10 Best Backpacking Tarps of 2023

Dragging a heavy tent and all its accessories can really be painful for any hiker back! On the other side, switching from a tent to a backpacking tarp is a great way to reduce weight. They are simple in design and only require a handful of equipment to install them properly.

However, it’s important that you make the right choice to avoid an uncomfortable night’s sleep. But among all the outdoor’s tarps available on the market, how to choose the best backpacking tarps at a reasonable price?

Don’t worry, we have worked more than 100 hours to select the 10 best hiking tarps for 2023. We have taken into consideration the price, quality, number, and reliable customer support.

Without further delay, let’s see our ranking of the best backpacking tarps in 2023.

Best Backpacking Tarps Reviews 2023

Best backpacking tarps in 2023 at a glance…

• 1. Rain Fly EVOLUTION – Best Overall
• 2. Tinkenken – Best Survival Backpacking Tarp
• 3. Wise Owl Outfitters – Best Backpacking Tarp Under $50
• 4. Sanctuary SilTarp – Best Backpacking Tarp for Multiple Use
• 5. OneTigris Bulwark – Best Backpacking Tarp for Camping
• 6. WildVenture – Best Backpacking Tarp on Budget
• 7. LiteOutdoors – Best Ultralight Backpacking Tarp
• 8. Aqua Quest – Best Waterproof Backpacking Tarp
• 9. Bearhard – Perfect Balance in Durability and Portability
• 10. Gold Armour – Available in different Size for All Demands

Let’s see in-depth…

1. Rain Fly EVOLUTION Hammock Tarp – Best Overall

Specs:

• Weight: 1.5 lbs.
• Material: Diamond Ripstop
• Size: 12 X 10 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

Rain Fly EVOLUTION backpacking tarp has everything you need to stay safe and dry instead of a tent. The 12 X 10 feet size makes every survival task easier under the tarp, even can cooking food. It weighs only 1.5 pounds which is actually lower than a hiking water bottle.

It is made of heavy-duty, authentic Diamond Ripstop material with the highest quality 2000 PU waterproof rating, making it an ideal sunshade for camping and other outdoor adventures.

Rain Fly EVOLUTION tarp is free from sun rays, snow, or torrential rains and the fabric won’t make as much noise as a blue poly tarp (if secured properly). The 5-in-1 military-grade survival kit bracelet and compass make navigating in heavy rains easy. It also features a WHISTLE that saves your voice and you can hear 10 times farther, scaring away all dangerous animals.

This evolution backpacking tarp is also designed to keep you safe from high winds. However, the stakes are not long or stout enough to secure this fly. But for the price, the build quality of the fly itself as well as several of the kit components will impress you.

2. Tinkenken with Hammock Rainfly Backpacking Tarp

Specs:

• Weight: 4.4 lbs.
• Material: Polyester
• Size: 9.8 X 13.1 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

If you are looking for the best survival backpacking tarp, then don’t look further. Tinkenken hammock rainfly is made of ripstop polyester with silver coating on the inner surface, which makes this tarp waterproof, sunscreen and weather resistant.

All parts of the tarp are good and the outer edges will not be coming apart. The pole is widely adjustable; you can adjust the poles as 2.9ft 4.4ft or 5.9ft for assembly. You just need to press the spring and push in. And for disassembly, just pull it.

This rainfly is made of a solid material and PU coating that definitely won’t let any water through. The 9.8 x 13.1ft size is big enough to cover the entire hammock or tent to protect gear from bad weather whether it is sun rays or heavy rain.

Tinkenken tent tarp is also lightweight (not ultralight) and compact. It is a complete package and includes a tarp kit with 2 poles 1 hammer 6 aluminum stakes and 6 nylon guy lines. You don’t need anything to buy separately.

Tinkenken backpacking tarp has 8 metal grommets for easy setup. This Shelter tarp could be perfect for camping, backpacking hiking, traveling bushcraft, or other outdoor activities.

