I used this configuration as an emergency shelter, after my brother suffered a head injury, falling on some rocks while fishing along a salmon river. I performed first aid on his injury, and it began to rain. So, I set up this two minute pyramid shelter for him to remain comfortable out of the rain. He is a 6'1 300lb man and was very happy to be inside this shelter with a sol emergency bivvy we brought with us. The injury wasn't major, and he made a complete recovery. Our fishing trip was a success..
Excellent, everyone should learn this simple tarp skill. Quickly get out of the rain, cold and wind. No expensive gear, no knots, travel light. Thanks!
If you tie the top of your door to a tree trunk, you can also secure the bottom of your door to the base of the tree trunk. The tree helps protect the seam in windy conditions and you will have more space. It removes the need for a stake and a pole.
Excellent presentation. I have the 3X3 Defender tarp, and in December 2021 I set it up on the front lawn during a crazy forecasted windy night/90kph+ using this three-sided pyramid configuration. Had a sleeping bag, a headlamp, a radio, a few snacks and a few tall cans of beer - and had a great time! This configuration is excellent. It takes about 1:30 minutes to get completely soaked during a surprise downpour, so the speed that you can construct any tarp/tent configuration is paramount. Stay dry you stay alive - erecting a shelter in moments can and will save you from cascading into hypothermia. Minimal time to erect, minimal tools/accessories required to erect, minimal instruction/steps required to erect...and you can actually be inside of the tarp protected as you erect/secure it, as long as you already have the correct length pole/branch. This, and the plough-point, are my favourite and most used configurations. Thanks for sharing this excellent video. Very well done.
I see so many YT channels going over back country gear that never include a tarp. Quick shelter, cooking/inclimate weather shelter, gear cover, etc. even if you have a small tent. While camo tarps are nice if you want to remain hidden sometimes you may need to be found by search and rescue so an orange or yellow tarp may well be a better choice.
Thanks for relaying your personal experience here! I agree with all of your comments, right down to enjoying a few 'tinnies' while hunkered down! Cheers!
With practice you can build this while completely under it, except maybe for hands or arms when sticking the pegs into the ground. Cold and wet can be miserable, and potentially deadly !
Really like this idea, you could probably make this a little more convenient in less horrible weather conditions by putting the front corners like 2 feet apart to create a wider opening, the flap can be pitched up with another pole or folded over the gap to close the door. I have to try this out, good video, gives something to think about.
Love it when people ask about floors lol get the tarp up find pine needles or leafs and if you need to keep the wind out bank around the bottom. With dirt . Thanks for the video very informative
@@AQWaterproof I did sleep under the "open" configuration for the first time this past weekend. The weather did not get bad enough to require pulling the two entry stakes together to make an enclosed door. It did get down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit . Worked well.
Very cool. I like it. I have a suggestion for the door. Instead of folding the door on the outside, why not pull the flap 'inside' behind you as you enter? (like a reverse origami fold?) From the inside all you gotta do is roll the door and clip it or stake it. That way you are not trying to feel around the outside for the flap blind....😁
Absolutely that is an option that is more convenient in a lot of circumstances! In really bad wind and rain, I might still fold over outside, as folding inward could potentially allow for some water ingress and pooling. But, most of the time, pulling the door flap inside with you will work great. Thanks!
Ive never been a fan of one pole shelters UNLESS that shelter is large enough for two people….. i prefer a version of this that uses two poles slightly shorter that allows me to lay down between them. One pole one tarp pyramid structures essential forces you to sacrifice 25% of your material and then force you to fit your body into either one side or the other of the pole…. Meaning you only get 3/8ths of the volume for the area of your square tarp
Thank you! I've seen a couple other videos on a similar tarp configuration but the method they showed to locate the door was like a geometry puzzle. Your way of pulling the two loose corners together is so easy, even I can remember how to do it.
I used to travel nonstop for 3 years as a backpacker, and although I often found places to stay, I often had periods of time when I slept outside. I think I spent probably 6 months of a every year sleeping out. Not only that, but I used to have a hammock, but I found that's not working very well to sleep in and ended up using my tarp in many different variations. This tipi configuration was my favourite, too. It was perfectly sheltered and gave ultimate privacy, was quick to build and didn't rely on trees. The only thing is: Don#t rely on finding sticks. That is REALLY annoying because you do need the perfect heights, and sticks can damage your tarp, with experience you find the right height and you leanr how to avoid tearing your tarp, but just make it easy and cary an adjustable hiking stick. Kiss - keep is simple stupid. But as much as I loved this configuration, you will have a big issues with condensation and if you sleep on even a slight slope in rain, because there is no floor, the water will just run though the bottom of the tarp and ruin your gear, mood and potentially health. After a long while I ended up getting a really good tent for free, and it was a game changer for those reasons. No more issues with puddles of water running inside (even if you choose "flat" terrain, it happens) or condensation running down the walls in lower climates. The tent was just a lot better.
Hi! I don't disagree that a tent can be an easier shelter option in many circumstances. However, the versatility of a tarp, which allows you a whole array of set-up options to suit good and bad weather, treed or non-treed spaces, small/large/developed/undeveloped campsites, facilitates hammocking possibilities, etc., is something that a tent is unable to replicate. Besides: Some of us actually enjoy the challenge of shelter-building and bushcrafting... it's not so much about pure comfort and convenience as lifelong-learning and trying to achieve a one-ness with your natural surroundings... a lot of satisfaction to be found there! Thanks for your thoughts!
This is very useful for here in the UK, there aren't many trees in the wilder areas of the country where you are likely to encounter strong wind/rain (Scotland, Welsh hills etc) and I'm going to start carrying a tarp as an emergency shelter on both day hikes and longer trips. It'll mostly be a backup to my tent, partly due to bugs but I'm also fairly new to sleeping out doors and I'm trying to build my confidence slowly! I do want to try a few tarp-only trips at some point though, and I certainly want to have it for emergencies. I always have hiking poles, fortunately, and will make sure I have enough pegs and some cordage too, just in case. I intend to get plenty of practice setting it up in all weather and light conditions before I rely on it in the wilds! Really appreciate you taking the time to demonstrate this, I'll definitely be checking out your tarps if they are available in the UK. Much thanks!
