The word Tarnplanen comes straight from German. It blends “Tarn,” which means camouflage, and “Planen,” which means tarpaulin or cover. Together, Tarnplanen simply means “camouflage tarp.” But don’t be fooled by the plain name—these sheets have built a reputation in the military world and with outdoor adventurers who swear by them for staying hidden and dry.
What Makes Tarnplanen Special?
Tarnplanen aren’t just any tarp. They’re built tough, with patterns that mimic forests, deserts, or urban backdrops. Whether you’re hiding gear from prying eyes or staying dry in sudden rain, Tarnplanen do double duty. Soldiers first used them to cover vehicles, weapons, and camps. Over time, campers, survivalists, hunters, and wildlife photographers picked up on how useful they are.
A good Tarnplanen is:
- Waterproof or at least water-resistant
- Tear-resistant
- Lightweight yet rugged
- Designed to blend in with real surroundings
How Do People Use Tarnplanen?
Military and Tactical
The original fans of Tarnplanen were soldiers. They’d cover tanks, guns, and supply dumps with them. On the ground, they could rig them as quick shelters or to hide sniper nests. Some designs even cut down on infrared detection, which means less chance of being spotted at night.
Camping and Survival
Outdoors people love Tarnplanen for practical reasons. If you’re deep in the woods, it can:
- Keep your backpack or tent dry
- Work as a makeshift rainfly
- Become an emergency groundsheet or bivvy
- Double up as a windbreak
Since they’re camo, they don’t stick out like a bright blue plastic tarp might.
Hunting and Wildlife Photography
Hunters and nature photographers rely on Tarnplanen to get close to animals without spooking them. If you’ve ever tried to take photos of deer or birds, you know how easily they spot you. With a Tarnplanen, you can blend into your surroundings, mask your scent, and move quietly under cover.
What Are Tarnplanen Made Of?
The fabric matters. Most modern Tarnplanen are polyester or nylon. These synthetic options are:
- Light
- Tough
- Quick to dry
- Easy to fold and carry
Some older or heavy-duty versions are canvas or cotton blends. They feel more natural but are heavier and can soak up water if not treated. Most Tarnplanen have metal grommets along the edges to tie them down tight so the wind doesn’t turn them into a giant sail.
Which Camouflage Pattern Should You Pick?
Choosing the right pattern is half the job. You wouldn’t use desert camo in a pine forest—unless you want to stick out.
- Woodland Camo: Great for forests and jungles
- Desert Camo: Best in sandy, dry terrain
- Urban Camo: For industrial or city settings
- Digital Camo: Pixel-like designs to fool digital sensors and night vision
How To Use Tarnplanen Correctly
A Tarnplanen only works well if you use it smartly:
- Line up the camo with your surroundings. If you’re under pine trees, match the colors and shadows.
- Break up straight lines. Use branches, grass, or dirt to hide edges.
- Tie it down firmly. Wind can blow a poorly staked tarp loose.
- Don’t go overboard. Too much camo looks fake. Spread it naturally.
Are Tarnplanen Legal Everywhere?
Most places have no problem with Tarnplanen. But some countries regulate military-style gear. In certain parks, using camo blinds for hunting can be restricted too. Always check local rules before you head out.
Buying A Tarnplanen: What To Look For
Before you buy, think about:
- Material strength: Will it last more than one trip?
- Waterproofing: Does it have a coating?
- Grommets: More is better for tie-down options.
- Weight: Heavy-duty is fine for base camp, but backpackers want lighter.
- Camouflage pattern: Match your usual terrain.
Plenty of surplus stores sell good Tarnplanen. Just read reviews, check specs, and make sure it’s not a cheap knockoff.
Final Thoughts
Tarnplanen might sound like a niche thing, but once you use one, it’s hard to go back. Whether you’re a soldier, a hunter, or just someone who wants a dry campsite with no neon-colored plastic flapping in the breeze, Tarnplanen deliver stealth, shelter, and durability all in one. Keep one in your pack, use it wisely, and it’ll keep you covered when you need it most.
Got questions about picking the right Tarnplanen? I’m here to help—just ask!
