that cost more than €300.

A good tarpaulin should be made of strong material that is waterproof, tear-resistant, and UV-protected. Additionally, it should be easy to clean and maintain.

Some offers include accessories. I recommend checking what is included in the price. If it is only the tarp itself, additional costs for tent accessories (pegs, ropes, etc.) will apply. However, the costs are not particularly high, depending on which products from which manufacturer you choose.

What shapes are available for tarps?

It is common to find tarps in various shapes, such as triangular, rectangular, or hexagonal. However, the most popular shapes are rectangular or square. Ultimately, you must make this choice yourself.

One thing should be said: The rectangular tarp is the most versatile. It can be laid flat on the ground to give you a large surface area, or used with a rope to create a makeshift tent.

I highly recommend the rectangular tarp - especially for beginners - because it is the easiest to set up.

How weather-resistant should my tarp be?

Your tarp should be able to withstand sun, snow, rain, and weather conditions.

• Rain: Most tarps are designed to provide protection from rain. How waterproof each tarp is depends on the coating and material used. Below, I will introduce you to the different materials. Some materials expand when wet. Furthermore, pay attention to how quickly a tarp dries.
• Snow: Tarps are very versatile and can be used in snow or snowfall as long as they are waterproof. When setting up the tarp, make sure it can sag quickly due to the weight of the snow. If your tarp is covered in snow, I would advise you to either remove the snow or re-tension it.
• Wind/Storm: In most cases, tarps are not reliable in the wind. Therefore, I recommend setting it up relatively flat in strong winds - there are great construction forms that are well suited for this. To prevent wind from blowing through the tarp, let the windward side touch the ground. Read more about camping in winter storms here.
• Sunshine: You can also use a tarp as sun protection or awning. You should consider whether it offers UV protection. You will read about the different materials of tarps below.

What sizes are available for tarps?

The size of the tent tarp largely depends on the number of people and amount of luggage that will seek shelter under the tarp. You should also consider the height of the people. The size of a tarp also depends on its shape.

Most sellers indicate the size of tarps in length x width in meters. Occasionally, the size is also given in cm. Less commonly, the size is used as S for "small", M for "medium", L for "large", or XL for "extra large".

The following common sizes I have found.

Square Tarps:

• 3 x 3 meters
• 3.5 x 3.5 meters
• 4 x 4 meters

Rectangular Tarps:

• 2.4 x 2.2 meters
• 2.85 x 3 meters
• 2.85 x 4 meters
• 2.95 x 3 meters
• 4.25 x 4.45 meters
• 3 x 2 meters
• 3 x 3.2 meters
• 3 x 3.5 meters
• 3 x 4 meters
• 4 x 5 meters
• 4 x 6 meters

Triangular Tarps:

• 3.6 x 3.6 x 3.6 meters
• 4 x 4 x 4 meters
• 5 x 5 x 5 meters

Which well-known manufacturers of tarps are there?

You can buy tarps from various manufacturers. Below is a list of well-known manufacturers who, according to my research, offer tarps in their range in German-speaking countries.

• Amazonas
• DD Hammocks
• Aqua Quest
• Coleman
• Quechua
• Salewa
• Bessport
• Tatonka
• Dyneema
• Hilleberg
• LYDUO
• Wechsel

Of course, there are many other manufacturers.

Which material should I choose when buying a tarp?

When choosing a tarp, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the material. A high-quality tarp is made of sturdy, tear-resistant, waterproof, and UV-resistant fabric. If you want lighter and extremely durable material, you unfortunately have to spend a little more money, as the high-quality fabrics are pricier.

What distinguishes a polyester tarp?

The main reason why polyester is used for tarps is its water resistance. Polyester is a synthetic material that absorbs less water than cotton, making it ideal for outdoor use. In addition, tarps made of polyester are usually durable and UV-resistant, making them ideal for long-term use. Many inexpensive tarps are made of polyester because the material is cheap to produce, but it is heavier than some other materials.

What distinguishes a nylon tarp?

