The Best Size Tarp for Camping: A Guide to Choosing the Right Tarp

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

What Size Tarp For Camping?

Camping is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. But when you’re camping, you need to be prepared for anything, including the weather. A tarp can be a lifesaver in a number of situations, from providing shelter from the rain to creating a shady spot to relax in. But with so many different sizes and styles of tarps available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors you need to consider when choosing a tarp for camping, including size, weight, material, and design. We’ll also provide some tips on how to use a tarp to its fullest potential. So whether you’re a seasoned camper or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to choose the perfect tarp for your next camping trip.

Tarp Size Persons Area (sq ft)
8×10 2-3 80
10×10 3-4 100
12×12 4-6 144
14×14 6-8 196
16×16 8-10 256

A tarp is a versatile piece of camping gear that can be used for a variety of purposes, including providing shelter from the rain, wind, and sun. Tarps are also lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great option for backpackers and hikers.

When choosing a tarp for camping, there are a few factors to consider, including the size, shape, material, and weight. In this article, we will discuss these factors in detail and help you choose the best tarp for your needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tarp

Size

The size of the tarp will depend on the size of your tent, the number of people who will be using it, and the type of activities you plan to do while camping.

If you are only planning to use the tarp for shelter from the rain, a smaller tarp will suffice. However, if you plan to use the tarp for cooking, eating, or relaxing, you will need a larger tarp.

For a general-purpose tarp, a size of 10 x 10 feet is a good option. This size will provide enough coverage for a small tent and a few people. If you need a larger tarp, you can choose a size of 12 x 12 feet or larger.

Shape

Tarps come in a variety of shapes, including rectangular, square, and diamond. The shape of the tarp will affect its versatility and how it can be used.

Rectangular tarps are the most common type of tarp. They are easy to set up and can be used in a variety of ways. Square tarps are also versatile, but they are not as efficient in terms of space. Diamond tarps are less common, but they can be a good option for campers who need a tarp that is lightweight and easy to pack.

Material

Tarps are made from a variety of materials, including nylon, polyester, and canvas. The material of the tarp will affect its weight, durability, and water resistance.

Nylon tarps are lightweight and easy to pack, but they are not as durable as polyester or canvas tarps. Polyester tarps are more durable than nylon tarps, but they are heavier. Canvas tarps are the most durable type of tarp, but they are also the heaviest.

Weight

The weight of the tarp is an important consideration, especially if you will be backpacking or hiking. If you are only planning to use the tarp for car camping, weight will not be as much of a concern.

Tarps can range in weight from a few pounds to over 10 pounds. For a general-purpose tarp, a weight of 5 pounds or less is a good option. If you need a lightweight tarp, you can choose a tarp that weighs less than 3 pounds.

Types of Tarps

There are a variety of different types of tarps available, each with its own unique set of features. The following are some of the most common types of tarps:

  • Ground tarps: Ground tarps are designed to be laid out on the ground under your tent to protect the bottom of the tent from moisture and dirt. Ground tarps are typically made from a lightweight material, such as nylon or polyester.
  • Rain tarps: Rain tarps are designed to be hung over your tent to provide shelter from the rain. Rain tarps are typically made from a heavier material, such as canvas or polyester, to provide better protection from the rain.
  • Awning tarps: Awning tarps are designed to be attached to the side of your tent to create a sheltered area for cooking or relaxing. Awning tarps are typically made from a lightweight material, such as nylon or polyester.
  • Poncho tarps: Poncho tarps are a type of rain tarp that can also be worn as a poncho. Poncho tarps are typically made from a lightweight material, such as nylon or polyester.

A tarp is a versatile piece of camping gear that can be used for a variety of purposes. When choosing a tarp, there are a few factors to consider, including the size, shape, material, and weight. By considering these factors, you can choose the best tarp for your needs.

Here are some additional tips for choosing a tarp:

  • Choose a tarp that is made from a durable material. The tarp will be exposed to the elements, so it is important to choose a material that will hold up over time.

* **Choose a tarp that is the right size for your needs.

What Size Tarp For Camping?

When choosing a tarp for camping, there are a few factors to consider, including the size of your tent, the number of people who will be using it, and the climate you’ll be camping in.

Size of your tent

The first step is to determine the size of your tent. If you’re planning on using the tarp as a rainfly, you’ll need a tarp that is at least as wide as your tent. If you’re planning on using the tarp as a groundsheet, you’ll need a tarp that is at least as long as your tent and wide enough to extend past the edges of your tent by a few feet.

Number of people

The next step is to consider how many people will be using the tarp. If you’re only planning on using the tarp for yourself, you can get away with a smaller tarp. However, if you’re planning on using the tarp for a group of people, you’ll need a larger tarp.

Climate

Finally, you need to consider the climate you’ll be camping in. If you’re planning on camping in a warm climate, you can get away with a lighter weight tarp. However, if you’re planning on camping in a cold climate, you’ll need a heavier weight tarp that will provide more insulation.

How to Set Up a Tarp

Setting up a tarp is relatively simple, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to get the best results.

Choose a level spot for your tarp.

The first step is to choose a level spot for your tarp. This will help to prevent the tarp from flapping in the wind and will also make it more comfortable to sit or sleep on.

