Small Tarps

Are you in search of a durable, compact tarp that can withstand the elements? Look no further than our roundup of the best small tarps available on the market today. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top options that offer reliability and versatility, making them the perfect choice for any outdoor adventure.

The Top 5 Best Small Tarps

1. Boen Blue 10' x 16' All-Purpose Woven Tarp for Outdoor Protection — The Boen Blue Tarp (10' x 16') offers extra strength and durability with water-resistant and mildew-resistant properties, making it perfect for residential and commercial uses in construction and landscaping.
2. UV Resistant, Rainproof 16 mil Brown Tarp for All-Weather Protection — Versatile and durable, PROTARP’s 6 ft. x 8 ft. 16 mil Brown/Black tarp is the ultimate weatherproof solution for small and large items, making it an essential addition to any household.
3. Durable Brown Poly Tarp Cover: Heavy-Duty Protection for Outdoor Needs — Protect your valuable items from harsh weather conditions with the Xpose Safety Super Heavy Duty Brown Poly Tarp Cover, featuring 4.7-star ratings and excellent customer reviews for its durability and multipurpose uses.
4. Versatile Stansport 6'x8' Rip-Stop Polyethylene Tarp for Camping — Add durability and versatility to your camping expeditions with Stansport’s 6' x 8' Reinforced Rip Stop Polyethylene Tarp, equipped with heavy-duty rust-resistant grommets and rope-reinforced edges for a weatherproof and secure cover.
5. BOEN All-Purpose Blue Tarp: Extra Strength 12' x 16' Waterproof Option — Protect your outdoor projects with the extra-strength and rust-proof Boen General All-purpose Woven Blue Tarp, offering durability, water resistance, and mildew resistance, perfect for construction, landscaping, and more.

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Reviews

Boen Blue 10' x 16' All-Purpose Woven Tarp for Outdoor Protection

As someone who constantly seeks durable outdoor solutions, the Boen 10'x16' Blue Tarp caught my attention. It promised to be extra strong, water resistant, and rust proof, making it a go-to for various construction and outdoor projects.

Although it lived up to its promises in terms of durability and water resistance, one aspect that wasn’t up to par was the grommet spacing. While the tarp offered reinforced hems and sewn corner patches, the grommets seemed too far apart for effective tie-downs in some situations.

In using the tarp for a small-scale outdoor project, I found it highly functional. The waterproof quality proved helpful, especially when it started raining unexpectedly. However, the lack of grommets made securing the tarp a bit more challenging.

Overall, the Boen Blue Tarp is a solid choice for waterproof and protective purposes outdoors. Despite the few inconveniences, such as the grommet spacing and slightly misleading product measurements, the positives outweighed the negatives in my experience.

UV Resistant, Rainproof 16 mil Brown Tarp for All-Weather Protection

The PROTARP 6 ft. x 8 ft. Tarp is a versatile and practical must-have for any household.

With its heavy-duty 16 mil polyethylene construction and UV resistance, it provides reliable protection from harsh weather conditions. Its waterproof nature ensures wood logs, building materials, and outdoor furniture stay dry and safe. The tarp is incredibly strong, with reinforcement and metal grommets every 18 inches for easy tying down.

The heavy-duty material and 14 x 16 weave count ensure the tarp can withstand various uses without tearing or ripping. However, some customers have experienced the tarp not fitting correctly, as it was the wrong size, which can be frustrating. Overall, the PROTARP Tarp offers a durable and reliable cover for multiple purposes, catering to both small and large objects in need of protection.

Durable Brown Poly Tarp Cover: Heavy-Duty Protection for Outdoor Needs

I recently tried out this super heavy-duty Xpose Safety tarp, and I must say it has proven to be a reliable solution for protecting my valuable items from the elements. I’ve used it to cover equipment, building materials, and even for an awning at my campsite. The thick, 16 mil polyethylene material feels incredibly sturdy, and I appreciate the high fabric weave count and reinforced poly rope sewing. The hemmed, plastic-reinforced corners provide extra durability.

