Ditch Your Blue Tarp for THIS! 🤯

[@Georgecobb-s1v]

As an "Old Schooler," I began camping under canvas 70+ years ago. Along the way I joined the modern crowd of nylon & Plastic. About 20 years ago I got involved in historical re-enacting & returned to canvas. At age 83, I am too old & physically unable to backpack, so my wife & I travel to a campsite & set-up our Canvas Shelters. Primitive camping under canvas is still a viable, enjoyable, & more economical way to camp in the long run. I thoroughly enjoyed your practical & variable approach to enjoying outdoor adventure "under canvas!" Thank you & may God bless you & your family!

[@MsRotorwings]

Have you treated your tarps to waterproof them? Do you use tarps or did you purchase a canvas tent? It’s great that you can get out and camp. I love camping, even in the rain. I just put up a tarp.

[@kevinsnyder8448]

You stay on old boy I'm right behind ya. Just around that bend😂.❤

[@greyscout01]

'Old school' camping is great! Worth it just for the memories and nostalgia alone.

[@CrowdSurfingGeezer]

My hat's off to you sir!

[@dennistate5953]

You might mention canvas in rain, when touched, if not waterproofed tends to drip from touched spot. Old memories.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Fair enough. If not treated well, it certainly can absorb water.

[@rabbithole8592]

I remember seeing that in an episode of leave it to beaver. He touched the roof of his canvass tent and it immediately began leaking. Lol

[@operationseekingtruth]

Can easily waterproof a canvas tarp

[@dennistate5953]

@@operationseekingtruth absolutely. New folk might not initially grasp the importance at first.

[@ClaudeBohls]

30% shoe goo 50% alcohol 20% distilled water in a cheap spray bottle (1 use unless thoroughly cleaned with alcohol at the minimum) Hot day+ do the seams and stitching first. Then slow wide saturating sweeps. Seams multiplied. You’re welcome

[@ItAintMeBabe99]

Let’s not forget the smell. Brings me back to my Army days.

[@meschneb]

My dad always kept a heavy duty (and literally HEAVY) green canvas tarp from Sears in the back of the station wagon. It also a good way to keep the back shelf area clean when we hauled wood or something else that was dirty. But we used it for a sun/rain tarp, too. I've got that tarp now--it's probably older than I am but still going strong. Old school prepping before anyone thought to actually call it that.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Very cool!

[@dananorth895]

Canvas makes a good outter layer for a cowboy roll/bed. Just add a wool blanket, maybe a fleece and a reflective thermal and your good for at least 3 seasons.

[@gerrygadget]

Basic 8x10 canvas tarp with grommets is $48 at Harbor Freight. Doesn't have webbing loops or extra reinforcement, but so far it's been pretty durable for me.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Nice! Sounds like a decent deal.

[@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798]

The 6×8' at HF with coupon a few weeks ago were $16! Bought 3 Ran one though washer to remove light chem smell and used to wrap around sleeping cot pad in my 1972. 16' pickup camper... Used HF zip ties on back from grommet to grommet.. As me and my doggo sleep on this And he likes to " dig around" sometimes .. Also looks retro and damned manly! (Original orange/yellow/green flowers wasn't cutting it!)

[@noyopacific]

I get the 9X12 canvas drop cloth for $15 and waterproof them myself. I’m working on a 16x20’ wall tent covered with a dozen treated canvas drop cloths (& a heavy vinyl rain fly.) if it doesn’t work I can always buy a readymade wall tent.

[@anthonyromano8565]

Polyester canvas not cotton.

[@AniwayasSong]

I've always believed in canvas/duck cloth tarps, but you MUST understand moisture, and be willing/able to manage the weight. I reinforce every 'Shelter' tarp with strong nylon rope, weaved through each grommet with a convenient tie-loop. This helps from seeing the grommets on the tarp stressed more than they have to be (Limits most of the problem to the tarps own weight), and for extra-heavy-duty protection, I also ties a huge 'X' underneath the tarp (In case of heavy rain, to help with 'Sagging' and the addtl. weight/stresses the water will cause). Drying them out COMPLETELY, and water-proofing them is a must. If you don't misuse/abuse them, a good quality tarp will last many, many years. Nice video! Thank you!

