Ex Royal Marine shares 3 of The BEST Tarp setups |TARPOLOGY 

TIP-> When tying off tarps with paracord leave about 3 -4 inches (6 - 10 cm.) of cord hanging down at the tie-off point near the tarp. This lets rainwater drip off the end of the cord instead of running into the tarp. (US Army Ranger trick)

I'm from the US, and watch a lot of these kinds of videos. I absolutely love you British guys. You know your stuff. Keep up the great videos. You and The Corporals Corner should team up for a few videos.

At last! A no nonsense video with no annoying 5 minute intro. Excellent.

I'm retired Army Ranger and my opinion , there is no such thing as an "ex" Royal Marine . Respect sent . Thumbs up & please give that wonderful dog a hug for me .

I would never have guessed that you found speaking to a camera initially a challenge. You come across as confident and a natural! Clear and well structured communication. Cheers for the video, looking forward to more.

Dogs overseeing affairs makes them doubly legit

I’ve just discovered you. I have not gone camping since I left my family, that’s more than twenty years… yOu truly tear me up, with what I’ve missed. I am setting up to camp again. I see and feel your heart warming love for everything good in life and one’s soul… 🙏🏿🙏🏽🙏🏻

Please stay the course with this channel and stay true. The viewers will come. Remember your cheerfulness in the face of adversity.

Only a Bootneck would describe a dossbag as a "luxury item", love it 🤣 top shelf video, mate.

Thank you so much for making these videos. They are clear and easy to follow. I learned some of the knots you explained how to do - the evenk knot and the tensioner knot. I also use the Prussian loop knot to keep my tarp taut on the ridge line . This meant that I did my first hammock and tarp camp a couple of days ago with confidence that I wouldn’t have to bail out because I couldn’t hang the tarp or hammock. I loved it so much I went out again a day later. I’m very grateful for your concise conveyance on everything wild camping, so have subscribed to your channel so I can learn more from your tutorials. Also, I adore your dog 🐕 ❤❤❤❤

I’ve watched lots of these type of ‘ outdoor survival ‘ type videos: I’ve settled on yours. It’s very informative, educational and interesting. You have a very easy style in front of the camera. I’m a PTSD sufferer too I find being outside in nature great therapy.

If there's a type of instructor I prefer, it just *has* to be Brit' ex-military. Communication is succinct, informative and without unnecessary 'fluff'. The use of military-type terminology always makes me smile such as 'recruitment of body heat' and 'occlude the gap using your pack'. Exuding confidence without arrogance, a deep sense of humility, bundles of useful information conveyed in a manner that doesn't require questioning. The imparting of knowledge and experience allied with occasional reference to a previous career in the armed forces is spotty dog. Glad I've happen-chanced upon this channel. One of the quickest subs' I've ever clicked on. Brilliant.! Thanks fella', I thoroughly enjoyed your video. I'm now away to look at some more..! I appreciate your service especially as my late grandfather was a RM. 🇬🇧👍

Excellent, was pleased to hear you remind people about never walking on your tarp.....I’ve moaned on two bushcraft RU-vidr’s videos, after seeing them do just that, and these are guys with big subscriber numbers (one American ,one Canadian) , neither replied to my comment (in which I just politely said, I was surprised to see them do that) ....either they get the tarp donated, or they’re not very good at looking after equipment ! Anyway rant over, and have subscribed 🤙

In Scouting 55 years ago, your tensioning knot was called a "Tautline hitch." You might research the "Zeppelin knot" as a great way to tie two lines together and still be able to untie them regardless of how much tension they have experienced.

Your doing fantastically. You make presenting look like a walk in the park. Because your passion shines through. I see a farther. a brother . a son. But also see the excited boy. And that is so Awsome. Thank you dude.

"Mark 1 television". I was only ever a boy scout but I can spot a British Army standard joke a mile away.

After thirty years still have the woodland camouflage poncho, and so versatile.

2 years after and your videos still teach us and make a difference. Thank you for overcoming the stage freight of a camera. I've had it and can agree, it is different. Love your videos.

we did not have bungy cords when wild camping on Woodbury common, back in the day and our ponchos were green canvas type so a two man bivvy used two ponchos. Use of the little sticks brought back memories.

Free advice some of the best bushcraft tutorials I have seen have zero talking... food for thought...

Came for the tips, stayed for the humour... "Mk1 television"... brilliant. Thanks for all your effort.

hey, absolutely no worries. you're doing a lot better behind the camera than i could do. great video, keep up the good work!

