Everyone, what kind of tarp are you looking for? This time, we have completely excluded solo camping and focused solely on recommending tarps for family camping.
If you introduce a tarp, even if you like camping but dread rainy days, you will surely be able to spend a comfortable day.
What types of tarps are there? What kind of tarp is best for my family? What is the necessary water pressure resistance?
Reading this article will answer these questions and help you find the perfect tarp for you.
Types of Tarps for Family Camping
What is a Hexa Tarp?
A hexa tarp refers to a tarp with a hexagonal fabric shape.
It is easy for beginners to set up and offers a wide range of pitching arrangements.
If you only want to see hexa tarps, please see below.
＞＞【Comparison Survey】Recommended Hexa Tarp Models for Camping
What is a Recta Tarp?
A recta tarp refers to a tarp with a rectangular fabric shape.
While hexa tarps are characterized by easy entry and exit, recta tarps have straight edges, which can make entry and exit slightly less convenient. However, they offer a larger area for blocking sunlight.
What is a Wing Tarp?
A wing tarp refers to a tarp with a diamond shape when spread out.
The fabric itself has a relatively small area, and many products are lightweight and compact.
This type is suitable for motorcycle tourists who want to minimize their luggage, or for those traveling on foot or by bicycle, for whom lighter luggage is always better.
What is a Square Tarp?
A square tarp, as its name suggests, is square-shaped when spread out.
While the types introduced so far typically use only poles in the center, square tarps generally use a total of six poles: one in the center and one at each of the four corners.
This requires more effort to set up, but the main purpose of a square tarp is for large groups, so setting it up together makes the process much easier.
By pitching the four corners, you can create a spacious and open living area.
How to Choose a Tarp for Family Camping
Size
Just like tents, tarps come in various sizes.
Considering placing dishes, chairs, and tables for relaxing, it's best to choose a size for 1 to 2 more people than your actual number of users.
The larger the size, the more area it can protect from rain, but if you're too ambitious, setup can become difficult. Therefore, it's important to choose a size that accommodates 1 to 2 more people than you expect.
Water Pressure Resistance
When purchasing, water pressure resistance is a concern. This is indicated by numbers like 1000mm or 3000mm.
You often see around 1500mm.
This number represents the height of water in millimeters that can be placed on 1 cm² of fabric without penetrating it.
It's a bit hard to understand.
I've attached an easy-to-understand diagram.
A typical rain umbrella has a water pressure resistance of about 450mm, so considering the usage situation, a higher number provides more peace of mind, but 1000mm is sufficient to function effectively.
If you're concerned, choose a product with a water pressure resistance of 1500mm or more.
With 1500mm, it will not seep through during normal rain.
With a 3000mm product, you can comfortably spend time even in heavy rain.
If you plan to camp in a rainy region, you might consider purchasing one.
UV Transmittance
UV transmittance refers to the percentage of UV rays that a product blocks.
If the UV transmittance is 90%, it means that only 10% of UV rays pass through.
This depends on the color and thickness of the fabric, as well as whether it is coated.
Color-wise, the closer to black (darker, deeper colors), the better. Thickness is often indicated by a number like 190D (denier).
For tarps, 190D is often a benchmark for judging whether it's thick or thin.
Finally, coating. Some products have a silver coating on the back of the fabric.
This coating allows for increased light blocking without making the fabric thicker.
It's the "silver" in the silver mat you lay down when sleeping.
Ease of Setup
Essentially, the setup procedure is the same for all types of tarps.
As the size increases, it becomes more susceptible to wind, but by performing each step correctly, you can achieve a taut and neat tarp that won't collapse.
While it's possible to set it up alone once you're accustomed to it, it's best to set it up with multiple people when you're still learning.
Working together on setup fosters a sense of unity and strengthens the spirit of cooperation in a camping environment that is different from everyday life.
Recommended Tarps for Family Camping
| Image | Product Name | Manufacturer | Features | Approx. Price | Weight | UV Cut Rate | Memo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 
|
NINJA TARP | PaaGO WORKS | Versatile arrangements with 21 joint points | 20000 | 480g | Not listed | Not just a tarp, but also a simple shelter. One to keep in your backpack. |
 
|
HD Tarp Shield Hexa L Pro Set | Snow Peak | Orthodox design, perfect for first-time pitching | 50000 | 9.5 kg | Not listed | Water pressure resistance 3000mm. Shield processing provides a 2-4℃ difference compared to other tarps. |
| GUEU | Zane Arts | Large effective area for high practicality | 49280 | 6 kg | Not listed | Water pressure resistance 1500mm. A silhouette that blends naturally while maintaining practicality. | |
 
|
XP Hexa Tarp MDX | Coleman | Easy to set up with crossed poles | 18800 | 7.6 kg | Not listed | Water pressure resistance 1500mm. While the design is very Coleman-like and may seem beginner-ish, it offers a good balance of price and weight. |
 
|
Mini Tarp HX | Montbell | Spacious living area | 8470 | 640g | Not listed | Water pressure resistance 1500mm. Recommended for bicycle and motorcycle touring. Note that poles are sold separately. |
 