[@g.m.robertson8700]

great idea,the rope threaded throu the gromets with tie down loops..

[@kitrick9671]

Additionally, plastic tarps degrade to dust with sun exposure. These canvas tarps that are treated with silicone last forever. I've been using canvas tarps from HF to cover boats for years, and have yet to have one degrade or lose waterproofing. Although heavy, they're durable, waterproof, and comfortable in a way a plastic tarp isn't.

[@FanceeName]

The only time I’ve ever used blue tarps is when I need it real cheap quick fix one. I’ve been using silver/brown for almost 2 decades now.

[@pv4669]

Great ideas. However, I think using the tarp as your tent doormat is overkill. I prefer a precut piece of "Astro Turf" that rolls up nicely and it allows you to wipe your feed on the "grassy" texture. If you're using the tarp as a doormat and you need it for something else (rain, windbreak, etc.) then you lose your doormat.Thanks for the video.

[@bigunone]

As a teenager I had sideboards to set on my pickup, with a sleeping platform and a canvas tarp my younger brother and I were dry warm and safe on many spring fishing trips

[@garyp.7501]

in the PNW, canvas is a pain because with the near constant rain, it never dries out. Canvas once wet is stiff, heavy (ie not for backpacking) and when you get home a pain to dry, especially if it's raining outside and you don't have a big empty garage. Other than that, I hate the blue tarps but I still use them.

[@rogerwilco1777]

Have you tried the ole, Bed Sheet soaked in the Parafin/Mineral oil mixture?? If youre not familiar, look it up on youtube.. cheap and kinda easy to make, you basically turn a bed sheet into a water proof tarp, it lasts longer than the plastic blue ones but it will be heavier. I've made a couple, one I even used citronella paraffin in hopes to make it mosquito resistant, but I havent tested that one yet to see if it actually repels.. There's also a much more potent way to water proof a bed sheet with a mixture of Silicone and Naphtha.. but its way more expensive, like 30$ to waterproof a queen/king sized sheet.. and I wouldn't trust that against my skin or as a rain fly etc

[@direwolf6234]

switch to brown & green ... easier on the eyes in the woods ...

[@Sgt.Kayaker]

Canvas is a lot heavier than a siltarp for backpacking so this would only be good for car camping.

[@ClaudeBohls]

@@Sgt.Kayaker which is what most of us weekend warriors and fatties do anyway. Cheap useful and easily replaced

[@balderdashery1]

Which he stated at the beginning of the video.

[@DevinCutting]

Says the people who are only concerned with weight

[@bdmenne]

@@Andy-LucyGSD What is the name brand? I plugged in "tents smiths 8x8 oil tarp" but nothing really stood out on Amazon. Thoughts? Thanks

[@chandlerflanagan7625]

Build them leg and back muscles 💪🏼 packing heavy every once in a while is always fun

[@barbarab202]

Sending you a big virtual hug. 🤗 Process things in your own way, your own timeframe. A month isn’t long. This is a shock to your system. Be gentle to yourself.

[@markthomas8766]

Canvas tarps are great! I use 12 gauge truck tarps, but light 10 gauge are better and lighter for camping purposes, if you can get them. Most of my tents are canvas too. They are 10 gauge. Of course I have a few nylon tents and tarps for hiking or kayaking but I definitely prefer my canvas ones. A properly made canvas lasts 35 + years. They're heirlooms and passed down the family which is how I know how long they last.

[@theoutdoorempire]

That's very true!

[@samday6621]

I would not drag a tarp (loaded) over rock. You can wear holes. You can also rewaterproof tarps, as you would a swag. Look for rip-stop material too.

