Tarp.

[TGEvans]

Hey all. Wanting to get myself a Tarp! Whats good out there for the money? Want to start using a tarp and groundsheet combo so any info greatly appreciated. Tim.

 

[Shewie]

The DD range of tarps are good value for money, the smallest at 3x3m might be a bit OTT for ground dwelling but they're popular with hamockers.

 

[forestwalker]

3x3 m is fine for ground dwelling; palatial for one, plenty for two, ok for an intimate threesome.

 

[Kerne]

The tarp I get most use out of is 2.5 x 2.5 metres. (Kathmandu trekking basha) This is big enough to set to the ground and still be able to sit up, which is great if the weather is awful. I also have a 2.8m x 1.8m hoochie which is the business but needs to be set with guylines unless you simply want a tunnel. Great in the trees but not so good in open country (I tarp a lot in the mountains). You can get tiny and ultralight tarps if that's your bag - try here: http://www.backpackinglight.co.uk/page112.asp

I like the ultralight approach but it does imply that you are moving on regularly and so carry weight is more important than comfort. If it's comfort your after, DD do a 4m tarp that is enormous. (And not that expensive)

 

[sxmolloy]

I've had a Tatonka 3x3m tarp for a few years now, never regretted buying it!

 

[Asa Samuel]

Ground dwelling for one you could probably get away with something smaller but I like a 3x3m tarp just for flexibility, it gives you the option to try a hammock out without buying a bigger tarp, you can rig it up to cook under for three or four at a stretch and it's big enough for two to sleep out under. I have the DD 3x3m tarp and it's not failed me yet.

 

[zarkwon]

Another vote for Tatonka.

 

[Paul_B]

Kathmandu trekking basha in 2.5m x 2.5m sil-nylon. Of course they don't exist anymore but you can still get them from Bison Bushcraft for £48 is what I paid. Probably too expensive but I am happy. A good size for one IMHO. Use with some plastic from a DIY or wickes or somewhere like that for a groundsheet. I use plastic sheet or bag from work. Buy some 2mm dyneema and mini lineloks from camcleats.co.uk as they are cheap and its good stuff. Titanium pegs from outdoors warehouse in Windermere and online.

 

[TGEvans]

Thanks for the info guys. Im torn between the tatonka and DD me thinks! Will let you know! 3x3 sounds about right though. Will be able to use that for loads of stuff. Tim

 

[David.s]

I bought a tatonka tarp 2 simple, 3x2 used it at the weekend and loved it.

 

[robevs73]

3x3 gets my vote. Personally I like the Tatonka poly tarp but the DD is very good value. You could get a cheap plastic one from ebay and evaluate what size is right for you, save spending loads then wishing you had a different size.

 

[snelgrave101]

machine mart were doing a camo tarp for about £8 about 2 months back good piece of kit for the price.

 

[spiritwalker]

i have a jack pyke poncho tarp but i only really use it for wild life watching but i guess its just big enough to sleep under too but i tend to go for a tent when thats my intent

 

[drewdunnrespect]

why not just say horlicks to the lot and use a 4.5 buy 3 truenorthoutdoors tarp and for kipping on the ground have a palace

 

[clive.s]

I made my own PU coated tarp back out in NZ, 2.8 x 1.3m, suited me nicely for bush or open pitches! Here it is on a nice frosty morning in the Kaimanawa.

And with an interior view...