10 Best Camping Tarps UK 2022 | Quechua, Andes and More

1. Decide Between Nylon or Polyester Material
   
2. Check the Number of Attachment Points 
   
3. Choose a Size and Weight Suitable for Your Group Size
   

Grab a family camping tent for larger groups.

Above all else, your camping tarp is designed to be weather-resistant. This means they are generally made of waterproof fabrics; some even come with UV-protective coatings. Nylon and polyester are the most popular materials on the market.

• Polyester is the most popular of the two due to its UV resistance and waterproof qualities. It's relatively cheap and durable, with a distinct lack of stretch, which contributes to sturdy construction. Unfortunately, the thick fabric lacks breathability and can sometimes lead to condensation, which isn't great for storing dry elements underneath.
  

• Nylon is a little rarer and often more expensive, but its stretch and flexibility mean it's much more adaptable and less prone to damage. It's more lightweight than polyester but isn't naturally waterproof, however, this drawback is easily remedied if you find a nylon tarp with a waterproof coating.
  

Stay warm while camping with a top-quality sleeping bag.

The attachment points are easily overlooked when choosing the perfect tarp, but they're important if you want something that's versatile and effective in multiple situations. The attachment points are hooks, holes or loops where you can tie the tarp down with pegs or guy ropes. 

These points determine how you will be able to hang your tarp, so ideally, you should have at least 8. Realistically, though, the more, the better. A tarp with more attachment points will be more versatile for setting up in unorthodox ways, and the additional attachments will make for a more stable structure. 

Try a windbreak for simple, fuss-free setup.

Choosing the right-sized tarp is essential for ensuring proper coverage from wind and rain. If you are camping alone, a tarp of around 2.5 x 1.8 m should be sufficient. However, if you often camp with larger groups or want something a little more versatile, you can size all the way up to 4 or 5 meters.

Larger tarps are great if you need extra space, but they will be heavier and may seem like an unnecessary burden for solo trippers. Lightweight camping gear is always preferable, so regardless of your sizing needs, opt for the lightest tarp within that size range.

For those after a quick look, here is our Top 5:

1. DD Hammocks - DD Tarp for £39.95
2. Solognac - Bushcraft Waterproof Tarp - Furtiv Camouflage for £34.99
3. DD Hammocks - Compact Waterproof Tarpaulin for £34.95
4. RYACO - Hammock Rain Fly Tent Tarp for £30.99
5. HIKEMAN - Camping Tent Tarp Shelter for £78.99

This article's chosen EC site price listings are reflective of its publishing date.

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.

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Written and researched by Alicia Byrne