Shelter is a priority when you are going to be sleeping outdoors, and sometimes, a tent will take up too much space in your bug out bag. This is where a tarp shelter comes into play. It is a lightweight option that does not take up a lot of space. However, there are several tarp shelter configurations, so which one is the best?
In this guide, we are going to take a look at eight of the best tarps on the market so that you can select the best one for your needs.
After our reviews we have a buyers guide giving a more in-depth look at tarps and what you need to look for in the model that you select.
Survival Tarp Reviews
1. Go To Gear Life Emergency Survival Shelter
- Compact Emergency Shelter: The Go Time Gear Life Tent is a weatherproof 2-person tent made from tear and puncture-resistant PET mylar with an interior that reflects 90% of your body heat. You'll stay warm and dry in wind, rain, and snow. Ideal in any backpack while camping and hiking or even a car survival kit.
- Waterproof and Windproof: Our emergency storm shelter weighs just 8.7oz and packs down fast in a 5.25” x 3.25” stuff sack. Our reusable survival kit allows you to escape the elements and winter weather without weighing you down.
- Quick Set-Up: Our thermal emergency tube tent sets up fast between trees. Weigh it down with rocks or gear for extra stability. If no trees are available, wrap it around yourself as an emergency sleeping bag, blanket, bivvy bag, or bivvy sack.
- 120 Decibel Whistle and 20FT Paracord Included: Engineered for emergencies, our Life Tent includes a 120-decibel whistle to alert rescuers up to 1-mile away. The 550lb nylon core Para-Synch drawstring can also be used to tie down or repair gear and backpacking supplies.
- Go Time Gear Has Your Back: In an uncertain world, our life tent is an essential, reliable piece of equipment for your hiking gear, earthquake kit, survival pack, or even bug out bag. If you're not satisfied, let us know and we'll make it right.
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The first tarp that we are going to look at is a life tent that is designed to keep you warm and dry in even the most extreme weather. It is available in both orange and green so that you can be located in the wild, and the tarp itself is designed to accommodate two people.
It is windproof, waterproof, and puncture-resistant. It has a layer of polyethylene material that will keep any precipitation out, and reflect your body heat so that you can stay warm.
The carry bag has a drawstring with a survival whistle on the end. So if an emergency occurs, you can whistle so that someone can hear you. The whistle can be heard up to one mile away.
2. Rain Fly Waterproof Tarp
- CREATE AN OUTDOORS SURVIVAL SHELTER IN MINUTES. This 12x10 camping tarp is made out of 210T polyester coated with TPU. But don’t let the lightweight material fool you: the Diamond Ripstop offers heavy duty weather protection.
- STAY DRY WITH 100% WATERPROOF HAMMOCK TARP. Protect yourself from rain, wind and snow with this dirt-resistant, waterproof rain tarp. Suspend it above ground as a hammock cover. Or use it as a tent groundcover, a windbreaker, backpacking tarp, or survival tent.
- ENJOY FULL UV PROTECTION. This versatile rain fly doesn’t just protect you from storms. It protects you (and your equipment) from the sun too. Our camping tarp provides shade and shelter. Use this ultralight tarp for camping, fishing, travelling, or festivals.
- ULTRALIGHT, VERSATILE AND MULTI-PURPOSE. It’s a backpacker’s dream. The rainfly itself weighs just 1.65lb and the whole kit comes just a little over two pounds. That’s less than a large bottle of water. Setting up a shelter is easy too: just clip the carabiners, connect the ropes and you’re ready to go. The tarp is also easy to fold, dry, clean and maintain.
- THE GEAR YOU NEED IN ONE PLACE. Comes with 1 rainfly tarp, 6 aluminium stakes with orange reflective paracord ties, 6 carabiners, 7 adjustable ropes, 1 sack for the ropes and poles and 1 carrying pouch for all your gear. Just pack them together and put them in your bag. And, as a bonus, we’ve added a survival bracelet too!
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another great option to consider when you are looking for a survival tarp. It comes in a number of different colors, and it can be purchased in two different sizes. This tarp comes with a full kit that you can easily use to set up a shelter and protect yourself from inclement weather. It is a waterproof tarp that is designed to block UV rays.
It also comes with a survival bracelet that has five different functions. It has a compass to help you navigate, a whistle to scare away animals, a flint starter to help you build a fire, a small knife to help you be well-fed, and a paracord rope that you can use to set traps for animals.
3. Aqua Quest Safari Tarp
- SUPERIOR QUALITY materials and precise fabrication go into each and every AquaQuest camping tarp. Established in 1994, AQ is the tarp brand you can trust for maximum confidence in your shelter.
