Tarnplanen is one of those versatile pieces of gear that, once you own one, you wonder how you ever managed without it. Whether you are an avid camper, a survival enthusiast, a hunter, or simply someone who loves spending time outdoors, a camouflage tarpaulin—which is what “Tarnplanen” translates to from German—offers a unique blend of protection and concealment that standard tarps just can’t match.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Tarnplanen, from its origins and key features to practical advice on choosing, using, and maintaining one for your specific needs.
What is Tarnplanen? A Simple Breakdown
The word itself gives away its primary function. Coming from German roots, “Tarn” means camouflage or concealment, and “Planen” means tarpaulins or sheets . Put together, a Tarnplanen is a durable, waterproof sheet designed to protect people and equipment from the elements while blending seamlessly into natural surroundings.
Unlike the common blue or green tarps found at hardware stores, a Tarnplanen features specialized patterns and colors—like greens, browns, tans, and blacks—that mimic forests, mountains, or deserts. This makes it ideal for situations where staying discreet is a priority.
A Brief History: From Military Innovation to Outdoor Essential
Tarnplanen has its roots firmly planted in military history. During the early 20th century, as aerial reconnaissance became a significant factor in warfare, armies urgently needed ways to conceal troops, vehicles, and equipment from view . This led to the development of the first camouflage tarps and nets.
The core principles of these early designs are still relevant today. A German patent from the early 2000s describes a camouflage device designed to dissolve an object’s contour and help it blend with the environment, using patterns of multi-colored spots . This concept of “dissolving the contour” is the very essence of effective camouflage.
Over time, the practicality and ruggedness of these military-grade tarps were recognized by the public. They transitioned from the battlefield to the campsite, becoming a beloved piece of gear for campers, bushcrafters, and hunters who valued their durability and ability to provide a low-impact presence in nature.
Key Differences: Tarnplanen vs. Standard Tarps
While they may look similar at a glance, a Tarnplanen is a significant upgrade from a standard tarp. Here are the key differences every traveler and outdoor enthusiast should know:
| Feature | Tarnplanen | Standard Tarps |
|---|---|---|
| Concealment | Strong camouflage patterns to blend in with nature. | Basic, solid colors (blue, green, silver) that stand out. |
| Material | Made from high-tenacity fabrics like ripstop polyester or nylon. | Often made from basic polyethylene or canvas that tears easily. |
| Durability | Built with reinforced edges, strong seams, and tear-resistant weaves. | Prone to tearing at grommets and stretching or degrading in sunlight. |
| Weatherproofing | Advanced coatings for full waterproofing and UV stability. | Basic waterproofing that can fade or crack over time. |
| Noise | Often made with quieter fabrics to avoid spooking wildlife. | Can be loud and flappy in the wind. |
| Versatility | Designed with multiple tie points for various shelter configurations. | Grommets are often only at the corners, limiting setup options. |
Common Materials and Durability
The performance of a Tarnplanen is largely determined by its construction. You will typically encounter a few key materials:
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Polyester: A popular choice for being lightweight, strong, and resistant to moisture and UV damage when properly coated. It offers a great balance of durability and packability.
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Nylon: Often found in high-end or military-grade tarps. It is extremely strong for its weight and dries quickly, but can be susceptible to UV damage if not treated.
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Ripstop Fabric: This is a weaving technique, often applied to both polyester and nylon, that uses a reinforcing grid pattern to stop tears from spreading. It is a crucial feature for any tarp used in rugged environments.
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PVC-Coated Fabrics: Used for heavy-duty Tarnplanen where maximum waterproofing and abrasion resistance are needed. The trade-off is that these tarps are significantly heavier and bulkier.
Who Uses Tarnplanen and Why?
The versatility of the camouflage tarp makes it a favorite across a wide range of activities.
🏕️ For Camping and Bushcraft
For campers, a Tarnplanen is an incredibly flexible shelter system. It can be pitched as a simple A-frame, a lean-to, or a flysheet over a tent to provide extra shade and rain protection. It also serves as an excellent groundsheet to keep your sleeping area dry, a windbreak around the cooking area, or a shaded spot for relaxing on a hot day.
🎯 For Hunting and Wildlife Photography
Staying hidden is the name of the game for hunters and wildlife photographers. A Tarnplanen can be quickly set up as a blind or a concealment screen, breaking up the human silhouette and allowing for closer, undisturbed observation of wildlife. The quieter fabrics used in many models also help ensure that wind doesn’t announce your presence.
For Military and Tactical Use
This is where the Tarnplanen’s heritage shines. Armed forces use them to obscure vehicles, supplies, and temporary command posts. The ability to create a large, seamless camouflage cover by joining multiple smaller tarps is a critical tactical advantage.
🏡 For Home and Garden
Beyond the wilderness, Tarnplanen is incredibly useful around the house. Gardeners use it to protect delicate plants from frost, create temporary shade for seedlings, or as a heavy-duty ground cover to suppress weeds. It is also perfect for covering woodpiles, outdoor furniture, or building materials, keeping them dry and protected while blending into the garden’s natural aesthetic better than a bright blue tarp.
