Tarp Tent 3x3 Metre Tarp Setup | Bushcraft & Camping, by Rambling On on YouTube. 1 min.
- Video length
- 1 min
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Pick a flat, sheltered spot and clear it of stones, sticks and roots. Point the low end of the shelter into the wind so gusts slide over the tarp.
Lay the 3x3 metre tarp on the ground and find the four corner eyelets and the side tie-out points.
Tie a guy line to each corner eyelet with a bowline or a simple loop knot. Leave about 2 metres of line on each.
Peg the two corners at the back of the shelter into the ground, pulling the lines tight at a low angle.
Set up two trekking poles at the front corners, about 90 to 110 cm high, and tie the front corner lines to the pole handles.
Peg the front corner lines out in front of the poles so the tarp forms a ridge. Keep the lines at roughly 45 degrees.
Tie and peg the side tie-out points to pull the walls taut. A loose tarp flaps and collects rain.
Check the ridge line is straight and the tarp is tight. Adjust the poles or pegs until there are no sagging pockets.
Peg down the back edge or add a groundsheet inside. Leave a gap at the bottom for airflow.
Tips and common mistakes
Pitch the low end into the wind and keep the tarp tight to stop it flapping in gusts.
Use a taut-line hitch on each guy line so you can tighten the tarp without untying knots.
Never pitch under dead branches or on a slope where water will run through the shelter.
Put a groundsheet down first so the tarp stays clean and dry inside.
Questions
Can I set up a tarp tent without trekking poles?
Yes. Tie the front corners to two trees or use a single pole and a ridge line between two trees. Keep the height around 90 to 110 cm.
What size tarp do I need for one person?
A 3x3 metre tarp gives a comfortable A-frame for one person plus gear. For two people, use a larger tarp or a lower pitch.
How do I stop the tarp flapping in wind?
Peg every corner and side tie-out, keep the lines at a low angle, and re-tighten the lines once the tarp settles.
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.