That moment when you hugged the tree realizing that it was just to big got me^^

The only camping I've ever done is when carp fishing on an private lake. Watching your videos has taught me a lot. Now I might be able to survive a few hours on the downes. Lol

Great video! It's always nice when bushcrafters pay homage to Mors kochanski. He was probably the most respected and knowledgeable bushcrafter there ever was. I was born and raised in Alberta Canada (home province of Mors), and spent a week in the bush with Mors on a high school outdoor education trip. He was such an unbelievably patient man, with great teaching style that engaged everyone in the group. He even dug a spruce root, and weaved me up a nice ring to wear. Thank you for bringing back those memories from 25 years ago. Cheers mate.

You sir are not an EX-MARINE. YOU ARE AND WILL ALWAYS BE A MARINE. While serving in the US Navy, I pulled a 2 year tour of duty at RAF Machrihanish on the Mull of Kintyre, Argyll Scotland. A great place with wonderful people. OHHHHHHH CAMPBELTOWN LOCH I WISH YOU WERE WHISKEY! I enjoyed the video. Thank you for your service in her Majesties finest. Hand salute from a Vet

I almost fell off my chair, and thought, Yup that log can burn you at night. Great video.

Makes me love my tent and Down sleeping bag. Good information for the most part. We have 80 F during the day and 30 F at night. Tent and 0 Deg bag are key to survival. With a good bag there is no need for a fire.

In terms of talking to the camera, as a narrator or instructor, you are doing just fine. The instruction and content are very well presented. Very good video, as I have learned more about bush crafting. Thank you for the video. I enjoyed it.

Thank you for making these videos. I learn something every time … for instance, placing the tarp so the wind blows across the side !

Great and you didn’t need to destroy half the forest to show off your considerable knowledge, unlike some we know of!! Keep ‘em coming! Any vid on knots would be appreciated

Don’t know how I ended up watching this but really glad I did.. it was brilliant….. a few years ago me and the mrs decided to go camping and the tent we bought came with a free tarp which the sales bloke made a big deal about.. but when we got to the camp site we put the tent up easy enough but I had no clue what I was supposed to do with the tarp… wish I’d seen this back then but better late than never aye.. !! 👍👍

Fantastic video mate! ... I couldn’t however stop myself from laughing at 11.30 when your dog decides to squat down and drop the kids off at the pool in the background 😂😂

I was impressed that you got that tarp back in the bag it comes in. First thing I did was dump the stuff sack for that tarp. Tarp is unbelievably useful as you demonstrate expertly.

Ty for your service. Thanks for keeping it simple. Cant wait to se more

Thanks for showing us these set-ups, and keep on doing this. You have a lot of knowledge to share

Massive amount of knowledge being shared by this channel. Thanks so much!!

I've always wanted to be good with knots but don't do them frequently enough and remember them, I have taken to using " rachet rope" or "rachet hangers" for setting out my tarp. Quick and easy to use but add a little extra weight.

Excellent information. Thanks for posting.You will always be a soldier, never a Ex.

If I had to go to survival mode I've always thought the first thing I'd want is a good dog. Your dog seems very alert and doesn't bark too much.

Great video an open face bivvy is the way to go here in Canada in the winter I also have a 5x7 reflective tarp that i put on the inside back wall of mine that adds heat to your back as the fire side is toasty but in minus 20 the back isnt, also a sheet of 6 mill polly is great to drape down the front from top of the ridge line to the ground creating a greenhouse effect as in mors super shelter works great only tried that a few times and i have to say its actually to warm , nice point on the rolling logs i alway source a few good rocks and place them between me and the fire close to the first log this does 2 things it adds safety and also heats them nicely, they can be placed under a raised bed for some added extra lower heat , and they do hold heat for a long time but can be a pain to move around, I cheat and have an oveglove in my pack and a good old fashioned rubber hot water bottle. nice videos keep up the good work. Around here its a good idea to stay away from a creek/river etc as that is where you will find most wildlife, and also moving uphill away from a river can raise the air temp a few degrees so that is always good. food should be cooked a good distance away from sleeping areas, and extra food tied up in trees well off the ground to stop the bears having your lunch away..

Brings back the good old camping days! Great video Nick 🙌🏽

Sound effects and the voice of experience,just what I was looking for Keep up the great work Nick

This gentleman has his s**t together. His is far and away the most informative tarp configuration video I've seen.

Great tip about the tarp vs fire orientation - every day is a school day.

Absolutely brilliant. I’ve just subscribed and will be eagerly awaiting new content.. after I’ve caught up on older content. Thanks for your continued service.