|
Hexalite Element 6P | NEMO | Poly-cotton, strong against bonfires | 75900 | 10.2 kg | Not listed | Not completely waterproof due to cotton blend. Can be addressed with seam sealing. |
 
|
Earth Hexa Tarp 3 | Whole Earth | Silver coating, strong in scorching heat | 19800 | 5.25 kg | UPF50+ | Excellent cost performance with silver coating, flame-retardant material, and 3000mm water pressure resistance at this price. |
 
|
System Tarp Penta 3*3 | ogawa | Lightweight thanks to ripstop nylon | 10780 | 1kg | Not listed | Water pressure resistance of 1800mm; good compatibility with small tents like Stacy thanks to the use of setting tapes. Poles sold separately. |
 
|
Amenity Tarp Hexa L | Snow Peak | Strong against wind and easy to set up | 26800 | 7.5kg | Not listed | Water pressure resistance of 1800mm; easy to overlap with tents for the "Ogawa-bari" setup. Poles included. |
 
|
Revo Tarp | UNIFLAME | Wrinkle-resistant due to grommet position | 14900 | 2.1kg | UV cut coating | Poles are not included, but by purchasing them separately, you can choose variations that prioritize privacy or openness. |
Coleman tarps have always been popular.
This is because they are family-friendly, affordable, and easy to use.
For those who prefer high-quality items that last longer over cheaper ones, Snow Peak tarps are also popular as a classic choice.
Snow Peak HD Tarp Shield Hexa L Pro Set
- People: 6 people
- Weight (kg): 9.8kg
- Size: 570580
- Storage Size: 801722
- Water Pressure Resistance: 3000mm
This product has a traditional design, making it an excellent choice for a first tarp.
In addition to its sufficient water pressure resistance of 3000mm, Snow Peak's stated water pressure resistance is not an average value, but the value at the lowest point, providing a sense of security.
It features a shading pigment treatment, also known as shield processing, which provides higher shading than plain fabric. According to the manufacturer, this creates a 2-4℃ difference in shaded areas, allowing for a cooler experience.
While a 2-4℃ temperature drop is beneficial, there are times when you might want to wear an extra layer during spring or autumn camping when you desire the warmth of the sun.
The difference between the "pro set" and other models is that the pro set includes a peg hammer P, rope case, and peg & hammer case, making it ready to use right after purchase.
(The other models only include a pole case, peg case, and carry bag.)
Zane Arts Geu
- People: 4 people
- Weight (kg): 6kg
- Size: 490530
- Storage Size: 731818
- Water Pressure Resistance: 1500mm
This tarp has an even more pointed shape than a hexa tarp.
It's designed to be easy to enter and exit, while effectively blocking sunlight and preventing rain. However, its somewhat pointed shape can make it difficult to orient correctly for first-time users, so we recommend a practice setup before heading to the campsite.
The reverse side is coated with blackout polyurethane, which blocks light passing through the gaps in the fabric's warp and weft, further enhancing its shading properties.
It comes with a tarp tape (a nylon tape) to further expand layout options, allowing you to set up the tent and tarp closer together when space is limited. When not in use, you can pass it through the inside of the tarp to hang lanterns.
Coleman XP Hexa Tarp MDX
This is a Coleman product, a brand you'll likely encounter early on when considering starting camping.
The beige and green coloring, distinctly Coleman, evokes a sense of reassurance. The appearance is also very classic, which can be reassuring or, for some, uninteresting, depending on personal preference.
Setting it up is beginner-friendly. For the first hurdle, setting up the poles, this product allows for stable setup by using two poles on one side.
Using two poles not only makes setup easier but also increases its resistance to wind.
Montbell Mini Tarp HX
- People: Not listed
- Weight (kg): 0.68kg
- Size: 280338165
- Storage Size: 23Φ12.5
- Water Pressure Resistance: 1500mm
This is a Montbell product, a brand known for its high-performance items.
While the manufacturer doesn't state the number of users, being "mini," it's perfectly suited for solo or two-person use. For family camping, it might feel a bit small, perhaps only suitable for providing shade for children's naps.
Despite its size, it's a hexa tarp, offering a wide range of arrangement possibilities and flexibility.
This tarp uses flame-retardant material, making it a good option to set up a little further away for a bonfire while having another larger tarp for the living area.
Poles are sold separately, so either use your existing ones or prepare new ones.
NEMO Hexalite Element 6P
- People: 6 people
- Weight (kg): 9.1kg
- Size: 470561226
- Storage Size: Approx. 703030
- Water Pressure Resistance: Not listed
Made of polycotton (a blend of cotton and polyester, often referred to as T/C), it is resistant to fire, so small embers from a bonfire are not an issue.
Since it contains cotton, it is heavier than pure polyester, and not completely waterproof, but with the application of a waterproof treatment for cotton, there is no need to worry about leaks.
Furthermore, polycotton gains character with use, making it more enjoyable to use over time.
Whole Earth Earth Hexa Tarp 3
- People: 3 people
- Weight (kg): 5.2kg
- Size: 500400240
- Storage Size: 721616
- Water Pressure Resistance: 3000mm
