Best Tarps for Backpacking of 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Tarps are a must-have for any backpacker heading out into the great outdoors. These lightweight and versatile shelters provide protection from the elements while taking up minimal space in a backpack. Made from durable materials such as nylon or polyester, tarps can be set up in a variety of configurations to suit any terrain or weather conditions. They can be used as a simple overhead shelter or pitched close to the ground for added protection from wind and rain. With a variety of sizes and shapes available, tarps are an essential piece of gear for any backpacker looking to travel light and stay dry.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 8 Tarps for Backpacking
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking
The Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp is a versatile and durable tarpaulin that can be used for multiple purposes, including tent camping, bike, and backpacking. It features a waterproof design with a 3.5 mil thickness, making it resistant to mildew and rot. The aluminum grommets are spaced out every 3 feet, making it easy to tie down. This tarp comes with a 1-year warranty, ensuring that you get the best value for your money.
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp
The Arcturus Survival Tarp is an all-weather blanket that can be used as a ground tarp, shelter, tent, or emergency blanket. It features a Mylar reflective side that can reflect heat, create a radiant barrier, or signal for help. The other side is made of two layers of polypropylene, which creates a waterproof barrier. This reflective tarp is super versatile and lightweight, weighing just over 4 pounds and packing down to 4” x 12” x 16" inside the included carry bag. With 14 reinforced tie-down grommets, it's easy to hang and secure to reflect or deflect heat and create a waterproof shelter. Keep it close at hand, and you'll be surprised at all the use cases you'll find for it, from survival situations to beach outings and everything in between.
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp
The AYAMAYA Camping Tarp offers a generous 10x15 feet of coverage, making it perfect for accommodating up to 10 people in hammocks or tents. Its 100% waterproof design, crafted from durable PU 2000 210T ripstop polyester, ensures you stay dry during unexpected rain. With 8 metal grommets, you can easily set up the tarp in various configurations to fit your needs. The included adjustable poles allow you to customize the height from 16 to 81 inches, providing flexibility for different camping scenarios. This tarp is designed to enhance your outdoor experience with convenience and reliability.
Klymit Roamer Tarp and Blanket
The Klymit Roamer Tarp is a versatile camping accessory that offers multiple functions for outdoor enthusiasts. Its lightweight design features various tether points, allowing you to easily set it up as a protective ground cover for your sleeping pad. Additionally, this tarp serves as a waterproof picnic or beach blanket, making it perfect for day trips. With a durable construction of 75D polyester and a thick 3000mm waterproof coating, you can trust it to keep you dry. When it's time to pack up, the tarp conveniently folds down to a compact size, making it easy to carry wherever you go.
RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 8x10 Feet
The RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp is designed for all-weather durability, made from high-density polyethylene fibers that resist water and wind. This means you can rely on it during rain, snow, or intense sunlight, keeping your belongings safe and dry. Its actual finished size ensures you get the full tarp you expect, perfect for various uses. With reinforced metal grommets, you can easily secure it to different locations, providing peace of mind against tearing. Whether you need a ground cover for camping or a protective cover for your boat, this tarp is both portable and compact, making it convenient to carry on your outdoor adventures.
DD Hammocks - DD Tarp 3x3 PRO
DD Tarp 3x3 PRO by DD Hammocks is a versatile tarpaulin shelter designed for bushcraft camping and outdoor backpacking. With 21 reinforced attachment points and 18 strong fastening clips, there are endless possibilities for set up configurations. You can create enclosed tents or even join 2 tarps together for a group shelter. The tarp features 16 metal eyelets around the edges for usage with tarp poles or as extra peg out points for ground shelters. Additionally, it has guy rope stowage loops for a faster setup and neater campsite. The tarp is made of incredibly strong yet light polyester material with a 3000mm rated PU waterproof coating and taped seams, making it stormproof and designed to fend off even the most severe rain, leaving you to enjoy a dry campsite.
12x16 Tarp
Introducing the KING-A-MA-JIGS 12x16 Tarp - the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures. This lightweight and versatile tarp is designed to provide you with the convenience and protection you need. Whether you're going hunting, backpacking, or camping, this tarp is a must-have. Its 5.5 Mil thickness ensures durability, while the metal grommets every 18 inches make it easy to secure. The capped reinforced corners and rope reinforced hems add extra strength, making it tear-resistant and weatherproof. Not only is it waterproof, dustproof, and UV resistant, but it also serves as an emergency shelter, blind, or ground cover. With the KING-A-MA-JIGS Tarp, you can have peace of mind knowing you're prepared for any outdoor situation.
Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp Cover
The Honsaifau Tarp Cover is designed to keep your belongings protected from the elements. Its waterproof polyester fabric ensures that rain or snow won’t ruin your gear, while also shielding you from harmful UV rays. With its lightweight design, you can easily transport and set it up anywhere, whether you need a sunshade or a rain cover. The reinforced webbing loops provide secure attachment points, making it easy to tie down or hang the tarp for reliable shelter. This multi-purpose tarp is perfect for camping, picnics, or any outdoor activity, offering you versatile protection wherever you go.
During our tarp for backpacking research, we found 24 tarp for backpacking products and shortlisted 8 quality products. We collected and analyzed 45,124 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tarps for backpacking list. We found that most customers choose tarps for backpacking with an average price of $16.09.
The tarps for backpacking are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tarps for backpacking, including Rocky Mountain Radar, Arcturus, ayamaya, Klymit, RAINDEWAY. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,747 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.