[How to Choose a Hex Tarp] Introducing Recommended Hex Tarps, Their Uses, and Setup Ideas

What Is a Hex Tarp?

A "tarp" refers to a large piece of fabric used outdoors to provide shade from the sun or shelter from the rain, and there are various types available.

Among them, the "hex tarp" is the most popular tarp among both beginner and experienced campers.

If you’re thinking about buying your first tarp,

• you might be wondering: What exactly is a hex tarp?
• What should I look for when choosing one?

You probably have many questions like these.

In this article, we’ll explain in detail the role of tarps, the different types of tarps (including the Hex Tarp), and how to choose the right one.

The Role of a Tarp

Since tarps have fewer parts than tents, even camping beginners can easily set up a shaded area or shelter from the rain.

One of their main attractions is that by adjusting how you set them up with poles and ropes, you can easily create a roof or privacy screens.

Also, setting up a tarp in front of your tent is convenient, as it can serve as a living space or a place to store gear and shoes.

Types of Tarps

There are five common types of tarps, including hex tarps, each with its own distinct features.

Rectangular Tarp (Square Tarp)

This non-freestanding tarp features a square or rectangular canopy and is set up using two main poles and four support poles. It offers a spacious interior and an open, airy feel, making it ideal for large groups.

Hex Tarp

The hexa tarp is the most popular among campers. It features a hexagonal (hexagon) canopy and is set up using two poles and ropes.

Another appealing feature is that you can create various roof shapes by changing the number of poles or adjusting how the ropes are tensioned. Its beautiful form when set up is likely another reason for its popularity.

Wing Tarp

This is a small tarp with a diamond-shaped canopy that is set up using two poles. You can freely change its shape using the poles and ropes. It is small, lightweight, and compact, making it ideal for solo camping.

Screen Tarp

This tarp has a "walled" shape, similar to a tent. Since it is enclosed on all four sides by nylon or mesh, it serves as protection against insects, wind, and prying eyes. It’s perfect for napping if you lay down a mat inside, but the downside is that it lacks a sense of openness.

One-Touch Tarp

A simple tarp that can be set up with a single touch, commonly seen at events, sports days, and BBQs. It stands on its own with four legs, but you should reinforce it with ropes to increase its stability.

How to Choose a Hex Tarp

Hex tarps are the most popular among campers, so they are sold by a wide variety of manufacturers. As a result, when you actually go to buy one, you may find yourself unsure of what criteria to use when making your choice.

Here, we’ll explain the key points to consider when choosing a hex tarp. Don’t just pick one based on a vague impression—pay close attention to the following points.

Tip #1: Choose a size that fits the number of users

First, you need to consider, “How many people will be using it?”

For solo camping, a compact, lightweight model is ideal, but for families or groups, consider whether there’s enough space for everyone to sit on chairs under the tarp.

*Guideline: While 450×450 cm is standard for four people, keep in mind that you’ll likely want to place a table and chairs underneath. Choosing a model that’s “slightly larger”—accommodating one more person than your group size—will ensure a more comfortable experience.

Tip #2: Pay attention to fabric performance

When choosing a hex tarp, be sure to check the fabric’s performance.

－Cotton and TC fabrics are recommended for those who enjoy campfires

If you want to enjoy BBQs or campfires, choose a "fire-resistant, flame-retardant material."

Flammable materials like polyester are dangerous because they can develop holes or catch fire if sparks fly onto them.

[Features of Cotton Fabric]

It offers excellent moisture absorption, breathability, and water absorption, and has the advantage of being resistant to sparks from campfires. However, it is heavy, and stains are difficult to remove once they set in the fabric, so choose a dark color where stains are less noticeable.

[Features of TC Fabric]

Short for "Technical Cotton," this is a blend of cotton and polyester.

The advantage of TC fabric is that it combines the "flame resistance" of cotton with the "quick-drying and water-resistant" properties of polyester. TC tarps are heavier than polyester tarps but lighter than cotton tarps.

－High UV protection ensures durability even in summer sunlight

If you’re concerned about sunburn, we recommend products with high UV protection. Please choose products labeled “UV-protected.”

If you want even stronger UV protection, to block visible light, and to reduce heat caused by sunlight, there are also light-blocking tarps featuring "light-blocking technology."

－Check the water resistance rating

It’s also important to check the water resistance rating. This rating quantifies how much water pressure the fabric can withstand.

During summer outdoor activities, the weather can change suddenly, and you may often be caught in the rain.

Choose a tarp with a high water resistance rating to ensure reliable protection from the rain. As a general guideline, we recommend a water resistance rating of 1,500 mm.

How to Choose #3: Check Weight and Portability

Weight and portability are also important factors for hex tarps. If you’re camping with a family or group and traveling by car, weight might not be a concern.

