5 TARPING TIPS

Practice makes perfect Test-run your tarp 1 in the garden, fine-tuning your set-up so it’s as taught, strong and stable as possible. Prepare your kit Knowing exactly how many 2 pegs, guy lines and trekking poles you need to set your tarp up will ensure a precise pitch at the minimum weight.

Plan for the terrain Shaped tarps are best 3 for a low-profile pitch (to block out the horizontal rain of the mountains); flat tarps are great in forests where a ridgeline can be hung between trees.

Choose your camp spot wisely 4

Pick a spot that’s as flat, dry and sheltered as possible, and pitch so your entrance is facing away from the prevailing wind. Protect your sleeping bag 5 Some campers use a bivvy to protect their sleeping bag from the wet ground. Others pitch their tarp so that part of it creates a groundsheet.