Camping tarps and camping shelters

Camping tarps and shelters to protect you from the elements

If you're looking to build the lightest possible camping setup, camping tarps are an excellent option. Compared to traditional backpacking tents, tarps offer significant advantages in terms of weight and cost-effectiveness. They are designed to be as light as possible, allowing you to slip them seamlessly into your backpack without taking up much space. This makes them an ideal choice for ultralight backpackers, hikers, and anyone looking to minimize their load on the trail. With a tarp in your pack, you can reduce your overall gear weight, which is crucial for long treks where every ounce counts. MEC has plenty of ultralight tarps and shelters available from epic brands like Rab, Eureka!, MSR and so much more.

Why tarps and shelters?

Going for a tarp over a tent does come with trade-offs, particularly in terms of weather protection. While a tent provides full coverage and insulation from the elements, a tarp leaves you more exposed. Still, the beauty of camping tarps lies in their versatility. Depending on how you set it up, a tarp can be configured to provide varying levels of protection against cold wind, heavy rain and even the hot sun. If you’re camping high in the mountains or deep in the woods and facing strong winds, you can angle the tarp behind you to create an effective windbreak. Alternatively, you can pitch it directly above you as a roof to shield yourself from rain or provide shade on a sunny day.

Tarps

For those who prefer car camping, tarps remain a popular choice for creating a shady and comfortable space to chill. You can easily attach a tarp to the top of your car or a roof rack, transforming it into a quick and convenient shelter from rain or sun. This setup is perfect for reading a book, eating dinner or simply taking a break from the elements. To enhance its effectiveness in wet conditions, you can treat your tarp with waterproofing spray, adding an extra layer of protection and ensuring you stay dry during unexpected showers.

Shelters

For campers who seek a bit more structure and protection, ultralight shelters offer a middle ground between tarps and tents. These shelters are designed with four walls and a roof, providing more comprehensive coverage while still maintaining an ultralight profile. They’re super useful for keeping bugs at bay, making them a great choice for summer camping trips where it’s particularly buggy. Ultralight shelters offer the convenience of a lightweight setup with the added benefit of enclosed protection, making them a great option for minimalist campers who want to stay protected from both the elements and critters.