Camping Essentials: Waterproof Tarpaulins for Shelters

If you are going camping, it's important to bring the right equipment to have a safe and enjoyable experience. One of the items to consider packing is a Waterproof Tarpaulin. Although a tarp looks simple, it can truly be a godsend in the great outdoors. Tarps protect you from the rain, wind, and even the hot sun - let's dive into some of the benefits of Tarpaulins as camping essentials and how tarps can make your next trip safe and more fun.

Why Tarpaulins Are Important

Weather changes quickly outdoors. One moment the sky is clear, and the next moment rain could be pouring down on you. A waterproof tarp provides you with instant cover. Unlike tents, which take time to set up, a tarp can be tied in many different ways to provide you with cover more or less immediately.

Tarps are also very strong. They are thick plastic or canvas that has a waterproof coating. They can withstand heavy rain without leaking through. If you are camping in a forest or near a river, bringing a tarp along will always provide an additional layer of protection between you and the weather.

Different Ways to Use a Tarp While Camping

One thing I love about tarps is their versatility. Depending on your needs, you can get a lot of use out of a tarp. For example, you can:

• Create a shelter: Tie the corners of your tarp to trees as a roof over your campsite.

• Protect the ground: Put the tarp underneath your tent to keep the bottom dry and safe from sharp sticks or rocks.

• Make a cover for gear: Keep your backpacks & shoes dry from dew, or keep them out of precipitation by putting a tarp over them.

• Stop the wind or sun: Use a tarp as a wall or shade when it is hot out during the afternoon, or if it's too windy at night.

These practical uses make a tarp one of the most useful items to bring camping.

Choosing the Right Tarp

When you use applicative tarps, they are not as interchangeable as you might think. You need to be aware of both the size and the material. While a larger waterproof Heavy Duty Tarpaulin will cover more area on the ground, it will be heavier to carry with you. For hiking 2-3 miles and carrying your gear, you will want to use a medium-sized tarp that is lightweight yet strong.

The material matters as well. A plastic tarp is inexpensive, waterproof, but it will tear if you pull too hard. A canvas tarp will last longer and is much stronger, but indeed a heavier tarp. The great majority of campers will be well served with a lightweight waterproof tarp. A nylon tarp made with reinforced corners is probably the best option.

In addition, verify if the tarp has grommets. Grommets are small metal rings along the sides that you could tie ropes to. The grommet rings make it easier to hang the tarp between trees or poles.

Tips for Setting Up a Tarp Shelter

Be mindful of the weather when setting up your tarp. If rain is in the forecast, set the tarp at an angle so water can run off the sides instead of pooling on top. Remember to tie it securely to trees or poles so it doesn't flap around too much in the wind. If you are using the tarp as a ground cover, put it under your tent and tuck in the edges to prevent rainwater from accumulating underneath the tarp and between the tarp and the tent.

One more suggestion is to set up your tarp before your camping trip at home, so you're not spending time learning how to set it up in the woods.

Conclusion

Camping trips can allow you to have a great back-to-nature experience, but they can also be a little unpredictable. Bringing a water-resistant tarp will give you a little extra insurance and enjoyment on your trip. You will stay dry from unexpected rain, have shade on a hot day, and shelter from the wind. Tarps are light, easy to carry, simple to set up, and useful in a variety of situations. The next time you go camping or exploring outdoors, be sure to bring a tarp along when camping. A simple tarp can be a simple reason for keeping it fun, dry, and worry-free.