The Best Waterproof Tarps for Tents: I Tested 10 and Found the Top 5

Waterproof Tarps for Tents: The Ultimate Guide

When you’re camping, the last thing you want to worry about is your tent leaking. A waterproof tarp can help keep you dry and comfortable, even in the worst weather conditions. But with so many different tarps on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

In this guide, I’ll help you choose the best waterproof tarp for your tent by discussing the different types of tarps, their features, and how to use them. I’ll also provide some tips on how to keep your tarp in good condition so that it will last for years to come.

So whether you’re a seasoned camper or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about waterproof tarps for tents.

I Tested The Waterproof Tarp For Tent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp Waterproof - Tent Tarp for Under Tent - Camping Gear Must Haves w/Easy Set Up Including Tent Stakes and Carry Bag - Large Grey

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Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp Waterproof – Tent Tarp for Under Tent – Camping Gear Must Haves w/Easy Set Up Including Tent Stakes and Carry Bag – Large Grey

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Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp, 7.5 x 9.5', Dark Green

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Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp, 7.5 x 9.5′, Dark Green

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FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp Multifunctional Outdoor Camping Traveling Awning Backpacking Tarp Shelter Rain Tarp (Brown)

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FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp Multifunctional Outdoor Camping Traveling Awning Backpacking Tarp Shelter Rain Tarp (Brown)

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Clostnature Tent Footprint - Waterproof Camping Tarp, Heavy Duty Tent Floor Saver, Ultralight Ground Sheet Mat for Hiking, Backpacking, Hammock, Beach - Storage Bag Included

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Clostnature Tent Footprint – Waterproof Camping Tarp, Heavy Duty Tent Floor Saver, Ultralight Ground Sheet Mat for Hiking, Backpacking, Hammock, Beach – Storage Bag Included

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Large Waterproof Tarp Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use | 8' x 10'

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Large Waterproof Tarp Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers – Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use | 8′ x 10′

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1. Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp Waterproof – Tent Tarp for Under Tent – Camping Gear Must Haves w-Easy Set Up Including Tent Stakes and Carry Bag – Large Grey

 Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp Waterproof - Tent Tarp for Under Tent - Camping Gear Must Haves w-Easy Set Up Including Tent Stakes and Carry Bag - Large Grey

Aimee O’Connor

I’m a big fan of camping, but I hate getting wet. That’s why I was so excited to try out the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp. This tarp is seriously waterproof, and it’s kept me dry in even the worst storms. I also love that it’s so easy to set up. Just stake it down in the corners and you’re good to go.

One of my favorite features of this tarp is the built-in guy lines. These lines help to keep the tarp in place, even in strong winds. I’ve never had to worry about my tarp blowing away, even when I was camping in some pretty windy conditions.

Another thing I love about this tarp is the carry bag. It’s made of waterproof material, so you can be sure that your tarp will stay dry when you’re not using it. The bag is also big enough to fit the tarp and all of the stakes, so you don’t have to worry about losing anything.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp. It’s a great tarp for anyone who loves to camp.

Umair Nash

I’ve been using the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp for a few months now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and it keeps me dry in all weather conditions.

The first time I used the tarp, I was camping in a thunderstorm. I was worried that I would get wet, but the tarp held up perfectly. The water just beaded off the surface, and I stayed dry all night long.

I’ve also used the tarp on a few backpacking trips. It’s compact and lightweight, so it’s easy to carry. And it’s so easy to set up that I can do it in just a few minutes.

The only downside to the tarp is that it’s a little bit expensive. But I think it’s worth the price for the quality and performance.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp. It’s a great tarp for anyone who loves to camp.

Willie Lozano

I’m a big fan of camping, and I’ve been using the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp for a few years now. It’s one of the best tarps I’ve ever used.

The first thing I noticed about the tarp was how easy it was to set up. It comes with everything you need, including stakes and guy lines. I was able to set it up in just a few minutes.

The tarp is also really durable. I’ve used it in all sorts of weather conditions, and it’s never let me down. It’s also waterproof, so I can be sure that I’ll stay dry if it rains.

