Tarp Shelter vs Tent: Which Works Best for Camping Trips?

Choosing the right shelter for a camping trip is the foundation for a successful adventure. But how do you know what type of shelter to use? With so many options on the market to choose from, the best thing to do is keep it simple. Tarps and tents both offer incredible shelter from the natural elements. Although they are distinctly different and better suited for different scenarios. So discover the best type of shelter for your adventure!

Canvas Tarps vs Tents

When it comes to camping gear, we all know how important both tents and tarps are. These are two of the most foundational pieces to a great campsite! But which to use for a shelter? In this blog, we are going to cover all the ins and outs of what makes these two items so reliable, and the best uses for both tarps and tents. By the end of it, you will be well on your way to having the ultimate camping shelter setup!

The Benefits of Canvas for Outdoor Use

Whether you opt for tarps or tents, it all comes down to one thing: the material. Comfort, weatherproofing, durability, and so much more depend on what material you choose. 100% army duck cotton canvas is by far the best, most reliable option for all things outdoors. 

This canvas has it all. From breathability to insulation to weatherproofing. For the safest and most comfortable outdoor living experience, choose canvas! Let’s dive into some of Canvas’ best features, sure to enhance comfort and durability.

Natural Temperature Regulation

No one likes a stuffy sleeping situation. Or a freezing one, for that matter! Cotton canvas naturally regulates temperature, to ensure comfortable conditions no matter what. The trick? It’s both breathable and insulating. That means it is equal parts cooling and warming, adjusting depending on the outside temperature. The natural fibers allow air to flow through and to trap heat. This breathability and insulation help manage moisture. Unlike on nylon or other synthetic fabrics, condensation doesn’t develop on the canvas, stopping mold, mildew, and deterioration from occurring. This is an especially important quality to have in outdoor gear that you’ll be using year-round.

Unmatched Durability

Whatever type of shelter you choose, you need one that is rugged enough to withstand years of adventures. With canvas, the rugged fibers naturally resist general wear and tear. With double-stitched seams, too, the material is even stronger. In high winds, heavy rain, or harsh sun, canvas is going to stay tough!

Real-Deal Weatherproofing

When treated with extra weatherproofing finishes, canvas’s durability doubles. A waterproof or water-resistant finish helps precipitation roll off of it, rather than absorb it. Even a UV-blocking finish helps protect campers from harmful sunrays. It also blocks the heat, keeping the interior nice and cool. And for even more safety, canvas can be treated with a fire-retardant finish. So in a tent, or in extreme heat, your canvas shelter remains a safe haven.

Everything You Need to Know About Tarp Shelters

A canvas tarp is a key ingredient to outdoor adventures. Whether it is being used as a tent accessory or as a full-blown shelter. Canvas tarps are protective and highly durable. So what are the best ways to use it as a shelter? Whether you’re experimenting with ultralight packing or need an emergency shelter, a heavy-duty tarp will serve you well. Here are just a few of the best ways to use a tarp shelter!

Emergency Shelters

In the outdoors, anything can happen. Plan for it! You may find yourself in a pinch. Be that stuck in a rain storm, snow storm, or at night when the temperature rapidly drops.

One of the best ways to use a tarp as a shelter is in emergency situations. Like we discussed earlier, this minimalist gear item packs a punch when it comes to protection. Weatherproofing and natural durability are its superpowers. But the best quality it offers is perhaps its insulation. While you’re hunkered down, you won’t have to worry about staying warm and dry! Keep one in the car or your backpack with extra guylines. 

Temporary Shelters

Tarps make awesome temporary shelters. If you’re going on a quick trip and need something minimal for the night, you can count on it. Or, if you’re taking a breather on a hot day, on the beach, or on a sunny hillside. Tarps are easy to prop up with some extra stakes and guylines as needed. Bonus points if your tarp has grommets! Depending on what the conditions call for, there are numerous types and styles of tarp shelters to set up. We recommend learning and practicing at least a couple of them to know off the top of your head, just in case. Check out this helpful article to learn some!

Backyard Camping

Every good adventurer knows– you don’t have to go far from home to have one! Use your tarp as a makeshift backyard camping setup! The pressure is off with this one. Since you’re already close to home, you don’t necessarily need to worry about making it super-duper secure. However, it does make for good practice once you are out in the field, or in case of an emergency. Jury rig a simple tent structure for the night, and sleep under the stars! 

Why Tents are the Best Shelter for Camping

From spacious glamping yurts to a two-person scout tent. Tents are the ultimate way to camp. Canvas makes for an unbeatable camping tent. Whatever the season, conditions, or terrain, these shelters provide practicality, style, and comfort. Those who want to camp in comfort, have a long-term outdoor stay, and generally experience a classic camping trip, opt for a tent. The good news is, there are so many different kinds! Discover the perfect camping tent for you and all the adventures you plan to have. 

Canvas Wall Tents

The best tents are canvas wall tents. With a galvanized steel framework, a basic shelter turns into a home-away-from-home. Having tall walls and a ceiling adds lots of walking and standing room. Even in a smaller structure, like a two or three-person tent, this height makes a noticeable difference. There’s room to store gear, too. So for longer-term campers and hunters, this is ideal. 

Shock-absorbing grounding systems and weather-proofing help break the wind, too. This durability lasts for years, too. So for campers who like to get out and about all year long, a wall tent is a great investment.

A Style for Every Kind of Camper

Wall tents come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. There is definitely one for everybody. Decide what sort of adventure you are going on, and find out which one best suits your style.

Glampers will fall in love with a canvas yurt. These iconic cylindrical domes are ultra cozy and stylish. There is room to fully furnish, too, if you so choose. Yurts are popular styles for music festivals and semi-permanent structures.

Bell tents are great for hosting large groups, events, and basecamps. These are shaped much like their name suggests. The circular body and pointed center ceiling allow for lots of sleeping arrangements, table setups, and gear storage. 

Scout tents are a fun, nostalgic tent style. These provide plenty of room for families, couples, and furry friends to enjoy. Their simple design makes them efficient to set up and tear down. Built for all seasons, scout tents are an awesome choice for all campers!

Comfort and Safety Features

Tents often include technical features to make them livable and practical. Some of the best features to look out for are things that enhance safety and comfort. For example, a built-in stove jack instantly gives the option to install a tent stove. That piece alone turns a regular shelter into a multi-season cozy getaway.

A sewn-in groundsheet makes it easy to keep the interior clean. Simply sweep out dirt and debris, and don’t worry about having to add an extra layer for protection. Added protection and privacy come from window and door covers, too. Roof vents allow just a little extra ventilation for comfortable interior air. Tents are the best outdoor living spaces!

Final Thoughts

Tarps and tents are two of the most essential outdoor adventure ingredients. But knowing which to use as a shelter takes a bit of consideration. Depending on the type of trip you are embarking on and what the conditions are, it is very important. No matter what, canvas is the best material to look out for. Its natural durability and weatherproofing make it a reliable material. Tarps make incredible emergency and temporary shelters. And tents are certainly the ultimate choice for longer-term, multi-season excursions.

Happy camping!