If you are new to outdoors don't jump right into survival mode, it will only make you cold miserable and mad. Bring the best stuff, as in a tent, then as you do more camping you can lighten your load as you find out what you need and don't need. Now to be a hard core hunter looking for big game, you'll have to train. Put weights in your pack and just walk down the street. Then slowly lighten your load and when it comes time to Hunt you'll be ready, trained and in shape. Practice survival stuff in your front yard. If things don't work out get up and go in the house. From Alaska.
I live in southwestern USA. A lot of our high desert, semi-arid. landscape is populated by nothing but sage brush, and low shrubs. In this circumstance you have nothing to tie off a ridgeline to. We can get killing-cold high wind, rain and snow without much notice. This pyramid pitch is the only setup I’m aware of that can get me under cover in a hurry under these conditions and appears stable regardless of shifting wind direction. Haven’t had to use it yet in an actual emergency, but it’s my go to plan when I’m above tree line or out on open prairie. A tip I learned from another YT’er is that flapping of the tarp sides in high wind can cause the ridge pole to shift and eventually collapse. His solution was to create a short tie-out attached to the top of the ridge pole and staked inside the tent to prevent tipping of the pole. Easy to do, and easy to adjust if wind direction changes during the night. Nice vid! Thanks for the careful explanation. 👍
Been a tarp and hammock camper for around 20 years now, every season. I have two Aquaquest tarps, both 10x13, one Safari, one Guide. Great products, I recommend them to everyone.
@@robertthomas3777 Check Shugemery…his channel is fantastic and it’s all about hammocks…mostly anyway. It’s a bitterly individual thing, you can find dirt cheap that works great for you, or you can spend hundreds of dollars if you want. I love hammock camping, keeps all your stuff off the ground, use it as a chair, plus under a tarp is way bigger than any tent. I can sit under my tarp and cook if I want, see the scenery. I could go and on.
What's nice about this tent is that it's stealthy. It can be laid flat and re-setup in complete darkness, in less than 30 seconds just by removing the center stick. And a moisture proof floor can be fashioned very easily with a second tarp.
Yes it sets up and takes down very fast and slick! During the day you could just remove the pole and leave the rest of the pitch as-is, making it practically invisible unless you're right beside it. Simply reinstall the pole upon you return and your roof is back up again!
I’ve had my defender tarp for years and use it almost every week camping out at work logging all over in remote areas is been great and in the winter I toss in a little buddy heater and have slept fairly well down to -10 these tarps are right up there in ruggedness with my tent smith oil cloth tarp but waaaaaay cheaper and I haven’t had a single issue with mine even dragging wood in it through the snow back to camp I have one in all my vehicles really great product
If you have access to pine needles, you can use that for cushion and to block the draft on the outside. I've found that to be very helpful in my tarp set ups
Yes it will! I can riff on that suggestion and mention that a racketball or Chuck-it ball both work really well; because they are rubber I find they grip the tarp skin better and stay in place. Thanks!
I like the longer format video, very informative and helpful. Now you need to do a video for each of the most common setup configurations. Excellent product line, excellent video. Thank you for sharing.
A floor MIGHT help with windy conditions but would make no difference against the cold earth. In winter, I find a tarp superior to a tent unless you build a platform. Great idea.
Best tarps in the world !!!!! Have 3 defender tarps bought all directly from Aquaquest at full price . I’m so impressed with them I reach out to Aquaquest asking for them to make tents .
Thank You very much showing us this type of setting a 3x3m Tarp. With a 3x4m there is quite a wide underlaying possible. Greetings from Lüneburg, Germany
Thanks for your comments! There are indeed a number of groundhseet options for this, including using foldover material leftover from a rectangular tarp. Using a rectangular tarp for this pitch is slightly less simple and intuitive, but entirely doable!
Great video. best one honestly on this tarp set up. will be linking to a few ppl. iv been useing this set up for close to 20 yrs now. nice thing is even on rocky ground you can still set it up useing rocks on the corners and a bit of cordage. its also nice in the winter, can add a stove jack also if you want to pimp it out. if i know the bugs are going to be bad ill take a bug net with me. add in a mat, down quilt and you have a very very light weight shelter and sleep system rivaling most ultra light set ups ( ie tents ) but its a tarp so you have soooo many more options including turning the tarp into a hammock. once again great video, i tip my hat to you sir.
The problem of course is ventilation. Definitely a good short term option. I’ve used similar setups overnight, but with an opening covered by a bug net.
Thanks, I enjoyed the demonstration. A couple things about that config. No ventilation, likely condensation overnight. Unless the contact point of the support pole is protected or padded, the tarp may suffer damage. Thanks again.
Excellent presentation giving detailed information and visuals! I would also appreciate this kind of step-by-step construction for other configurations of the larger tarps as well, including but not limited to best set up for tarp covers of tents for rain, wind and winter situations. Thanks for all your help!
Great suggestions! We are indeed working on a series of pitch videos for different contexts (environments, landscapes, seasons, etc.), using both smaller and larger tarps!
I'm an electrician so occasionally we work outside in inclement weather, hot or not. This will be vary useful for a little tool/lunch bunker in the field. Also perfect for an auxiliary gear shelter or dog shelter for camping! The possibilities are endless! Heck, this would actually be a perfect shelter to toss on the canoe, the first two corner pins would fit my outriggers perfectly
This is the first time I've seen this option. I'm no expert, but consider myself fairly knowledgeable about survival techniques. I really like this idea! Thanks for sharing. It just goes to show you're never too old to learn new techniques!
Thanks for your comments! I maintain that it is an excellent pitch for an emergency, or to prevent an emergency situation from developing! The other thing is: It is very intuitive and easy to remember, which you can't undervalue when the going gets tough. Weatherproof and foolproof!
I learned this exact technique 50 years ago using a canvas "oil cloth" tarp. I had completely forgotten the technique because that damn 12' square tarp weighed almost 11 pounds! I am glad to se it resurrected using an available lightweight material. I would have liked a link in the description, just to save a search.
