Tarp Shelters

Knowing how to build a tarp shelter is very important.

This is because it is cheap, affordable and can be used in almost any way.

You can configure a tarp in anyway you want to, so that you can maximize your comfort or cover.

Why tarp shelters?

Cheap.

It doesn't cost a lot of money to get a tarp. So any one just starting out this is the perfect shelter to hold down the fort while you save up for your tent or hammock.

 Little Weight.

Tarps are lighter than most shelters. particularly tents which have metal or fiberglass parts. It is great for ultralight backpacking or cutting down on weight for any of your kits.

Fire/Cook.

Using a tarp leads for the use of a fire which is usually not possible and dangerous in a tent. The tarp shelter is properly ventilated  and this reduces condensations. Not only is having a fire possible but cooking as well this allows you for to stay dry and eat even on those raining days.

Weather.

You can use a tarp shelter in almost any weather condition. Works even better with a nice warm bedroll and a fire.

Size.

A tarp shelter can be as big as you want or as small as you. So long as you can manage it.

Customization.

You can literally put up a tarp anyway you want, to fit your specific needs and not the one size fits all strategy that we all have to face.

Nature.

With a tarp shelter you are more in tune with nature than in a tent. The tent is like your bubble of civilization completely secured from nature where as a tarp is more open. Although it depends on how you configure it. There are more options on how much you want to let in.

Why not use tarp shelters?

Bugs.

If you are in an area prone to bugs this might not be the type of shelter for you unless you have bug repellent or another means of deterring the bugs.

Breaking the skyline and or treeline.

One tends to disrupt the skyline and go way above the treeline in an effort for comfort or ease of setup. Depending on your desire you will need to learn to do a lower base shelter which can be intimidating to newcomers.

Prone to malfunctions?

A common misconception is that tarps are prone to burst, tears and leaks. Firstly, a tent is also prone to such things. Secondly if you were to buy…….lets say a cheap nylon construction tarp and place it at the bottom of your pack then drop and drag your pack along with you, no doubt you might damage the tarp. Ways to prevent this are simple keep away from sharp objects and if in doubt buy a quality tarp.

Points to note.

Skill.Learning curve. Is there a learning curve?

Well yes and no.

No because everyone already knows how to put one up. As children we put up forts using blankets and as adults we fold those blankets. We even already know how to tie simple knots.

Yes because the make more advance and creative shelters one may need to spend some time looking a pictures and some trail and error to get it right.

Types of tarps.

Cheap heavy duty tarps.

These tarps are great for beginners. Cost next to nothing and is relatively lightweight.

Commercial tarps.

These tarps are made to be the lightest the can as well as out of strong material. The pack small and one has many options. They can be a bit pricey though.

Military tarps like the British Basha.

These tarps are limited in design. Meaning there are not many sizes or colors. The pack down incredible small and weigh virtually nothing. These in my opinion are the best to choose but should only be bought by person who are sure its what they want.

Leave a comment if your enjoyed it.

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And remember survival is not a choice but a right earned at birth.

Be the Wolf!

Top three army bags

Let’s cover a little more on bags. Particularly amry surplus bags. I would like to say that in St Lucia we have no way of getting army surplus gear besides ordering it online. These are a few of my favourites that i would one day like to have and what i think they are good for.

My top three military surplus bags.

First we have the US classic …………  Alice Bag

A large ALICE pack is ideal for almost any kit. Though I must say it succeeds in the Bug Out Bag and Camp Bag setting. It is too 'army' to be used in an every day setting. It is relatively cheap. Comes in OD green.

Has an external frame which i think by far is the best feature and straps for everything. No zips to break and can stuff almost anything in it.

ALICE (all-purpose lightweight individual carrying equipment) is an equipment attachment system and accessory set officially adopted by the military in 1973. The ALICE pack has been phased out of military service though some still prefer to use it.
If you wanna get into a Bug Out bag and you live in the US this is the bag to go for.

Next we the UK classic ………. Bergen

This is my favorite big bag ever. Its is a huge 120 litre bag. Though because of the design it is more of a 80 litre bag since the 20 litre is the plastic covering(?) yea, the draw string part of the bag and I don’t like using it and the two 10 litre rocket pouches or PLCE pouches. Its more for when you reach on camp whatever extra you collect or when you unpack your stuff and you don’t want to pack it back properly.

It features a nice padded waist belt that actually fits and that was surprising since it is a one size fits all.

Has no sternum strap but you can add one easily.

Two rocket pouches. You can add them via zips or buckles or straps, so they are really not going anywhere. Can also add a camel pack in place of one of the rocket pouches. Yes you can use a normal one not necessarily a military issue one.

The two rocket pouches can be put together with a yoke to form a twenty litre day sack. A legit bag. (so cool, I want a yoke.)

 It has multiple pockets and a front utility pouch. Adjustable shoulder straps and side compression straps. Also comes in DPM camouflage.

Next we have my faourite Day Bag……….the Italian (alpini) Mountain Rucksack

Small little bag perfect for a two day hike or minimalist kit. Very waterproof. Features a main pouch and two side pouches with lacing on the outside. A strap running across the centre perfect an axe or sling shot or shovel. Straps at the bottom for latching stuff, maybe a shelter system but the straps are usually too shot, can be easily fixed with some cordage.

I feel like it was made the same time as the alice bag as it has the metal parts that is super durable. As well as its canvas material.

Shoulder straps are not that comfortable but then again it is a small bag not meant for carrying more than 50 lbs, though it could easily.

Leave a comment if your enjoyed it.

Share with your friends.

And remember survival is not a choice but a right earned at birth.

Be the Wolf!