Camouflage tarpaulins—known in many regions as Tarnplanen—have become indispensable across outdoor activities, military applications, survival setups, camping, construction, and even creative environmental design. Thanks to their durability, blend-in aesthetics, and versatile functionality, Tarnplanen have evolved into a category of their own within the world of protective outdoor gear. Yet many people who buy tarps only understand the basics: they protect, they cover, and they last. In reality, Tarnplanen offer far more than surface-level utility.
This 1400-word guide gives you a complete, in-depth look at what Tarnplanen are, their uses, construction, materials, patterns, setup techniques, and what to consider when buying them—whether you’re a camper, photographer, survival enthusiast, homeowner, or someone looking to improve outdoor concealment.
What Is a Tarnplanen?
Tarnplanen is a term used to describe tarpaulins specifically designed with camouflage patterns. Unlike standard tarps, Tarnplanen are crafted to blend seamlessly with outdoor environments. Their colors and prints mimic natural settings such as forests, deserts, grasslands, mountains, or winter terrain.
The purpose of Tarnplanen is to provide:
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Concealment
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Weather protection
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Durability in rugged environments
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Long-term coverage for equipment, vehicles, and shelters
The combination of camouflage and strong base material makes Tarnplanen especially valuable where discreet protection is needed.
Why Tarnplanen Are Different from Regular Tarpaulins
Ordinary tarpaulins focus primarily on waterproofing and durability, but Tarnplanen add the dimension of stealth. Here’s what makes them different:
1. Advanced Camouflage Printing
High-quality Tarnplanen use multi-layered camouflage patterns designed to disrupt visual detection from a distance. These patterns may imitate:
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Tree bark
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Mossy ground
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Brown and green forest tones
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Digital military prints
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Snow camouflage
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Arid desert shades
The goal is not just to look good, but to break up outlines, hiding whatever is beneath the tarp.
2. Reinforced Edges for Heavy Use
Tarnplanen often include:
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Heavy-duty hemmed edges
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Aluminum or brass eyelets
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Reinforced corners
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Tear-resistant stitching
They are built to withstand tension from ropes, wind, and heavy outdoor use.
3. UV and Weather Resistance
High-end Tarnplanen include UV stabilizers to prevent fading and weakening. This ensures camouflage remains effective and visually intact even after long exposure to sunlight.
4. Noise Reduction Layers
For military and wildlife photography use, some Tarnplanen are made from softer materials that reduce sound when moved—providing stealth beyond visual concealment.
Common Uses of Tarnplanen
Because Tarnplanen combine protection and camouflage, their applications extend across multiple environments and activities. Here are the most common uses:
1. Camping and Wilderness Shelters
Campers and bushcraft enthusiasts use Tarnplanen to:
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Build sleeping shelters
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Protect gear from rain
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Create windbreaks
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Set up overhead canopies
The camouflage helps shelters blend into the forest, making the camping experience more natural and discreet.
2. Hunting and Wildlife Observation
For those who track wildlife or photograph animals, Tarnplanen are essential tools for staying hidden. They help conceal:
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Hunting blinds
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Camera setups
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Tripods
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Small equipment
They reduce the risk of disturbing animals due to visibility.
3. Military and Tactical Applications
Military units use camouflage tarpaulins to mask:
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Vehicles
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Equipment
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Temporary bases
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Supply caches
A Tarnplanen can blur outlines and make objects difficult to spot from land or air.
4. Outdoor Furniture and Equipment Protection
Homeowners use Tarnplanen to protect outdoor items such as:
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Firewood stacks
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Boats
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ATVs
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Gardening tools
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Patio furniture
Using camouflage helps these items visually blend into the environment rather than standing out.
5. Construction and DIY Projects
Construction workers use Tarnplanen to:
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Cover building materials
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Protect machinery
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Create temporary shade or workspace
The earthy colors blend well in outdoor job sites.
6. Survival and Emergency Preparedness
Survivalists carry Tarnplanen in bug-out bags because they serve multiple functions:
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Shelter
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Concealment
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Rainwater collection
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Ground cover
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Wind barrier
Their versatility makes them an essential survival tool.
7. Event Design and Outdoor Aesthetic Uses
Some people use Tarnplanen in creative setups such as:
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Forest-themed events
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Film sets
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Photography backgrounds
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Outdoor camouflage art installations
Types of Tarnplanen Materials
The material of a Tarnplanen significantly affects its durability, flexibility, and best use cases. Here are the most common materials:
1. Polyethylene (PE) Tarnplanen
The most popular type.