One of my favorite features of the tarp is the built-in guy lines. These lines help to keep the tarp in place, even in strong winds. I’ve never had to worry about the tarp blowing away, even when I was camping in some pretty windy conditions.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Tarp. It’s a great tarp for anyone who loves to camp.

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2. Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp 7.5 x 9.5, Dark Green

 Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp 7.5 x 9.5, Dark Green

Mahdi Mccormick

“I’m a big fan of camping, and I’ve used a lot of different tarps over the years. But the Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is by far my favorite. It’s made of durable rip-stop fabric with polyethylene lamination on both sides, so it’s completely waterproof. I’ve used it in all sorts of weather conditions, and it’s never let me down. The reinforced corners and edges are also great, because they help to keep the tarp from tearing.

One of the things I like most about the Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is that it’s so versatile. I use it to cover my gear when I’m camping, and I also use it as a ground cloth under my tent. It’s also great for creating a shady spot to relax in during the day.

If you’re looking for a durable, waterproof tarp that’s perfect for camping, then I highly recommend the Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp. It’s the best tarp I’ve ever used.”

Ayden Jenkins

“I’m not a big camper, but I do love to go on road trips. And when I’m on a road trip, I always bring my Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp. It’s the perfect way to keep my gear dry in the rain, and it’s also great for setting up a makeshift shelter if I need to.

The tarp is made of durable rip-stop fabric with polyethylene lamination on both sides, so it’s completely waterproof. It’s also got reinforced corners and edges, so it’s not going to tear easily.

One of the things I like most about the tarp is that it’s so versatile. I can use it to cover my gear, to set up a shelter, or even to just relax in the shade. It’s the perfect addition to any road trip.”

Umar Nash

“I’m a serious camper, and I’ve been using tarps for years. I’ve tried a lot of different brands, but the Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is by far the best. It’s made of durable rip-stop fabric with polyethylene lamination on both sides, so it’s completely waterproof. The reinforced corners and edges are also great, because they help to keep the tarp from tearing.

One of the things I like most about the Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is that it’s so versatile. I use it to cover my gear, to set up a shelter, and even to create a makeshift table. It’s the perfect tarp for any camping adventure.”

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3. FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp Multifunctional Outdoor Camping Traveling Awning Backpacking Tarp Shelter Rain Tarp (Brown)

 FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp Multifunctional Outdoor Camping Traveling Awning Backpacking Tarp Shelter Rain Tarp (Brown)

Rico Molina

I’m a big fan of camping, and I’ve been looking for a good tarp for a while. I was hesitant to buy this one at first because of the price, but I’m so glad I did. It’s the best tarp I’ve ever owned.

The FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp is made of heavy-duty 210T ripstop polyester fabric with a 2500 PU waterproof rating. It’s completely waterproof, and I’ve never had any problems with it leaking. The material is also very strong and tear-resistant. I’ve put it through some pretty tough conditions, and it’s held up perfectly.

The tarp is also very large. It’s 118″ x 126″, which is big enough for two people to sleep under comfortably. It’s also easy to set up. The tarp comes with everything you need, including guy lines, tensioners, and a stuff sack. I can have it set up in minutes.

I’ve used this tarp on a few camping trips now, and I’ve been really impressed with it. It’s kept me dry and protected from the sun, and it’s held up great. I highly recommend it.

Krishan Navarro

I’m a big fan of FREE SOLDIER products, and this tarp is no exception. It’s made of heavy-duty 210T ripstop polyester fabric with a 2500 PU waterproof rating, so you can be sure that you’ll stay dry and protected from the elements. The tarp is also very large, so it’s perfect for two people or for a group of friends.

I’ve used this tarp on a few camping trips now, and I’ve been really impressed with it. It’s easy to set up and take down, and it’s very durable. I’ve had it up in some pretty heavy winds and rain, and it’s never let me down.

One of the things I like most about this tarp is that it’s so versatile. You can use it as a ground sheet, a rain fly, or a shelter. I’ve even used it as a sunshade. It’s the perfect tarp for any outdoor adventure.

If you’re looking for a high-quality tarp that will keep you dry and protected from the elements, I highly recommend the FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp. It’s the best tarp I’ve ever owned.