3. Wise Owl Outfitters Backpacking Rain Fly Tarp

Specs:

• Weight: 1.625 lbs.
• Material: Nylon
• Size: 11 x 9 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

We have had a great experience with Wise Owl Outfitters because of its family-friendly customer service. Now all of their products seemed to be high quality, and the price is reasonable. This is a heavy-duty backpacking tarp under $50 that provides reliable foul-weather protection to keep campers and hammock sleepers happy and dry.

Owl Outfitters backpacking tarp built to last and protect you from rain to shine. There is plenty of coverage to protect you from the sun’s rays. It is made with ripstop waterproof nylon, taped seams, and an impenetrable water barrier for cover against all unacceptable weather conditions.

Owl Outfitters hiking tarp is equipped with aluminum tent stakes, tie lines, and cords that tighten at every corner, and you can set it up like a breeze. However, this rain fly might cause problems for some users in the shape but you can choose different sizes to find the solution.

If you’re a lightweight backpacker or more conscious of the weight you’re carrying, then you would consider the Wise Owl Outfitters. No matter the occasion, you can use this tarp for hiking or camping, or other adventures. It also comes with a convenient waterproof carrying bag.

4. Sanctuary SilTarp Versatile Backpacking Tarp

Specs:

• Weight: 1.2 lbs.
• Material: 30 denier rip-stop nylon
• Size: 12 x 10 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

Sanctuary Tarp Shelter is one of the lightest silnylon models on our list, thanks to its ultralight 30 denier rip-stop nylon. It has 60 feet of 1.5 mm reflective Dyneema guy line, six micro line-lok adjusters, and six aluminum Y-stakes that allow for a wide variety of configurations.

The 30 Denier ripstop nylon also has silicon/PU dual-coating and fully taped seams, which provide up to 5,000 mm of hydro-static resistance, making it ideal for camping, picnic, hiking, and more vacations. We assure you that you can be sure you’ll stay bone dry even in heavy rainy weather.

The 12 x 10-foot flat tarp weighs only 22 ounces, while the full kit is 27 ounces. The stakes and lines are also pretty compact. The included 9 x 5 x 5-inch stuff sack helps you organize your tarp perfectly after use.

The flat shape with 16 perimeter attachment loops and one center loop ensures unlimited flexibility. You can pitch the perfect shelter or hammock setup. Sanctuary backpacking tarp can also be used as a ground shelter. The manufacturer also offers a lifetime warranty.

5. OneTigris Bulwark Backpacking Tarp for Camping

Specs:

• Weight: 2.4 lbs.
• Material: 210T Polyester Taffeta
• Size: 13 x 9.2 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

OneTigris is an all-Season lightweight hiking and camping tarp. It is 100% waterproof and anti-UV. The inner space is large enough for 2-3 people with plenty of space to move around the tarp.

OneTigris Bulwark backpacking tarp made of 210T Polyester Taffeta with dual PU coating with heat-taped seams that provides long-lasting protection and keep you completely dry.

You can set it up in different ways and gives you the most coverage. For example, you can use it as a hammock tarp, a tent fly, a groundsheet, a quick shelter, etc. With 19 reinforced webbing loops or grommets including 3 on the ridgeline, the quality of the tarp itself is phenomenal.

The waterproof rating is 2000mm, which makes it the perfect choice for hammock camping or as a bushcraft shelter. The practical coyote brown color ensures better blending in the wild. Because of its multiple tie points, you can configure this in many different ways.

OneTigris Bulwark Camping Tarp comes in a waterproof stuff sack for easy storage. It is certainly well-designed, crafted, and compact enough for group backpacking trips. Remember, if you don’t fold the rainfly properly as you received it, it will not fit back into the stuff sack.

6. WildVenture Backpacking Rain Fly Tent Tarp – Best on a Budget

Specs:

• Weight: 2.0 lbs.
• Material: Nylon
• Size: 13 x 13 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

WildVenture Rain Fly Tent Tarp comes from an ultralight backpacker’s dream. However, it is waterproof and total weighs less than 2 pounds. It is large enough to protect you when the weather gets tough. It has 16 different fasteners – four on the corner, two for the ridge line, three on each long side, and two on each wall.