Secure the tarp to the ground.

Once you’ve chosen a spot for your tarp, you need to secure it to the ground. You can do this by using stakes, rocks, or other heavy objects. Make sure that the tarp is secured in all four corners and along any edges that are not attached to your tent.

Attach the tarp to your tent.

If you’re using the tarp as a rainfly, you’ll need to attach it to your tent. You can do this by using guylines, which are ropes that are attached to the tarp and then staked out to the ground. Make sure that the guylines are taut so that the tarp is taught.

Pitch the tarp.

Once the tarp is secured to the ground and to your tent, you can pitch it. This means raising the tarp so that it creates a shelter. You can do this by using poles or by simply draping the tarp over your tent.

A tarp can be a valuable addition to your camping gear. It can provide shelter from the rain, sun, and wind, and it can also be used as a groundsheet or a sleeping pad. By following these tips, you can choose the right size tarp for your needs and set it up properly so that you can enjoy your next camping trip to the fullest.

What size tarp do I need for camping?

The size of tarp you need for camping depends on the size of your tent, the number of people in your group, and the type of weather you expect to encounter.

  • Tent size: A tarp should be at least as wide as your tent and long enough to extend at least 2 feet beyond the edges of your tent on all sides. This will help to protect your tent from wind and rain.
  • Number of people: If you are camping with a large group, you will need a larger tarp to accommodate everyone. A good rule of thumb is to allow 10 square feet of tarp per person.
  • Weather: If you are camping in a windy or rainy area, you will need a tarp that is heavier and more durable. A lightweight tarp will not be able to withstand strong winds or heavy rain.

Here are some specific recommendations for tarp sizes for different types of camping:

  • Backpacking: For backpacking, you will need a lightweight tarp that is easy to pack. A 10-foot by 10-foot tarp is a good option for solo backpackers, while a 12-foot by 12-foot tarp is a good option for couples or small groups.
  • Car camping: For car camping, you can use a larger tarp that is more durable. A 12-foot by 16-foot tarp is a good option for a family of four, while a 16-foot by 20-foot tarp is a good option for a large group.
  • Camping in windy or rainy weather: If you are camping in a windy or rainy area, you will need a tarp that is heavy-duty and water-resistant. A 12-foot by 16-foot tarp with a 150-denier fabric is a good option for this type of weather.

How do I choose the right material for my tarp?

The material of your tarp is important for determining its weight, durability, and water resistance.

  • Weight: Tarps are made from a variety of materials, each with its own weight. Lightweight tarps are made from materials such as nylon or polyester, while heavier tarps are made from materials such as canvas or tarpolin.
  • Durability: The durability of your tarp depends on the material it is made from. Nylon and polyester tarps are lightweight and durable, while canvas and tarpolin tarps are heavier and more durable.
  • Water resistance: The water resistance of your tarp depends on the material it is made from and the weight of the fabric. Nylon and polyester tarps are water-resistant, while canvas and tarpolin tarps are waterproof.

Here are some specific recommendations for materials for different types of camping:

  • Backpacking: For backpacking, you will need a lightweight tarp that is easy to pack. A nylon or polyester tarp is a good option for this type of camping.
  • Car camping: For car camping, you can use a heavier tarp that is more durable. A canvas or tarpolin tarp is a good option for this type of camping.
  • Camping in windy or rainy weather: If you are camping in a windy or rainy area, you will need a tarp that is waterproof. A canvas or tarpolin tarp is a good option for this type of weather.

How do I set up a tarp for camping?

Setting up a tarp for camping is a simple process. Just follow these steps:

1. Choose a level spot for your tarp.
2. Stake out the corners of your tarp with tent stakes or rocks.
3. If you are using a ridgeline, tie it to the two highest points of your tarp.
4. If you are using guylines, tie them to the four corners of your tarp.
5. Adjust the tension of your tarp so that it is taut.

Here are some additional tips for setting up a tarp for camping:

  • If you are camping in windy weather, stake out your tarp more securely and use guylines to prevent it from blowing away.
  • If you are camping in rainy weather, make sure that the rainfly of your tent is extended over your tarp to protect you from the rain.
  • If you are camping in hot weather, you can use your tarp to create a shady spot to relax in.

What are some other uses for a tarp?

A tarp can be used for a variety of other purposes besides camping, including:

  • A shelter: A tarp can be used as a shelter from the sun, rain, or wind.
  • A ground cover: A tarp can be used to protect your gear from the dirt and moisture

    In this blog post, we have discussed the different factors to consider when choosing a tarp for camping. We have also provided a size chart to help you select the right size tarp for your needs.

Here are the key takeaways from this blog post:

  • The size of the tarp you need will depend on the number of people in your camping party, the type of activities you plan to do, and the climate you will be camping in.
  • Tarps come in a variety of shapes and materials, so it is important to choose one that is suitable for your needs.
  • When setting up your tarp, make sure to stake it down securely to prevent it from blowing away in the wind.
  • Tarps can be used for a variety of purposes, including shelter, shade, and rain protection.

By following these tips, you can choose the right tarp for your camping needs and enjoy your next outdoor adventure to the fullest.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.