A hammock tarp can help backpackers keep themselves dry and comfortable while sleeping at night. There are lots of tarps to choose from. I highly recommend the tarps I listed below. They work well and are very durable. They should be able to protect people from the weather and provide a comfortable place to sleep for the user. There are lots of people who are pleased with the items below so I am certain that you will at least find one that will satisfy your needs.
Best Hammock Tarps – Quick Chart
Hammock Tarps | Weight | Material | Dimensions | Waterproof |
1. Kelty Noah’s Tarp Shelter | 1 lb 8 oz | Coated polyester taffeta | 108 in / 274 cm by 108 in / 274 cm | Yes |
2. Bear Butt Double Hammock Tent Rain Fly | 1.1 lbs | Polyester fabric | 12′ 10″ down the middle, and 9′ 4″ on the sides | Yes |
3. ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters – ProFly Rain Tarp | 22 oz | 210D Ripstop Nylon | 10′ 6″ x 6′ 4″ | Yes |
4. Hennessy Hammock – Hex Rainfly/Rain Tarp 70D Polyester | 27 oz / 765 g | 70D Polyeurethane Coated Polyester Rip-stop | 3.5″ x 11″ / 9 cm x 30 cm | Yes |
5. Gold Armour Rainfly Tarp Hammock | 2.48 lbs | Premium Ripstop Polyester (PU 5000mm) | 12ft x 10ft HEX | Yes |
6. Rain Fly EVOLUTION Hammock Rain Fly Waterproof Tent Tarp | 1.49 lbs | Nylon | 12′ x 10′ | Yes |
7. REDCAMP Hammock Rain Fly | 1.8 lbs | 210T polyester ripstop PU2000mm | 10′ x 10′ | Yes |
8. FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp | 2.3 lbs | Polyester 190T fabric with waterproof PU coating | 118″ x 126″ | Yes |
9. Pro Venture Waterproof Hammock Rain Fly | 1.8 lbs | 210D Ripstop Nylon | 12′ Hex | Yes |
10. Unigear Hammock Rain Fly Camping Tarp | 2.2 lbs | 210D polyester oxford fabric | 12 x 10 ft | Yes |
How To Choose A Hammock Tarp
Types Of Tarps
There are many different kinds of tarps. Here are just some tarps that people use.
Poly Tarps
Most poly tarps are made out of high density polyethylene. This material is very inexpensive and durable which makes the tarp made out of this durable as well. Poly tarps are known for their waterproof feature. The tarp will be able to resist UV rays, strong winds, and be able to protect the user from the nasty weather. A lot of people use these tarps for commercial and industrial purposes.
Outdoor Tarps
Outdoor tarps are often used by hikers, campers and backpackers. These tarps are often made out of polyester or nylon. The tarp will protect the user from the weather like rain, sun and even snow. These tarps are often waterproof and rather large.
Canvas Tarps
A lot of tarps made out of canvas have fire retardant capabilities. Canvas is a material that is closely woven, plain weave fabric made of natural or synthetic fibers. A lot of truckers and painters use tarps made out of canvas because these tarps have high moisture resistance levels against most liquid chemicals.
Athletic Tarps
Athletic tarps or sport tarps are often used to shield the field from the weather. The field where the athletes play on are often very controlled and very high quality. These tarps would block the rain and sun from damaging the grass on the field. These tarps are often folded and stored once they have done their job.
Mesh Tarps
It is very common to see mesh tarps that are made out of nylon. Mesh tarps have big holes and feel more like a net. These tarps allow wind and water to go through. A good example of a mesh tarp would be a screened tent. The tarp or tent allows the wind to go through its corridors while reducing its power. Instead of blocking the wind, it gently allows it to pass while reducing its power.
Backpacking Tarp Designs And Shape
Asymmetrical Tarps
This type of tarp are often used for asymmetrical hammocks. The shape is often a like a diamond. This is very lightweight and compact. These tarps are often used for single hammocks.
Square Tarps
The tarp is shaped like a square. This type of tarp will have identical size on all of its sides. These are very versatile and very durable. This is not the most efficient design as the sides are rather bulky but this type of tarp does a very good job at covering the user. Since the design is not very efficient, this tarp will often weigh more.
