Best Tarps for Backpacking of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 24, 2026

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Tarps are a must-have for any backpacker heading out into the great outdoors. These lightweight and versatile shelters provide protection from the elements while taking up minimal space in a backpack. Made from durable materials such as nylon or polyester, tarps can be set up in a variety of configurations to suit any terrain or weather conditions. They can be used as a simple overhead shelter or pitched close to the ground for added protection from wind and rain. With a variety of sizes and shapes available, tarps are an essential piece of gear for any backpacker looking to travel light and stay dry.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Kotap 5-mil Poly Tarp 12x18 Ft Cover #TOP 1
Kotap 5-mil Poly Tarp 12x18 Ft
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking Cover #TOP 2
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp Cover #TOP 3
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Tarps for Backpacking

#TOP 1

Kotap 5-mil Poly Tarp 12x18 Ft

TRA-1218
Blue
12 x 18 Ft.
Kotap 5-mil Poly Tarp 12x18 Ft Cover
Kotap 12 x 18 Ft. All-Purpose Multi-Use Protection/Coverage 5-mil Poly Tarp, Waterproof, Blue, (TRA-1218)

The Kotap Blue Poly Tarp is a versatile and durable cover designed to protect your belongings in many situations. It measures just under 12 by 18 feet, giving you plenty of coverage for various tasks. Made from tightly woven, coated polyethylene, it resists wear and tear while staying lightweight, so you can easily carry and handle it. The tarp features rust-proof aluminum grommets spaced every three feet and at each corner, making it simple to secure and tie down. Additionally, its edges are heat-sealed and reinforced with rope, boosting its strength and helping it last longer. This tarp is a reliable choice for camping, covering wood piles, or any light protective use.

What We Like
Durable 5-mil thickness
Rust-proof aluminum grommets
Heat-sealed reinforced edges
Lightweight and easy to handle
#TOP 2

Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking

Blue
6 Feet x 8 Feet
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp for Tent Camping, Bike, Backpacking Cover
Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp - Aluminum Grommet Every 3 feet - Mildew/Rot Resistant - 3.5 mil Thickness - Waterproof - Tarp for Tent Camping. Bike, Backpacking - Multi use tarp (6' x 8')

The Rocky Mountain Goods Light Duty Tarp is a versatile and durable tarpaulin that can be used for multiple purposes, including tent camping, bike, and backpacking. It features a waterproof design with a 3.5 mil thickness, making it resistant to mildew and rot. The aluminum grommets are spaced out every 3 feet, making it easy to tie down. This tarp comes with a 1-year warranty, ensuring that you get the best value for your money.

What We Like
Durable and versatile for multiple purposes
Waterproof design with mildew and rot resistance
Aluminum grommets spaced every 3 feet for easy tie down
#TOP 3

AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp

TPLE02
Green
10 x 15 FT
AYAMAYA 10x15 FT Camping Tarp Cover
Camping Tarp with Poles - AYAMAYA Large Size 10x15 FT Tent Tarps - Waterproof Hammock Awnings Canopy Rain Fly Picnic Mat Survival Shelter for Backpacking Hiking Beach Sun Shade with Stakes & Guylines

The AYAMAYA Camping Tarp offers a generous 10x15 feet of coverage, making it perfect for accommodating up to 10 people in hammocks or tents. Its 100% waterproof design, crafted from durable PU 2000 210T ripstop polyester, ensures you stay dry during unexpected rain. With 8 metal grommets, you can easily set up the tarp in various configurations to fit your needs. The included adjustable poles allow you to customize the height from 16 to 81 inches, providing flexibility for different camping scenarios. This tarp is designed to enhance your outdoor experience with convenience and reliability.

What We Like
Large coverage area
Durable waterproof material
Versatile setup options
Adjustable height poles
#TOP 4

Arcturus XL Survival Tarp

NC-AWSB-XL-WC
Woodland Camo
X Large
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp Cover
Arcturus XL Survival Tarp - Insulated Reflective Thermal Camping Tarp - 8.5' x 12' (Woodland Camo)

The Arcturus Survival Tarp is an all-weather blanket that can be used as a ground tarp, shelter, tent, or emergency blanket. It features a Mylar reflective side that can reflect heat, create a radiant barrier, or signal for help. The other side is made of two layers of polypropylene, which creates a waterproof barrier. This reflective tarp is super versatile and lightweight, weighing just over 4 pounds and packing down to 4” x 12” x 16" inside the included carry bag. With 14 reinforced tie-down grommets, it's easy to hang and secure to reflect or deflect heat and create a waterproof shelter. Keep it close at hand, and you'll be surprised at all the use cases you'll find for it, from survival situations to beach outings and everything in between.

What We Like
Lightweight
Waterproof
Reflective
Versatile
#TOP 5

Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp Cover

Tarp Cover 5ftx5ft
Black
5x5ft
Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp Cover Cover
Black Waterproof Tarp Cover for Outdoor: Multi-Purpose Oxford Tarpaulin with Reinforced Webbing Loops for Camping Boat Pool Roof Tent - Durable and Tear Resistant (5ftx5ft)

The Honsaifau Tarp Cover is designed to keep your belongings protected from the elements. Its waterproof polyester fabric ensures that rain or snow won’t ruin your gear, while also shielding you from harmful UV rays. With its lightweight design, you can easily transport and set it up anywhere, whether you need a sunshade or a rain cover. The reinforced webbing loops provide secure attachment points, making it easy to tie down or hang the tarp for reliable shelter. This multi-purpose tarp is perfect for camping, picnics, or any outdoor activity, offering you versatile protection wherever you go.

