[For Beginners] Benefits of Using a Tarp for Solo Camping, How to Choose One, and Recommended Products

Benefits of Using a Tarp for Solo Camping

When people think of solo camping, they often imagine packing as lightly and compactly as possible. Because of this, some might wonder, “Isn’t a tarp just unnecessary since it’ll only make my luggage heavier?”

In fact, a tarp is incredibly useful, especially for solo camping.

Solo camping is about escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life to enjoy the tranquility and solitude of the great outdoors.

To achieve this, you need a tarp that’s not just a tool to shield you from the sun, rain, and wind, but also creates a space that protects your privacy.

A tarp is an essential item for enjoying a higher-quality solo camping experience! However, with so many different types of tarps available, it can be hard to choose.

In this article, I’ll introduce the benefits of tarps for solo camping, the different types available, key points for choosing one, and some recommended options.

If you’re unsure about which tarp to buy for solo camping, please use this as a guide.

Benefit #1: Expand Your Private Space

The key to solo camping is how well you can create a private space.

Sitting by a campfire in the great outdoors, sipping coffee, cooking and eating a meal, reading a book, or gazing at the starry sky… The true joy of solo camping lies in being able to enjoy such extraordinary moments and spaces.

However, if the campground is crowded with other campers nearby, you might feel self-conscious about people watching you and find it hard to relax. On the other hand, it wouldn’t be much fun to stay cooped up in your tent when you’re out in nature.

That’s where a tarp comes in handy. By connecting it to your tent and setting up the tarp to expand your space, you can use that area as a living space.

If you set up not just a “roof” but also “walls” during setup, you can block the view from the surroundings and relax to your heart’s content.

Benefit #2: Protection from Sun, Rain, and Wind

When solo camping with just a tent, you have to stay cooped up inside the whole time if sudden rain, strong sunlight, or cold winds blow in.

The advantage of a tarp is that it allows you to create a “roof” and “walls” to block rain, sunlight, and wind.

If you set up your tent connected to a tarp, the space underneath becomes an outdoor living area where you can enjoy coffee breaks, meals, or naps while feeling the fresh air and relaxing freely.

Benefit #3: Hammock Camping Becomes Possible

For solo campers who think, “Carrying both a tent and a tarp is too much of a hassle,” we recommend “tarp camping” (hammock camping).

In warmer seasons, setting up a hammock under a large tarp allows you to fall asleep while gently swaying, feeling the fresh air of nature and the rustling of the trees up close.

If you’re not a fan of hammocks, setting up a cot under the tarp is also a great option. You can enjoy a solo camping experience full of a wild, natural vibe.

Even if it suddenly starts raining at night, you’ll be fine thanks to the tarp’s “roof.”

How to Choose a Tarp for Solo Camping

There are various types of tarps, differing in size, shape, setup method, and material.

To make your solo camping trip comfortable, learn about the basic types, their features, and key selection criteria, and carefully choose one that suits your needs.

How to Choose #1: Choose by Tarp Type

There are various types of tarps. Here are the types commonly used for solo camping.

- Hex Tarp

The "Hexa" in "Hexa Tarp" comes from the Greek word for "6." As the name suggests, its defining feature is that the tarp fabric is hexagonal.

If each of the six corners has grommets (holes) or loops, you can arrange it in various ways—such as setting up poles, securing only part of it to the ground with stakes, or pulling it taut with ropes.

You can use it simply as a “roof” to block the sun or rain, or you can set up one side with poles and peg down the rest to create a shape that serves as both a wall and a roof, creating a private space shielded from prying eyes.

If you bring a tent, set up the tarp so it covers half of the tent; this way, you can move between the tent and the tarp without getting wet even when it rains.

－Square Tarp

As the name “Square” suggests, a square tarp is a type where the fabric is rectangular or square in shape. Rectangular ones are also called “Rectangle Tarp,” named after the word “Rectangle.”

Because they are simple and easy for beginners to set up, they are widely used not only for camping but also for events and sports days. They are arguably the most well-known type of tarp.

If set up simply as a basic “roof,” its appeal lies in the large area of shade and rain protection it provides. It also offers an exceptional sense of openness. You can also adjust the setup depending on the situation.

However, because the fabric area is large, they tend to be heavy, so caution is required.

－Penta Tarp

The "Penta" in "Penta Tarp" comes from the Greek word for "5." It is a tarp where the fabric forms a pentagonal shape.

It can be set up with just one pole, and since one person can easily pitch it, it’s ideal for solo camping.

You can use it as a low-profile shelter or set it up using the “Ogawa-style” method, where you connect the tarp to a tent.

