Frostie 0 Posted October 11, 2006 Thinking of getting a tarp. What size and material? Want to use it for rain/sun protection when camping and throw it in the day pack when hiking. Usally two people but some times four. Looking at. http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442505747&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302702975&bmUID=1160527627593 http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442505763&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302702975&bmUID=1160525299614 Both tarps are available in both sizes and material. Scout 2.1x2.9 (7'x 9'6") polyester (700g) $35 silicone (438g) $64 Guide 2.9m x 3.9 (9'6" x 12'10") polyester (1.1kg) $52 silcone (786g) $105 Are they any good? What size? Is the silicone worth the extra money. Something else better? Or just stick with a walmart tarp? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RovingArcher 0 Posted October 11, 2006 One thing that turned me against the silicone impregnated tarps and ponchos is that the ones I looked at, the manufacturer didn't warrant against UV damage, so I'm assuming that extended use will result in UV damage of a silicone tarp. If those are your choices, I'd opt for the one that is large enough to be useful in a variety of shelter configurations, but also is the tougher of the two. For my money, I believe that I would choose the Guide, non silicone tarp. It's heavy, but worth it I think. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lycan Ican 0 Posted October 11, 2006 I would have to agree with RovingArcher that the Guide (non-silicon) would be the better of your choices (and easier on the wallet then the silicon option). When it comes down to the silicon coating being more flexible or durable, I'm not sure that is entirely true. I can vouch that after almost a decade with my MEC lightfield tent, which has the same ripstop nylon waterproof fly (basically the same material as the non silicon tarp) that the ripstop material will stand up to pretty much any abuse. The fly has been used as a tarp and propped up by poles, and paddles. The tent and fly has supported over 2 feet of snow without collapsing, or ripping. And is still manages to keep me bone dry in the heaviest rains So the extra durability and elasticity that the silicon offers, may not be worht the extra 50 bucks, Cheers -- Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Frostie 0 Posted October 11, 2006 Thanks I am open to other suggestions if you have any. I just like to keep to Canadian stores. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest adrenjunky Posted October 13, 2006 This is what I use, I sure you can find on in Canada http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20075-cat20136&id=0006243510214a&navCount=7&podId=0006243&parentId=cat20136&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=XG&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat20136&hasJS=true Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dark Squirrel 0 Posted October 13, 2006 I have been considering switching to a tarp for camping. I have aquestion. How do you deal with mosquitos and black flies? Do they eat you alive? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bobimbob 0 Posted October 13, 2006 Dave469, in a million words yes, need mosq.net, smudge, or deet but with deet make sure the nylon sleeping bag doesn't melt. AJ used one of those Sportsman blanket in Nov. was pretty warm all night (in a tent) even though it snowed, really impressed. Of course thatwas when I was younger now I have arthritist(sp)would need a bit more insulation. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RovingArcher 0 Posted October 13, 2006 no-seeum netting is available and can be suspended around you, like a mosquito net in the tropics. I havn't picked any up yet, but will eventually if time allows. That or hope that it's a mild fall/winter when the bugs are sleeping. :hugegrin: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bobimbob 0 Posted October 13, 2006 We have been very lucky with the west nile virus in our area so far only a few cases, but netting is almost a must in the spring and early summer. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lycan Ican 0 Posted October 13, 2006 Unless you enjoy being ravaged by blackflies and mossies Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Machine 0 Posted October 13, 2006 Where are some places you can buy the netting? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Frostie 0 Posted October 13, 2006 Ardenjunky- Thanks for the sugestion. I have one like that. It worked great when I camped withe the scouts and was cold at night.Used to put it on top of my sleeping bag. I want to keep it for that use. What I am looking for is a trap to get out of the weather under( sit, cook etc.) that is easier to pack. Does anyone you those types of tarps? Bug netting is avaliable at mec.ca in the tent section. Also available is hammocks with tarps. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dark Squirrel 0 Posted October 13, 2006 After a bit of thinking I grew less concerned with mosquitos and black flies and grew more concerned about ticks. Without walls or a floor the ticks would have nothing stopping them from infiltrating your sleep. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Frostie 0 Posted October 13, 2006 Not planning on sleeping under it. Want it for cooking, eating and sitting under if it is raining. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Deep_Woodsman 0 Posted October 13, 2006 For skeeters and deer ticks I use Repel Plant-Based Lemon-Eucalyptus rub on repellent. It cost $5.00 @ WalMart in the Sporting Goods section for a 4oz. bottle. I don't like putting Deet on me, period. I have also mixed eucalyptus and citronella essential oils 50/50 and put it in a bottle with 25% distilled water and then sprayed that on, which works well also. I believe Cutter's makes one without Deet also. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RovingArcher 0 Posted October 13, 2006 Machine, Campmor has 72" wide tight weave for $6.00 a yard. http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=12358&memberId=12500226 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Frostie 0 Posted October 15, 2006 Found a neat tarp/bug net listed in this articale by Kevin Callan. http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showArticle.html?209 It's the Eureka's VCS Parawing bug shelter. You can find it at http://www.eurekatentscanada.com/ Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Watcherofthewoods 0 Posted September 6, 2008 Okay, reviving a dead thread. Anyone have advice for a good ultralight tarp? Or one that compacts easily, mine just takes up too much space. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tatonka 0 Posted September 6, 2008 Here SK you can find one here. http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Category___7164__250 Or make one using coated nylon. There are plans out there for making tarps. There is directions on another site for making one which I have seen Share this post Link to post Share on other sites