I like this one. Not complicated. This would be great if your hands are lower functioning or you're experiencing brain fog and confusion. Definitely should note this is also arthritis friendly. 👍+ 👍
I've just started using a tarp for camping. I have a 6×5 casualty blanket that I use. I also bring a smaller one to use as a ground sheet. On nice clear nights I just make a lean-to with the smaller tarp. I have a larger true tarp that I haven't used yet.
Hi! Almost all of the tarp pitches we use now were shared with the general public via outdoor publications, from the 1900s through the 1940's. Many were indeed published in the Boy Scouts manual!
Awesome! That opening makes for a neat awning as well, if you draw guylines from the 1/4 way points on the floppy edge out to the sides. You could put your stove in the corner below it and have excellent ventilation (and a view!) for cooking, as long as you pitched the tarp to open away from the wind. Do you also make a triangular ground cover to match the footprint? That sounds like a logical next step for cozying this thing up! :D
Great idea! I would probably stick with boring ol' rectangular groundsheet tho, so it could be folded in whatever ways necessary to accomodate a whole variety of pitches. Thanks!
Thanks for video. If one were to carry around this tarp and another with a smaller footprint, you could lay the smaller footprint under this one before setup so that once you finish setting up the pyramid, theres a floor instead of just the ground.
That's for sure an idea! My preference is for a really packable and inexpensive groundsheet, so you don't have to worry so much about damaging a quality tarp. Carrying two tarps, however, gives you a lot of flexibility and a ton of options. Thanks!
This is something I’ve used multiple times! To prevent having a pole in the middle you can also set up a ridge line to hold up that top point, or throw a line directly above you over a limb if you pick a good spot!
Absolutely! If the landscape allows for that then you can reap the benefit of no interior pole to have to work around inside! However, if quick is what you need, the pole option is no muss no fuss. Thanks!
Thanks for this great video. Really found it interesting. I’ll definitely be trying this out. Quick question . . Please could you tell me what type pole you used for the centre. Looks like it was an adjustable one. Wouldn’t like to use a stick that was too long and split the top open. 😩
Hi! I use an adjustable tarp pole that is manufactured for the purpose... it has a rubberized end-cap that won't damage the tarp fabric -- it's soft and has a large enough surface area to prevent undue strain on the nylon. If using a stick or branch, you can use gear such as a glove, sock, or empty water bottle (inverted over the stick end) to create the same basic padding and protection. I also use a hollow rubber ball (tennis ball, racketball, etc.) with an x cut into it, to pop over any support that may be too hard or sharp for direct contact with the tarp. Thanks!
I hope the channel host realises the significance of your compliment. Long time no videos from your good self, over 4yrs? Hope you are ok. Regards from the UK.
@@GreencampRhodie Yeah, it's certainly been awhile hasn't it. The past few years have seen ALOT going on in my life to say the least. I am doing very well now though (thanks). In fact, I'm planning on starting to upload new videos again here very soon. I hope all is well with you my friend. Very best regards.... -John
Just sharing some good information! I maintain that it is an excellent pitch for an emergency, or to prevent an emergency situation from developing. The other thing is: It is very intuitive and easy to remember, which you can't undervalue when the going gets tough. Very little fussing to get this roof over your head. Thanks!
Hi! The pole I use has a rubber end-cap that is soft and increases the surface area where the tarp fabric contacts the support. Also, the Safari tarp I was using has a ridgeline that is reinforced with webbing for added strength through the axis (and the center-point). That said, you can cushion the contact between your pole and the tarp by using a sock, glove, toque, or other article of clothing. I'm often out with my dog Sitka and carry a Chuck-It ball with a small hole cut into it... you can use this as a good grippy cushion to top off your tarp pole (if your dog's willing to share)! Thanks!
Get a tennis ball and cut a slot in the ball to fix it on top of a stick. Squeeze the ball to open the slot. Bonus is you can draw eyes above the slot and have a new friend to talk with.
Very good video, I finally have a plan for that tarp in the back of my car if I get stranded and need to camp out (well as opposed to my original plan of tarp burrito).
Just spent 2.5 hrs trying a bunch of different tarp configurations. Though i havent spent the night in this yet, it is by far the easiest and sturdiest i tried. Im concerned about the ventilation but I guess ill have to try it to find out
A tarp pitch can be the best 4 season shelter. It has to go tight to the ground on all sides and have a wood stove inside if it is going to be any good in a winter blizzard. The whole outfit cannot weigh more than 4 lbs. if backpackers are going to use it. A 10’x10’ tarp only needs to be pegged on the 4 corners with as many pegs as it takes to be secure in any wind. No grommets are needed. It has space for 2 cooking or 4 sleeping. The chimney can serve as 1 of the 40” long corner poles. Sticks that have a small nail driven in both ends (head pinched off). One end stays put on the ground, the other end through a reinforced point exactly in the corner 40” from the edge of the tarp. All sides can be raised forming an umbrella to cool off, heat from the stove or summer sun.
I do something similar, but better for ventilation...and easier to pitch. The pitch to which I am referring is often called the "Holman tent"...and sometimes, the "Half Pyramid". The setup starts the same as yours, but with the single pole at the front EDGE of the tarp, guyed with a single line. The front corners are pegged out to form a triangular doorway. I use that configuration for warmer, non-stormy weather. If stormy, the sides can easily be pulled together, to form a closed wedge. That is, as long as the height of the pole is adjusted low enough to allow it. Takes about two minutes to pitch...and a tree (or other suitable fixed object, like a fence post) can easily substitute for the pole. I use 6 pegs myself (3 along the back edge, 1 at each front corner and 1 for the pole guy line) - but the center peg on the back edge can be deleted, if you wish. Of course, if using a fixed object instead of the pole, another peg can be omitted...making the minimum 4. In that case, the guy line for the pole serves as the guy line to the fixed object.
Thanks for the feedback! Because the shelter is enclosed, it is indeed less ventilated than other set-ups. It's a bit trade-off between security and breathability a lot of the time! You can raise the perimeter from ground level by adding cordage loops to the tie-outs, creating a circulation zone at the base of the shelter... won't solve all your problems but can help (especially if your sleeping, with body heat and breath low to the ground).
