The ULTIMATE Bushcraft Tarp and Tarp Shelter Set-ups

It's time for another ULTIMATE series video, and today we take a look at not only the best bushcraft tarp out there, but some of my favorite ways to set it up. Shelter, or cover, is one of the five C's of bushcraft for a reason, and having a quality tarp can be a life saver.

#bushcraft #tarp #aquaquest

Gear Used in This Video:

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Camera Gear I Currently Use:]

[PaleoHikerMD]

Two quick things guys! As I state in this video, this is not a "tutorial" on setting up shelters, just my favorite configurations. I am NOT an expert at setting up tarps into shelters, but I continue to get better at it year by year. Second, it was correctly pointed out below that I mis-spoke on the hydrostatic resistance of the Guide series and gave the stats on the Defender series. This tarp has a pressure rating of 5000mm where the Defender series actually has 20, 000mm. My bad! Thanks to all for the continued support.

[robendert]

I agree; I find square tarps more versatile than other shapes, and 3x3 a good compromise between bulk, weight, and space. I use a DD-hammocks 3x3 in camo that works well to protect my hammock set-up, and roomy enough for ground sleeping. When ground-dwelling, I prefer the plow-point configuration, as I can use a small wood-stove relatively well protected under the high side even in the Swiss snow-fall, while the rest is well shielded from the wind. Greetings from the Swiss Jura-Mountains!

[manuelvargas]

Thank you Ernie for all of your great suggestions. I'm sure many of us are tired of these phony utubers promoting bad equipment. Some of the stuff you u recommend are a little pricey but as the old saying goes. Buy once cry once.

[mike_outdoors]

Thanks Ernie, I love the versatility of a 3x3 (from across the pond) like the classic high a frame, and and the tarp tent setup. Cheers Ernie, take care 👍😊

[anotheryoutuber_]

"the burrito" is one of my favorite set ups with or without a lifted head end for condensation alleviation.

[troybranaman]

I havent figured out yet . I am a hammock camper . I like to put my tarp in 3 different ways. Depending on the weather. 2 of them are like what you do one is like a pup tent over the hammock the other is like the lean-to! Thank you for a great video as always! Take care and stay safe my friend!!

[zachariahlee]

Seriously..apologies are not needed.. you are great guy with a great channel. Haters gotta hate..unequivocally I'm not one of them. Snugpak DD-3×3 is the tarp I used for years. Plow-point is also my favorite setup, although I've adapted a variance to the traditional set-up. Instead of point to point..I use point to center tie out. Lowering the height allows me to fold under remaining tarp to use as ground cloth. The next two tie outs on both side of center..I slightly turn inwards..giving me added protection from swellings winds of rain.. I understand this post was not a how to set up a tarp video but rather about your new found tarp. Don't follow many individuals except for you and Corporal Kelly..thanks for keeping it Real brother..best of wishes for you and family.

[starlingblack]

Hello Dr. Ernie,
I used a tarp in Alaska for several years. It was my favorite shelter as I could heat it with a fire to stay warm and or dry out as Alaska has many streams to cross and much rain. The only time I did not like it was during the summer when there were mosquitoes. They are light weight and versatile. Thanks again for another great informative video.

[daveedwards]

Hi Tri the 3#3 Tarp tent it's great you can make a door from a small tarp you will love it

[nictom]

I run the Aquaquest Safari 3x3m, the weight is in between the Guide and Defender models. I have to mention their amazing customer service at Aquaquest 👍🏼

[paulahavens]

I like the A-frame one it is like a tent and you are covered at least on two sides and it is like a tent and you have some privacy and protected from the weather. you always have something to put down for a floor for your sleeping bag which you usually carry anyway. As far as a fire goes you want it away from whatever you are using. Thanks for your video it was very informative. I also like the A-frame because my equipment and my trike fit right in and I can also sleep on my trike the seat lays back away and is very comfortable to sleep on. thanks again for doing this video.

[garygill]

I use a DD 3x3 and use the tent tarp configuration as well as lean to and Adirondack.

[quinntheeskimooutdoors]

Thanks for showing us, nice. Take care.

[allendevans]

Rewatching this … again. (perhaps again, again)

Damn shame I can’t give this video 6 👍🏼’s up.

[bazzacarter]

Top job Ernie :) Mine main set up is the 'cave' three sided protection and a trekking pole at the front. A second pole can be used as a lifter from behind. There is another build that makes a tent type shelter based around a trekking pole that resembles a well know US tent design. Getting in and out is a pain. One guy I knew used an umbrella ! to seal the entrance for privacy - us crazy Brits!

[daveedwards]

Good video Iam just getting a 4*4 tarp tomorrow thanks and I will. Make some togels

[Canadian_Craftsman]

Square tarps are the BEST! my favorite tarp shelter is a tipi super easy and just need a center pole!!(=✌💚

[viewsandreviews]

Good video. I’ve been using a 10X10 tarp with my hammock for awhile. If I’m going to sleep on the ground I like the plow point and a derivation of it that has a floor.

[marksadventures]

As we lose tents over the years and also end up with poles from them I tried using a single fibreglass pole from an old tent. So I have a roof, floor and only 1 entrance/exit and full cover. The ridgeline picks the back up for room. The poke weighs grams/ounces and makes things do easy. Attach to the pole with paracord.

[chiefsquattingbull]

My take: Stealth Shelter & Plowpoint are the best, easy to set up, minimal hassle.