How to Choose a Backpacking Tarp for Two People

By Six Moon Designs | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to pick the right ultralight tarp for two-person backpacking trips, with decision rules based on weight, weather protection, and bug defense.

Quick answer

For most two-person backpacking trips, choose a tarp that balances low weight with adequate bug protection and weather coverage. A model like the Owyhee Backpacking Tarp offers a solid mix of these priorities.

Why a tarp instead of a tent?

Tarps are lighter and more packable than most tents, making them ideal for fast-and-light trips. They also offer more flexibility in pitch configurations, letting you adapt to wind, terrain, and views. The trade-off is less enclosed protection from bugs and weather, which is why many tarps now include integrated netting or a perimeter skirt.

Key trade-offs to consider

Weight vs. protection: A minimalist tarp can be under 20 oz, but offers no bug or ground splash defense. Adding a net inner or skirt (like the Owyhee’s perimeter netting) adds ounces but greatly improves comfort in buggy or damp conditions.

Size vs. packability: A larger tarp gives more living space for two people but may be heavier and bulkier. Measure your expected campsite sizes and sleeping pad dimensions to avoid an overly cramped or oversized shelter.

Decision rules for choosing a two-person backpacking tarp

Start with your trip conditions: If you expect heavy bugs or rain, prioritize a tarp with integrated bug netting or a skirt. For dry, clear-weather trips, a lighter, open tarp works fine.
Weigh your shelter system: A tarp alone can be under 20 oz. Adding a bug net or inner tent adds 6–12 oz. Decide if the weight savings justify the extra setup or reduced protection. Weigh your total shelter system (tarp + stakes + any net) before buying.
Check the floor and pitch options: Some tarps have a built-in floor; others are open. If you need a dry, bug-proof sleeping area, look for a tarp that can be pitched close to the ground or has a bathtub floor option. Practice pitching at home to ensure you can get a tight seal in bad weather.
Consider your partner's comfort: A two-person tarp should have enough width (at least 7 ft / 2.1 m) for two sleeping pads side by side, plus a vestibule for gear. Check the tarp's dimensions against your pads.

Product facts

Owyhee Backpacking Tarp: 24.6 oz (689 g) two-person tarp with a No-See-Um skirt perimeter that eliminates the need to carry a separate bug net. This saves you from buying and carrying an extra bug net, while still protecting against mosquitoes in warm-weather trips.
Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

Who this is for

Best for

Backpackers who want a lightweight, packable shelter for mild-to-moderate weather
Pairs who are comfortable with a bit of setup and want to save weight compared to a tent

Not for

Campers who need full storm protection or a fully enclosed shelter for severe weather
Solo hikers who prefer a smaller, lighter one-person tarp