However, for campsites far from parking lots, or for those traveling by motorcycle, bicycle, or solo campers, lightweight and portability are crucial. Be sure to check the product’s “weight specifications” and “packed size.”

Tip 4: Choose a Design and Color That Matches Your Campsite’s Atmosphere

Hexa tarps stand out because of their large surface area. Your campsite will look more stylish if you coordinate the overall atmosphere by matching the tarp, tent, and accessories in the same style or a unified color scheme.

[A Calm Atmosphere with Earth Tones]

Coordinating your camping gear in earth tones (brown, khaki, beige, natural, etc.) creates a calm atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. If you prefer a brighter vibe, we recommend choosing a tarp in beige or natural tones.

[Cool, rugged, masculine vibe]

If you want to create a rugged, masculine vibe for your campsite, military colors (gray, khaki, black, coyote brown, camouflage, etc.) are a good choice. Choosing a tarp in dark khaki or black will give the entire site a cool, streamlined look.

【Stylish, Feminine Vibe】

If you’re aiming for a highly stylish campsite, “all-white” is recommended. Coordinating not only large items like tents and tarps but also smaller items like chairs and tables in white or ivory creates a chic look.

【Urban and Cool Vibe】

For a sleek, urban vibe, “all-black or gray” is also a great choice. Coordinate your tent, tarp, chairs, and table in black, and use metal accents like stainless steel for accessories to create a stylish campsite.

【Fun and Playful Vibe】

To create a pop and fun campsite, choose tents and tarps in colorful, bright shades. Using too many colors can make the space look cluttered and chaotic, so limit the large items to 2–3 colors and have fun with accessories and garlands.

How to Set Up a Hex Tarp

The appeal of a hex tarp is that it can be set up in various ways depending on how you use the poles and ropes. Here is the basic setup method.

Basic Setup Method

While you can enjoy setting up a hex tarp in many different ways, beginners should start by learning the basic setup.

• Spread the Tarp on the Ground
• Determine the stake positions and secure the tarp
• Thread the ropes through the stakes and set up the poles
• Use the adjustable hardware to adjust the tension
• Finally, secure the side ropes with stakes to finish

Here are three popular setup methods that are easy even for beginners and are known for their "cool-looking results":

Setup 1: Large Roof Setup with 6 Poles

The "6-pole setup" involves erecting poles at all six corners of the hex tarp to keep it taut. In other words, this creates a "hexagonal roof," allowing you to maximize the tarp’s surface area.

With nothing blocking the ceiling, the sense of openness is outstanding! Setup is also easy. Since the space under the tarp is spacious, it doesn’t feel cramped even with a large group.

Additionally, since the tarp is positioned high up, you can use a fire pit or BBQ grill underneath.

Setup Variation 2: Combining with a Tent – The "Ogawa-style" Setup

The "Ogawa-style setup" is a dream setup that every camper wants to try at least once.

Ever since Campal Japan—the company that took over the legacy of the long-established tent manufacturer "Ogawa"—introduced this method of connecting a tent and a tarp, it has become known among campers as the "Ogawa Setup."

The "Ogawa-style setup" involves placing the tent under the tarp (not the entire tent, but just the area from the entrance to about halfway in), allowing you to move freely between the tarp and the tent without getting wet even in a sudden rain shower. Be sure to check out our article on recommended items for camping in the rain as well.

Setup #3: Create a Private Space! The One-Sided Drooping Style

For those who find a fully open setup like the 6-pole style “too open and unsettling” or who “want more privacy,” the one-sided drooping style is recommended.

By using four poles to set up the four corners and pegging the remaining two corners directly to the ground without poles, that section acts as a “wall” to provide privacy.

TOKYO CRAFTS’ Hex Tarp “Machaon TC”

The Makaon TC is a 4×4m hexagonal tarp ideal for 2 to 4 people.

It features a pleasant texture, durability, and breathability, and uses TC fabric—which provides “deeper shade” than standard polyester tarps—so you can stay comfortable even in the summer.

The ropes come with triangular adjusters (hardware for adjusting rope length), so even beginners can set it up neatly.

The tarp fabric is gray, while the ropes and separately sold poles are black, creating a stylish look.

Aluminum Tarp Poles 240-280

Aluminum tarp poles are essential for setting up the Machaon TC. Made from lightweight yet high-strength aluminum, they offer peace of mind.

They are telescopic, adjustable from 240 to 280 cm in height, with a maximum diameter of 40 mm. They serve as the main poles.

The telescoping design eliminates the hassle of assembly. Since you simply extend it, setup and takedown are easy.

A hex tarp is highly recommended for beginners—it’s a handy item to have!

A hex tarp creates a relaxing space for you while camping. Since even beginners can set it up and take it down, having one is incredibly useful.

Keep the selection tips we’ve shared in mind and choose a hex tarp that’s perfect for your camping style.