backpacking tarp... making vs buying

[bennyjenkins]

I'm looking to get into camping with a tarp, and the first thing I notice is that these squares of nylon are pretty spendy compared to what I had imagined. Are they worth it? What size is most versitile? What are some good brands? Anyone have success with making one of their own?

 

[Codger_64]

Just to try out tarp camping, I wouldn't spend much at first. You can pick up a really cheap blue tarp at Walmart, but for about $20.00 you can get a better one like this:

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___90552

Or better yet With 21 Tie Tabs for about $50 like this:

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___22220

It just depends on how much you are willing to spend on something you may or may not like.

 

[hoopster]

Sportsmans guide has a 12 x 12 one for $29.99 but it's back ordered until the end of the month. All the reviews were positive. I agree, you can try a cheap blue tarp first but they're probably heavier and bulkier than the nylon ones.