The fabric part is made of superior ripstop nylon, which is tear-resistant, with waterproof coating, anti-UV, waterproof against the sun. Whether you’re in the desert, forest, beach, backyard, or living off the land survivalist-style, WildVenture waterproof rain fly has everything you need to construct the perfect shelter.

It is easily foldable and equipped with a storage bag so that users can easily carry or store it. With the huge 13′ x 13′ size and 25 fixing points, you can pitch this tarp in multiple configurations.

WildVenture backpacking tarp can be used as an awning tent canvas, hammock shelter, picnic blanket, parasol, or beach mat. It can be set up and taken down in mere minutes. The package also includes an extra set of stakes that will assure your tarp is getting the maximum anchoring power. We highly recommend this model if you’re looking for a wonderful backpacking tarp without breaking the bank.

7. LiteOutdoors Silnylon Ultralight Backpacking Tarp

Specs:

• Weight: 16.9 oz.
• Material: Silnylon
• Size: 10 x 10 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

LiteOutdoors backpacking tarp made with 20D ripstop nylon with a silicone coating on both sides. The square dimension of 10 x feet is largely sufficient to create a waterproof flysheet above a tent, a hammock, or a cooking area.  There is also an 8 x 10 feet size available.

LiteOutdoors tarp rated at over 2000mm hydrostatic head and 100% waterproof. The material is so thin but durable. The best quality of PU also makes the tarp ideal for picnic camping, to keep you warm, dry and safe during your hike, out of direct sunlight, snow or torrential rains.

It will provide a complete tarp kit, so you don’t need to spend more on additional accessories! With each tarp, you will have 18 tie-down points and 16 Line Lok micro adjusters around the outside.

Overall, if the weight or space is a big issue for you, this tarp is the way to go because this is one of the lightest tarps on the market and it can pack down amazingly small. You will be amazed by its versatility and multiple pitch configurations!

However, it is not seam sealed, but it comes with a tube of silicon sealant for you to do at home.

8. Aqua Quest Green Guide Waterproof Backpacking Tarp

Specs:

• Weight: 1.5 lbs.
• Material: Nylon
• Size: 10 x 10 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

If you’re looking for a waterproof and durable backpacking tarp for long time use, look no further than the Aqua Quest Guide. This tarp has a square cut and 16 fasteners for maximum versatility. You can also add an Echo mesh insert for extra protection from the rain and pesky bugs.

It is very light and packs down well. You can use it perfectly as a hammock because it allows for enough coverage in case of inclement weather but not so much that you are unable to feel too enclosed.

The total coverage is 64 – 234 sq ft. However, you get all angles covered. If the square is too big, you can make it smaller with the rectangular version.

Aqua Quest tarp will keep you completely dry, even in heavy rain. And with dual coatings of non-toxic Polyurethane and Silicone, you will be absolutely safe from a single drop of water.

The Guide packs up so small (you’ll hardly notice what you’re carrying), so you can fit it in almost any small space. We really like the integrated webbing for easy staking and the webbing in the center for easy attachment to a higher point.

9. Bearhard Camping Tarp Rainfly – Portable & Durable

Specs:

• Weight: 2.5 lbs.
• Material: Polyester, Nylon
• Size: 10 x 12 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

Bearhard tarp rainfly design is rectangular-shaped, it is a seamless flat tarp with 16 fasteners. It is also a small camping tarp that is easy to assemble when the space is limited. It is perfectly balanced and weighs only 2lb. However, it can cover over 100 square feet of ground with extraordinary durability. The waterproof rate is 3000mm with countless setup configurations.

It is designed to serve as a camping tarp, hammock rainfly, tent footprint even a simple tent all-in-one. The special reinforced design makes it easy to set up within 2 minutes and gives you convenience in different activities like camping, hiking, backpacking, fishing, climbing, hunting, etc.

It has 3 layer corners with reinforced pole ring, triangle tensioner, and double stitching edge that give you extra confidence in bad weather.