Rectangular Tarps
This type of tarp is meant for a solo camper or backpacker. The tarp is shaped to fit one person. The sides will be very narrow. Some people do not like this type of tarp because rain can sometimes still hit the person underneath it. This is very light though and great for backpacking.
Tapered Tarps
Tapered tarps are meant for backpackers that really want to carry as little weight as possible. This type of tarp is very narrow on the foot end when compared to the head end. The shape often restricts movement and has enough protection for a single user. These tarps barely give any protection but they are very lightweight and compact.
Backpacking Tarp Material
Sil Nylon
This material is a combination of polyurethane and silicone. The result of such combination makes this material very waterproof and ideal for backpacking. This material provides amazing windproof and wind resistance. The tarp made from Sil Nylon is often made in a ripstop weave pattern so that a tear or hole will not expand and destroy the whole tarp.
Sil Poly
This material is a combination of silicone and polyester fabric. This is very inexpensive and durable which makes it a great material for backpacking. Like Sil Nylon, this provides amazing waterproof and windproof capabilities which makes this material, a great material for a tarp.
Dyneema Composite (Cumen Fiber)
This is the most expensive material that a tarp can be made out of. This is a is a patented, high-end laminate fabric constructed from non-woven composites. The fabric is very strong and very durable but expensive though. Tarps are often made for ultralight backpackers who can afford the material. The material is very expensive but most likely the best material for a tarp.
Backpacking Tarp Accessories
Stakes
Stakes are used to provide stability and support to the tarp. There are many different kinds of stakes with different shapes and sizes. There are a lot of alternatives to a stake so you do not need a lot. You can use roots, fallen trees, big logs, big boulders and so on.
Ropes / Straps / Guylines
This will help the tarp stay put. These provide support and stability against rain, and strong winds. If you have bad or weak ropes, strong winds may break the ropes or straps. It is important that you get ropes that are very strong.
Impact Of Colors On Tarps
Black / Silver – Offer more cooling and shade.
White – reflect some light.
Brightly Colored Tarps – easy to find the campsite, reflects some light.
Camouflage Tarps – hides the campsite.
Clear Tarps – used in a lot of green houses. Allows light to pass through.
Backpacking Features To Consider
Weight
The weight of the hammock tarp matters a lot. The bigger the tarp, the more it will weigh. We really do not need a big tarp, something that can keep us dry from rain and keep us warm from the weather would be very suitable. It is better to have something light in weight whenever backpacking. It is a lot easier to keep and maintain a good schedule if we don’t carry a lot of weight. So when getting a tarp, make sure to keep an eye on its total weight.
Waterproof
The tarp has to be waterproof. We are trying to get a good tarp that will protect us from the weather after all. A good tarp that is waterproof will definitely do that. There are also people who use tarps as a shelter instead of a hammock or tent. They are for advance users though. I want to suggest that you get a good tarp that is waterproof, this should protect you from rain, wind and even snow.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the tarp are important. The item has to be bigger than your tent or else it will not protect you at all. You don’t want the biggest size possible either because you are going to carry an extra weight. Something that can cover your hammock or tent is good. Most tarps have a size and dimension. You pick one that is good size for your hammock.
Durable
The durability of the hammock tarp is important. You don’t want holes, tears and bad stitching on your hammock tarp. It is not going to protect you from the weather plus you are going to waste a lot of time and money. A good durable tarp is one of the best things that you should get. There are many fragile tarps out there also and you may end up getting one of them. So make sure you do your research well.
Price
Sometimes you have to pay extra for the brand name. Not always though, and there are amazing tarps out there that are affordable. However, not all tarps are going to be affordable. Some are really good that they justify the price that they are asking for. If you are new, you should try the affordable ones first then move on to the expensive brands.
Best Hammock Tarps
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1. Kelty Noah’s Tarp Shelter Sun Shelter Rainfly
Weight: 1 lb 8 oz
Material: Coated polyester taffeta
Dimensions: 108 in / 274 cm by 108 in / 274 cm
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Noah’s Tarp is an essential and capable piece of your kit. This simple shelter comes in three sizes, throwing shade for groups of 1 to 16, Sturdy, attached corner guyline with handy storage pocket, and multiple reinforced guyout points
Short Review: This hammock tarp sticks out over a large amount of other similar items. This is constructed out of 68D polyester and has fully taped seam construction. This simple shelter stores in a convenient roll-top carry bag to go with you on every kind of adventure, and comes in sizes to throw shade for groups of 1–20. This has an inexpensive price tag. This tarp is very resilient and very easy to setup. I am positive there aren’t many high quality items like this one in the Internet which explains why you should at least check it out. I advise you to look into this high quality item because this works well and I love it. This is very compact as well and great for backpacking.