[@billhelms4227]

Two words (Kodiak flexbow). 20 something years never leaked mabe closer to 30 yrs. Need a cart to carry in now. I'm 79 years old and appreciate it all the more. A 10x10 and stays up when others blow down .We, wife myself and the dog have gone through heavy storms. Can't beat the sound of rain on canvas to put you to sleep. HAPPY CAMPING

[@samday6621]

@ Thanks. I grew up under an André Jamais canvas tent. And a few years ago bought a new canvas tent, however it is heavy and takes up a lot of valuable cargo space. Before this purchase we used a 4 person, two room, nylon tent. It’s lasted 16 camps and will probably only make 20, but has served us well. Like buying a vehicle nowadays, they’re so specialised, one chooses (or compromise) tents depending on use and needs. Nothing wrong with owning more than one if they all get use.

[@corbelius6]

I have that smell in my memory banks so vividly.

[@CrowdSurfingGeezer]

great vid! The other thing better about canvas is it's quiet!

[@theoutdoorempire]

Indeed.

[@paulgorniak6469]

I moved to Oregon and thought the blue tarp was the state flag!

[@theoutdoorempire]

😂

[@terrysmith4831]

The blue plastic tarp is the democrat party's banner of status and is displayed mainly in illegal junkie camps.

[@firepwr21]

😂

[@timnelson6334]

Your close, it is blue.

[@julynbaker1718]

😂😂😂

[@JB50713]

After seeing the simple shelter possible in the back of a pickup I think I need a canvas tarp!

[@alanosborne1947]

LOVE your Sprinbar Skyliner! Springbar makes the BEST canvas tent in the world and they're MADE IN AMERICA!!! USA.USA.USA

[@theoutdoorempire]

I love it too!

[@gregmccaslin7400]

I love the smell of an oiled canvas tarp in the morning . It’s a very dependable dry shelter .

[@OdysseyCamper]

A canvas tarp saved Rambo!

[@theoutdoorempire]

If that ain't proof of a quality piece of gear, I don't know what is.

[@scotschmidt6683]

He also ripped it with his bare hands.

[@randyrussell6246]

But it was dry rotted ......LOL !​@@scotschmidt6683

[@eliinthewolverinestate6729]

We use a green/gray tarps at camp. We through it over a ridge line hung in the trees. It's to cover the tents for rain. The other is ground tarp. We go camping for 9-14 days at a time. We leave them in a blue barrel at camp. The canvas tarp would be nice between the trees over the outdoor kitchen.

[@OlTrailDog]

I spent many years using large canvas tents and canvas flies in the wildernesses of MT and WY. Work great, are tough, and are roomy for stock supported work. They would also work fine for vehicle supported activities. However, they simply are too heavy for back packing and I use Carbon Fiber, aka CF, when backpacking.

[@louiscolborn6715]

That's a good idea if your camping out of a truck. Backpacking not so good. Canvas is heavy. 👍👍👍💪

[@jdsrcs8061]

Great vid!!! Canvas tarps and moving blankets are the 2 main items in my camping set-up!!!👍👍👍

[@jamesford7182]

You may be too practical for most people, but that is actually a great combination.

[@lynnjr457]

I love waxed canvas tarps for vehicle camping or other stationary work. Once you have to pack it into the woods on your back it becomes a problem.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Indeed.

[@FLsheepdog1]

Put it directly on top of your tent or hammock to protect from rain and keep in heat.

[@bugoutjeep8065]

I got turned onto these from truckers and they are awesome. If you’re super cheap, look for deals on canvas drop cloths (harbor freight they used to have a grommet kit too)and you can get treatments to make it waterproof too.

[@ajsteele4381]

Thanks, I've never had one,and in the past stuff flew out of the Truck so after your video I ordered 2 off of Amazon, we are Goin campin This Friday and will tuck the ends like you demonstrated. 🤝

[@theoutdoorempire]

Awesome, it's worked great for me.

[@Acrscott-p5u]

I’m old enough to remember camping in a canvas tent, they leak when touched, very heavy when wet. A plastic tarp is 1/4 the price, lighter and won’t leak. No way I would ever go back. They will mold when wet just by looking at in. Would you hike with and old army back pack?

