Tarp has a special place when it comes to camping, as it is lightweight and very versatile. Not only is it cost effective, it also provides protection against wind and rain, serving as a screen and shelter. However, for the tarp to function effectively, a tarp pole must be available because these poles help to assist in holding the tarp up. This enables the tarp to gain additional protection when placed on the ground, allowing it to be very flexible. This guide tells you how to use tarp poles and what techniques will enhance your experiences outdoors.
Choosing the Right Tarp Pole:
Before we get into the methods of setting up the tarp, there is a point that needs to be addressed – the poles. For backpackers and hikers, the DoD Outdoors Compact Tarp Poles are incredibly compact and can be easily carried. These poles can be collapsible, which makes them very lightweight to carry for an adventure where weight significantly matters, making them easy to pack. For larger setups or car camping, hiking poles may be used (if they are strong enough) or even some heavy branches that can be found at your campsite.
Classic A-Frame Tarp Setup:
The A-Frame is one of those basic configurations which gives of good headroom as well as deep rain protection. Here is how you can achieve it:
- Location and Setup: First, look for a campsite with trees or other anchor points that are reasonably stretched to accommodate the tarp size. Spread the tarp flat on the ground so that the ridgeline which is the long center seam comes parallel to the wind direction.
- Pole Placement: On the taut line of your tarp, try to find the grommets or reinforced attachment points. They are meant for something called a pole which goes in to supports the tarp. Get your selected poles and put them into the gromets by one of their sides.
- Securing the Tarp: Fasten a paracord or similar line to each tarp corner. These lines are known as guylines. the other ends of all guylines should be affixed to anchors like tree trunks or stakes. The bearing of the guylines with respect to the ground should be approximately 45 degree angles.
- Lifting Up the A-Frame: After the guylines are secured, two poles on opposite sides may be raised in a gradual manner until a required height is achieved. Depending on how the ridgeline is lifted, the guylines need to be adjusted so as to maintain the proper tautness of guylines on the tarp.
Variations on the A-Frame:
The A-frame is a very strong structure and it can be ben using other designs. Some of them are detailed below:
- Lean-to Shelter: In lean to shelter, one end of the tarp is secured and other end is secured using may lower than anchor point so that a wall or natural rock formation is present there.
- A-Frame with Doorway: If one end of the tarp is lowered than the other, then it is possible to easily exit and entry due to angled doorway.
- Double A-Frame: Use two tarps and two sets of poles to make a bigger and roomier shelter.
Conclusion:
Tarp poles offer the endless capability for significantly improving your outdoor experience. Tarp could be deployed in many configurations and slightly altered to ensure on your next adventure whether the conditions are windy or rainy, your path will still be a comfortable and protected one. So, head to DoD Outdoors and get a pair of tarp poles for your camping excursion today.