One of the most impressive features is the tarp’s ability to block out heavy wind and rain, keeping my items dry and protected even during harsh weather conditions. The reinforced, rust-resistant brass grommets make it easy to securely tie down the tarp, ensuring it stays in place and remains effective.

However, I did notice some downsides. Firstly, the tarp is quite heavy, which can make it slightly cumbersome to handle. Secondly, despite the manufacturer’s claims of UV resistance, I’ve noticed that the tarp’s color fades over time in direct sunlight.

In summary, the Xpose Safety tarp is a great option for protecting important items from the elements, but it could use some improvements in terms of weight and UV resistance.

Versatile Stansport 6'x8' Rip-Stop Polyethylene Tarp for Camping

Recently, I was on a camping trip and needed a good tarp to cover the ground and provide additional protection for my tent. That’s when I stumbled upon the Stansport Reinforced Rip Stop Polyethylene Tarp. At first, I was a bit hesitant since it looked quite different from the image, but it turned out to be a great addition to my camping gear for a solid price.

One of the most impressive features of this tarp is its durability. It had rope-reinforced edges and heavy-duty rust-resistant grommets, which allowed me to securely tie it down and keep any objects under it safe from the elements. Despite its sturdiness, it was surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up.

However, I did notice that it wasn’t the exact color I expected, and the manufacturer appeared to have made a mistake in the description. Despite this issue, I am happy with the overall performance, and I believe it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable tarp for their camping needs.

BOEN All-Purpose Blue Tarp: Extra Strength 12' x 16' Waterproof Option

The blue Boen all-purpose tarp is a versatile tool, perfect for construction and landscaping projects as well as for everyday life. At 12' x 16', it provides plenty of coverage for a variety of tasks. Its double laminated coating and rust proof grommets ensure durability and protection, even in harsh weather conditions.

In my experience, the tarp held up well to foot traffic and even in a light rain. The reinforced hem and sewn corner patches add an extra layer of strength.

One downside is that the grommets are quite small and not well reinforced, making it difficult to use with large bungee cords. Overall, this tarp is great for light-duty tasks but may not be ideal for heavy use or sustained moisture exposure.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to finding the right small tarp for your needs, there are various factors to consider, as each product is designed differently, fulfilling specific requirements. To ensure that you choose a suitable small tarp, this buyer’s guide will offer you insights to help make an informed decision.

Important Features to Consider

Before purchasing a small tarp, you need to consider several essential features, such as size, material, weight, color, and waterproofing. By choosing a product that fulfills these criteria, you’ll have a tarp that serves your intended purpose effectively. Let’s take a closer look at each feature in detail.

Size

The size of the small tarp plays a crucial role in determining whether it’s suitable for your needs. Consider the area you wish to cover and the size of the objects you need to shelter. Many small tarps come in various sizes, ranging from 4 x 6 feet to 6 x 8 feet. Choose a size that provides enough coverage for the items you want to protect without being too large or cumbersome to carry or store.

Material

The material of the small tarp should be tough, durable, and weather-resistant to withstand various environmental conditions. Look for tarps made of materials like polyethylene, nylon, or vinyl. These materials offer good protection from UV rays, precipitation, and wind. Pay attention to the thickness and texture of the material as well, as these factors affect the tarp’s strength and longevity.

Weight

Weight is another critical factor to consider when selecting a small tarp. Lightweight tarps are easier to carry and transport, especially if you’re planning on using them for hiking or camping. However, heavier tarps typically provide better protection from harsh weather conditions. Choose a weight that strikes a balance between portability and durability, based on your intended use.

FAQ

What is a small tarp used for?

A small tarp is typically used for providing shelter, protecting items from the elements, or covering outdoor seating areas during inclement weather. They are lightweight, portable, and easy to store, making them a popular choice for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Small tarps can also be used as ground covers during outdoor events or as a simple solution for covering a small area.