Bearhard hiking tarp is equipped with 6 nylon ropes, 4 aluminum stakes and 16 holes. It has countless setup structures that meet different people’s adventure demands. It’s a complete set-up and comes well packaged. Both the carry sack and tarp are well made.

Bearhard backpacking tarp is available in rectangular and square shapes, both cost less than 40 dollars.

10. Gold Armour Backpacking Rainfly Hammock – for All Demands

Specs:

• Weight: 2.3 lbs.
• Material: Ripstop Fabric
• Size: 12 x 10 Feet
• Heavy Rains: 100% Waterproof

The Gold Armour Backpacking Tarp offers an exceptional size-to-weight ratio. At just 2.3 lbs, the tarp covers an impressive 108 square feet, which allows three people to sleep comfortably. You can choose from the different sizes that work best for you. The available sizes are 14ft x 12ft or 12ft x 10ft or 10ft x 10ft or 10ft x 8ft.

The material is ripstop polyester, backed with Polyurethane Coating that won’t stretch and sag like nylon. Gold Armour backpacking tarp has a Durable Water Repellent application on the face. It will keep you dry and comfortable with unparalleled weather protection with a water-shedding capability of up to 5,000mm.

With 33 tie-down loops for multiple anchoring points, this model can be used as a tent tarp, hammock shelter, simple tent, tent footprint, groundsheet and blanket, instant shade, and more.

However, the stakes are a bit flimsy and it’s difficult to drive without bending them.

It is very similar to the DD tarp, which costs more than twice as much. Also, the package comes with a rainproof gear sack for ease of storage. Gold Armour also offers 5-year warranty with 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee.

Best backpacking tarps buying guide

Before buying a backpacking tarp, it is necessary to define the use of your touring tarp so that you can choose the right model. It is also important to know the places where you will often go for the hikes as well as the mode of displacement that you choose in order to transport it easily.

However, we have made a handful list of features that make your purchase decision easier.

The weight

If you are thinking of buying a backpacking tarp, means you want to reduce the weight. However, not all tarps are the same. Depending on the material, thickness and size, the weight can vary from 0.7lbs to 4lbs or more. When you have a tarp that gets too heavy, you might as well look for a tent!

Unfortunately, the lighter it is, the more expensive it will be. If you enjoy ultralight hiking and the ability to get around quickly, then the extra investment might be worth it. In the meantime, if you plan to settle in one place for a few nights, you can probably pay extra weight.

The size

A tarp that folds well into a small size will not only reduce weight but also allow you to carry a smaller backpack. If you’re struggling to find room in your larger backpack for all of your essentials, a small tarp can save you space.

The package size is important, but you should also keep the unpacked size in mind. Why? Because the larger your tarp, the more space you will have to sleep and store your things. A larger tarp shelter will also give you more flexibility in the construction techniques, to meet all weather conditions. Tarp camping will expose you to the elements, so a larger tarp is recommended.

For a single person, we recommend a tarp of around 7.43m² or more, and 9.29m² would be ideal for two people. Most two-person tarps have room for two sleepers and a few storage bags, along with backpacks and extra gear. However, if you want more interior space for camping comfort, you can increase one size larger.

The materials

Modern tarps shelters are generally made of three materials, namely silnylon, silpoly or Dyneema Composite Fabric, also known as Cuben Fiber.

Silnylon and Silpoly are made of a nylon or polyester base covered with silicon to improve the seal. Both are great choices in terms of durability, reliability and cost. Nylon is extremely abrasion resistant, while polyester does not “stretch” as much and can be manufactured at lower costs than nylon.

Cuben is like a Synthetic Sandwich. It is made of several layers of high-strength synthetic fibers. However, it offers excellent tensile strength (so it is difficult to tear) and is extremely light. But as you might expect, the added complexity dramatically increases its price.

Maintenance

Maintaining and repairing all types of materials is not difficult, as most manufacturers offer repair kits that can be easily used. However, remember that a simple roll of duct tape is enough to repair a Cuben tarp in the middle of the night if needed.

