AquaQuest
AquaQuest Safari Lightweight Tarp
Compiled from published reviews and manufacturer specs
Our Pick
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- Best for:
- Car camping, group/basecamp use, hammock camping and bushcraft where coverage, tie-outs and durable weather protection are priorities
- Skip it if you want:
- Ultralight backpacking or strict weight-focused trips and budget buyers looking for the cheapest option
Main tradeoff: Premium price relative to basic tarps
Before you buy
Why it works
- Heavy-duty construction with reinforced stitching and heat-taped seamsPublished reviews
- Superior waterproofing from dual silicone/PU coatings (advertised ≥5,000 mm) and excellent real-world wet-weather performancePublished reviews
- Abundant tie-outs (15–25 depending on size) enable many pitch configurations and hammock setupsPublished reviews
- Rugged stability in wind and rough weather when properly guyedTrailspace
Tradeoffs
- Premium price relative to basic tarpsTrailspace
- Heavier than ultralight tarps (small model ~1.3 lb; large sizes up to ~4.5 lb)Manufacturer
- Hydrostatic rating is industry-standard (≈5,000 mm) but lower than some high-end models advertised at 20,000+ mmManufacturer
- Finished dimensions are slightly under nominal (effective coverage a bit less than advertised)Trailspace
Details
About the AquaQuest Safari Lightweight Tarp
Waterproof camping tarp built with 70D ripstop nylon and dual silicone/PU coating (5,000mm hydrostatic rating). String it over picnic tables for rain protection, drape it over tents in summer as a heat shield, or pitch it as a traditional rain fly. Available in sizes from 10x7 to 20x13 ft with 15-25 reinforced tie-out loops. Heat-taped seams and reinforced stitching throughout. Backed by a lifetime warranty.
Specifications
- Weight
- 4.7 lb
- Packed size
- 11 x 5 x 2 inches (small model); larger sizes up to 17 x 7 x 3 inches
- Materials
- 70D ripstop nylon with dual silicone and PU coating
- Colors
- Olive Drab, Woodland Camo, True-Terrain Camo, Boulder Camo, Stealth Gray, Forester Green
- Changes from the last model
- Current spec lists ≥5,000 mm hydrostatic rating (older references cited 20,000 mm); warranty updated from 2-year to lifetime
Questions (1)
- Is it worth the price over cheaper alternatives?
- For frequent campers and those who need durable, configurable coverage, the Safari's build quality, waterproofing and warranty justify the premium; ultralight or budget buyers may prefer lighter or cheaper tarps instead.
Weather and conditions
Care and warranty
Care
- store completely dry to avoid mildew
- avoid prolonged direct sun when stored
- re-seal seams with seam sealer if leaks appear
- avoid open flame and sharp edges
What tends to wear out
- wear at stake lines and corners after heavy use
- seam tape can require resealing after years of exposure
Durability
- no widespread long-term failures reported; reinforced hems and webbing hold up well
- seams may require resealing after years of heavy use
Warranty
Lifetime warranty; reports cite generally prompt service though few public claim-case details are available
Sources
“This tarp is fantastic... stayed bone-dry in sustained heavy rain; stitching is top notch”
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Last updated March 22, 2026
