In the survival class I teach, we learn how to use a lightweight tarp to construct an emergency shelter. Below is a terrific video by another Steve that shows several of the best ways to erect a small tarp so you can spend the night out of the weather.
I carry a small 5’x9’ silnylon tarp like the one in the video in my daypack. That way I’ll have it if I need to spend an unplanned night in the wilderness. My tarp is yellow for high visibility. But you can choose a color that best suits you.
What is your favorite tarp setup? Let me know what it is, and why you like it, by leaving a comment below.
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My favorite for an 8 x 10′ Silnylon tarp is the Bent Sapling pitch. Tie the top of a sapling near to the ground. Tie one long side of the tarp to the arc of the sapling. Stake down the opposite long side. Stake out the short sides. Lift the center of the tarp. Roomy. Great wind and water protection.
Gene, that does sound like a weather-resistant setup. From your description, it seems like the sapling will provide a nice rigid frame for the tarp. But at the same time, I assume you are careful to select a flexible sapling and tie it down securely. If the sapling is too rigid, it will store energy like a snare. And that would be bad. 🙂