2. Bear Butt Double Hammock Tent Rain Fly
Weight: 1.1 lbs
Material: Polyester fabric
Dimensions: 12’ 10” down the middle, and 9’ 4” on the sides
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Shield you from the elements on camping and backpacking trips, can be easily packed in a backpack, car, or in a plane carry-on bag for longer journeys, made of waterproof polyester fabric, rain shield don’t require a special stand for set up
Short Review: I have tried, and analyzed this outdoor tarp. You can usually examine the consumer reviews and they are excellent signs of how incredible this is. This is constructed out of waterproof top-stock polyester and is stronger than similar nylon tarps. This also includes a rainfly that has strong tension guy lines, reflective tracers, and won’t rip or tear. The rain fly is ultralight, just over one pound, and can easily be packed. This is very useful to have and works very well. This has high quality materials and it is incredibly inexpensive. The amount of positive consumer feedback that this item has is awesome that I am certain that you will love this like the people who reviewed it.
3. ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters – ProFly Rain Tarp
Weight: 22 oz
Material: 210D Ripstop Nylon
Dimensions: 10′ 6″ x 6′ 4″
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Made of polyurethane-treated 210d ripstop nylon, the profly offers long-lasting wear and features the best water-shedding capabilities, profly rain tarp is versatile and durable, making it the perfect shelter for your tarp, to protect your gear
Short Review: The top quality materials used to produce this camping tarp made it impressive. This is constructed out of polyurethane-treated 210D ripstop nylon, the ProFly offers long-lasting wear and features the best water-shedding capabilities. This is the perfect shelter to protect your gear, clothes and your body from harsh weather or from rain. This is made by a company who specializes in hammocks and this is a tarp that works well. This is very good especially for the price. This is very durable and works well for most types of hammocks. Protect yourself from the weather with this hammock tarp.
4. Hennessy Hammock – Hex Rainfly/Rain Tarp 70D Polyester
Weight: 27 oz / 765 g
Material: 70D Polyeurethane Coated Polyester Rip-stop
Dimensions: 3.5″ x 11″ / 9cm x 30cm
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Pu-coated polyester ripstop rainfly works with all hennessy hammock models providing generous protection from wind and rain, can be angled out to provide a large covered area for cooking or relaxing or can be staked down near the ground on both sides of the hammock
Short Review: Among the best hammock tarps is this. This has a rainfly that is constructed out of 70D Polyeurethane Coated Polyester Rip-stop that is very durable and repels water. This be angled out to provide a large covered area for cooking or relaxing or can be staked down near the ground on both sides of the hammock. The usefulness this brings for outdoor purposes is amazing and this will protect you from rain and sun very well. There are a lot of items that have a lovely design just like this one. There are a great deal of things that we consider when we buy online however the positive consumer reviews are absolutely the biggest. Product was everything I expected it to be. Great price, amazing item!
5. Gold Armour Rainfly Tarp Hammock
Weight: 2.48 pounds
Material: Premium Ripstop Polyester (PU 5000mm)
Dimensions: 12ft x 10ft HEX
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Last and withstand it all, so you’ll don’t have to worry about your gear failing, your tarp tearing, or getting rained out, camping tarp tent that won’t weigh you down! This is super compact and lightweight so it’s easy to toss in your pack without breaking your back
Short Review: When you need something unbelievable then this tarp is correct for you. This will keep you dry and comfortable with unparalleled weather protection and water shedding capability with 5,000mm waterproof rating. This gives you reliable shelter in an instant and made from superior ripstop material which makes this very resilient. A very versatile item that will protect your from the rain and this is very high quality as well. This is one of the greatest in its price range. This is very useful. I am now a believer and on the bandwagon. This item is impressive. It rocks.
