Beginner's Guide to Tarps for Backpacking
Table of Contents
Recommendations
A tarp system is one shelter option, but I recommend a tent for beginners. Tarp systems are more suitable for advanced backpackers. If you know what you are doing, however, a tarp system can be lighter and more versatile than a tent.
Components of a Tarp System
Tarp systems can have the following components:
- Tarp
- Ground cloth
- Bug netting or bivy sack
Tarp
A tarp is simply a sheet of waterproof fabric.
Tarps can be used alone or as part of a system with other components such as a ground cloth, bug nest, bug bivy, or bivy sack. Tarp systems are highly versatile. You can use a tarp by itself if there are no bugs, and you can use bug netting without a tarp if it won’t rain. You can tweak your tarp system setup to increase or decrease ventilation, warmth, rain protection and bug protection.
You can save money by using a tarp by itself, but you’ll be limited to camping in the rare conditions of no bugs, no rain, and mild temperatures.
Flat Tarps
Flat tarps can be pitched in many configurations such as A-frame and lean-to.
A-frame Tarps
A-frame tarps can only be pitched in A-frame configurations because they have a curved center ridgeline.
Pyramid Tarps
These tarps are shaped like pyramids and are usually held up by trekking poles. They hold up in storms better than other configurations. Pyramid tarps are also called mids.
Tarp Fabrics
Groundcloth
You can save money by using one of the following materials for your groundcloth/footprint:
- Polycro such as Frost King Window Film
- Tyvek
Types of Bug Netting
Common types of bug netting:
- Bug nest
- Bug bivy
- Head net
Bug Net
Bug nets, also called bug nests, are like single-wall tents with walls made entirely of mesh. They also have a non-mesh waterproof floor. When you pitch one under a tarp, you have what amounts to a double-wall tent.
Bug Bivy
A bug bivy is a mesh that surrounds your sleeping bag. It has a non-mesh waterproof bottom and a hoop that keeps the net away from your body.
Head Net
You can save weight by just wearing a small net around your head and neck to keep out mosquitoes. However, it might not protect you completely from crawling insects.