5 x 8 Flat tarp setups

[Kim Clements]

I am a flat tarp user (Integral Designs 5 x 8) that doesn't use trekking poles. I thought I would post some different configurations I have used or are familiar with.

Please post picures of your setups.

Traditional a frame

Flying Pyramid

Half Pyramid

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[Jason Knecht]

Didn’t realize how versatile this tarp was. I'm going to have to get it out and see if I can mimic some of these.

[Kim Clements]

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Lean-to long
Lean to short

Modified lean to

Modified lean to long

[Kim Clements]

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Modified Lean to long

Lets see your tarp setups with or without poles!

[Jang-Tian Shieh(Syoten)]

My MLD monk tarp.
It's a little narrower and longer.(4' X 8.5')

[Mike M]

same 8×5' size, can use the same pitches

modified pyramid

I like this one too (found it in Ryan's book)- modified a frame

[Nick Truax]

This thread is great and I thank you all.

Currently waiting for a flat 5×8 ID tarp and this is a very informative consolidation of pitches.

[backpackerchick]

Wow, this is awesome. Thanks to all contributors. I use waking poles/sticks. I prefer the BD z poles in 110cm. I don't like telescoping poles! BD also make a somewhat adjustable version of the z pole. There is a 85 to 110cm and a 110-125cm. Any feelings on what stick height would be most useful/versatile with the ID Siltarp 1 or similar 5×8 tarp? I am thinking the longer length. Could I get a way with just the 110cm?

How much cord to you usually take? How many stakes? I realize that this depends on terrain, weather, etc. But say for an early september two week walk in the Alps or Pyrenees following a GR route OR perhaps, a two week walk of the JMT in early September.

[Mike M]

I think you'll have to play around a little bit to find the best length for you. For myself, I found my fully lengthened pole to be best (140 iirc)- if the 110 isn't long enough, simply carry a short pole jack- the weight is small (you can even find them in carbon fiber)

I like to have the cord already attached w/ room for adjustment, again probably something you'll have to play with. Setting up my tarp multiple times in my yard was absolutely necessary imo to insure that everything worked well and to have the confidence that I could get a good pitch in the backcountry.

I carry 5 lightweight shepherd stakes and two beefier stakes that are used on the main guys.

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