UST Base All Weather Tarp
I got this to extend my coverage area outside of my Kelty Gunnison 1.1 single person tent when the weather isn't cooperating. Doesn't add much weight to my pack and I have a shelter, thermal protection blanket and one side is reflective if needed for signaling.
Pros
- Packs small and is not too heavy
- Serves multiple functions
- Material seems durable
Cons
- Stakes are cheap and likely to bend in hard, rocky dirt
When I got the Kelty Gunnison 1.1 I saw there wasn't really any room in it to "hang out" in inclement weather. So I picked up this tarp to set up over my vestibule to provide some sitting room. On the last backpacking trip I ended up extending it beyond my daughters' tent to protect their gear because the older Eureka they used didn't have a vestibule. It rained on us a couple of times and it worked well keeping their stuff dry.
It's mainly one of those nice-to-have items, but if pack weight becomes a concern it'll probably be one of the first things I pull out.
Source: bought it new
Price Paid: Around $40 I think