How to Choose the Right Tarnplanen
Selecting the perfect Tarnplanen depends on how you plan to use it. Here is a simple guide to help you decide :
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For Solo Hikers and Backpackers: Prioritize weight and packability. A smaller tarp (around 2×2 meters or 2×3 meters) made from lightweight nylon or polyester ripstop is ideal. It should be compact enough to fit in your pack without adding significant bulk.
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For Group Camping or Basecamps: Size and coverage become more important. A larger tarp (4×4 meters or more) can provide a communal shelter for cooking, eating, and relaxing. Look for a durable material that can withstand being set up and taken down multiple times.
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For Hunters and Photographers: Camouflage pattern and noise reduction are key. Choose a pattern that matches your local environment (e.g., woodland for forests, desert for arid plains). A matte finish and quiet fabric will help you stay concealed.
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For Vehicle and Equipment Cover: Focus on durability and weatherproofing. A thicker, reinforced tarp with good UV and water resistance is necessary to protect your valuable gear from the elements over long periods.
Practical Uses and Setup Tips
The true beauty of a Tarnplanen is its adaptability. Here are just a few of the countless ways it can be used :
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Emergency Shelter: In a survival situation, it can become an instant roof to keep you dry or a ground cover to insulate you from the cold ground.
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Gear Cover: Protect your backpack, firewood, or bicycle from rain and dew overnight.
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Water Collector: By angling the tarp and placing a container at the lowest corner, you can collect a surprising amount of rainwater.
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Privacy Screen: Create a secluded changing area or a private corner at a busy campsite.
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Picnic Blanket: A large Tarnplanen makes for a perfect, waterproof base for a picnic in a damp field.
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DIY Projects: From making heavy-duty gear bags to creating a protective drop cloth for painting, its durability makes it a fantastic material for home projects.
Tips for a Successful Setup:
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Choose Your Spot: Look for a flat area clear of sharp rocks or debris that could puncture the fabric.
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Use the Right Knots: Practice a few simple knots like the taut-line hitch, which allows you to adjust the tension of your guylines easily.
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Angle for Runoff: When using it as a rain shelter, always pitch it at an angle so water runs off the side, rather than pooling in the center.
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Keep it Tight: A taut tarp is less likely to flap in the wind, which reduces noise and stress on the fabric and tie points.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Tarnplanen in Top Shape
With proper care, a high-quality Tarnplanen can last for many years.
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Clean Gently: After a trip, wipe off any dirt or mud with a soft sponge, mild soap, and water. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can strip the waterproof coating.
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Dry Thoroughly: This is the most important rule. Before packing it away, make sure your Tarnplanen is 100% dry. Storing it while damp is a surefire way to invite mold and mildew, which will ruin the fabric and its waterproofing.
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Store Loosely: Fold or roll it loosely and store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Avoid tight, permanent folds, as these can create weak points over time.
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Inspect and Repair: Regularly check for small tears, especially around the grommets and reinforced edges. Repair any damage immediately with a tenacious tape or a specialized fabric repair kit to prevent it from getting worse.
Conclusion
A Tarnplanen is far more than just a piece of fabric; it is a multi-functional tool that brings a sense of security and adaptability to any outdoor adventure. Whether you are seeking shelter from a sudden downpour, trying to capture the perfect photo of a wary animal, or simply organizing your backyard, this “unsung hero” of gear delivers unmatched versatility.
By understanding the materials, patterns, and techniques for using a camouflage tarp, you unlock its full potential. It is an investment in comfort, safety, and your connection to the natural world, allowing you to be a part of the landscape, not just a visitor passing through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tarnplanen
To help you get the most out of your camouflage tarp, we have answered some of the most common questions asked by beginners and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike.
General Questions
Q: What does “Tarnplanen” actually mean?
A: It is a German compound word. “Tarn” translates to camouflage or concealment, and “Planen” means tarpaulins or heavy-duty sheets. So, literally, it means “camouflage tarpaulin.”
Q: Is a Tarnplanen just for military use?
A: Absolutely not. While its origins are military, it has become a staple for civilians. Campers, bushcrafters, hunters, wildlife photographers, gardeners, and even homeowners use them for their durability, weather protection, and ability to blend into natural settings.
Q: Is it legal to own and use camouflage gear?
A: In the vast majority of countries, yes, it is perfectly legal for civilians to own and use camouflage patterns. However, there are a few exceptions (such as some Caribbean nations like Barbados, St. Lucia, and Jamaica, and some African countries like Nigeria and Zimbabwe) where military-style camouflage is restricted to armed forces. It is always best to check the local laws of your destination before traveling with camouflage gear.
Selection and Purchase
Q: What size Tarnplanen do I need?
A: This depends on your intended use:
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Solo (Backpacking): A 2×2 meter or 2×3 meter tarp is perfect for a lightweight, single-person shelter.
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Duo/Trio (Camping): A 3×3 meter or 3×4 meter tarp offers ample coverage for two to three people to sleep under or for a communal cooking area.
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Group/Basecamp: Anything from 4×4 meters to 5×6 meters is ideal for creating a large central shelter for a group.