[@dougreid2351]

But a stray ember from your campfire won't turn it into an inferno in the blink of an eye. DOUG out

[@Yowzoe]

Very good points!

[@21stcenturycaveman33]

I love the truck tarp. So simple but so effective. Thumbs up

[@theoutdoorempire]

It really is!

[@grampabuckshot402]

I have always carried a 6x8 canvass tarp rolled up and carried confederate style. with my clothes, ropes and stakes inside with a haversack on the other shoulder.A couple of plash platkas treated with parafin wax is a bit lighter if you dont want all the weight.

[@g.m.robertson8700]

i learned quick to make sure uour 'under the tent tarp,gets recessed under the tent edges,otherwise ,rain etc. will run under your tent floor...

[@jafquist27]

Dutch Blitz! YESSSS!!!

[@WhiteDwarfVR4]

I've been using milsurp marpat tarps. They are made of ripstop nylon and have a coyote colored urethane coating on the bottom side. They're a little heavy for their size but pretty tough. I'll have to give these canvas tarps a try for heavier Duty use.

[@edgartokman4898]

If you're on your bike you should cart a blue tarp ..in the winter it's best to sleep under the bridge on some nights wait until they clear the roads then you can go back into towns to look for food and fill your water up ...

[@thehunter3386]

Great tutorial! Covers a lot of ground...(Pun intended😂) Thanks!!👍👍

[@theoutdoorempire]

😂

[@jared9191]

Off topic, but what sleeping cot do you recommend?

[@theoutdoorempire]

Not sure yet, but I plan on doing a comparison one of these days. The one I have is a Coleman and it's fine, pretty cheap, but not amazing.

[@giantfactory]

I would assume coating one with Permethrin would be ok as a tick deterrent?

[@charleswillis5925]

Of course the typical truck has holes in the side where you can slide poles to make it a lean-to, weather permitting.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Great tip.

[@chucksneed3339]

Springbar finally has 10x14 tarps back in stock. Ordered one for my Skyliner.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Awesome! I like that option.

[@hoser7706]

The negatives I remember ablit canvas besides weight is eventual smell regardless of storage, not windproof, not really waterproof. Classic style and durable AF for sure but I’ll be sticking with sil or sil-poly tarps.

[@theoutdoorempire]

I live in a dry climate so as long as you put it away dry, it doesn't get funky. But I bet that's an issue where it's humid no matter what.

[@direwolf6234]

mold & mildew ....

[@SuzanneWho]

If you have a porch or in the wild, tie out the four corners, throw a thin air mattress on and sleep in it like a big wide hammock.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Love that idea!

[@HikingAZ]

Harbor Freight has a great green canvas tarp. I bought one and waterproofed it myself. They have a 6x8 in store and an 8x10 online.

[@alanosborne1947]

Yea but it's made in CHINA....ALWAYS BUY AMERICAN!

[@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798]

​@@alanosborne1947china man needs to eat to!

[@direwolf6234]

@@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798 unless it's your job here ...

[@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798]

@@direwolf6234 It's ok.... With the millions coming across the border...isn't anyone concerned about the American working man....... While " they" crash the economy... Better to be sure your dollar goes as far as it can... Be good to have a high degree of skilled job or jose will have it next week!

[@theoutdoorempire]

Here's the one I have and I love it! 👉 whiteduckoutdoors.sjv.io/XYD5V4 (affiliate link, FYI) 📧 Sign up for our email newsletter! 👉 outdoorempire.com/youtube-sign-up/

[@dalejuhl8591]

GREAT no, SPECTACULAR ideas for canvas tarp uses - Thank you for sharing

[@madmaxthemotomutt6464]

I use it for firewood, keeping bugs separated from my gear

[@theoutdoorempire]

Good idea

[@stevelacombe5291]

Old school can definitely be better in some cases.

[@patrickcreighton5109]

I use my canvas tarp to haul leafs from here to way over there

[@ClaudeBohls]

I think you might be right. I’m convinced

[@Lon1001]

Some good use cases in this video, canvas definitely superior to the cheap woven polyethylene tarps from the hardware store. But they are heavy, well suited to car camping but not easily backpackable for hiking or lightweight applications, I really do like my silicon coated nylon tarp, super lightweight and practical but I wouldn't use it on the ground nearly as much as I could with a canvas one.

