If you’ve ever gone camping, hunting, or taken part in military or survival activities, you may have heard the term Tarnplanen. It’s a German word that means “camouflage tarpaulin.” While it may sound technical at first, the idea behind it is quite simple and useful—a heavy-duty sheet designed to blend into the environment while offering protection from the elements.
In today’s outdoor world, Tarnplanen are not just limited to military use. They are becoming increasingly popular with campers, hikers, bushcrafters, preppers, and even wildlife photographers.
What Exactly is a Tarnplanen?
A Tarnplanen is a camouflage-patterned tarp made from tough, water-resistant material like canvas, polyester, or a PVC blend. It usually has metal rings (called eyelets) along the edges to allow for easy tying or hanging.
The main feature that sets it apart from a regular tarp is its camouflage pattern, which allows it to disappear into different types of natural surroundings. Whether it’s dense forests, dry deserts, snowy fields, or mountain terrain, a Tarnplanen is designed to visually blend in and keep whatever it covers out of sight.
Why People Use Tarnplanen
Tarnplanen serve a variety of purposes, and that’s why they are used by so many different types of people:
1. Military and Tactical Use
Originally developed for soldiers, Tarnplanen help hide tents, gear, and vehicles. Many of these tarps also include infrared-reducing features to prevent detection by night vision and thermal devices.
2. Camping and Bushcraft
For campers and outdoor survivalists, Tarnplanen are perfect for:
- Building quick, weatherproof shelters
- Protecting gear from rain or sun
- Creating windbreaks or ground covers
Their lightweight but durable nature makes them easy to carry in a backpack and quick to set up in an emergency.
3. Hunting and Wildlife Observation
Hunters and wildlife photographers use Tarnplanen to stay hidden while observing or waiting for animals. The camouflage design helps them blend into their surroundings without disturbing nature.
4. Emergency Preparedness
In survival kits or emergency bags, a Tarnplanen is a smart choice. It can serve as:
- A temporary roof or tent
- A blanket or poncho
- A signal flag (if it has a reversible high-visibility side)
Types of Tarnplanen
Depending on your needs and the environment, you can find Tarnplanen in different patterns and materials:
- Woodland camouflage – for green and leafy forests
- Desert camo – for dry, sandy places
- Snow camo – for winter or alpine conditions
- Digital camo – modern, pixel-style patterns used in mixed environments
Final Thoughts
Tarnplanen may seem like a simple piece of gear, but their value in outdoor activities is huge. Whether you’re setting up a hidden camp in the forest, protecting your equipment from harsh weather, or preparing for an emergency, a Tarnplanen is a reliable tool that’s easy to carry and incredibly versatile.