－Screen Tarp

Unlike a standard tarp, which typically consists only of a roof, a screen tarp features both a roof and side panels.

It looks just like a tent, but the key difference is that it lacks a "floor."

If the side panels are made of mesh, you can enjoy the outdoor scenery while keeping insects out during the summer.

While it creates a private space, the downside is that it lacks a sense of openness. Also, keep in mind that having side panels makes it bulkier and heavier when packed away.

－Car-Side Tarp

A car-side tarp is a type that attaches directly to the side or rear of a vehicle to create a roof. Its appeal lies in the ability to easily create a living space right next to your car. It is well-suited for solo camping trips by car.

In warmer seasons, you can spend the day under the tarp and sleep in your car at night, saving you the trouble of setting up a tent every time.

Setup is very simple, but be careful—once it’s in place, you won’t be able to move your car.

How to Choose #2: If You Want Flame Retardancy, "TC Material" Is Recommended

When choosing a tarp for solo camping, the material is also important. Tarp materials can be broadly categorized into three types.

• Cotton
• Synthetic fiber (polyester & nylon)
• TC (Technical Cotton)

Each has its own characteristics.

Cotton has excellent moisture absorption and breathability, and because it is durable, it is resistant to sparks—this is its main advantage. However, it is heavy and prone to staining.

Polyester and nylon, on the other hand, are lightweight, water-resistant, and quick-drying, but they lack durability, so sparks from a campfire could potentially burn holes in them.

For those who say, “A campfire is essential for solo camping!” we recommend a “tarpaulin made from TC fabric.”

Made from a blend of polyester (Tetron) and cotton, this fabric combines the quick-drying and water-resistant properties of polyester with the flame-retardant properties of cotton.

However, compared to polyester and nylon, it weighs nearly twice as much and takes up more space when packed, making it unsuitable for solo camping trips involving motorcycles or bicycles.

Tip #3: A 3x3m size is just right for solo camping

A larger tarp creates a more spacious living area, making your stay more comfortable.

However, for solo camping, if it’s too large, it becomes bulky and heavier, making it difficult to carry, set up, and take down!

For solo camping, look for a tarp with a fabric area of about 3×3 m and a weight of up to about 2 kg.

Tip 4: Choose something lightweight and compact

When purchasing a tarp, don’t just check how it looks when unfolded—also consider its size, weight, and shape when packed, as well as whether it comes with a storage bag.

If you’re going on a solo camping trip by bicycle or motorcycle, it’s important to ensure the tarp fits within your load capacity. Even if you’re driving, you might have to walk from the parking lot to the campsite, so choosing a lightweight and compact tarp will give you peace of mind.

Tip 5: Checking the Water Resistance Rating is Essential

When selecting a tarp, be sure to check the fabric’s “water resistance rating.” If water leaks through the tarp during a sudden rainstorm, you won’t be able to relax comfortably.

Water resistance is a numerical value indicating "how much water pressure the fabric can withstand"; the higher the number, the better it can withstand heavy rain.

For solo camping tarps, aim for a water resistance rating of “1,500mm or higher.” Tarp fabric is coated to increase its water resistance. While a thicker coating improves water resistance and durability, it also increases weight and reduces breathability.

TOKYO CRAFTS Tarp Lineup

We’d like to introduce tarps from “TOKYO CRAFTS,” a Japanese original camping gear brand that combines high functionality with stylish design.

Makaon TC

The "Makaon TC" is a hexagonal tarp that allows you to enjoy various setup configurations.

The basic setup involves erecting two poles at the center and securing the four corners on both sides with ropes and stakes. However, you can adjust the setup to suit the day’s weather, such as lowering one side to block rain or sunlight.

Made from TC fabric, which offers excellent flame resistance and light-blocking properties, it’s perfect for enjoying a campfire right next to the tarp. It packs down compactly for easy portability.

The black "Macaon Limited" model is also available.

One Tarp

The "One Tarp" features a revolutionary design where the frame is set at the center of the tarp fabric.

The frame forms an arc to keep the fabric taut, creating a beautifully shaped tarp space.

Since the poles are inserted into straps extending from the tarp fabric, there’s no need to place poles underneath the tarp, allowing you to use the space more freely. The height also makes it feel very open and airy.

Make your solo camping trips even more comfortable by adding a tarp...!

When solo camping, setting up a tarp to create a living space allows you to spend a comfortable time while feeling closer to nature.

Also, during milder seasons, you can enjoy a casual camping trip with just a tarp—no tent required! There are many tarps that even beginners can set up easily.

It opens up new possibilities for your camping style, so be sure to give it a try.