- MORE WATERPROOF than most camping tarps, the Safari's dual coatings combine to create a waterproof rating that exceeds 5000 mm, far surpassing the industry standard for tarps and tents.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & TOUGH, the AQ Safari tarp offers the best of both worlds. The ideal camping tarp for users who require a portable shelter that can handle repeated use in tough environments.
- THE SAFARI 10 x 10 (Square) Tarp has 19 tie-outs, weighs 1.7 lbs and provides up to 92 ft2 of coverage. With four axes of symmetry, this is an extremely versatile size, offering a wealth of pitch options. Can accommodate up to 3 users.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY included on all AquaQuest products, plus knowledgeable and responsive Customer Service based in the USA & Canada. With 30 years of experience, enjoy full confidence and no risk from a proven industry leader.
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Aqua Quest tarp is an option that is great for camouflage because it comes in either an olive green color of a camo color. It also comes in four different sizes, so that you can easily select the one that works best for your needs.
This tarp is 100%waterproof, so you will be able to stay dry even in bad weather. The tarp has a silicone coating and a polyurethane one, so it is well protected. It also has reinforced stitching to add to its durability.
This is a very lightweight tarp, and even the largest option, which is 20×13, is only a total of 3.8 pounds. In fact, the smallest option weighs only 1.2 pounds.
4. UST Camping Tarp Shelter
- DIMENSIONS: 39” H x 84” W x 35” D (erected) – 15” H x 4” W x 4” D (packed) and weighs 1lb 12oz
- EASE OF USE: Specially designed to quickly convert from a tent to a tarp by unzipping and includes guy lines, steel stakes and easy-to-follow instructions
- VERSATILITY: Can be used as a sleeping tent, an all-weather tarp to protect gear, a ground cloth and as thermal protection in emergencies
- BE PREPARED: The reverse side is aluminized for thermal insulation and emergency signaling
- CONVENIENT: Ultra-lightweight and compact for easy storage and travel
Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a great backpacking tarp shelter to have in your tactical backpack because it is durable and easy to use. It comes in green and orange coloration so you can either be hidden in the woods or be easy to see by others.
It has a very compact design that is a little less than two pounds when it is folded up. It is a reversible tarp that has one side covered with thermal insulation to help protect you from the cold and the chilling wind. The insulation will also provide an excellent reflective surface when it is on the outside that can draw someone’s attention in an emergency.
5. Free Soldier Portable Tarp
- WATERPROOF & UV PROTECTION - Hammock Camping Tarp made of 210T ripstop polyester fabric with 2500 PU waterproof rating, enhanced the shelter's waterproof function and offers long-lasting protection, strengthen tear resistant & puncture resistant material without any worries. FREE SOLDIER Backpacking Tarp also can be put up as awning is effectively for blocking ultraviolet ray and protect your skin from the sun.
- STRONG & STABLE - This Camping Awnings using heat sealing and melting process, well combined with the puncture-resistant fabric, water penetration would never happened. Reinforced ridgeline seam, well prevent the connector from falling off, showing excellent protection performance for continuous stormy weather, reliable, durable and safe.
- HEAVY DUTY & PORTABLE - Large size in 118" × 126" when expended, enough for 2 persons. It's convenient to folded and put into a lightweight stuff sack when not in use, essential tarp gear for your outdoor travel. Net weight: 1.2kg(42oz), not super light but heavy duty, you can consider of the thickness of the fabric, excellent quality, value for money price.
- ACCESSORIES & SIMPLE TO OPERATE - Comes with everything of survival backpacking items: 1 hammock rain fly, 4 nylon guy lines with tensioners and 1 stuff sack. Rectangle shelter with 19 guy points and 5 strengthen grommet points which gives you the most coverage. Easy to set up into ground sheet and hammock shelter to avoid wind and rain.
- OUTSTANDING QUALITY - FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp apply to heavy duty operating, tactical, military, shelter, hunting, fishing, backpacking, traveling, hiking, working, camping and other outdoor adventure etc. Your satisfaction and happy is our pursuit.
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a great option to use when you are camping because it is made using a polyester fabric that is rated to be waterproof. It also has UV protection, so it will not be damaged by being in the sun for an extended length of time.
The fabric is durable and puncture-resistant so that it will be difficult to damage on the trail. It’s a tarp that is large enough to accommodate two, but it will be more spacious with one. This lightweight model is only a little over two pounds when it is folded up, so it will hardly be noticeable in your bag.