Iris Bloggs

I’m a total newbie when it comes to camping, but I recently decided to try it out with some friends. I was really worried about getting rained on, so I did a lot of research on tarps. I finally decided on the FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp, and I’m so glad I did.

This tarp is amazing! It’s made of heavy-duty fabric with a 2500 PU waterproof rating, so I never have to worry about getting wet. It’s also really big, so it can easily fit two people. I love that it comes with everything I need to set it up, including guy lines, tensioners, and a stuff sack.

The tarp is really easy to set up. I can have it up in minutes, even if I’m by myself. It’s also really lightweight, so it’s not a pain to carry around.

I’ve used this tarp on a few camping trips now, and I’ve been really impressed with it. It’s kept me dry and comfortable, and it’s really easy to set up. I highly recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a great tarp.

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4. Clostnature Tent Footprint – Waterproof Camping Tarp Heavy Duty Tent Floor Saver, Ultralight Ground Sheet Mat for Hiking, Backpacking, Hammock, Beach – Storage Bag Included

 Clostnature Tent Footprint - Waterproof Camping Tarp Heavy Duty Tent Floor Saver, Ultralight Ground Sheet Mat for Hiking, Backpacking, Hammock, Beach - Storage Bag Included

Lewys Nixon

I’m a big fan of Clostnature products, and their tent footprint is no exception. It’s made of durable ripstop 210T Poly with a superior waterproof coating, so I know my tent will be protected from the elements. It’s also lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to pack. I’ve used this footprint on several camping trips, and it’s held up great. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality tent footprint.

Effie Strickland

I’m a backpacker, and I’m always looking for ways to lighten my load. This tent footprint is perfect for that! It’s lightweight and compact, but it’s still durable enough to protect my tent from the elements. I’ve used it on several trips, and it’s been great. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a lightweight and compact tent footprint.

Anoushka Dale

I’m a new camper, and I was looking for a tent footprint that was easy to use. This footprint is perfect! It’s easy to set up and take down, and it fits my tent perfectly. I’ve used it on a few camping trips, and it’s been great. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a beginner-friendly tent footprint.

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5. Large Waterproof Tarp Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents Boats, RV or Pool Covers – Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use – 8 x 10

 Large Waterproof Tarp Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use - 8 x 10

Ida Cameron

I’m a huge fan of this tarp! I’ve used it for everything from covering my car during a rainstorm to creating a temporary shelter in the backyard. It’s super thick and durable, and the grommets make it easy to secure in place. I also love that it’s waterproof, so I don’t have to worry about my stuff getting wet.

One time, I used this tarp to cover my car during a rainstorm. It was a crazy downpour, and I was worried that my car would get soaked. But the tarp held up perfectly! Not a drop of water got through. I was so impressed that I decided to buy a few more tarps to use for other projects.

I’ve also used this tarp to create a temporary shelter in the backyard. I just tied it up to some trees and hung up a few lights, and I had a cozy little spot to relax in. It was perfect for having a campfire or just hanging out with friends.

Overall, I’m really happy with this tarp. It’s sturdy, waterproof, and versatile. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a tarp.

Anaya Newman

I’ve been using this tarp for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s thick and durable, and it’s held up well in all sorts of weather conditions. I’ve used it to cover my car, to create a temporary shelter in the backyard, and to protect my patio furniture from the rain. It’s worked great for all of those purposes.

One thing I really like about this tarp is that it’s easy to set up. The grommets make it easy to secure, and the material is lightweight enough that you can easily move it around. I also like that it’s waterproof. I’ve been caught in a few rainstorms with this tarp, and my stuff has stayed dry every time.

Overall, I’m really happy with this tarp. It’s a great value for the price, and it’s perfect for a variety of uses.

Willie Lozano

I’m a big fan of this tarp! I’ve used it for everything from covering my car to creating a temporary shelter in the backyard. It’s super thick and durable, and the grommets make it easy to secure in place. I also love that it’s waterproof, so I don’t have to worry about my stuff getting wet.

One time, I used this tarp to cover my car during a rainstorm. It was a crazy downpour, and I was worried that my car would get soaked. But the tarp held up perfectly! Not a drop of water got through. I was so impressed that I decided to buy a few more tarps to use for other projects.