With a manufacturer's suggested retail price of 19,800 yen (tax included), this product offers excellent value for money, featuring 3000mm water pressure resistance and a weight of 5.2kg.
Moreover, it features a silver coating, which enhances its shading and insulation properties compared to non-coated fabrics.
This is very welcome during hot weather.
Conversely, it lacks other distinctive features apart from the silver coating, giving the impression that it's less exciting for those who already own a tarp and are looking for something with more individuality.
It comes with extension tapes, offering greater flexibility in pitching and easy connection to tents.
ogawa System Hexa Tarp Penta 3×3
- People: Not listed
- Weight (kg): 1kg
- Size: 300300
- Storage Size: 331512
- Water Pressure Resistance: 1800mm
It uses ripstop nylon, a material that is lightweight and highly resistant to tearing. The total weight, including accessories, of 1kg is a welcome feature for campers who want to reduce their load.
Using ripstop nylon allows you to use it with confidence even on gravelly or rocky sites, or in forest sites with many branches.
However, despite using ripstop nylon, which is strong against tearing, a weight of 1kg means the fabric itself is thin, so caution is needed when setting it up in forest sites with many branches.
Extension tapes are included, allowing you to effectively utilize space by setting up the poles behind the tent (a setup commonly known as "Ogawa-bari").
Please note that poles are sold separately.
Snow Peak Amenity Tarp Hexa L
- People: 6 people
- Weight (kg): 7.9kg
- Size: 1220780
- Storage Size: 801719
- Water Pressure Resistance: 1800mm
This is one of Snow Peak's larger tarps.
Its generous size brings a sense of calm and allows you to blend more deeply with nature.
The sense of spaciousness comes not only from its size but also from the assurance of 1800mm water pressure resistance at its lowest point, and practical features like buckle connections for extension tapes when overlapping with a tent. It truly is a product that lives up to its price.
This is recommended for those who prioritized cost-performance as beginners but now feel ready for something more fitting their experience.
Nevertheless, a price point just under 30,000 yen can be quite a commitment for family camping, where many items are needed.
UNIFLAME Revo Tarp
- People: 6 people
- Weight (kg): 2.1kg
- Size: 12001200 (maximum required area for setup)
- Storage Size: 721715
- Water Pressure Resistance: 1800mm
This is a slightly unusual, asymmetrical tarp.
Its unique shape allows for efficient sun shading, creates a private space when desired, and for enjoying the scenery, you can achieve an open setup by adding optional poles. It adapts to various situations.
Furthermore, its form expertly manages the tension of the guy lines, allowing even beginners to pitch it neatly and tautly.
How to interpret this maximum required setup area is crucial. While securing a large site is ideal, during crowded periods at free sites, you may not only have to be considerate of your neighbors but also consider using the edges of the site, even if it's somewhat inconvenient.
PaaGo Works NINJA TARP
- People: 4 people
- Weight (kg): 0.48kg
- Size: 280280
- Storage Size: 2510
- Water Pressure Resistance: Not listed
Versatile arrangements. That's the main appeal of this tarp.
The most recommended is PaaGo Works' Ninja Tarp.
Firstly, because of its size.
Its dimensions of 280 cm x 280 cm are just right for 3 to 4 people.
It's perfect for three people to relax with a table, chairs, and racks, or for four people to chat deeply into the night.
Once you learn the basic setup, it's easy to pitch. You can then freely pitch it using its 21 loops.
You can add poles to lift it, or stake the loops directly into the ground to create a private space.
If you have two, you can connect them to create a larger tarp.
It's truly versatile. Just like a ninja.
More than 30 arrangements are possible. The following video provides examples of arrangements.
You can spread it wide to block the sun and stay comfortable, or pitch it low to create a private space.
You can pitch it freely, as your imagination dictates.
Plus, it weighs less than 500g.
With this, you can just tuck it into your bag and quickly set it up for shade. It's also perfect for picnics and day camps with small children.
However, with so many pitching variations, if your imagination doesn't keep up, you might find yourself at a loss on how to pitch it.
Summary
Above, I've introduced 10 types of tarps.
Among them, the most recommended is PaaGo Works' Ninja Tarp.
While the basic usage is for 3-4 people, its versatility is truly ninja-like, as it can be used as a shelter for 1-2 people by directly fixing the tarp to the ground.
Even if you start with solo camping, it can accommodate a growing family, making it recommendable from a cost-performance perspective (and you might even go back to solo camping later).
I also thought it wasn't necessary for the first 2-3 seasons of camping, but when I stumbled upon a sale item and bought it, it became a must-have.
Introducing it allowed me to spend time comfortably not only on sunny days but also on rainy days.
It's like having a living room attached to a one-room apartment.
I sincerely hope that everyone who reads this article will experience this same feeling.
Click here for winter camping tarps