[@direwolf6234]

sleep on a shower curtain ... cheap & durable ....

[@kevinahern7818]

Great video Thanks!!

[@theoutdoorempire]

Glad you liked it!

[@NOMADVANNER]

WHAT SIZE IS TARP YOU SHOWED IN VIDEO..AND WHAT IS THE COST..THANKYOU..VERY INFORMATIVE..

[@theoutdoorempire]

Mine is 8ft x 10ft. I think it's normally around $80 but you can check online (amzn.to/4drN538 or whiteduckoutdoors.sjv.io/XYD5V4 affiliate links, FYI).

[@lapicker1010]

I don’t spare expense when it comes to most of my camping gear. But I abuse my tarps way too much to use anything other than a cheap blue tarp. Lighter than canvas too.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Right on. You might find these rugged canvas tarps outlast several blue ones.

[@RustyShakleford1]

Get a PVC tarp they last forever

[@randyrussell6246]

By the canvas off a bolt at wholesale price, purchase a gromet kit cheap around 10 buck and they all come with a couple dozens gromets and a ten year old can use it ( just need a hammer. Then pick one of the many ways to treat ( waterproof) the canvas. Does not have to be canvas, just needs to not rip easily.

[@rskite]

Thanks for this Vid. Been looking for a solution for the front of the tent and something to put on the ground when rolling the tent, bags, mats, etc.

[@theoutdoorempire]

This would be perfect for that. Cheers.

[@gonefishingapodaca]

Canvas tarp all the way. I'm surprised you are still pounding those stakes into the ground. I've got to lag screws with washers and an impact drill.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Ya I keep meaning to try that, but also hesitant about relying on an electrical tool in the woods.

[@loyaltyisroyalty5616]

How does canvas hold up in the rain?

[@theoutdoorempire]

Very well. When laid out or used as a cover. It absorbs some moisture but still sheds water. You do have to let it dry out before you store it again though.

[@nickhtk6285]

Canvas over plastic any day of the week for this guy.

[@Plain-Ole-Chuck]

Good honest review.... Thanks

[@theoutdoorempire]

Thanks for watching!

[@ClaudeBohls]

@@Plain-Ole-Chuck you’re good honest Chuckle

[@JudyShrouds]

Not available. It doesn't know when it will be available. Looks really nice and thick. Blessings

[@utubetjc]

AquaQuest tarps are what I use.

[@PhillipStewart-k7f]

Get u some PVC pipe. Make a cover wagon n back of truck. I've done that works great. ❤❤❤❤

[@dananorth895]

I prefer canvas and veiw them as an investment. I would never treat them poorly, except maybe a dedicated ground tarp.

[@christopherwhitley9923]

He said fastidious, im sold. 😸

[@mikeherbelin7774]

Heavy rains still wet expensive and got holes in the middle now I need a new tarp

[@slouchyjoe]

Canvas is what the military uses, and it is my preference.

[@User-uj7nz]

Great shirt! Great video!

[@RockingJOffroad]

I think the plastic tarps are used because the don’t last! They have tried to replace canvas since a good canvas will last a lifetime when cared for properly, while a plastic tarp has built in sales guarantee as they last a very short time before you throw it out and have to replace it!

[@WadeMaster789]

Blue doesn't burn under a DEW.

[@KhakiPantsFishing]

How UV resistant is the canvas tarp?

[@obsever97]

Rigging up a tarp over a van/truck/car really cools it down.

[@sqd8r]

Keep the blue, it makes an impenetrable ground sheet and bed cover. Dirt cheap and you can just leave it behind in your truck; no one is touching it.

[@Nordictor78]

Perfect size 5m x 6m! But it is heavy

[@theoutdoorempire]

Indeed they are heavier.

[@samholborn]

Hi from hull UK

[@theoutdoorempire]

Hello there!

