Which tarp material packs smaller? 30d or 20d????

[leeinmemphis]

Hey everyone,

I'm getting ready to order a new tarp and am looking for what packs down to the smallest package. I'm a motorcycle camper so I don't care much about weight. For me it's more about space available. Which material packs down more compact 30d or 20d or is there no real difference?

[OneClick]

Hey everyone,

I'm getting ready to order a new tarp and am looking for what packs down to the smallest package. I'm a motorcycle camper so I don't care much about weight. For me it's more about space available. Which material packs down more compact 30d or 20d or is there no real difference?

In a faceoff between the two, 20d would win. But in a real-world situation they basically occupy the same size sack. The 30d will just be "tighter". At that point you could argue the 20d will still squish into a pack smaller, but I don't think it's enough to notice. Just my experience.

[cmoulder]

I agree that 20D and 30D are going to be pretty close in packed volume, with the nod going to 20D. You can also get 15D tarps these days, and Gossamer Gear and Enlightened Equipment have tarps that use 7D(!).

However, if you're looking for the Nth degree of space utilization, it is better to use an oversized stuff sack and fold the tarp quite loosely when putting it into this large stuff sack. This way, it conforms better to available space and fills nooks and crannies, whereas a tight little bundle usually creates little gaps of wasted space.

What type of tarp are you looking for, a large winter tarp with doors or a tiny asym with minimal coverage or, more likely, something in between? Or something that will cover both hammock and motorcycle?

[leeinmemphis]

thanks guys. I ordered a thunderfly this afternoon. I drink the WB kool aid pretty heavy and wanted to stay with them

Thanks again!

[HandyRandy]

thanks guys. I ordered a thunderfly this afternoon. I drink the WB kool aid pretty heavy and wanted to stay with them

Thanks again!

Ooh, nice choice. That’s what I’ve settled on after trying out a few tarps. I also have mostly WB too, lol. Tarp, hammock, TQ, UQ, rain jacket.

[leeinmemphis]

Ooh, nice choice. That’s what I’ve settled on after trying out a few tarps. I also have mostly WB too, lol. Tarp, hammock, TQ, UQ, rain jacket.

yeah I'm going to be mostly WB except on the top quilt. I ordered a custom wider/longer top quilt.