Best Tarps for Backpacking of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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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

Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking Cover#TOP 1
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking
ftb score rating icon9.9
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp Cover#TOP 2
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp
ftb score rating icon9.8
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp Cover#TOP 3
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 8 Tarps for Backpacking

#TOP 1

Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking

Blue
6 Feet x 8 Feet
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking Cover
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp - Aluminum Grommet Every 3 feet - Mildew/Rot Resistant - 3.5 mil Thickness - Waterproof - Tarp for Tent Camping. Bike, Backpacking - Multi use tarp (6' x 8')
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Durable and versatile for multiple purposes
Waterproof design with mildew and rot resistance
Aluminum grommets spaced every 3 feet for easy tie down
#TOP 2

Arcturus XL Survival Tarp

NC-AWSB-XL-WC
Woodland Camo
X Large
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp Cover
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp - Insulated Reflective Thermal Camping Tarp - 8.5' x 12' (Woodland Camo)
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Lightweight
Waterproof
Reflective
Versatile
#TOP 3

AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp

TPLE02
Green
10 x 15 FT
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp Cover
Camping Tarp with Poles - AYAMAYA Large Size 10x15 FT Tent Tarps - Waterproof Hammock Awnings Canopy Rain Fly Picnic Mat Survival Shelter for Backpacking Hiking Beach Sun Shade with Stakes & Guylines
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Large coverage area
Durable waterproof material
Versatile setup options
Adjustable height poles
#TOP 4

Klymit Roamer Tarp and Blanket

09RMGYNVC
Gray
Large
Klymit Roamer Tarp and Blanket Cover
Klymit Roamer Tent Tarp Footprint and Camping Blanket - Use As Ground Cloth or Shelter - Large Gray Night Sky Pattern
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Waterproof and durable
Multiple setup options
Versatile for various activities
#TOP 5

RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 8x10 Feet

Camo
8x10 Feet
RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 8x10 Feet Cover
RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 8x10 Feet-7 Mil Thickness Cover Waterproof Tarp Used for Outdoor Camping, Hunting, Backpacking, Canopy Tent, Ground Tarp, Cover Boat, Motorcycles, Roofs, Wood,RV and More
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
High-density, durable material
Water and wind resistant
Reinforced grommets for security
Compact and easy to carry
#TOP 6

DD Hammocks - DD Tarp 3x3 PRO

0707273931429
Olive Green
Large
DD Hammocks - DD Tarp 3x3 PRO Cover
DD Hammocks - DD Tarp 3x3 PRO (10ft x 10ft) - Versatile Tarpaulin Shelter 100% Waterproof Rainfly with Eyelets and Buckles for Bushcraft Camping and Outdoor Backpacking
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Customizable setup
Endless configurations
Stormproof material
#TOP 7

12x16 Tarp

medium
Blue, Silver
12'x16'
12x16 Tarp Cover
12x16 Tarp, Waterproof Plastic Poly 5.5 Mil Thick Tarpaulin with Metal Grommets Every 18 Inches - Emergency Rain Shelter, Outdoor Cover and Camping Use - (Reversible, Blue and Silver) (12x 16 Feet)
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Lightweight
Durable
Weatherproof
#TOP 8

Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp Cover

Honsaifau
Tarp Cover 5ftx5ft
Black
5x5ft
Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp Cover Cover
Black Waterproof Tarp Cover for Outdoor: Multi-Purpose Oxford Tarpaulin with Reinforced Webbing Loops for Camping Boat Pool Roof Tent - Durable and Tear Resistant (5ftx5ft)
ftb score rating icon9.1
FTB Score

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.

What We Like
Waterproof and weather resistant
Lightweight and portable
Reinforced attachment points
Multi-purpose for outdoor activities
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

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.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

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.