6. Unigear Hammock Rain Fly Camping Tarp
- Waterproof & UV protection: Unigear hammock rain fly provided water pressure resistance up to 3000mm with PU coating, which can maintains completely dry during extreme weather with super high water resistance. Fully seam-sealed for preventing water penetration. Our camping tarp has also internally coated with silver to effectively blocks ultraviolet ray from 40+ to protect your skin from the sun.
- Durable & Tear-Resistant: Unigear hammock rain tarp is made of 210D polyester oxford fabric, which has a higher textile density than ordinary 210D polyester. The fabric splicing place adopts double needle reinforcement design, which makes the camping tarp more durable and tear-resistant. A total of 8 polyester webbings enhance the stability of the edges and the ground and create more possibilities for setting up.
- Outstanding Quality Accessories: Unigear rain fly equipped with 6 high strength 7075-T6 aviation aluminum ground nails which is high strength. 6 of 3.5mm thick wind ropes, not easy to break and good rust prevention pure copper metal ring. It is not easy to fall off through riveting pressing process, and the high quality accessories can extend the service life of the hammock tarp.
- Lightweight & Portable: Unigear waterproof camping tarp is made of polyester oxford cloth, which is lighter than polyester cotton material. Size: 350*290cm, about 1kg(2.2lb), Size: 450*420cm, about 1.5kg(3.3lb). Our camp tarp comes with a portable designed storage bag for easier carrying. The product includes: rain fly*1, ground nail*6, wind rope*6, accessory storage bag*1, rain fly storage bag*1.
- Multifunctional: Our hammock tarp depends on the number of people and location, it can be used as a sleeping shelter when weather gets rough. it is suitable for beach play, outdoor camping, park leisure and family courtyard. If you have any dissatisfaction with this product, please feel free to contact Unigear customer service, we will contact you within 24 hours, we sincerely believe that we will bring you the most satisfactory purchase experience.
Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a versatile tarp that comes in either green or blue. It is 16 feet in length when it is set up diagonally, but when it is set up in a rectangular shape, it only has a 10-foot length. This material is polyester with a crosshatched ripstop design that will be durable in the wind.
This means that the tarp does not tear easily. It is designed to be water repellant to protect you from the rain and snow, but it is also UV resistant to help the tarp keep its durability in the sun. This is a product that also comes with a one year warranty as well.
7. KALINCO Waterproof Camping Tarp
- WATERPROOF: The waterproof camping tarp tent is made from 210T polyester with PU 3000mm waterproof coating, and has a taped central seam, quick-drying fabric ideal for rain flies because it will not fail under stress
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: The camping tarp rain fly can be widely used as survival tarp, hammock rain fly, outdoor kitchen cover, simple tent, tent footprint, picnic blanket, ground sheet , instant shade, etc
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Large camping tarp tent of 118inx118in/300cmx300cm but only weighs 1.8lbs/0.83kg. Includes 6 guy lines, 6 stakes and 1 carrying bag. Easy to keep in your backpack
- DURABLE & NO MORE RIPPING: 19 reinforced attachment tie loops including 3 in the ridge line for overhead hanging, can got all angles covered. Besides, all fix points are used double reinforced stitches, which can prevent ripping and leaking in extreme conditions
- EASY TO CARRY & USE: This camping tarp has a carrying bag, making it convenient to travel. Unfold the camping tarp and lay it on ground use as tent footprint; with the stakes and ropes when take it as sun canopy or rain fly
Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The final tarp that we are going to look at is one by KALINCO. It is a 10×10 model that is available in five different color options. It is made out of nylon material that has a ripstop design that will make it more tear-resistant and durable.
It is also designed to be waterproof so that the rain or snow cannot get into the tarp as you are using it for shelter. This tarp comes with all of the tools to make it easy to set up, and it even comes with a warranty that covers the product.
Best Tarp for Survival Buyers Guide
Tarp Size Matters
When you’re looking for a tarp, you’ll need to make sure that it is large enough to give you the shelter that you need, especially if you are traveling with another person. Most of you will prefer a tarp that is between 8×10 feet and 10×12 feet. If you’re traveling with more than three people, you may need a larger size, and a single individual traveling alone may be able to manage with an 8×5-foot tarp.
Don’t forget that you’re going to need to use this tarp to keep your travel bag dry as well as firewood that you may have collected. Don’t think too large if you are traveling alone because a larger tarp can be more challenging to manage in the wind. Also, having an extra smaller tarp could be beneficial as well. If it is wet and cold outside, this additional tarp can be used as a ground cloth to put a barrier between you and the ground.