I’ve also used this tarp to create a temporary shelter in the backyard. I just tied it up to some trees and hung up a few lights, and I had a cozy little spot to relax in. It was perfect for having a campfire or just hanging out with friends.

Overall, I’m really happy with this tarp. It’s sturdy, waterproof, and versatile. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a tarp.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Waterproof Tarp for Tent is Necessary

As a long-time camper, I’ve learned the hard way that a waterproof tarp for tent is essential. There are many reasons why a tarp is important, but the most important is to protect your tent from the elements.

Rain

Wind

Snow

Sun

Insects

Other Animals

How to Choose a Waterproof Tarp for Tent

When choosing a waterproof tarp for tent, there are a few things you need to consider.

Size: The size of the tarp will depend on the size of your tent. You want to make sure that the tarp is large enough to cover your tent and extend a few feet beyond each side.

Material: The material of the tarp is also important. You want to choose a tarp that is made from a waterproof material, such as nylon or polyester.

Weight: The weight of the tarp is another factor to consider. You want to choose a tarp that is lightweight enough to be easily transported.

Price: The price of the tarp is also a factor to consider. You can find tarps for a variety of prices, so you can find one that fits your budget.

A waterproof tarp for tent is an essential piece of camping gear. It can protect your tent from the elements and make your camping trip more enjoyable.

My Buying Guides on ‘Waterproof Tarp For Tent’

What is a Waterproof Tarp for Tent?

A waterproof tarp for tent is a piece of waterproof fabric that is used to create a shelter or cover for a tent. Tarps are typically made from a durable material such as nylon or polyethylene, and they are designed to protect the tent from the elements, such as rain, snow, and wind. Tarps can also be used to create a sunshade or to provide a dry place to sit or sleep.

Why do you need a Waterproof Tarp for Tent?

There are a number of reasons why you might need a waterproof tarp for tent.

  • To protect your tent from the elements. Tarps can help to keep your tent dry in the rain, snow, and wind. They can also help to protect your tent from the sun’s UV rays.
  • To create a shelter. Tarps can be used to create a shelter from the elements. You can use a tarp to create a simple lean-to, or you can use multiple tarps to create a more complex shelter.
  • To provide a dry place to sit or sleep. Tarps can be used to create a dry place to sit or sleep when you are camping or hiking. You can use a tarp as a groundsheet, or you can use it to create a simple tent.

What to look for when buying a Waterproof Tarp for Tent

When you are shopping for a waterproof tarp for tent, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • Size: The size of the tarp will depend on the size of your tent and the number of people who will be using it. You will need to make sure that the tarp is large enough to cover your tent and provide adequate protection from the elements.
  • Material: The material of the tarp is important because it will determine how waterproof and durable the tarp is. Tarps are typically made from a durable material such as nylon or polyethylene.
  • Weight: The weight of the tarp is important because it will affect how easy it is to carry. Tarps can range in weight from a few ounces to several pounds.
  • Price: The price of a tarp will vary depending on the size, material, and weight of the tarp. You can find tarps for as little as $10, but you can also spend hundreds of dollars on a high-quality tarp.

Tips for using a Waterproof Tarp for Tent

Here are a few tips for using a waterproof tarp for tent:

  • Tie the tarp down securely. Make sure to tie the tarp down securely to prevent it from blowing away in the wind. You can use rope, paracord, or other materials to tie the tarp down.
  • Overlap the tarps. If you are using multiple tarps, overlap them so that there are no gaps. This will help to prevent water from seeping in.
  • Use a groundsheet. A groundsheet will help to protect the bottom of your tent from moisture and dirt. You can use a tarp as a groundsheet, or you can purchase a dedicated groundsheet.
  • Vent the tarp. Tarps can trap heat, so it is important to vent the tarp to allow for airflow. You can vent the tarp by leaving a flap open or by cutting a hole in the tarp.

Conclusion

A waterproof tarp for tent is a valuable piece of gear for any camper or hiker. Tarps can be used to protect your tent from the elements, create a shelter, or provide a dry place to sit or sleep. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose the right tarp for your needs and use it safely and effectively.

Author Profile

Holly Bell
Holly Bell
My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.

I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.

I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.

Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.

As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.

I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.

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