Tarps are tough utilitarian sheets. Arguably one of the most versatile materials, they are a great way to protect your tent, car, and other items from weather-related wear and tear. Use a tarp to cover vehicles during off-seasons, as a canopy while camping, or as a barrier while painting a room. Here's a list of my favorites.
Trademark Supplies tarp
Great for use on the ground
This tarp can be used as a canopy, pool cover, and ground cover.
Pros:
- Made from thick protective materials
- Waterproof
- Can be used as a pool cover or for camping
- Available in 19 different sizes
Cons:
- May be thinner than expected
- Grommets on fabric may not be perfectly aligned
This tarp is available in 19 different sizes, making it great as a pool, tent, and ground cover while camping. Made from thick protective materials, it is waterproof and durable to protect your items. Cleaning this tarp is easy. Simply spray it with a cleaning solution and wipe it dry.
Amazon Basics waterproof camping tarp
Great for the outdoors
This tarp is resilient, made of tough waterproof fabric that resists tears.
Pros:
- Good for camping
- Waterproof
- Features rip-stop fabric with polyethylene lamination
- Rust-resistant grommets
- Measures 7.5-by-9.5 feet
Cons:
- Corners may rip with use
- Tarp's color is not as dark as the image
This tarp measures 7.6-by-9.5 feet, so will fulfill many uses while camping. It features rust-resistant grommets and waterproof fabric, ensuring it keeps you dry in rainy environments. This tarp's rip-stop fabric is paired with polyethylene lamination on both sides. This makes it great for use on the floor or as a tent canopy.
Tarpco Safety extra heavy-duty tarp
Several thickness options available
This tarp, made from lasting polyethylene, is made to take a beating.
Pros:
- Made from 100-percent virgin polyethylene
- Features strong grommets and reinforced edges
- Tear and UV-resistant, waterproof
Cons:
- Grommets may rip out with too much force
- Sizes may not be true to recorded measurements
This heavy-duty polyethylene tarp is designed with strong grommets that are placed every 24 inches. The edges are reinforced, ensuring they don't easily fray while in use. This option is tear-resistant, waterproof, and UV-resistant, so it's great for use in all seasons.
Patio Paradise heavy-duty tarp
Keep your automobile pristine
This tarp can be used to protect garage-less cars from the elements.
Pros:
- Great for use with vehicles
- Heavy-duty and lightweight
- Made from high-density polyethylene fabric
- Great for use in all seasons
- Aluminum grommets every 32 inches
Cons:
- Can tear with use
- May not be as heavy-duty as expected
This tarp is perfect for protecting vehicles and boats. It's made from high-density polyethylene with aluminum grommets placed every 32 inches. The durable cover will last and protect in all seasons. It comes in multiple sizes and colors to satisfy your needs.
Kym Industries Inc. electric aluminum 4-spring dump truck tarp system
Mesh cover for construction vehicles
This tarp features a specific mechanism for protecting dump trucks.
Pros:
- For dump trucks
- Features a 93-inch aluminum arms
- Comes with a 12-volt 50:1 motor
- Rotary switch
Cons:
- Not for use while camping
Designed for containers on dump trucks, this canopy tarp features a special rotary-switch mechanism. The tarp can be controlled via a switch, maneuvering with 93-inch aluminum arms and a 12-volt 50:1 Apache electric motor. It is made from strong mesh vinyl and is available in multiple sizes.
The bottom line
Why you can trust Gardeningetc Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
The best tarps keep your items safe and protected in all weather conditions. The Trademark Supplies tarp is a terrific multi-purpose option. It's waterproof, made from thick protective materials, can be used as a canopy, pool cover, or ground cover in all seasons.
The Amazon Basics waterproof camping tarp is great for outdoor adventures in rainy or sunny seasons. It is made from rip-stop fabric that is double-sided with polyethylene lamination. This ensures you or your things remain dry and protected.
Why trust us?
At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.
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