What We Like
Waterproof and weather resistant
Lightweight and portable
Reinforced attachment points
Multi-purpose for outdoor activities
#TOP 6

RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 12x16 Feet

Camo
12x16 Feet
RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 12x16 Feet Cover
RAINDEWAY Camo Tarp 12x16 Feet - 7 Mil Thickness Waterproof Cover for Outdoor Camping, Hunting, Backpacking, Canopy Tent, Ground, Boat, Motorcycles, Roofs, Wood, RV and More

Raindeway Camo Tarp is a high-quality, durable, and multi-purpose tarp that is perfect for all your outdoor needs. Made of tightly woven polyethylene fibers, this waterproof and windproof tarp can withstand any weather conditions. Its reinforced metal grommets holes and tear-resistant edges ensure a secure and long-lasting use. Whether you need to cover your car, boat, or roof, protect wood and building materials, or use it for camping, hunting, or backpacking, this tarp has got you covered. It is portable and compact, making it easy to carry and store. With Raindeway Camo Tarp, you can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind knowing that your belongings are protected from the elements.

What We Like
High-quality
Durable
Multi-purpose
#TOP 7

KING-A-MA-JIGS 10x12 Ft Waterproof Tarps 2-Pack

43483-21074
Blue, Silver
10'x12' - 2 Pack
KING-A-MA-JIGS 10x12 Ft Waterproof Tarps 2-Pack Cover
(2 Pack) 10x12 Ft Tarps, Waterproof Plastic Poly 5.5 Mil Thick Tarpaulin with Metal Grommets Every 18in - Emergency Rain Shelter, Outdoor Cover and Camping Use - (Reversible, Blue and Silver)

The KING-A-MA-JIGS Waterproof Tarps offer a reliable and lightweight solution for your outdoor needs. These tarps are designed to be durable yet easy to carry, making them perfect for camping, hunting, or emergency use without adding extra bulk. You can trust the brand’s commitment to quality with a full satisfaction guarantee, ensuring you get the best value and support. Their 5.5 mil thickness and reinforced corners provide solid protection, while the metal grommets spaced every 18 inches make securing the tarp simple and convenient. This product balances affordability with dependable performance for everyday outdoor protection.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Durable 5.5 mil thickness
Full satisfaction guarantee
Reinforced corners and hems
Metal grommets every 18 inches
#TOP 8

Honsaifau Black Waterproof Oxford Tarp 5x8ft

Tarp Cover 5ft x 8ft
Black
5x8ft
Honsaifau Black Waterproof Oxford Tarp 5x8ft Cover
Black Waterproof Tarp Cover for Outdoor: Multi-Purpose Oxford Tarpaulin with Reinforced Webbing Loops for Camping Boat Pool Roof Tent - Durable and Tear Resistant (5ftx8ft)

The Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp is a reliable outdoor cover that keeps your gear dry and safe. Its strong polyester fabric resists water and shields you from harmful UV rays, perfect for all kinds of weather. This tarp is lightweight, making it easy for you to carry and set up wherever you go, whether you need shelter from sun or rain, or a ground cover. The reinforced webbing loops along the edges let you securely tie it down or hang it up, so it stays put in windy conditions. With these features, the Honsaifau Waterproof Tarp offers versatile and dependable protection on your outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Waterproof and UV resistant
Lightweight and portable
Reinforced webbing loops
Multi-purpose use
#TOP 9

Outdoor Products Plastic Tarp 8x10 ft

617OP-BLU
Blue
8 ft x 10 ft
Outdoor Products Plastic Tarp 8x10 ft Cover
Outdoor Products Plastic Tarp (8 ft x 10 ft) , Blue

The Outdoor Products Blue Tarp is a versatile and reliable gear piece perfect for many uses like camping, yard work, and emergency situations. Its durable woven nylon material makes it strong yet easy to carry and store, so you can take it anywhere without hassle. The tarp is coated with a tough polyethylene layer and has rust-proof aluminum grommets spaced every three feet, allowing you to secure it firmly in place during windy or rainy conditions. With reinforced edges and rope seams, this tarp offers extra durability and protection. Plus, its size fits well for covering tents or creating shelter on your outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Durable woven nylon
Rust-proof aluminum grommets
Reinforced heat-sealed edges
High-density polyethylene coating
#TOP 10

XL Heavy Duty 7x9 ft All-Weather Tarp

XL
XL001PE
Green
Standard
XL Heavy Duty 7x9 ft All-Weather Tarp Cover
XL Heavy Duty Tarp 7x9 ft - All-Weather Tent 5 Mil Tarp Ground Nails Reinforced Corners Equipped Storage Bag for Truck, Boat, & Outdoor Furniture Covers Resistant Year-Round Use Multipurpose Tarps

The XL Heavy Duty Tarp is designed to protect your belongings all year round. Made from strong polyethylene fabric, it keeps you safe from rain, snow, and harsh weather. Its reinforced edges and triple-stitched hems prevent tears, so you can trust it to last through tough conditions. Rust-proof aluminum grommets let you secure the tarp firmly, even in windy storms, giving you peace of mind. Plus, the heat-sealed seams make it truly waterproof, ensuring your gear stays dry no matter the weather. Whether you need to cover outdoor furniture, your truck bed, or camping gear, this tarp offers reliable and versatile protection.

What We Like
Durable tear-resistant construction
Rust-proof secure grommets
Fully waterproof with sealed seams
Reinforced edges for strength
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our tarp for backpacking research, we found 24 tarp for backpacking products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 118,375 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tarps for backpacking list. We found that most customers choose tarps for backpacking with an average price of $16.65.

The tarps for backpacking are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tarps for backpacking, including Kotap, Rocky Mountain Radar, AYAMAYA, Arcturus, Honsaifau. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.