For this setup using an AQ Safari 10 x 10, the pole measures 4'2" from ground to apex... my tarp pole has a pointed tip that was sunk about 2" in the ground as well, for a total of approximately 4'4". A different tarp make/model with even slightly different finished measurements may demand something different, but there's your ballpark figure for a 10 x 10. Thanks!
Cool idea. I’m not used to a bare floor though. You know, bugs and mice and stuff. I would dig a 3” trench all the way around for heavy rain protection on the floor.
Hi! While not covered in the video (the focus was on the tarp pitch), I would absolutely use a compact, inexpensive groundsheet as a waterproof floor/barrier. Bugs are not really a problem in my locale but in certain locations and/or seasons, they might be big enough a factor to consider some netting options to pair with your tarp. As for the trenching: It's definitely a good idea if palpable rain is falling... your site selection will likely dictate how much work you need to invest. Hopefully you would only need to trench one side of the tarp. Thanks!
nice. a piece of paracord tied to entrance could help with the door, so you wouldn't have to take out middle stake and put back in. i carry a adjustable hiking aluminum hiking stick so would always have a center pole.
Yes and yes! Your suggestions are duly noted. So long as your hiking pole extends to the required height (just over 4 ft in this instance), it is a perfect tool for the job. Thanks!
Looks like I owe you an apology. I clicked on this vid fully expecting this to be a bs shelter. But it looks really good and I plan on trying it out this weekend.
I used this configuration as an emergency shelter, after my brother suffered a head injury, falling on some rocks while fishing along a salmon river. I performed first aid on his injury, and it began to rain. So, I set up this two minute pyramid shelter for him to remain comfortable out of the rain. He is a 6'1 300lb man and was very happy to be inside this shelter with a sol emergency bivvy we brought with us. The injury wasn't major, and he made a complete recovery. Our fishing trip was a success..
Wow, what a story! I'm glad it had a happy ending!
Excellent, everyone should learn this simple tarp skill. Quickly get out of the rain, cold and wind. No expensive gear, no knots, travel light. Thanks!
If you tie the top of your door to a tree trunk, you can also secure the bottom of your door to the base of the tree trunk. The tree helps protect the seam in windy conditions and you will have more space. It removes the need for a stake and a pole.
Excellent presentation. I have the 3X3 Defender tarp, and in December 2021 I set it up on the front lawn during a crazy forecasted windy night/90kph+ using this three-sided pyramid configuration. Had a sleeping bag, a headlamp, a radio, a few snacks and a few tall cans of beer - and had a great time! This configuration is excellent. It takes about 1:30 minutes to get completely soaked during a surprise downpour, so the speed that you can construct any tarp/tent configuration is paramount. Stay dry you stay alive - erecting a shelter in moments can and will save you from cascading into hypothermia. Minimal time to erect, minimal tools/accessories required to erect, minimal instruction/steps required to erect...and you can actually be inside of the tarp protected as you erect/secure it, as long as you already have the correct length pole/branch. This, and the plough-point, are my favourite and most used configurations. Thanks for sharing this excellent video. Very well done.
I see so many YT channels going over back country gear that never include a tarp. Quick shelter, cooking/inclimate weather shelter, gear cover, etc. even if you have a small tent. While camo tarps are nice if you want to remain hidden sometimes you may need to be found by search and rescue so an orange or yellow tarp may well be a better choice.
Thanks for relaying your personal experience here! I agree with all of your comments, right down to enjoying a few 'tinnies' while hunkered down! Cheers!
@@chriscohlmeyer4735 Check out the AQ 'Survivor' S&R tent, also available in a 10 x 10 square. We call that color 'Evac Orange'! Thanks!
There are tarps that are camo on one side and orange on the other
With practice you can build this while completely under it, except maybe for hands or arms when sticking the pegs into the ground. Cold and wet can be miserable, and potentially deadly !
Really like this idea, you could probably make this a little more convenient in less horrible weather conditions by putting the front corners like 2 feet apart to create a wider opening, the flap can be pitched up with another pole or folded over the gap to close the door. I have to try this out, good video, gives something to think about.
Absolutely! This pitch can be adapted to be more breathable and accessible, as you have suggested. Thanks for the comment!
Love it when people ask about floors lol get the tarp up find pine needles or leafs and if you need to keep the wind out bank around the bottom. With dirt . Thanks for the video very informative
Thanks for your comments! Who needs a floor? A simple and compact groundsheet will do the trick!
If a small carabiner were to be put on the loop of the flap it may make it easier to attach to the other loop when closing.
Great tip! Thanks!
Good idea! But what about a Floor? Very important in Cold weather...😁😆
@@AQWaterproof I did sleep under the "open" configuration for the first time this past weekend. The weather did not get bad enough to require pulling the two entry stakes together to make an enclosed door. It did get down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit . Worked well.
Great video! Useful info. Thanks
@@davidcarothers3311 We're runnin' without a floor for this one! A simple groundsheet will help keep out the damp and chill. Thanks!
Fascinating deployment and set up for an emergency shelter. Thank you for sharing this simple and easily understood video...Good job!
Thank you for your supportive feedback!
Thanks for your comments!
I like that Aquaquest is doing these types of setup videos with their tarps!
Thanks for your support! More to come... we are just starting out on this video project and so I hope/expect they will improve over time!
Very cool. I like it. I have a suggestion for the door. Instead of folding the door on the outside, why not pull the flap 'inside' behind you as you enter? (like a reverse origami fold?) From the inside all you gotta do is roll the door and clip it or stake it. That way you are not trying to feel around the outside for the flap blind....😁
Absolutely that is an option that is more convenient in a lot of circumstances! In really bad wind and rain, I might still fold over outside, as folding inward could potentially allow for some water ingress and pooling. But, most of the time, pulling the door flap inside with you will work great. Thanks!
Good option!
Leaks
Ive never been a fan of one pole shelters UNLESS that shelter is large enough for two people….. i prefer a version of this that uses two poles slightly shorter that allows me to lay down between them.
One pole one tarp pyramid structures essential forces you to sacrifice 25% of your material and then force you to fit your body into either one side or the other of the pole…. Meaning you only get 3/8ths of the volume for the area of your square tarp
Because keeping it outside and folded it seals out rain and wind. Pulling it in channels the water inside.
