Tarps

Find our tarps for your outdoor activities, from hiking to bushcraft and bivouac.

What is a tarp?

A tarp is a lightweight tarpaulin made up of a waterproof canvas and fastening points for attaching it, with straps, to a tree or other object. Its purpose is to protect you from rain and wind. Widely used by outdoor enthusiasts, the tarpaulin is a lightweight, space-saving accessory. It comes in handy for bivouacking, or for temporary protection from a downpour.

The tarpaulin, an essential hiking accessory

A tarp is a multifunctional accessory. Although tarpaulins are used to protect against rain and wind, they are often misused for other purposes. This waterproof tarpaulin can be used as a footprint for your tents. This saves you having to buy a new one. It can also be used as a ground sheet for your air mattress. The latter are designed to be very light and compact, which can sometimes be at the expense of their sturdiness. So, for nights under the stars in summer, it's a good idea to have a ground sheet under your mattress. The tarp can be used as a mat. This shelter is also regularly used as a poncho. In case of heavy rain, wrap yourself in the tarp to prevent your clothes from getting wet. Find out more about the tarp's other functions:

> Sun protection

> Sleeping bag cover

> Blanket

> Picnic tablecloth

And much more, depending on your imagination!

Characteristics of a good tarp

The first characteristic of a good tarp is, of course, its size. You need to know what you're going to use it for: shelter from the rain, a blanket, a ground sheet for your tent... This will determine the size of tarpaulin you need.

Secondly, as with any outdoor accessory, you need to pay attention to weight. For a day hike, you can afford to take slightly heavier equipment. On the other hand, for a week-long trek, every gram counts! Calculate the load you can carry in a day (taking into account the fatigue that builds up over the days if you're going away for longer) and prepare your backpack. This will tell you how much tarpaulin you can take with you.

Finally, the third criterion is how you're going to use it. If you're going to be trekking in a very wet area, then look for a tarp that's sufficiently waterproof. If you're going to use it as a ground sheet, then opt for a tarp made of sturdy materials.

Which brand to choose?

Every product and every brand has its advantages and disadvantages. At Lyophilise & Co, we make sure we only offer you quality products. Among our flagship models is the Moon Tarp from Ticket to the Moon. It complements the hammocks from the same brand. Australian brand Sea to Summit also offers a tarp poncho. An original, well-thought-out product that gives you a shelter for your tent as well as a poncho with hood and sleeves.