| What it is | Flat sheet pitched as a shelter |
| Strengths | Ultralight, packable, versatile |
| Lacks | Bug netting, floor |
| Needs | More pitching skill |
A tarp is a flat waterproof sheet pitched with cord, stakes, and trekking poles or trees to form a minimalist, highly versatile shelter. Tarps are very light and packable and can be configured many ways, but offer no bug protection or floor and require more skill to pitch well than a tent.
Tarp camping
A favourite of ultralight backpacking; pair it with a bivy sack or bug net since it lacks the enclosure of a tent. Tension every guyline.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tarp shelter?
A tarp shelter is a flat, waterproof sheet rigged with guylines, stakes, and supports (trekking poles or trees) into a roof — and sometimes walls — over your sleeping spot. It's a minimalist alternative to a tent, prized by ultralight backpackers for its very low weight and flexibility.
What are the pros and cons of a tarp?
Pros: very light, packable, versatile in pitch, great ventilation (no condensation buildup), and an open feel. Cons: no built-in bug protection or floor, more exposure to wind-driven rain and splash, and a steeper learning curve to pitch well in bad weather.
How do you keep bugs out under a tarp?
Pair the tarp with a separate bug net, a bivy sack, or a bug bivy/inner net, since a bare tarp offers no insect protection. Many ultralight setups combine a tarp for rain with a lightweight mesh inner or bivy for bugs and ground protection.
Sources
- Minimalist shelters — American Hiking Society