Easy Way to Use a Tarp to Keep Your Tent Completely Dry, by AdventureswithMe on YouTube. 5 min 2 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 2 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Measure your tent footprint, then pick a tarp at least twice that size so the edges overhang the tent on every side.
Choose two anchor points about 10 feet apart, such as two trees, or set up two adjustable poles if the site has no trees.
Tie one end of the paracord to the first anchor at roughly 7 to 8 feet high, using a taut-line hitch so you can tighten it later.
Run the cord to the second anchor, pull it tight, and tie it off. The line should sit above the middle of your tent.
Drape the tarp over the line and center it, so it forms an A-frame with equal overhang on both sides.
Pull each corner out and stake it down at a 45 degree angle, using bungee balls or grommet savers so the tarp can flex in wind.
Add guy lines to the side grommets if wind is expected, and stake them wide so the tarp stays steady.
Adjust the poles or ridge line until the tarp clears the tent by 6 to 12 inches, which lets air move and reduces condensation.
Tighten every line, check that no part of the tarp touches the tent, and lower one end slightly so rain runs off.
Tips and common mistakes
Set the tarp up before the rain starts, because wet paracord stretches and the tarp sags.
Keep guy lines visible with bright cord or flagging so nobody trips over them.
Avoid pitching under dead branches, and keep the tarp well away from campfires and sparks.
Questions
Can I pitch a tarp over a tent without trees?
Yes. Use two trekking poles, kayak paddles, or the roof rack of your car as anchor points, then stake the corners out as normal.
How big should the tarp be?
Get one about twice the footprint of your tent. For a two person tent, a 10 by 10 foot tarp is a common choice.
Will a tarp keep my tent dry in heavy rain?
It will if the tarp is angled and sits a few inches above the tent. Check for sagging spots where water can collect and pull them tight.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
