How to Fold a Tarp

A good tarp is a camping essential.

A good tarp is an essential piece of equipment for any camping trip. Use it as a ground cloth beneath your tent for an extra layer of protection from encroaching morning dew, or as a levee against tent flooding from an unexpected downpour. A tarp installed overhead between trees can serve as a makeshift awning or carport if it looks like you're in for a monsoon, but don't want to spend all day inside the tent.
Folding and storing your tarp properly will keep the material in good shape so it will be ready when you need it most.

Things You'll Need

• Tarp A helper, if the tarp is larger than about 10 feet by 10 feet.

Instructions

1. Lay the tarp out flat and allow to completely air dry before folding.

2. Take one edge of the tarp and fold over about 1 foot, creasing the folded seam along the length of the tarp.

3. Fold the tarp back under itself another foot, accordion-style, and crease the seam flat.

4. Repeat the alternating folds until the tarp is folded, accordion style, and is on the ground in one long section about a foot wide.

5. Fold the tarp starting at one end, again following the accordion style, until your tarp is completely folded in a square, about 1 foot by 1 foot.

6. Store the tarp in a dry, waterproof camp bag with a drawstring or zip.

7. To reuse, grab one corner of the folded tarp, snap the tarp outward with two hands to unfurl the material. This gets it ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Never fold a wet or damp tarp and place it in storage. The next time you need it, the tarp may well be covered in mold and offer up a foul smell. Take time to dry your gear before storing.

References

• Tarp handling and storage