Durable Materials
When you talk about the tarp materials, they are typically made from nylon or polyester material. There is also a special branded type of material known as Dyneema Composite Fabric that can be found as well. The difference in these materials is that the Dyneema fibers are typically crosshatched to give them more strength. Unless you need additional abrasion resistance, this is not going to be the option that you select in most cases because the material costs more to purchase.
Polyester is a material that has a better ability to stretch and water resistance, which some may want to have, but most prefer to use nylon because it is stronger and more abrasion-resistant. When you’re looking at the anchor point options on the tarp, you are going to want to go for loops instead of holes. When a hole tears during your travels, they are much more challenging to fix. The loops are sewn into the edge of the seam in most cases, so you can just reattach them with a needle and some thread.
Best Tarp Shelter Resistances
The best tarps all have some type of coating on them that you can consider to increase the durability of the fabric. Typically, these coatings are either polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, or silicone. They can add water resistance, tear resistance, abrasion resistance, and UV resistance. Let’s take a look at each resistance.
Water Resistance
The last thing that you want is for water to ruin your shelter, but all fabric absorbs water so get the option that does it the least. You will want to prevent sagging during a storm and make sure that it bounces back and remains strong after it is wet.
Tear Resistance
You may not tear the fabric intentionally, but if the wind catches it wrong, a tarp can easily tear by the strength of the wind. Having a thicker, more durable material can prevent the tarp from tearing.
Abrasion Resistance
This is the amount of resistance that the fabric has from taking damage when it is rubbed against another surface. The less abrasion resistance that the tarp has, the less likely you are going to want to use it as a ground cover.
UV Resistance
This is important to consider because some fabrics automatically lose strength in the sun’s UV rays. If you are planning on having your tarp up during the day, considering some UV resistance may be worthwhile.
Making a Survival Shelter with a Tarp
There are many different ways that you can make a shelter with a tarp, but some of the best tarp shelter options to consider include:
A-Frame
This is a simple configuration to use when you need a simple shelter. It consists of a guy line that will connect to two trees. The tarp is then folded over the line, and the corners are pulled out to make sure that they are tight.
This is great to use in the rain because the water can efficiently run off of the tarp.
Lean-To
This is a shelter that is easy to create. You simply need two trees to tie the top too, and then you pull the tarp tight at about a 30-degree angle to create a wall.
It will only give you protection from one side, but if the wind is blowing from that direction, it can be a great way to keep warm, especially if it is put up near a wall that will offer more protection.
Adirondack Configuration
This is an excellent option for someone who needs protection on more than one side and needs a small section of ground protection as well. You start with a diamond shape, and the sides are all tucked in so that they create sides to the shelter and a floor.
Diamond Tarp
This is when the tarp is hanging upside down like a folded diamond. It offers great protection from the rain, and it is a fantastic shelter to create that is off of the ground.
How to Make a Tarp Shelter Without Trees
Since all of these configurations require trees to build, what can you do if you are camping in an area where there are no trees around that you can use?
You can put the back corners of the tarp into the ground and use a pole at the front, center of the tarp to add a raised opening. Then, secure the front sides to the ground and make sure that all of the loops are secure.
Depending on the weather, you can lower the front or raise the back enough so that you still have the shelter that you need for the night.
Other Ways to Use a Survival Tarp
Other ways that a tarp could be helpful in a survival situation include:
Weather Protection
If your body is wet and you are walking in the wild, the last thing that you want to do is be cold. This could lead to you getting sick, which could be a nightmare if you are staying outside. A tarp will act as an outer shell that will block the wind, so if you can bundle up with a blanket or a sweatshirt, the tarp will keep you warm.
Collection Water
A tarp can be used to collect water to drink and store in a emergency water container. If there is no water around, regardless of where you are, the water that you can collect from a tarp can help you to stay alive. With a small tarp, you can even collect gallons of water if the tarp is angled correctly.
Creating a Stretcher
If someone that you are traveling with gets injured and cannot walk any further, you can use a tarp to create a stretcher to carry them on. It can also be used to bring a deer or some firewood back to your camping location.
Final Thoughts
All of the tarp shelter options that we have reviewed in this guide are great. You will need to decide which one works best for your needs, but if we were to select one that stands out for my needs, it would be the
It comes with everything that you need to set up a shelter, and it is waterproof so that you will be protected from the rain. It is a considerable size that is more than enough to accommodate you and your gear, and it even comes with a survival bracelet that you can use in an emergency.