Check Out My Other Reviews – backpacking two person tents – backpacking collapsible water containers – backpacking dog beds – survival candles – backpacking sleeping bags |
6. Rain Fly EVOLUTION Hammock Rain Fly Waterproof Tent Tarp
Weight: 1.49 Pounds
Material: Nylon
Dimensions: 12′ X 10′
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Covers 2 person hammock – heavy duty, authentic diamond ripstop material with the highest quality 2000 pu waterproof makes the ideal sunshade for backpacking, water bottle weighs more than this 1.5 lb camping hammock rain fly
Short Review: I can safely state that this is rather exceptional hammock tarp. This can protect people from the rain, wind and snow and comes with this dirt-resistant, and waterproof capabilities. This is constructed out of 210T polyester coated with TPU which makes this lightweight and very durable. The rainfly itself weighs just 1.65lb and the whole kit comes just a little over two pounds. This item has a wonderful design that looks fantastic. I still cannot believe that this is extremely cheap. The information we obtain from the numerous positive consumer reviews from this is the information that we need before we obtain this item. Very easy to clean and very lightweight as well.
7. REDCAMP Hammock Rain Fly
Weight: 1.8 Pounds
Material: 210t Polyester Ripstop Pu2000mm.
Dimensions: 10′ x 10′
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: The waterproof tent tarp is made of 210t polyester ripstop pu2000mm, the large tent tarp has 6*aluminum stakes, 6*wind ropes, tarp has a storage bag, you can put in your backpack or camping car
Short Review: One of the greatest hammock tarps is this. This waterproof tent tarp is made of 210T polyester ripstop PU2000mm that keeps people dry or away from damaging UV rays. This is lightweight and comes with a storage pouch, making it convenient to take on trips and is easy to store when not in use. This item is manufactured by an excellent company which is the reason why I know that you will love this item a lot. One of the best items if you love to go backpacking. Amazing tarp that will protect you from rain and other types of harsh weather.
8. FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp
Weight: 2.3 lbs
Material: Polyester 190T fabric with waterproof PU coating
Dimensions: 118 * 126in.
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Hammock Camping Tarp made of 210T ripstop polyester fabric with 2500 PU waterproof rating, enhanced the shelter’s waterproof function and offers long-lasting protection, strengthen tear resistant & puncture resistant material
Short Review: The prime quality materials used to produce this camping tarp made it excellent. This is constructed out of 210T ripstop polyester fabric with 2500 PU waterproof rating, enhanced the shelter’s waterproof function and offers long-lasting protection. This also features reinforced ridgeline seam, well prevent the connector from falling off, showing excellent protection performance. I really like that this is incredibly resilient simply because there are a considerable amount of fragile items out there mainly because the design is not extremely good. This works well with a good price tag. The design is excellent which is the reason this item has lots of positive customer feedback.
9. Pro Venture [12ft Hex] Waterproof Hammock Rain Fly
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Material: 210D Ripstop Nylon
Dimensions: 12′ Hex
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Extra durable, tear & puncture resistant, giving you long lasting cover from anything mother nature throws at you, waterproof tarp stuff sack, the rain fly, no instructions are needed to set up your rain fly, it’s that easy
Short Review: This is a rather magnificent tarp. This is constructed out of PU Diamond 210D Ripstop Nylon which makes this extremely durable, tear and puncture resistant. This is one of the best items that can protect the body from weather and the price is just right. This has an asymmetrical hex design gives maximum coverage for your hammock and gear. This is lightweight, portable, reliable and easy to set up. This unbelievable company created another amazing item and it is easy to see that this is one of the best due to the positive customer reviews.
10. Unigear Hammock Rain Fly Camping Tarp
Weight: 2.2 pounds
Material: 210D polyester oxford fabric
Dimensions: 12 x 10 ft
Waterproof: Yes
Feature Summary: Amazing high quality item, designed to save space, designed to be compact to not take much room
Short Review: If you are looking for an astonishing lightweight tarp, then this is a outstanding choice to try. This is constructed out of 210D polyester oxford fabric, which has a higher textile density than ordinary 210D polyester. The rain fly provided water pressure resistance up to 3000mm with PU coating, which can maintains completely dry during extreme weather. This is one of the greatest items I’ve ever tried and it is a good reason I am recommending this to you. This has an amazing quantity of positive customer reviews which is why I have no doubt in recommending this item. This remarkable item has plenty of positive consumer feedback its no wonder that I know that you will not feel disappointed about your choice to purchase this.
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