Thank you! I've seen a couple other videos on a similar tarp configuration but the method they showed to locate the door was like a geometry puzzle. Your way of pulling the two loose corners together is so easy, even I can remember how to do it.
Keeping it easy keeps it fast, and as you mentioned, memorable! Sometimes easy is THE BEST. Thanks!
Better than I expected.
Definately something to put into the toolbox.
Thanks Shawn! We're gonna make more and hopefully better pitch videos in the coming months.
I used to travel nonstop for 3 years as a backpacker, and although I often found places to stay, I often had periods of time when I slept outside. I think I spent probably 6 months of a every year sleeping out. Not only that, but I used to have a hammock, but I found that's not working very well to sleep in and ended up using my tarp in many different variations. This tipi configuration was my favourite, too. It was perfectly sheltered and gave ultimate privacy, was quick to build and didn't rely on trees.
The only thing is: Don#t rely on finding sticks. That is REALLY annoying because you do need the perfect heights, and sticks can damage your tarp, with experience you find the right height and you leanr how to avoid tearing your tarp, but just make it easy and cary an adjustable hiking stick. Kiss - keep is simple stupid.
But as much as I loved this configuration, you will have a big issues with condensation and if you sleep on even a slight slope in rain, because there is no floor, the water will just run though the bottom of the tarp and ruin your gear, mood and potentially health.
After a long while I ended up getting a really good tent for free, and it was a game changer for those reasons. No more issues with puddles of water running inside (even if you choose "flat" terrain, it happens) or condensation running down the walls in lower climates. The tent was just a lot better.
Hi! I don't disagree that a tent can be an easier shelter option in many circumstances. However, the versatility of a tarp, which allows you a whole array of set-up options to suit good and bad weather, treed or non-treed spaces, small/large/developed/undeveloped campsites, facilitates hammocking possibilities, etc., is something that a tent is unable to replicate. Besides: Some of us actually enjoy the challenge of shelter-building and bushcrafting... it's not so much about pure comfort and convenience as lifelong-learning and trying to achieve a one-ness with your natural surroundings... a lot of satisfaction to be found there! Thanks for your thoughts!
@@AQWaterproof Hammocks are fun if the weather is great, but in foul or cold weather I prefer a tent.
I slept out for three months in the USA.
I dare not sleep anywhere that I could not monitor my surroundings.
Hence, I slept in bivi bags.
This is very useful for here in the UK, there aren't many trees in the wilder areas of the country where you are likely to encounter strong wind/rain (Scotland, Welsh hills etc) and I'm going to start carrying a tarp as an emergency shelter on both day hikes and longer trips.
It'll mostly be a backup to my tent, partly due to bugs but I'm also fairly new to sleeping out doors and I'm trying to build my confidence slowly!
I do want to try a few tarp-only trips at some point though, and I certainly want to have it for emergencies.
I always have hiking poles, fortunately, and will make sure I have enough pegs and some cordage too, just in case. I intend to get plenty of practice setting it up in all weather and light conditions before I rely on it in the wilds!
Really appreciate you taking the time to demonstrate this, I'll definitely be checking out your tarps if they are available in the UK. Much thanks!
You're welcome! Our tarps are available to UK customers through our own website or Amazon.co.uk. Enjoy your adventures!
That’s funny, no trees! In the BC mountains, I’m always searching, for a spot big enough, for a small tent.
If you are new to outdoors don't jump right into survival mode, it will only make you cold miserable and mad. Bring the best stuff, as in a tent, then as you do more camping you can lighten your load as you find out what you need and don't need. Now to be a hard core hunter looking for big game, you'll have to train. Put weights in your pack and just walk down the street. Then slowly lighten your load and when it comes time to Hunt you'll be ready, trained and in shape. Practice survival stuff in your front yard. If things don't work out get up and go in the house.
From Alaska.
I live in southwestern USA. A lot of our high desert, semi-arid. landscape is populated by nothing but sage brush, and low shrubs. In this circumstance you have nothing to tie off a ridgeline to. We can get killing-cold high wind, rain and snow without much notice. This pyramid pitch is the only setup I’m aware of that can get me under cover in a hurry under these conditions and appears stable regardless of shifting wind direction. Haven’t had to use it yet in an actual emergency, but it’s my go to plan when I’m above tree line or out on open prairie.
A tip I learned from another YT’er is that flapping of the tarp sides in high wind can cause the ridge pole to shift and eventually collapse. His solution was to create a short tie-out attached to the top of the ridge pole and staked inside the tent to prevent tipping of the pole. Easy to do, and easy to adjust if wind direction changes during the night.
Nice vid! Thanks for the careful explanation. 👍
Thanks for the tip for securing the pole! I haven't had the pole buffetted out of place by wind personally, but see how it could happen!
I saw this on TA outdoors a while back where he does 10 tarp setups I believe. Very cool.
Been a tarp and hammock camper for around 20 years now, every season. I have two Aquaquest tarps, both 10x13, one Safari, one Guide. Great products, I recommend them to everyone.
Thanks for the comments!
How good are hammocks?
Any suggestions, advice …etc?
@@robertthomas3777 Check Shugemery…his channel is fantastic and it’s all about hammocks…mostly anyway. It’s a bitterly individual thing, you can find dirt cheap that works great for you, or you can spend hundreds of dollars if you want. I love hammock camping, keeps all your stuff off the ground, use it as a chair, plus under a tarp is way bigger than any tent. I can sit under my tarp and cook if I want, see the scenery. I could go and on.
Not me in the army looking for inspiration for my own shelters when I'm out in the field. I could totally build this with what we're issued. Thanks!😂
Great! Try it out and let us know your professional opinion!
What's nice about this tent is that it's stealthy. It can be laid flat and re-setup in complete darkness, in less than 30 seconds just by removing the center stick. And a moisture proof floor can be fashioned very easily with a second tarp.
Yes it sets up and takes down very fast and slick! During the day you could just remove the pole and leave the rest of the pitch as-is, making it practically invisible unless you're right beside it. Simply reinstall the pole upon you return and your roof is back up again!
I like where You're going with this.
