DD Hammocks - DD Tarp 3x3

Overview

The DD Hammocks 3×3 Tarp is a strong, reliable and versatile tarp. You get a hard wearing tarp with good waterproofing and some essential kit to get you started. I've used mine for camping, shelter building and kit protection. This tarp is one of my favourite outdoor products.

I tested the olive green tarp, but DD Hammocks sells their tarps in 6 different colours, 3 greens, a brown, a black and an orange.

This tarp is good for:

• Hammock Campers who want a reliable square tarp to cover their hammock and gear.

• Bushcraft / Survival Enthusiasts for building shelters and cooking areas.

• Learners or First-Time Tarp Users because of its forgiving size and multiple pitch options.

My favourite setups:

• Plough Point – Quick to pitch in the rain, perfect for a short stop in bad weather.

• A-Frame – Using trekking poles or a ridge line to create the classic tent shape.

• Tarp Tent – Constructed with one trekking pole; always makes you look like a tarp wizard.

• Forester’s Shelter – Built with two trekking poles, offering excellent privacy when needed.

Strengths

1. Value for Money This tarp is currently £45 on Amazon. I think that's a good price considering the quality of the tarp and what extras come in the bag to get you started.
   

2. Versatility in Pitching / Shelter Styles One of the standout features of this tarp is its versatility. With 19 attachment points, it can be pitched in a wide variety of configurations. The points along the ridge line, in particular, offer extra flexibility for creative setups.

   The attachment points are extremely hard wearing. I’ve tugged and pulled on them in every direction during use, and they’ve never shown signs of weakening or caused the tarp material to tear. Unlike metal grommets, which can damage fabric over time, these loops provide flexibility while protecting the tarp.
   

3. Good Weather Protection It copes well with heavy rain and wind when properly pitched. The tarp dries very quickly once it has the chance.

4. Roomy Shelter Being square and with three metres per side, there's actually quite a bit of space. Enough to cover hammock setups and shelters for one person. Since this 3m x 3m tarp was produced, DD Hammocks have produced bigger versions to meet customer demand, a 3.5m x 3.5m and 4m x 4m.  While the 3m x3m is perfect for one person,  I can understand that the bigger sizes might be preferable for 2 people or to shelter more of your equipment.
   

5. Lightweight While not ultralight, it’s reasonable for what you get. Stuffing the tarp into its bag doesn’t yield the best result. It tends to form a football-sized bundle, which isn’t ideal for packing away. A better approach is to fold it neatly and secure it with a short length of paracord. It would be even better if DD Hammocks supplied a dedicated strap or tie for this purpose.
   

Weaknesses

1. Weight vs Ultralight Options If your priority is minimal pack weight, there are lighter tarps out there, most being made with Ripstop Nylon.
   

2. Additional items are helpful but sub par The included guy lines are adequate to start with, but I replaced them with 3-meter lengths of paracord. I carry six lengths with my tarp to maximize setup options. Instead of using sliders, I tighten guy lines with the taut line hitch, which is reliable and holds in all conditions. Sliders can break, so learning this knot is worthwhile.

   
   

   The supplied pegs are fine for a first setup—try pitching your tarp in the garden—but they won’t last long and will likely bend in all other ground. Invest in more durable pegs for regular use.
   

3. Bulk / Packed Size The tarp packs down pretty well but not as good as ultralight versions.
   

4. Wind Exposure Because of its size, if you pitch it badly the wind can load it heavily. More guy-outs help, but in some conditions the tarp can flap or act like a sail.
   

5. Material “Wet-Out” When in use, the tarp will collect condensation similar to all single-layer tents. If it gets wet from rain or condensation, the material absorbs moisture, which can cause sagging and reduce structural stability. To counter this, ensure your guy lines are taut and pegs are positioned to pull the tarp tight.

Product Details

Feature	Details
Size	3m × 3m
Material	190T polyester, PU-coated (approx. 3,000 mm hydrostatic head)
Waterproofing / Seams	Taped seams
Attachment / Tie-out Points	19 tie-out points — on the edges and along the centre ridge.
Weight	844g (tarp only)
What’s Included	Tarp, stuff sack, 4 guy lines, 4 pegs and peg bag.

Buy on Amazon