Pros:
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Lightweight
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Affordable
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Fully waterproof
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UV-resistant
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Good for general use
Best for: camping, equipment coverage, general outdoor tasks.
2. PVC-Coated Tarnplanen
A heavy-duty professional-grade option.
Pros:
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Extremely durable
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Long-lasting
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Great for industrial or military use
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Resistant to chemicals
Best for: tactical setups, construction, long-term outdoor coverage.
3. Oxford Fabric Tarnplanen
Soft, noise-reducing, and often used in camouflage clothing or silent shelters.
Pros:
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Quiet
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Flexible
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Breathable
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Realistic camouflage printing
Best for: hunting, wildlife photography, portable blinds.
4. Canvas Tarnplanen
Traditional, natural fabric with waterproof treatments.
Pros:
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Strong and breathable
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Classic outdoor appearance
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Excellent for warm climates
Best for: safari environments, survival setups, vintage-style camping.
Choosing the Right Camouflage Pattern
Not all camouflage is created equal. To get maximum effectiveness, choose a Tarnplanen pattern based on the environment where it will be used.
1. Woodland Camouflage
Blend of green, brown, black, and tan.
Best for: forests, grassy regions, jungles.
2. Digital Military Camo
Pixelated color blocks designed to distort outlines.
Best for: tactical use, mixed terrains.
3. Snow Camouflage
White with light grey or black streaks.
Best for: winter environments, high-altitude snow areas.
4. Desert Camouflage
Muted tan, beige, and brown shades.
Best for: arid regions, dry hills, sandy landscapes.
5. Urban Camouflage
Grey, black, and white patterns.
Best for: abandoned buildings, industrial areas.
Selecting the right pattern means your Tarnplanen performs at its full visual potential.
Key Features to Look for When Buying a Tarnplanen
Choosing a high-quality Tarnplanen involves more than just liking the pattern. Consider these features:
1. Thickness (Measured in GSM)
GSM = grams per square meter
Higher GSM = more durable
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Low GSM (70–120): Lightweight, good for camping
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Medium GSM (130–180): General outdoor use
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High GSM (200+): Heavy-duty, construction or military
2. Waterproof Rating
Look for:
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Welded seams
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Waterproof coating
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High water column rating
3. UV Protection
Ensures long-term durability and prevents color fading.
4. Reinforced Eyelets
Ideal materials include stainless steel or brass.
5. Tear Resistance
Look for cross-laminated or ripstop material.
6. Noise Level
If silence matters—choose Oxford fabric.
7. Weight
Balance portability with strength.
How to Use Tarnplanen Effectively
Mastering setup techniques helps you get the most from your Tarnplanen.
1. Creating a Shelter
Use rope, paracord, or poles to build:
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A-frame shelter
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Lean-to shelter
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Flat tarp canopy
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Ground-to-roof windbreak
Secure the tarp with:
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Guy lines
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Trees
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Tent stakes
2. Covering Equipment
Make sure the Tarnplanen:
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Is large enough to wrap around edges
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Has minimal tension points
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Is tied using reinforced eyelets only
3. Hunting Blinds
Shape your Tarnplanen around:
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Branches
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Poles
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Natural foliage
A soft Tarnplanen improves stealth.
4. Photography Concealment
Position Tarnplanen so:
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You’re behind it, not underneath it
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It matches the natural background
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The lines stay natural rather than geometric
5. Long-Term Coverage
For months-long coverage:
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Choose a heavy-duty tarp
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Ensure proper ventilation
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Avoid direct contact with sharp corners
Maintenance and Longevity Tips
To extend the life of your Tarnplanen:
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Clean regularly with mild soap
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Avoid harsh chemicals
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Store in a dry, cool place
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Keep away from direct heat sources
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Repair small tears promptly
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Roll instead of fold for long-term storage
Following these practices preserves both material strength and camouflage quality.
Conclusion: Why Tarnplanen Are Worth Investing In
Tarnplanen are far more than visually appealing tarps—they’re multipurpose outdoor tools designed for durability, concealment, protection, and functional reliability. Whether you’re camping in dense forests, hunting in remote locations, photographing wildlife, protecting outdoor equipment, or preparing for survival scenarios, Tarnplanen provide an optimal combination of strength and stealth.
Their versatility, long life, and ability to merge into natural environments make them some of the most valuable items for anyone who spends time outdoors. When chosen wisely and used correctly, a Tarnplanen can elevate comfort, safety, and efficiency across countless activities.