Perfect for emergency use...thanks for the share
I’ve had my defender tarp for years and use it almost every week camping out at work logging all over in remote areas is been great and in the winter I toss in a little buddy heater and have slept fairly well down to -10 these tarps are right up there in ruggedness with my tent smith oil cloth tarp but waaaaaay cheaper and I haven’t had a single issue with mine even dragging wood in it through the snow back to camp I have one in all my vehicles really great product
Thanks for that testimonial... the Defender is indeed one tough mutha...
If you have access to pine needles, you can use that for cushion and to block the draft on the outside. I've found that to be very helpful in my tarp set ups
Great idea! Thanks for sharing!
👍 Caring a tennis ball with a small X cut in it and put on the end of the pole will help protect the tarp, especially when using a stick. ☮️
Yes it will! I can riff on that suggestion and mention that a racketball or Chuck-it ball both work really well; because they are rubber I find they grip the tarp skin better and stay in place. Thanks!
I like the longer format video, very informative and helpful. Now you need to do a video for each of the most common setup configurations. Excellent product line, excellent video. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks! That's the plan, with more to come!
Love the simplicity, ingenuity, and functionality of this! Thank you for sharing.
Glad you like it!
I just see this talking body floating around on the screen, and then he disappears into thin air. The floating body thing is a neat trick, Mr. Quest.
I really like this tarp configuration. Thank you for showing it.
Happy to hear it, thanks!
A floor MIGHT help with windy conditions but would make no difference against the cold earth. In winter, I find a tarp superior to a tent unless you build a platform. Great idea.
A simple groundsheet will keep out the damp at least! A reflective-faced option might improve comfort a bit too. Thanks!
Cold earth isn't as much a topic as moisture! Did you ever sleep in nature?
Best tarps in the world !!!!! Have 3 defender tarps bought all directly from Aquaquest at full price . I’m so impressed with them I reach out to Aquaquest asking for them to make tents .
Thank you Mike! We appreciate your patronage and comments, and I can confirm we are r&d'ing different shelter designs for upcoming seasons!
so underrated.
Thanks!
Thank You very much showing us this type of setting a 3x3m Tarp. With a 3x4m there is quite a wide underlaying possible. Greetings from Lüneburg, Germany
Thanks for your comments! There are indeed a number of groundhseet options for this, including using foldover material leftover from a rectangular tarp. Using a rectangular tarp for this pitch is slightly less simple and intuitive, but entirely doable!
Very informative and great presentation,clear and easy to follow!
Thanks for your comments!
Great video. best one honestly on this tarp set up. will be linking to a few ppl. iv been useing this set up for close to 20 yrs now. nice thing is even on rocky ground you can still set it up useing rocks on the corners and a bit of cordage. its also nice in the winter, can add a stove jack also if you want to pimp it out. if i know the bugs are going to be bad ill take a bug net with me. add in a mat, down quilt and you have a very very light weight shelter and sleep system rivaling most ultra light set ups ( ie tents ) but its a tarp so you have soooo many more options including turning the tarp into a hammock. once again great video, i tip my hat to you sir.
yea u can do something completely different, what's your point?
Thanks for the comments! Agreed that there is nothing as versatile as a tarp if you're open to the experience and keen to keep evolving!
@@standingbear998 I happen to appreciate the heck outta his comments as a newbie looking to learn variations and adjustments
The problem of course is ventilation. Definitely a good short term option. I’ve used similar setups overnight, but with an opening covered by a bug net.
Thanks, I enjoyed the demonstration. A couple things about that config. No ventilation, likely condensation overnight. Unless the contact point of the support pole is protected or padded, the tarp may suffer damage. Thanks again.
Excellent presentation giving detailed information and visuals! I would also appreciate this kind of step-by-step construction for other configurations of the larger tarps as well, including but not limited to best set up for tarp covers of tents for rain, wind and winter situations. Thanks for all your help!
Great suggestions! We are indeed working on a series of pitch videos for different contexts (environments, landscapes, seasons, etc.), using both smaller and larger tarps!
I'm an electrician so occasionally we work outside in inclement weather, hot or not. This will be vary useful for a little tool/lunch bunker in the field. Also perfect for an auxiliary gear shelter or dog shelter for camping! The possibilities are endless!
Heck, this would actually be a perfect shelter to toss on the canoe, the first two corner pins would fit my outriggers perfectly
All of those points are good ones! Thanks for sharing your ideas!
This is the first time I've seen this option. I'm no expert, but consider myself fairly knowledgeable about survival techniques. I really like this idea! Thanks for sharing. It just goes to show you're never too old to learn new techniques!
Thanks for your comments! I maintain that it is an excellent pitch for an emergency, or to prevent an emergency situation from developing! The other thing is: It is very intuitive and easy to remember, which you can't undervalue when the going gets tough. Weatherproof and foolproof!
By far the most enticing pitch for a
non tarper LOL
Very Well Done Brother, Thank You
I'll be trying this ASAP.
Thanks for your comments!
I learned this exact technique 50 years ago using a canvas "oil cloth" tarp. I had completely forgotten the technique because that damn 12' square tarp weighed almost 11 pounds! I am glad to se it resurrected using an available lightweight material.
I would have liked a link in the description, just to save a search.
Thanks for the feedback! In the future we will do better to directly connect you to what you're looking for. Hope you found us okay, and thanks!
@@AQWaterproof I did, and you are now on my xmas list👍
@@RAkers-tu1ey 😆
Thank you. I have the 15 x 15 Defender. Excellent quality...a tent in a pinch.
Thanks for the kind words, happy camping!
I like it. It’s simple and easy to remember. Also, I don’t have to be strong or agile. Good for emergencies.
I agree with you! Thanks for watching!
An Aqua Quest 10x13 Defender is my go-to tarp for hammock camping!
Excellent choice... thanks!
I have seen a couple of people mention the 10x13 tarp. Would that still work with this configuration since it’s not square?
AquaQuest tarps are the best, i will always bring one on my trips. 10× 13, ' wearing it out!
Love to hear it!!
I like this one. Not complicated. This would be great if your hands are lower functioning or you're experiencing brain fog and confusion. Definitely should note this is also arthritis friendly.