[@Ra-zor]

Canvas is heavy to carry backpacking, and if it gets wet while on multi day trips carrying a heavy wet tarp is no fun at all. Stick to good quality nylon ripstop tarps or other light weight materials. Canvas is great for truck/car camping though...

[@PraxisPrepper]

Great video. I made a tarp video recently too, but for the regular old plastic ones. I've been meaning to upgrade to tha canvas ones though. Thx for the video!

[@CaptApple]

Is the waterproofing PFAS or PFOS?

[@theoutdoorempire]

I don't know.

[@CraigAllen-re9bf]

SILACONE

[@CraigAllen-re9bf]

​@@theoutdoorempireSILACONE

[@TeslaOverland]

Great tips.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Thanks for watching!

[@KEFERMELENON-rv4tj]

Wish I could get great deals on my camping supply

[@davefletch3063]

You can make a nice cowboy bedroll

[@theoutdoorempire]

For sure.

[@behindthespotlight7983]

Wait. Why don’t you take it backpacking?🤪

[@rodmeisterful]

Nice content, thanks.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Thank you too!

[@Ts7005]

How heavy is it, compared to a tarp?

[@johnlounsbury6191]

what does it weigh ?

[@radvalve205]

I had a large one years ago, very heavy and had a terrible odor to it, ended up trashing it, just couldn't tolerate the odor.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Must have gotten folded up wet. That'll get moldy.

[@twloughlin]

Canvas over blue plastic? Sure. Canvas over 40D lightweight nylon? Not so sure. I can certainly see the value in canvas for car camping, but I would still pack a lightweight nylon tent for easier deployment for shade and shelter.

[@gerrygadget]

I have a canvas tarp and recently bought an AquaQuest Safari 10x10 which Nylon 70D (I don't backpack so don't need ultralight). I have use cases for both, and next car camping trip I might take both. Canvas is really good cover, and great footprint for dispersed camping when there is lots of gravel or sticks. Nylon is easier to work with for the various shelters.

[@theoutdoorempire]

Great idea.

[@garybennett8880]

I like hearing about canvas tarps rather than the blue.

[@yousweetpotato1]

But you can also use a blue tarp as a shade/shelter, a stuff cover, a rug, a mat, a gear hauler, no? The main advantages of the canvas tarp are less dirt transfer and it's quieter? (I don't use a blue tarp; I also use a canvas tarp. It just occurred to me you can use a blue tarp for all the things described in this video.)

[@theoutdoorempire]

Indeed a blue tarp can do these things. I neglected to articulate the pros and cons of canvas over plastic here. Thanks for the feedback.

[@edwardcomeau6859]

Who makes your tarp?

[@theoutdoorempire]

White Duck Outdoors. Link in description.

[@ok2x]

Does it mold after being wet?

[@theoutdoorempire]

It can if stored wet for a long time. Probably more sensitive in humid climates. I live in the arid West.

[@Thrunabulax10]

i STOPPED using canvas because it became mildewed when wet and dirty. it is too big to pass thru a washing machine. Is there something special about this brand of canvas so it does not get all grungy over time?

[@toritori4430]

Canvas was replaced for good reason , Going back to it seems a fashion trend more than a practical one .

[@theoutdoorempire]

Interesting thought. I don't see it as having been replaced. More options were simply added along the way. Thanks for watching.

[@acme9538]

if for no other reason . . . spreading out a plastic tarp by yourself with just a 'whisper' of wind is irritating enough to drive me to the looney bin! Canvas has some weight and stays put . . . that's good enough for me. LOL

[@Victor-hb4hj]

Do they smell like old school canvas

[@Pops1970]

What blue tarp?

[@danmoreno425]

Hey good video what size are you using

[@theoutdoorempire]

8 ft x 10 ft.

[@trajan6927]

Great job on the video!

[@trajan6927]

​@@theoutdoorempirenice job showing all of the different uses of this tarp. I think I will get one, thank you.

[@SchemberBrandsrud]

kislux I love you so much and watching your videos makes my day brighter

[@johnr5545]

Thanks god bless