Hey Guest, Early bird pricing on the Summer Moot (29th July - 10th August) available until April 6th, we'd love you to come. PLEASE CLICK HERE to early bird price and get more information.
It's a True North Big Tarp (4.5m x 3m) which I've modded with eyelets along one of the long sides so that it can be laced up when rigged like that. It is PU ripstop polyester.
I know you've already made your decision but I'd go for a tarp every time. A good one will keep off the wet and you don't have to worry about wet kit once you're under it: the woodland floor will absorb all the water from your waterproofs or whatever else; wrestling with your clothes and boots in the porch of your tent and trying not to bring any water in with you is something of a thankless task. I would, however, also recommend using a bivvy bag unless you're going to hammock it - but you know that already. Hammock living is a great solution and gives you hanging space for your wet stuff as well as the space and air and shelter that you need. It's also a lot more comfortable.
If you take a tarp I would recommend a decent ground sheet. A tub style one that is waterproof to a high level is ideal. I used to simply use a poncho to save weight and cost but a really wet camp in the New Forest resulted in wet gear.
In cooler weather there's always the question of condensation in a tent to consider. My advice is to take the tent as security, but leave it in the car. You will gain confidence in your tarp that way.
Sorry to revive an old post but new here and reading through older stuff and picking up lots of info. A thought for others in this quandary. What about digging a a trench, the depth of a trowel around the tarp to channel any water around your camp spot?
Having read the threads of this topic I feel that the lesson learned is if you dont fancy getting rained-out do not go to Wales! Much better off in Bonnie Scotland (where wild camping is legal, unlike other countries of the UK)
Brave man in a tarp tent in Aus! Dont like the idea personally of allowing to much access to some of your countries top critters! Think I would prefef a swag these days, but then I rarely backpack these days either.
Noseeum however is very sensible ootion, light to csrry and does give a good measure of protection from insects, very essential in parts of UK as well, where the midge rules supreme.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.