👍+ 👍
I've just started using a tarp for camping. I have a 6×5 casualty blanket that I use. I also bring a smaller one to use as a ground sheet. On nice clear nights I just make a lean-to with the smaller tarp. I have a larger true tarp that I haven't used yet.
Love to hear you're tarp camping! Hope you get some inspiration from our set ups for your next adventure
Well, I’ll be here one hell of a smart cookie I like this😊
Thanks Debra!
Man, now that was a very nice step-by-step presentation ! ! ! Thank You So Much ! ! !
🙂😎👍
Thanks for your comments!
OMG-SO FABULOUS-I learned how to build one in the Boyscouts-1960-hey folks if this is your thing-get and old Bot Scout Manual or read Bradford Angier
Hi! Almost all of the tarp pitches we use now were shared with the general public via outdoor publications, from the 1900s through the 1940's. Many were indeed published in the Boy Scouts manual!
Awesome! That opening makes for a neat awning as well, if you draw guylines from the 1/4 way points on the floppy edge out to the sides. You could put your stove in the corner below it and have excellent ventilation (and a view!) for cooking, as long as you pitched the tarp to open away from the wind.
Do you also make a triangular ground cover to match the footprint? That sounds like a logical next step for cozying this thing up! :D
Great idea! I would probably stick with boring ol' rectangular groundsheet tho, so it could be folded in whatever ways necessary to accomodate a whole variety of pitches. Thanks!
I have the safari… best tarp I’ve ever owned. People constantly borrow it from me!!
Thanks for your testimonial! The Safari has a lot going for it... more pitch videos using this and AQ's other tarp models to come!
Good stuff. I’ve never seen this set up before. Thanks for posting.
Thanks a lot for commenting! There are some really useful pitches out there... UA-cam hosts some great contributors to this craft!
Thanks for video. If one were to carry around this tarp and another with a smaller footprint, you could lay the smaller footprint under this one before setup so that once you finish setting up the pyramid, theres a floor instead of just the ground.
Great tip! Thanks for the comment. Happy camping!
I consider Aqua Quest Guide as the best tarp for durability, really waterproof, and easy to carry hiking. I have two 10×10 and a 20×13.
Appreciate the feedback and support! Happy to hear it!!
I'm going to use this idea forever!
Happy to hear it!
Just bought your 20x13 and would like to see a vid on multi set up options. Hope to see it. Thanks
Thanks for your feedback! We're working on something like this. stay tuned!
Nice shelter. You could put two tarps together with the bottom one being the floor and be more protected from wet and dirty ground.
That's for sure an idea! My preference is for a really packable and inexpensive groundsheet, so you don't have to worry so much about damaging a quality tarp. Carrying two tarps, however, gives you a lot of flexibility and a ton of options. Thanks!
Terrific. Really good tutorial. You poor guy, so congested you can’t even breathe. I’m sure you feel better now, 10 months later.
This is something I’ve used multiple times! To prevent having a pole in the middle you can also set up a ridge line to hold up that top point, or throw a line directly above you over a limb if you pick a good spot!
Absolutely! If the landscape allows for that then you can reap the benefit of no interior pole to have to work around inside! However, if quick is what you need, the pole option is no muss no fuss. Thanks!
Or use a ridge line and drop down line to tarp center peak - another quick pitch as well providing a degree of weather protection.
Yup!
Thanks for this great video. Really found it interesting. I’ll definitely be trying this out. Quick question . . Please could you tell me what type pole you used for the centre. Looks like it was an adjustable one. Wouldn’t like to use a stick that was too long and split the top open. 😩
Hi! I use an adjustable tarp pole that is manufactured for the purpose... it has a rubberized end-cap that won't damage the tarp fabric -- it's soft and has a large enough surface area to prevent undue strain on the nylon. If using a stick or branch, you can use gear such as a glove, sock, or empty water bottle (inverted over the stick end) to create the same basic padding and protection. I also use a hollow rubber ball (tennis ball, racketball, etc.) with an x cut into it, to pop over any support that may be too hard or sharp for direct contact with the tarp. Thanks!
Great configuration, i'll have to keep this in mind for my next adventure.
Thanks! More pitch videos to come!
Amazing, exactly what I was looking for🤩thanks!
Happy to hear it!!
i do like to use two sticks, poles, branches to make an A frame.... allows much more room inside without a central middle pole taking up room.
Yes, you could certainly create a tripod or bipod-based shelter, but it does take a little longer to get that up and running. Thanks!
Great setup and an excellent tutorial brother. Thumbs up and subbed 👍
Thank YOU! We'll make your sub worth it with more vids to come!
I hope the channel host realises the significance of your compliment. Long time no videos from your good self, over 4yrs? Hope you are ok. Regards from the UK.
@@AQWaterproof You're very welcome! Definitely looking forward to more great vids!
@@GreencampRhodie Yeah, it's certainly been awhile hasn't it. The past few years have seen ALOT going on in my life to say the least. I am doing very well now though (thanks). In fact, I'm planning on starting to upload new videos again here very soon. I hope all is well with you my friend. Very best regards.... -John
Good idea and introduction to tarps.
Thanks 👍
How about a triangular ground sheet? Thanks😊😊😊
Nice to also see the inside
I will spend more time showing the interior in my next video! Thanks!
Thanks for really show
ing how to do it very clearly!
Glad it was helpful!
You have just saved lives.
Just sharing some good information! I maintain that it is an excellent pitch for an emergency, or to prevent an emergency situation from developing. The other thing is: It is very intuitive and easy to remember, which you can't undervalue when the going gets tough. Very little fussing to get this roof over your head. Thanks!
Well done on the videography! Concise, too. Tx!
Much appreciated!
Impressed.
Next time, level ground and a ground gutter too.
Many thanks.
Agreed! Important factors to cover next time. Thanks!
Thanks for the info, learned a new technique today! 🙂👍
Hope you can get out there and try it soon!
Nice and easy setup, thanks for sharing
I'm a little concerned about the vertical center pole - what keeps it from piercing the tarp when weather gets rough?