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General Purpose (Home/Garden): Think about what you need to cover. For a woodpile, a 3×4 meter might suffice; for a small car or boat, you will need to measure the item and add extra length for tie-downs.
Q: Which camouflage pattern is best for my area?
A: The goal is to match your dominant environment.
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Woodland: Look for patterns with dark greens, browns, and black for dense forests.
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Temperate/Forest: Patterns featuring lighter greens, tans, and browns are great for mixed deciduous forests.
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Desert/Arid: Choose patterns with tans, light browns, and beige for sandy or rocky landscapes.
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Universal/Multicam: Patterns like Multicam are designed to work reasonably well in a wide variety of environments by blending elements of woodland and desert patterns.
Q: Should I buy a cheap tarp or invest in a premium one?
A: This is a “you get what you pay for” situation. A cheap tarp might be fine for occasional, light-duty backyard use. However, for outdoor adventures where failure isn’t an option, investing in a premium Tarnplanen is wise. Higher-quality tarps use stronger materials (like ripstop nylon), have reinforced stitching and rust-proof grommets, are treated for better UV and water resistance, and are often quieter—all of which contribute to a longer lifespan and better performance in the field.
Usage and Setup
Q: How do I set up a Tarnplanen without trees?
A: No trees? No problem. You have several options:
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Trekking Poles or Paddles: Use your trekking poles or canoe paddles as upright supports.
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Natural Features: Use large rocks, boulders, or even a steep embankment to anchor one side.
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Deadman Anchor: Bury a sturdy stick, a stuff sack filled with sand, or a rock in the ground and tie your guyline to it. The buried object acts as an anchor.
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Vehicles: You can use your car or truck as a support or anchor point, but be mindful of your paintwork.
Q: How do I prevent water from pooling on my tarp?
A: The key is to pitch it with tension and a slope. Ensure your tarp is pulled taut in all directions. One side must be pitched significantly lower than the other to give the water a path to run off. Avoid creating a flat, trampoline-like surface, as this will sag under the weight of water and form a pool.
Q: How do I store my Tarnplanen when it’s wet on a multi-day trip?
A: If you have to pack up a wet tarp, do your best to shake off as much water as possible. When you get to your next camp or at the end of the day, unpack it and let it air dry completely, even if just draped over a bush or your tent for an hour. If you must pack it away wet, be sure to dry it thoroughly as soon as you get home to prevent mold and mildew.
Care and Maintenance
Q: Can I put my Tarnplanen in the washing machine?
A: It is highly discouraged. The agitator in a washing machine can be very rough on waterproof coatings and can snag and tear the fabric. It can also damage the stitching. Always opt for hand washing.
Q: How do I clean my Tarnplanen?
A: Lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it over a clothesline. Use a soft sponge or cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap (like Nikwax Tech Wash or a simple, fragrance-free soap). Gently wipe away any dirt or stains. Rinse thoroughly with a hose or clean water to remove all soap residue. Never use bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh detergents.
Q: How do I fix a small tear or hole?
A: Most Tarnplanen come with a repair kit. If not, you can buy repair tape.
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Clean and dry the area around the tear.
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Cut a piece of repair tape or a patch from a tenacious tape into a circle or square with rounded corners (corners that aren’t 90-degree angles are less likely to peel up).
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Apply the patch firmly over the tear, pressing out any air bubbles. For a stronger bond on fabric tarps, you can also use specialized fabric glue or a sewing kit to stitch a patch in place, then seal the stitching with a seam sealer.
Q: How do I restore the waterproofing?
A: Over time, the durable water repellent (DWR) coating can wear off. You can re-waterproof your Tarnplanen using a spray-on or wash-in product designed for technical fabrics (like those from Nikwax or Grangers). Ensure the tarp is clean and dry before applying the treatment according to the product’s instructions.
Advanced & Specific Questions
Q: Is a Tarnplanen quieter than a regular tarp?
A: Generally, yes. High-quality Tarnplanen are often made from woven polyester or nylon fabrics that are naturally quieter and less crinkly than the stiff polyethylene (polytarp) used for budget tarps. Some are even specifically treated or have a matte finish to further reduce noise, which is crucial for hunting and wildlife observation.
Q: Can I use a Tarnplanen in the snow?
A: Yes, you can. Light-colored “snow” or “winter” camouflage patterns are available for snowy environments. However, be aware that snow load can be heavy. You must pitch your tarp with a steep enough angle (a steeper A-frame or pyramid shape) so that snow slides off rather than accumulates and potentially collapses your shelter or damages the fabric.
Q: How do I combine two Tarnplanen to make a bigger one?
A: Many tactical and military-style tarps have reinforced edges with grommets and loops specifically designed for this. You can use paracord to “sew” or lash the two tarps together along their shared edge. For a waterproof seal, you can place one tarp overlapping the other by 6-12 inches, with the overlap on the underside to prevent water from running in between them.
Q: Can I use it as a hammock tarp?
A: Absolutely. A Tarnplanen makes an excellent, discreet hammock tarp. A rectangular tarp (around 3×3 meters) pitched as a diamond or a simple A-frame provides fantastic coverage for a hammock setup, keeping you and your gear dry while blending into the surroundings.