Small tarps come in various sizes and materials, such as plastic, canvas, or polyethylene. It’s essential to choose a small tarp that suits your specific needs and the intended use. For example, if you plan to use it in a rainy climate, opt for a waterproof material, and if you need it for occasional use, a lightweight and budget-friendly option may suffice.

What are the benefits of using a small tarp?

A small tarp offers several advantages, including versatility, portability, and affordability. These lightweight and compact products can be easily transported in a backpack or stored in a small space, making them ideal for those who enjoy camping or other outdoor activities. Small tarps are also practical for covering small areas, such as a picnic blanket or a bike, when you need to transport them over a short distance. Additionally, small tarps are available at various price points, making them a budget-friendly choice for those looking to purchase a basic shelter.

Small tarps can also serve as ground covers at outdoor events or concerts, protecting the grass or other surfaces from damage. This makes them a valuable tool for event organizers or those who want to maintain the appearance of their outdoor spaces. Overall, small tarps provide a simple yet effective solution for protecting items, sheltering from the elements, or covering small areas during outdoor activities.

What are the different sizes of small tarps available?

Small tarps come in a variety of sizes, catering to different needs and purposes. Common sizes for small tarps include 4x6 feet, 5x7 feet, 6x8 feet, and 8x10 feet. The choice of size depends on the intended use, the number of people using the tarp, and the size of the area that needs to be covered. For example, a 4x6 feet small tarp may be ideal for covering a single person’s camping equipment, while a 6x8 feet or 8x10 feet small tarp may provide more space and shelter for a family or a group of friends.

It’s essential to consider the size of the tarp in relation to the activities you plan to use it for, as well as the space available for storage and transport. Additionally, make sure to choose a size that is large enough to provide adequate coverage and protection from the elements but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry and manage.

What are the different types of material used to make small tarps?

Small tarps are typically made from materials such as plastic, canvas, and polyethylene. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of material depends on the intended use and personal preferences. Plastic tarps are lightweight and budget-friendly, making them a popular choice for occasional use or for covering small areas. However, they may not be as durable or weather-resistant as other materials.

Canvas tarps, on the other hand, are more durable and provide better protection from the elements. They are typically heavier and more expensive than plastic tarps but offer a combination of strength, breathability, and longevity, making them a better choice for frequent use or in harsh environments. Polyethylene tarps are another popular option, offering a balance between durability and portability. These tarps are resistant to tears, punctures, and mold, making them a suitable choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those who require a more robust and long-lasting tarp.

How do I clean a small tarp?

To clean a small tarp, you should first consult the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the recommended cleaning method is appropriate for your specific tarp. In most cases, you can use a mild detergent, warm water, and a soft-bristled brush to clean the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the fabric or coating of the tarp. It’s also essential to rinse the tarp thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue or detergent before drying it.

For plastic tarps, you can use a hose or a water sprinkler to remove dust and debris. It’s essential to avoid using high-pressure water jets or sharp objects that could damage the tarp’s surface. Once the plastic tarp is clean, you can air dry it or use a low-heat setting on a dryer to avoid melting the plastic.

How do I secure a small tarp?

Securing a small tarp depends on the intended use and the environment in which it will be set up. For camping or outdoor activities, you can use stakes and guylines to anchor the tarp to the ground. Guylines are typically attached to the corners of the tarp, and stakes are driven into the ground to hold the guylines taut. This helps to create a stable shelter and prevent the tarp from flapping in the wind or being damaged by wind gusts.

For smaller tarps, you can use ties or straps to secure them to nearby objects, such as trees, poles, or benches. This method is particularly useful when using small tarps as ground covers at outdoor events or as portable shelters for small items. Always ensure that the tarp is securely fastened to prevent it from becoming loose or being damaged by the elements.

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