Nylon is stronger and more elastic than polyester and about 30% pricier than polyester. Tarps made of nylon are lightweight and can be purchased in a variety of sizes to meet the needs of every camper.

Most affordable tarps are made of nylon because it is inexpensive to produce and also elastic and waterproof. However, note that nylon expands when wet and contracts when drying.

If the tarp gets wet, you may need to tighten the ropes or pegs and loosen them again once the material is dry. However, this point is only relevant for one-sided coated or completely uncoated tarps.

The disadvantage of nylon is that it is not breathable. If you would rather not get wet from condensation, I recommend ventilating well. This moisture then hangs on the walls of your tarp and can even drip down on you at night. Especially in the cold season, this can be annoying.

What distinguishes a tarp made of rip stop nylon?

Rip stop nylon is a strong, tear-resistant fabric used for making tarps and other outdoor equipment. Rip stop nylon is lightweight, durable, water-resistant, and is used in higher quality tarps. This material is also UV-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Rip stop without a special coating is not 100% waterproof and needs to be (repeatedly) impregnated. The acquisition costs are higher than with nylon and the fabric becomes stiffer in cold weather, which can cause noise.

What distinguishes a tarp made of Sil-Nylon?

This material combines the advantages of silicone and nylon in one. Sil-nylon is a very lightweight and durable material that is used for the production of tent fabrics and other outdoor equipment items. It is highly resistant to water and UV radiation.

It is a fabric made of nylon fibers that is coated with a thin layer of silicone. The silicone makes the tarp waterproof and at the same time increases the tear resistance of the fabric.

This material also has the advantage of being lighter and more durable than polyester. Due to the high-quality material, tarps made of silnylon are in the higher price range.

What distinguishes a tarp made of Cuben Fibre?

The main feature of Cuben Fibre is its exceptional strength at a low weight. Therefore, it is perfect for lightweight and compact outdoor equipment, such as tarps.

Cuben Fibre is a sail laminate and a lightweight material. Since 2016, it has been known as "Dyneema® Composite Fabric". It is only half as heavy as high-quality Sil-Nylon and offers high tear resistance.

This material is about twice as expensive as Sil-Nylon and therefore the most expensive option when buying a tarp.

The cost of this material is high because it remains dimensionally stable and resistant to bending even when wet, and is also UV-resistant. All of these advantages make it possible to use this material in outdoor applications, to meet the trend towards lightweight and ultra-lightweight products.

What distinguishes a cotton tarp?

A cotton tarp is particularly robust and durable when well maintained. It is also pleasantly soft and provides good protection against wind and weather. Unfortunately, a cotton tarp is heavy. For example, I sewed a 2.8x2.8 meter tarp myself from oilskin, and it weighs 3.2 kilograms.

Furthermore, you have to ask yourself whether you want a tarp that is coated or uncoated. Uncoated material is hardly used anymore because it expands when moist, dries slowly and rots or molds.

The advantage of this material is that it is breathable and has a pleasant climate.

If weight is not a major concern for you, a sturdy cotton blend fabric can be useful. It is particularly suitable for use near open flames or in the summer, as the heat does not build up too much here.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Tarps

How to tension a tarp properly?

Most tarps can be secured to the ground with pegs or branches. To tension the tarp, ropes, or cords are attached to the eyelets or hooks and then wrapped around trees, branches, or other solid objects.

What are the alternatives to the tarp?

A tarp is a versatile and cost-effective survival tool that can be used in many situations. However, there are some other options that you should consider if you are seeking an alternative to the tarp. Alternatives to the tarp include a tent, a hammock with mosquito net, or a bivy sack.

Also read: Tarp or Tent? What is better? - A list of pros and cons (+ survey results)

How to set up a tarp quickly and easily?

A tarp can be set up in various ways, depending on how much space you have and how much protection you need.

A simple method is to lay the tarp over a branch or other stable object and hold it down at the corners. Use stakes to keep it in place, or you can also use ropes to attach it to trees or other stable objects.

