Top 18 Tips for Staying Dry Under Your Waterproof Tarp

Here are Top 18 Tips for Staying Dry under Your Waterproof Tarps:

1. Make sure your tarp is pitched tight –

A loose tarp will let in water from above, even in light rain. In strong winds, it can also billow and allow water to blow underneath.

2. Use a groundsheet –

A groundsheet will protect the bottom of your tarp from abrasion and wear, as well as keep moisture from rising up through the ground.

3. Use guy's lines –

Guylines are lines that you attach to the corners and sides of your tarp, and then stake or tie-down to the ground. This will pull the tarp tight and help keep it from blowing away or collapsing in high winds.

4. Use appropriate stakes –

The type of stake you use will depend on the ground you're pitching your tarp on. For example, soft ground like sand or dirt will require a different type of stake than hard ground like concrete or asphalt.

5. Use a rain fly –

A rain fly is an extra layer of protection that you can add to your tarp setup. It goes over the top of your tarp and provides an additional barrier against precipitation.

6. Ventilate your shelter –

Ventilation is important for two reasons: to prevent condensation from building up inside your shelter, and to help keep you cool in hot weather.

7. Choose the right location –

When you're choosing a spot to pitch your tarp, look for an area that's flat and clear of debris. Avoid low-lying areas where water could pool, and be mindful of overhead hazards like branches or power lines.

8. Use a bivy sack –

A bivy sack is a waterproof and breathable enclosure that you can use to sleep inside your tarp shelter. It will protect you from the elements and help keep you warm in cold weather.

9. Insulate your shelter –

In colder weather, you'll need to take extra steps to insulate your shelter. This can be done with things like a groundsheet, sleeping pad, blankets, or even by using your own body heat.

10. Be prepared for bad weather –

If you know that bad weather is on the way, take the time to prepare your shelter accordingly. This may mean reinforced guy lines, additional stakes, or a rain fly.

11. Know your gear –

Before you head out into the wilderness, be sure that you know how to use all of your gear. This includes setting up and taking down your tarp shelter.

12. Practice in your backyard –

If you're new to using a tarp shelter, it's a good idea to practice setting it up in your backyard before heading out into the wild. That way, you'll be familiar with the process and less likely to make mistakes.

13. Stay dry inside your shelter –

To stay dry inside your tarp shelter, use a groundsheet and bivy sack. You can also help to keep things dry by hanging up wet clothes and gear outside of the shelter.

14. Don't touch the walls –

The walls of your tarp shelter are there to keep the weather out, so avoid touching them if possible. This will help to prevent condensation from building up on the inside of the shelter.

15. Keep your gear organized –

To make it easier to find things in your tarp shelter, keep your gear organized. This may mean using storage bags or packing everything into a duffle bag.

16. Be aware of your surroundings –

When you're camping in a tarp shelter, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. This means being aware of things like the weather, wildlife, and other hikers in the area.

17. Leave no trace –

When you're finished using your tarp shelter, make sure to leave no trace. This means packing out all of your gear and trash, and restoring the area to its natural state.

18. Have fun! –

Using a tarp shelter can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still staying dry and comfortable. So don't forget to have fun!

Conclusion:

Pitching a tarp shelter is a great way to stay dry and comfortable while camping in the wilderness. There are a few things to keep in mind when pitching your shelter, such as using appropriate stakes, ventilating the shelter, and choosing the right location. Be sure to practice setting up your shelter before heading out into the wild, and have fun!