PLEASE,,, keep making these videos for us. I know it is different talking to a camera etc,,,,, BUT those of us who want/Need to learn this stuff, are all ears/eyes my friend. You are doing an Excellent job, Looking forward to telling my friends about you as I just found your channel today, May 11, 2021.. Now I'm going to look up all your other videos and see what I've missed and get out my notebook to take some notes. Thank you for serving, Thank you for my Freedom. Stay Safe Stay Positive Stay Healthy.. Peace from Big Jim aka Boston Strong, Boston Mass. USA

My Dad is an ex sapper and he got me more into outdoor adventuring. I always like listening to tips and info from military members as they seem to know exactly what they're doing without the BS. There's still a part of me on the fence about going to join the RM, I know my dad would be happy for it, but that's for another time! Really like this video and I've subscribed, all the best 🙏

Great insight intoTarp set ups as I myself am planning some nights without the go to tent so this was really useful. Looking forward to catching many more of your vids.

I just recently found your channel as I’m new to the Bushcraft/Knife life. This is only my second video from your channel, and I’m loving it! Great content, with excellent explanations on why you need and why. Thanks for your amazing content!

Love your super practical KISS setups in the woods. Just stumbled across your channel today, and you're an excellent teacher, storyteller, and videographer. * subscribed *

I used to live on the side of a mountain in New England and had 2 little girls. At least once a month, out of 4 seasons I would strap one on my back and the other would hike to the top of the Mt with our Bernese Mt Dog . Packed only a large tarp, a few needed goodies and we never wanted to go back home! I wish I had access to your video back then, because I had no idea what I was doing, but it turned out to be the VERY BEST DAYS OF OUR LIVES!! I would recommend this to anyone who wants to bond with children. It's a guaranteed memory maker and learning experience for all! The girls are all grown and I now have 5 dogs to wander with! SINGLE AND FREE!! THANK YOU. I want to say, I really didn't see the first tie off, maybe you could walk through it a bit slower for ppl like me! LOL, blessing to you and thank you for your service! Blessings to you!🙏🌹🌹👍🏼

It's 10pm, I've just stumbled upon this channel. I don't think I'm going to bed for a while

I’m like a third of the way through this video, looked at what other subjects you’ve covered and subscribed. You present pretty well and I look forward to hearing more of your knowledge

Looks like I have the last 6X6 DD Tarp. So glad I got it when I did. Absolutely love my tarp.

Thanks Nick, that's very clear, well presented instruction. While I've had plenty of experience making free-standing structures, I got lots of useful tips from this.

Well, for a guy who isn't comfortable with making a video you sure are doing great. Thank you for the tips.🙂

I remember being on Ben Nevis, E&E with a mucker. We got a little fire going, his boots were soaking wet so before we went to sleep he left the boots by the fire to try and dry them out. We woke up to howls in the morning, when all that was left was the metal eyelets of his boots! Still we fashioned some out of an old tyre, happy days.

Interesting video, what you do well illustrates the different types of setup and you explain everything with clarity and simplicity. Greetings from Italy, stay safe!

Can't stop watching your videos. They are extremely instructive and educational.

I like the way that you say things out loud that people who grew up camping know, but we never think to tell the newbs who come with us. Fantastic, I'm a new fan.

Love your channel, really enjoy learning some practical bushcraft skills. Keep up the great work!

Serving bootneck and just came across your channel and i think these vids are hoofing. Clear, precise, and straight to the point. Looking forward to seeing more👍🏻

Every time i see the thumbnail to this video i have to look really closely to make sure that it's not Charlie Sheen in that tent. 😂

Thankyou for showing this video it has inspired me to get active outside hiking again.Be Blessed.

Thanks very much. The most helpful and succinct vid on this I’ve come across

First 2 minutes and you got me listening. You talk a lot of good sense of outdoor lore. Very useful! Liked and subscribed! 🇵🇭

Oh, DD Hammock! I've got a 3x3 tarp. It's perfect for me and my boyf.

Greeting from Canada. Great video, I've been using tarps shelter for a few years, and learned a couple of tricks from you today. You are very informative and seem quite natural and genuine in your videos. Please keep up the great work!

I binge watched your videos yesterday and to me , you seem like a natural in front of the camera. You are a great instructor. Thank you for putting out these amazing videos, and extra thanks for including the mental health aspects of your journey. It has helped me tremendously with my own cptsd and my current fight with cancer, which i will win one way or another. Gratitude Galore!

Hey your energy is tremendously nice, would recommend your videos to anyone just based off this first one :) keep up the good work my man

Great job, Mate! No nonsense, right to the point, super presentation and personality. Subscribed!

Good tips incorporated into the presentation along the way were very much needed and appreciated. Very Good Presentation!!!

