Tarp length vs. hammock length

**wbJohn** · 09-15-2019, 14:31

Since I'm usually camping out of my kayak weight is not as much of a factor for me. I have three tarps now: 12 foot hex, 12 foot winter with doors, and 11 foot hex. I often use a Tensa 4 stand so trees aren't a limiting factor either. If I'm just using the stand I will use the 11 foot hex tarp which fits perfectly but is rather claustrophobic. With the tarp extension poles on the stand, I will use one of the 12 foot tarps. The winter tarp offers the most room under it with internal poles and also has the best rain protection. On a hot summer night, the 12 foot hex offers a cooling breeze. All of them work with my 11 foot hammock, the biggest difference between them is how much room I have under them. For me, that's a valuable thing. I'll be using the 12 foot winter tarp the most next season.

**kc_joe** · 09-17-2019, 08:31

So for my 9' hammock I'm thinking 9' (possibly with doors) might be a good option. Might as well ask but what's an 'appropriate' width? Someone mentioned asking fi this was for 'just enough to sleep and not get wet or for room to hang out and eat/sit...this would just be enough to sleep under (minimal). Many manufacturers go 8.5' but I've seen some folks do just fine with 7'. Any opinions out there on this?

**MAD777** · 09-17-2019, 08:56

Years ago I ran across some 84" wide silnylon and made a ridge-less hex tarp. I took it only when fair skies were forecast with zero chance of rain. I wouldn't expect it to keep me completely dry in any rain.

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**OneClick** · 09-20-2019, 07:39

Originally Posted by MAD777

I took it only when fair skies were forecast with zero chance of rain.

I used to do the same with my hex tarp. No more after this dry trip in August. 0% chance, then 30%, then you know the rest. I already shared this elsewhere, but it's funny now that it's in the past.