Hi! The pole I use has a rubber end-cap that is soft and increases the surface area where the tarp fabric contacts the support. Also, the Safari tarp I was using has a ridgeline that is reinforced with webbing for added strength through the axis (and the center-point). That said, you can cushion the contact between your pole and the tarp by using a sock, glove, toque, or other article of clothing. I'm often out with my dog Sitka and carry a Chuck-It ball with a small hole cut into it... you can use this as a good grippy cushion to top off your tarp pole (if your dog's willing to share)! Thanks!
Put a pair of socks on the top of the inside pole or walking stick.
Get a tennis ball and cut a slot in the ball to fix it on top of a stick. Squeeze the ball to open the slot. Bonus is you can draw eyes above the slot and have a new friend to talk with.
Very good video, I finally have a plan for that tarp in the back of my car if I get stranded and need to camp out (well as opposed to my original plan of tarp burrito).
A compact tarp stashed away in your trunk, emergency kit, or bug-out bag is an excellent idea for everyone!
Thank you for this video. Great pitch! Subscribed.
Awesome! Thanks for your subscription and we'll be coming out with more pitch videos soon!
This looks pretty cool for ice fishing
It could work for that... but you might want to try a pitch that has a more convenient entry and allows for more ventilation. Just a thought; thanks!
Really love the video and so easy to follow. I will absolutely try this.
Please do! Let us know your experience after!
You should show an enclosed tarp tent. It has a floor and two sides. It is for rain and keeps you off the wet ground.
Just spent 2.5 hrs trying a bunch of different tarp configurations. Though i havent spent the night in this yet, it is by far the easiest and sturdiest i tried. Im concerned about the ventilation but I guess ill have to try it to find out
Great to hear it! Good luck and let us know how it goes!
you Sir are a very good teacher, thank you :)
I appreciate your generous words!
A tarp pitch can be the best 4 season shelter.
It has to go tight to the ground on all sides and have a wood stove inside if it is going to be any good in a winter blizzard. The whole outfit cannot weigh more than 4 lbs. if backpackers are going to use it. A 10’x10’ tarp only needs to be pegged on the 4 corners with as many pegs as it takes to be secure in any wind. No grommets are needed. It has space for 2 cooking or 4 sleeping.
The chimney can serve as 1 of the 40” long corner poles. Sticks that have a small nail driven in both ends (head pinched off). One end stays put on the ground, the other end through a reinforced point exactly in the corner 40” from the edge of the tarp.
All sides can be raised forming an umbrella to cool off, heat from the stove or summer sun.
Thanks for sharing your expertise with all of us!
Very nice. An all enclosed tarp.
And besides: it's actually quite easy to pitch! Thanks!
I can see how this configuration would come in handy during very inclimate weather.
Yeah it's a great little hunker-bunker when bad weather hits! 💪🌬🌧
I do something similar, but better for ventilation...and easier to pitch. The pitch to which I am referring is often called the "Holman tent"...and sometimes, the "Half Pyramid". The setup starts the same as yours, but with the single pole at the front EDGE of the tarp, guyed with a single line. The front corners are pegged out to form a triangular doorway. I use that configuration for warmer, non-stormy weather. If stormy, the sides can easily be pulled together, to form a closed wedge. That is, as long as the height of the pole is adjusted low enough to allow it.
Takes about two minutes to pitch...and a tree (or other suitable fixed object, like a fence post) can easily substitute for the pole. I use 6 pegs myself (3 along the back edge, 1 at each front corner and 1 for the pole guy line) - but the center peg on the back edge can be deleted, if you wish. Of course, if using a fixed object instead of the pole, another peg can be omitted...making the minimum 4. In that case, the guy line for the pole serves as the guy line to the fixed object.
Excellent presentation!!
Thank you kindly!
clever doorsystem.
Tahnk you for this
And thank you for watching!
Very nice. I haven't seen this setup before. How does it do with condensation?
Thanks for the feedback! Because the shelter is enclosed, it is indeed less ventilated than other set-ups. It's a bit trade-off between security and breathability a lot of the time! You can raise the perimeter from ground level by adding cordage loops to the tie-outs, creating a circulation zone at the base of the shelter... won't solve all your problems but can help (especially if your sleeping, with body heat and breath low to the ground).
Can you please do a tutorial on an Adirondack Tarp Shelter pitch with an Aquaquest 10x13? Thanks
We'll keep that in mind for our next video!
Goodyear job
Thanks!
Very informative and educational. Thank you very much
Thanks for your feedback... we'll have more videos like this coming soon!
Awesome video. Thx a lot. Is the a required pole length to fit perfectly?
For this setup using an AQ Safari 10 x 10, the pole measures 4'2" from ground to apex... my tarp pole has a pointed tip that was sunk about 2" in the ground as well, for a total of approximately 4'4". A different tarp make/model with even slightly different finished measurements may demand something different, but there's your ballpark figure for a 10 x 10. Thanks!
I really love this idea❤
Cool idea. I’m not used to a bare floor though. You know, bugs and mice and stuff. I would dig a 3” trench all the way around for heavy rain protection on the floor.
Hi! While not covered in the video (the focus was on the tarp pitch), I would absolutely use a compact, inexpensive groundsheet as a waterproof floor/barrier. Bugs are not really a problem in my locale but in certain locations and/or seasons, they might be big enough a factor to consider some netting options to pair with your tarp. As for the trenching: It's definitely a good idea if palpable rain is falling... your site selection will likely dictate how much work you need to invest. Hopefully you would only need to trench one side of the tarp. Thanks!
I've been thinking about getting a tarp for this camping year.
Give it a try! So many options to experiment with!
Great Idea and extremely useful. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching!
nice. a piece of paracord tied to entrance could help with the door, so you wouldn't have to take out middle stake and put back in. i carry a adjustable hiking aluminum hiking stick so would always have a center pole.
Yes and yes! Your suggestions are duly noted. So long as your hiking pole extends to the required height (just over 4 ft in this instance), it is a perfect tool for the job. Thanks!
Thank you for a great video.
Looks like I owe you an apology. I clicked on this vid fully expecting this to be a bs shelter. But it looks really good and I plan on trying it out this weekend.
Great! Let us know how it turns out!
Absolutely awesome bud,appreciate you very much. Looking forward to your next video.
Thanks for saying so... we're ON IT!