Great to see a video of some good tarp configurations with the DD XL, rather than the more commonly used 3x3. 👍 I love my XL. One of my favourite configs is a variation of your first one, where I use a slightly lower ridge - but have an overhang to reduce rain ingress from the front. Also one of the great things with the XL, is that in the 3rd config, you can almost close off the windward end using the mid tabs. Something I often do during the winter months when hammocking under it in strong winds. More tarpology episodes please...

Great video! I love all your videos and I actually think you speak really well and are very natural on camera! 👍🏾

This young man does an excellent Job More Power

My first video from you awesome reminds me of when I was in the army well done keep them coming 👍🏻

Been watching a lot of bushcraft channels and I have to say yours is by far the best. Just got a Jerven bag extreme and going to try out some of these instead of being locked up in a tent where you can’t see anything.

It's so nice when one has learned a few tricks and put them into practice. I had to make new tent pegs, and I was proud of myself. No panic, just get on with it and do it.

I just purchased a 10x10 DD tarp and will be trying these configurations at the weekend. Great tips you come across clear and informative in the video well done!

Excellent video yet again. You’re getting better and better at it! Keep going - this is becoming a go to channel.

Good Day Mate (sorry just came back from the UK), hope you are doing well. Just wanted you to know that you are still impacting the bushcraft/camping community with your videos. You, Andy and Simon just have a calming way about how you explain things. I hope your break is working out. As a Fire Chief who lost a Fire Captain in the line of duty, I have an understanding of how PTS can impact your life. I wish you the best and will keep watching your archives. Thanks Again, Nick

DD tarps are good. I used one in the Guyanese jungle for a week..... When you run the Ridgeline with a hammock you can hang a CamelBak and have the drink tube zipped into your mosquito net. You can drink in the jungle at night without having to unzip the bug net......that works well. Night time is the time to rehydrate. Massage your wet feet. Powder yourself down and get on dry clothes for the night. I am from the US but I was taught jungle survival by a former SAS.

Just found your channel. 3 good tarp setups and plenty of good advice. Safe journeys.

Love what you are doing Nick, I think you are the only person talking to families, how does a bloke get to play out without the misses moaning, take the kids and the dog, the kids say when can we go again and the next thing it's the whole family having quality time, and you get to impress with cooking over an open fire and carving a spoon, not all of what you do is how I do it, but I'm a solo camper, but I respect quality when I see it and as I've done over the years will nick a few tips off you, Take care of your family and friends during these troubled times. Nige.

Love this so easy to understand

I really appreciate the time that went into the production of that video. A tarp setup can be very tedious and you even choose to work with a ginormous tarp which is even more difficult. Your channel rocks and your no bullshit attitude is worthy of a real marine and Bushcraft instructor. 🤘

Building open fires is less of a thing as fire seasons become more extreme. If I really want one, I make a small one in a ten inch square cake pan. I put a little sand in the bottom to keep it from burning thru. Just little sticks, twigs and pine cones are all one needs, and the fire can be closer to you.

By running the ridge line under the tarp there's a very high risk of water absorbing along it during rain and dripping onto you, this does happen and it will spoil a good night's rest. I use the tabs to run my ridge line through but I've also attached a split ring on two opposite tabs and run a line between the ring's under the tarp for hanging bits on.

Sir you have a real gift for this stuff. I only discovered you today. Much respect for you. Absolutely brilliant tips and tricks. You have a gift for this. I’ve learned a ton of tricks and methodology that we dont get taught anymore. A1 sir. Thankyou

Very informative and full of great tips. Great video and thanks for posting.

Incredibly informative. Keep up the good work!

Another brilliant informative video. Thanks. I'm a bit stumped at why 200 thumbs down but each to their own. I doubt even one of them has ever slept under the stars!

I have really enjoyed watching this my big mate was in the paras long time ago and when we used to go fishing for weekends he used to do all the set up with ponchos joined together for us to sleep under it was really ruff no sleeping bags nothing but we had a great time ,good fire and plenty of food and good trout fishing and having a good laugh so watching your videos I am still learning ✊🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧🎣👍

Great job, Royal! Loved it and subscribed, Ex-Gordon here, been in Oz last 25 years and a cadet officer last 20... always love watching the cadets put up their Taj Mahootchies! They won't be told and invariably in the night, their construction falls over LOL. Look forward to more from the channel!

Thank you. Finally someone using an XL DD tarp. Really useful.

Thanks for doing this ..your doing great at TV presenter ...and I'm learning how to enjoy the outdoors with my son even more 🙂

Your dog is so helpful. Love it.

Thanks! Good info. We camp on our high mountain desert forest plateau hideout NM.

Part of the fun of taking a tarp is not knowing how you'll pitch until you pick a spot. I've pitched a flat tarp where in the morning half of the tents around me were flattened by the wind while my simple tarp still stood with just a stick, some line and a few stakes.