On the other hand, silnylon or silpoly repairs are more complex because they require a silicon-based adhesive associated with patches for both sides.

Tarp shape

Previously you could only get an old-model Flat Tarp. Squares or rectangles were hard to find! Manufacturing technology has improved, and many shapes are now available.

This means that the tarp has been designed with a curved line in the center of the tarp or with curved edges. These designs make it easy to achieve a waterproof surface when all the corners have been threaded and anchored, meaning there is no loose fabric that can flip in the wind.

However, the downside is that the tarp has to be threaded in the same position every time, eliminating the incredible flexibility you have with a flat tarp.

If you decide to keep the traditional flat tarp, you should consider whether a square or rectangular shape will best suit your needs. Because of its symmetry, a square tarp is more versatile. However, depending on your preferred tarp configuration, you may find a more suitable rectangular tarp.

Functionality

Regardless of its size or lightness, a tarp without an anchor point is useless! It is necessary to make sure that the backpacking tarp you choose has enough eyelets around its perimeter that allow you to secure the tarp in your preferred configuration.

While four is the smallest setup for one per corner, six or eight are preferable. It is not essential, but it is very practical if the tarp includes one or more “points of support” in the middle to allow its support from the inside. This will not only create more free space but will also help keep the walls taut, reducing movement in strong winds and improving drainage.

It is also common to see backpacking tarps offered with some degree of modularity. This means that besides the basic waterproof tarp, you can buy an internal base installed under the main tarp that can protect against insects.

Similarly, some manufacturers offer a floor mat removable. Essentially, it turns your tarp into a non-standalone tent! These expansions come with additional weight and cost.

Weatherproof

A backpacking tarp should provide excellent weather protection to keep you safe, dry, and warm when used properly, even in extreme weather. With a hydrostatic resistance of 20,000mm, you can be absolutely certain that not a single drop of water will pass through your tarp.

Some hiking tarps also have canopies, apses, or doors for better protection against bad weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using a backpacking tarp?

Backpacking tarps are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for backpackers and hikers who need to travel light. They are also versatile and can be set up in a variety of configurations to suit different camping situations. Additionally, tarps provide better ventilation than tents, which can be especially helpful in warmer climates.

Are backpacking tarps suitable for all seasons?

Backpacking tarps can be suitable for all seasons, depending on the design, material, and setup. Some tarps are specifically designed for warmer seasons and offer better ventilation, while others are equipped with additional features like doors, panels, or extra guy lines for improved weather protection in colder or more challenging conditions.

How do I set up a backpacking tarp?

There are many ways to set up a backpacking tarp, depending on the configuration you choose. Some popular configurations include the A-frame, lean-to, and pyramid. It’s important to practice setting up your tarp before heading out on a trip to ensure you know how to properly secure it and make any necessary adjustments.

How do I care for my backpacking tarp?

To care for your backpacking tarp, be sure to clean and dry it after each use. Avoid storing it in damp or humid conditions, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. If your tarp becomes damaged, repair it promptly to prevent further damage.

Can I use a backpacking tarp as a hammock tarp?

Yes, many backpacking tarps can be used as hammock tarps. However, be sure to choose a tarp that is large enough to provide adequate coverage and consider any additional hardware or accessories you may need to properly secure the tarp to your hammock and the surrounding trees or supports.

Conclusion

A backpacking tarp will be the most useful accessory that you should carry with you during your wilderness adventure. Before making the final decision, make sure the fabric is authentic. It is better to choose a hiking tarp that is durable, waterproof, affordable, and easy to use. In order to avoid fatigue and fully enjoy your hiking trip, it is best to choose a backpacking tarp that is more compact and lightweight.

If you have any questions on this topic, you can ask them in the comment section below.

Related Posts:

• Best Tents Under $100 – In-Depth Reviews
• What is the Best Backpacking Tent Under $200?
• Best Affordable Sleeping Bags on the Market
• Best Double Camping Cots to buy