When planning and preparing for the beginning of the trail, every ounce in your pack matters. The more you carry, the slower you will move. The heavier your gear, the faster your energy drains.
This is why minimalist campers look for gear that pulls double duty. Or even triple duty. Tarps are one of the most useful items in any ultralight setup. They weigh next to nothing, take up very little space, and can be used in ways that a tent simply cannot.
Let’s look at how you can cut pack weight without giving up shelter, safety, or comfort by choosing the right Tarp.
Why Go Ultralight with Tarps?
Traditional camping gear can be bulky. Standard tents often come with poles, stakes, and rain flies. These can weigh several pounds. Tarps, on the other hand, are simple flat sheets of strong material. You do not need poles or special equipment to use them.
A lightweight Tarp gives you:
Shelter from wind and rain
Shade from the sun
A dry surface to sleep on
A way to protect your gear from the elements
You can also use a Tarp to collect rainwater or signal for help. The best part? Some ultralight Tarps weigh less than a pound.
Best Ultralight Tarps
Tarps Now has a range of Covers that work well for backpackers, hikers, and campers who pack light. Here are some solid picks:
1. Poly Tarps
Polyethylene (Poly) Tarps are the go-to for most campers. These Plastic Tarps are waterproof, wind-resistant, and inexpensive. Poly Tarps are often reinforced at the edges and have built-in grommets helping make setup quick, easy, and secure.
Choose a lightweight grade with UV resistance and rustproof grommets. The 6 Mil Poly Tarp is a good balance of strength and portability.
Use for: General shelter, bivvy cover, groundsheet, rain cover
2. Canvas Tarps
Canvas Tarps are heavier than poly but more breathable. This type of fabric lets air flow through, which helps reduce condensation inside a shelter. Canvas Tarps are available in a variety of products that are waterproof, water resistant, or untreated. Their use will depend upon the precipitation you will encounter and the protection you need.
Use for: General shelter, bivvy cover, shade, windbreak, equipment and supply cover
3. Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl Tarps are also a bit heavier than Poly Tarps. This type of material is chosen when overall protection is slightly more important than being ultra lightweight. Vinyl Tarps are some of the most durable and long lasting covers.
Use for: General shelter, equipment cover, bivvy cover, groundcover
4. Clear Vinyl Tarps
Clear Vinyl Tarps offer great visibility while keeping out wind and rain, providing the same excellent shelter of solid vinyl. If you want to see your surroundings but stay protected, this is a smart choice.
Clear Vinyl Tarps are a bit heavier than poly but still manageable in smaller sizes.
Use for: Shelter walls, gear covers, rainproof views
5. Mesh Tarps
Do you need shade but want air to pass through? Mesh Shade Tarps block a good portion of sunlight while allowing pleasant airflow. These are great for summer camping or desert hikes.
Use for: Shade shelters, gear wraps, cooking cover, pest shields for tents
Tip: Choose Tarps with reinforced corners, double-stitched hems, and rust-resistant grommets. They last longer and hold up better in the wind.
3 Smart Ways to Use Tarps in the Wild
The real power of Tarps is how flexible and adaptable they are. These are not just sheets of fabric you throw on the ground. Here is how to get the most out of your Tarps:
1. Bivvy Shelter Setup
If you want to ditch your tent, a Tarp can give you all the shelter you need.
Use trekking poles or sticks to set up an A-frame
Tie off to trees if poles aren't available
Angle one side lower to block wind and rain
Leave one side open for airflow and easy access
A Tarp helps you stay dry, keeps things off the ground, and you get more ventilation than a closed tent.
Bonus: Your sleeping bag or bivvy sack stays cleaner and drier
2. Windbreak and Rain Shield
Sometimes, all you need is a break from the wind or a cover from the rain. A small Tarp tied close to the ground works well.
Stake one edge to the ground
Tie the other edge to trees or rocks at a low angle
Face the angled side away from the wind
You get a quick, low-profile shield in bad weather.
Tip: Make sure all the grommets as possible are utilized to connect the Tarps. This helps spread out the tension and eliminate too much stress on any single area.
3. Wrap Your Gear Like a Pro
Weather can change fast. A Tarp helps keep your gear dry when storms move in.
Wrap your backpack in a tarp when setting up camp
Cover food to keep animals and rain off
Lay firewood and cover with dry Tarp to keep it ready to burn when needed
You can even roll your Tarp into a burrito with gear inside. This keeps everything clean and safe while you rest.
Bonus: Tarps double as makeshift bear bags if you need to hang food.
Packing Tips for Minimalist Campers
Bringing a Tarp does not mean you are loading down your pack. In fact, it should lighten the load. Here is how to pack smarter with Tarps:
1. Roll Tight and Pack Smart
Fold your Tarp into a small square or roll it into a tight tube. Keep it near the outside of your pack so it is easy to grab.
If it is wet when you pack it up, put it in an outside pocket or mesh pouch.
2. Bring the Right Accessories
To get the most out of your Tarp, carry a few extras:
At least 25 feet of Rope or Shock Cord
A handful of lightweight stakes
Use Tarp Clips, Zip Ties, Bungee Cords, or Carabiners for quick setup
These items do not add much weight but give you many setup options.
3. Use It for Everything
Do not think of your Tarps as just shelter. Use them for:
Provides sitting surfaces during breaks
Administer as emergency stretchers in time of need
Use as signal flags (bright colors work best)
Works well as water collection when it rains
The more jobs your gear can do, the less items you need to bring.
Final Thoughts
Minimalist camping means stripping your gear down to the basics. But the basics do not mean bare. Many Tarps from Tarps Now gives you shelter, safety, and comfort without the weight.
One Tarp. Many uses. If you are looking to pack light and stay ready, this is one piece of gear you cannot leave behind.
Whether you need shade, a dry place to sleep, or a way to wrap your gear, a Tarp can do it all.
Pick one, two, or more that fit your trip. Learn to use them well. And let the miles come easy!
Lightweight Tarps from Tarps Now are perfect for minimalist camping. Use them for shelter, gear protection, or emergency needs. They are small, light, and incredibly useful.
