A poly tarp is one of the most versatile and cost-effective tools any camper can bring along on outdoor adventures. With the right setup, it can be transformed into a reliable tent footprint or an effective rain fly, offering crucial protection against wet ground, heavy rain, and unpredictable weather. Whether you're backpacking, car camping, or creating a survival shelter, a poly tarp can be the difference between comfort and discomfort.
What Is a Poly Tarp and Why Is It Ideal for Camping?
Polyethylene tarps, commonly known as poly tarps, are made from a woven mesh fabric that is laminated on both sides with a waterproof plastic coating. These tarps are:
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Lightweight yet durable
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Waterproof, making them excellent for wet environments
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Resistant to UV rays and mildew
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Affordable and widely available
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Easy to fold, carry, and deploy
These properties make poly tarps an excellent alternative or addition to traditional tent accessories, especially for campers who value multifunctional gear.
Using a Poly Tarp as a Tent Footprint
A tent footprint, also known as a groundsheet, is a layer placed beneath your tent to protect it from sharp objects, abrasion, and moisture. Poly tarps are an outstanding material for this function.
Benefits of Using a Poly Tarp as a Footprint
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Water Barrier: Prevents groundwater from seeping into your tent.
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Protects Tent Base: Shields against sticks, stones, and abrasive terrain.
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Increases Tent Lifespan: Reduces wear and tear on the tent floor.
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Provides Extra Insulation: Helps insulate your tent from cold or wet ground.
How to Set Up a Poly Tarp as a Footprint
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Choose the Right Size: The tarp should be slightly smaller than the base of your tent. If it extends past the tent edges, water can collect and flow under the tent floor.
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Trim to Fit (if needed): Fold or cut your tarp to match your tent’s dimensions.
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Lay Flat and Smooth: Clear the ground of sharp debris, then lay the tarp flat.
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Place the Tent on Top: Position your tent directly over the tarp. Ensure no tarp corners stick out.
Pro Tip: For ultralight backpackers, using a poly tarp instead of a commercial footprint can save weight and money.
Using a Poly Tarp as a Rain Fly
A rain fly is a waterproof barrier that shelters your tent or camp area from rain. A poly tarp can be suspended above your tent or hammock to serve as a rain fly, offering protection while also allowing for airflow.
Advantages of a Poly Tarp Rain Fly
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Full Rain Coverage: Keeps your tent dry even in heavy rainfall.
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Ventilation Control: Set higher or lower depending on weather conditions.
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Quick Shelter Option: Can be used alone as a minimalist shelter.
How to Set Up a Poly Tarp Rain Fly
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Select the Tarp Size: For rain protection, select a tarp larger than your tent. Common sizes range from 8'x10' to 12'x16', depending on your setup.
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Identify Anchor Points: Use nearby trees, poles, or trekking poles as anchors.
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Use Rope or Paracord: Tie off the tarp corners or grommets to your anchor points.
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Create a Ridge Line: For A-frame setups, tie a line between two trees and drape the tarp over it.
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Stake the Corners: Use stakes or rocks to secure the corners to the ground.
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Adjust for Rain Flow: Ensure that one side is lower to allow rainwater runoff.
Popular Tarp Shelter Configurations
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A-Frame Shelter: Suspended like a tent roof over a rope.
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Lean-To Shelter: One edge tied to trees, the other staked to the ground.
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Flat Roof Shelter: Suspended flat above the camp area for large rain coverage.
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Diamond Fly Shelter: Hung diagonally between two points for hammocks.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Poly Tarp in the Field
Reinforce Grommets
Some budget tarps have weak grommets. Reinforce them using duct tape or zip ties if you anticipate strong winds.
Waterproof the Seams
Even waterproof tarps can leak if the seams are worn. Use seam sealer to add extra protection.
Pack Extra Cord and Stakes
You’ll need adjustable lines and strong stakes to adapt to different terrains and trees.
Practice Setups Before You Camp
Don’t wait until bad weather hits—practice your tarp setups at home or in your backyard.
Choosing the Best Poly Tarp for Outdoor Use
When selecting a tarp for camping, choose a tarp with these features:
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High-Density Weave: Look for tarps with a 10x10 weave or higher for durability.
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UV-Resistance: Prolongs life under sun exposure.
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Rust-Proof Grommets: Essential for secure anchoring.
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Reinforced Corners: Adds strength for rugged use.
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Color Options: Silver for reflectivity, green/brown for camouflage, blue for general use.
Recommended Sizes for Camping:
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6' x 8': Personal groundsheet or small gear shelter
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8' x 10' / 10' x 12': Two-person tent footprint or rain fly
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12' x 16' or larger: Group shelters, dining areas, or hammock setups
Why Poly Tarps Are a Smart Addition to Any Camping Kit
Versatility is where poly tarps shine. Beyond footprints and rain flies, they serve as:
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Emergency shelters
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Picnic blankets
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Gear covers
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Windbreaks
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Privacy screens
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Water collectors
With just one tarp and a few cords, you can set up multiple camping solutions, stay dry, and remain flexible as the weather changes.
Tarp Supply Inc.® – Your Trusted Source for Premium Poly Tarps
At Tarp Supply Inc.®, we offer poly tarps in all sizes, colors, and grades—perfect for camping, survival, and outdoor gear protection. Our tarps are crafted for durability with UV-resistant coatings, heat-sealed seams, and reinforced grommets to stand up to the harshest elements.
Whether you're a weekend camper or a wilderness pro, we’re here to equip your adventures with quality you can count on. Explore our collection today and take your outdoor shelter setup to the next level.
Stay dry. Stay safe. Stay ready—with Tarp Supply Inc.® by your side.
