Best Survival Tarp For Shelter, Warmth, and More (2023)
A survival tarp is an essential piece of gear in any outdoor enthusiast’s kit. With its versatility and durability, a high-quality tarp can provide shelter from the elements, offer additional protection for your gear, and even serve as an improvised signaling device in an emergency. Whether you’re planning a hike, camping trip, or preparing for a disaster scenario, a reliable survival tarp can make all the difference.
Survival tarps, like most outdoor equipment, come in various materials, sizes, and weights. Some of the most popular materials include polyethylene, silnylon, and Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
When shopping for a survival tarp, pay close attention to its construction, including its seams, reinforcements, and attachment points.
To help guide your decision and make the best choice for your needs, we spent countless hours reviewing and evaluating a variety of survival tarps, assessing their performance, materials, size, and versatility.
Best Survival Tarps
Check out our comprehensive list of top survival tarps to help you stay protected during your outdoor adventures. These tarps are versatile, durable, and provide dependable shelter for any situation you might find yourself in.
FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp
This versatile and durable tarp is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking protection from the elements during camping and hiking adventures.
Pros
- Waterproof and UV protection
- Strong and stable construction
- Heavy-duty and portable
Cons
- Not the lightest option available
- Comes with basic stakes
- Large logo on the tarp
The FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp is made from high-quality 210T ripstop polyester fabric, offering excellent waterproof properties and UV protection. This tarp is well-suited for blocking out the sun and keeping you dry during unexpected rain showers. Its durable construction, enhanced by heat sealing and melting processes, ensures a reliable and long-lasting shelter.
Although not the lightest option on the market, this tarp is heavy-duty and portable, making it a dependable choice for outdoor enthusiasts. With a size of 118″ x 126″, it provides ample coverage for two people and can be easily folded and stored in the included stuff sack when not in use. However, if weight is a major concern for you, there are lighter options available.
The tarp comes with four nylon guy lines, tensioners, and a stuff sack, making setup easy and quick. Its 19 guy points and five strengthened grommet points can be easily adjusted for various ground sheet and hammock shelter configurations. One minor downside is the large FREE SOLDIER logo on the tarp, which some users might find distracting.
Texas Bushcraft Emergency Camping Tarp
The Texas Bushcraft Tarp is a reliable, waterproof choice for those seeking protection in the great outdoors.
Pros
- Durable 70D ripstop nylon construction
- Highly waterproof with 15,000mm PU coating
- Multiple built-in tie-points for secure setup
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to other tarps
- Some quality control issues with tie-outs
- Limited color options
When exploring the wilderness, having a dependable survival tarp is essential, and the Texas Bushcraft Emergency Camping Tarp delivers on that front. Made from a strong 70D ripstop nylon material, this 10×10 tarp is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough terrain. The remarkable 15,000mm waterproof PU coating combined with heat tape seams ensures you remain dry and well-protected during storms.
As you set up camp, you’ll appreciate the built-in tie-points on this tarp. It features 14 nylon loops along the sides and 5 ridgeline loops, all made with sturdy nylon webbing and rustproof brass grommets. These secure anchor points allow for a variety of configurations which can adapt to your changing needs in the outdoors.
While the Texas Bushcraft Tarp offers a high level of protection and durability, it does come with a few minor drawbacks. The tarp is slightly heavier compared to other options on the market, and some users have reported quality control issues with the tie-outs. Additionally, the color selection is limited, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Bearhard Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket
The Bearhard Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket is an essential survival gear for the adventurer in you and offers durability, heat retention, and versatility.
Pros
- Excellent heat retention (93%)
- Tear resistant, waterproof, and windproof
- Reinforced grommets and iron stakes for multiple shelter configurations
Cons
- Strong chemical smell upon arrival
- On the heavier side (1.0lb)
- Stitching could be more robust
While exploring the outdoors, you never know when emergencies might strike. The Bearhard Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket is designed with the Duralix 3.0 material, ensuring excellent heat retention—keeps you warm even in extreme conditions. With its durability and insulation features, this blanket provides both comfort and protection in various settings, such as hiking, fishing, climbing, or hunting.
The reinforced grommets and iron stakes make this survival tarp incredibly versatile, allowing for different shelter configurations that offer optimal protection in various extreme scenarios. Furthermore, the 59″x82″ size ensures that the tarp offers adequate coverage and functionality.
However, the Bearhard Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket does come with a few drawbacks. Upon initial use, the blanket emits a potent chemical smell, although this dissipates over time. Additionally, the blanket is slightly heavier than others, making it a bit more burdensome to carry during long journeys. Also, the single stitching design could be improved for more reinforced durability.
Buying Guide
When you’re in the market for the best survival tarp, there are several factors to consider. Keep in mind your specific needs and preferences.
Material
The material of a survival tarp plays a significant role in its durability and performance. Look for tarps made from high-quality materials, such as ripstop nylon, polyethylene, or canvas. These materials resist tearing and are generally waterproof, providing excellent shelter from rain and wind.
Size and Weight
When it comes to size, think about the size of your shelter and gear you need to cover. For solo backpackers, a smaller tarp (approximately 8×10 feet) will typically suffice. However, if you’re camping with a group or setting up a basecamp, a larger tarp (10×12 feet or more) may be necessary.
Consider the weight of your tarp, too, especially if you’re backpacking. A lightweight tarp is essential for reducing your pack weight, so opt for materials like silnylon or cuben fiber to lighten the load without compromising on durability.
Reinforced Corners and Grommets
Survival tarps take a beating in the outdoors, so ensure you choose one with reinforced corners and grommets. Reinforced corners add extra strength, preventing potential rips and tears. Grommets should be sturdy and rust-resistant, so they maintain their integrity through prolonged exposure to moisture and outdoor elements.
Multi-Functionality
Your tarp should serve multiple purposes to make the most out of your gear. Look for tarps that can double as a groundsheet, emergency shelter, rainfly for your hammock or tent, or even a solar still to collect water. The more versatile a tarp is, the better prepared you’ll be in unpredictable situations.
Price
Consider the price when choosing a survival tarp. While you should invest in high-quality gear, it doesn’t mean you need to break the bank. Conduct thorough research, compare various models within your budget, and choose the one that best meets your requirements without compromising on quality.