This video shows you how to set up a tarp as a flying A-frame. The video is part of the tarp module from the Wildimpuls program.

It is worth considering the different shapes and construction options, as this will affect how easy the tarp is to use. For example, a tarp that is set up between two trees can sometimes be easier to set up and take down than a tent.

And if you are looking for a tarp that can be used as a shelter in an emergency, it is worth investing in a high-quality tarp that can be securely fastened.

Can tarps be purchased at Decathlon?

Decathlon sells a variety of tarps for various outdoor activities. The selection of tarps varies depending on the store, but Decathlon usually has a good selection of tarps for camping, hiking, mountaineering, and other outdoor activities. You can find all the current tarps on Decathlon's online shop.

Popular for trekking at Decathlon is the "Tarp Trekking MT900", which measures 2.85 m × 2.40 m. The tarp has many attachment points and can be mounted in various ways. It comes with 8 tent pegs and 8 reflector guy ropes.

Furthermore, it has a water column of 2000 mm and is lightweight compared to other tarps, weighing only 360 grams (490 grams with accessories). The pack sack has a capacity of 1.5 liters and measures 15 cm x 10 cm in diameter. The tarp is made of 80% polyester (PES) and 20% thermoplastic polyurethane.

Another good tarp that Decathlon offers for a small price is the Camouflage Tarp for Bushcrafter. It is 2.97 × 2.85 m in size, waterproof, and has 21 fixing points for all possible construction forms. The tarp is made of polyester and has reinforced fixing points. Furthermore, you are protected from rain with a water column of 2000 mm.

Further facts about the Decathlon Tarp "Bushcraft Camouflage":

• Weight: 815 g
• Bag dimensions: 22 × 22 cm
• Tarp dimensions: 2.97 × 2.85 m

Where can I buy a tarp?

As tarps belong to outdoor equipment, you can buy them in various specialty stores or sports stores. If you want to use online shops, you will find plenty of shops on the internet that sell tarps.

Famous providers in the German-speaking area are:

• Globetrotter
• Decathlon
• Tatonka
• Obelink
• Sportscheck
• INTERSPORT

eBay and eBay Classifieds are both good places to find a good deal on a used tarp. In addition, discount stores like Netto, Lidl, or Aldi occasionally offer tarps as well.

How should I care for a tarp?

To keep your tarp in good condition, clean it regularly and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use. You can also treat it with a waterproofing spray to protect it from the elements.

Why are attachment loops better than eyelets on tarps?

Fastening loops offer better durability and are less susceptible to damage. With eyelets, it can happen that they tear out or rust over time.

If you don't have any eyelets or loops, then use this trick with a knot:

Can you stretch a tarp over a campfire?

It is possible to stretch a tarp over a campfire, but it is not a good idea. The fire could damage the tarp and smoke could also penetrate under the tarp, which could be very uncomfortable for the people under the tarp.

What do I need to set up a tarp?

To set up a tarp, stakes, and ropes are usually needed. If you don't have stakes, you can also tie the tarp to trees - this anchoring method is generally more durable than stakes. However, if you want to use stakes but don't have any, you can carve them from sticks (which is a cool Bushcraft project).

What to do if a tarp is not 100% waterproof?

If a tarp is not 100% waterproof, you can cover it with another waterproof material. In general, it is recommended that you always have some fabric tape on hand to seal your tarp in case of emergency. Here you can find 13 survival hacks for fabric tape.

Can I sleep with a tarp in winter?

It is indeed possible if you set up your tarp in a way that protects you from cold wind. A proven setup is the "tent shape". There, you set up your tarp flat on the ground like a tent. However, a prerequisite is that you have a good winter sleeping bag and a well insulating sleeping pad.

Final Thoughts

This list contains some of the best tips for tarps, both in terms of size and user-friendliness. Your camping needs and the number of people camping with you will determine the size and features of the right tarp for you.

When deciding on a tarp, also pay attention to the tarp accessories, the materials used, and how tear-resistant it is processed.