Sunday, August 12, 2007

Using a tarp with an Akto

During the Cambrian Way walk this summer, we spent a lot of time in Akto's in some quite wet weather. Most of the time, this was not a problem, but cooking was a pain, as was sitting chatting with the door open as the drizzle just came straight into the porch are soaking everything.

On the trail, I tried using my umbrella, with limited success, to make an awning of sorts. This was great when there was no wind, but it was a bit small.

I suddenly thought of a use for those crazy little micro tarps that Bob sells.

This weekend I experimented with using my two tarps to create a useful space outside the Akto. The SUL Cuben Fibre micro tarp gave good coverage for it's 50g. Click on the pic's to enlarge them.








































But my home-made extension turned the Akto into a palace for a couple of hundred grams. I haven't perfected the pitch yet, but the photo's will give you an idea of what is possible for those few extra grams.























































Anyone who has spent some time in a Akto in wet weather will know where I am coming from!

This is all very experimental at the moment. It would be great to hear from you if you have any ideas or have tried this and have a better system.

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4 Comments:

At 7:37 PM, Blogger George Griffin said...

That looks a pretty neat idea. I`ve always wanted to do something similar with my solar.

I`ve seen some picture over on Practical Backpacking™ but those guys were using the tarp as a kitchen for cooking under.

 
At 9:32 PM, Blogger Alan Sloman said...

How about a bigger, but lighter tent?

:-)

 
At 5:32 AM, Blogger Chris Cowell said...

Because discoveries would never be made if we all took the most obvious route.

I assume you mean a Stephenson's Warmlight Mr Sloman ;)

 
At 7:55 AM, Anonymous mark bagley said...

I love the 50g version. I have had to resort to getting we arms (and food!) when out in my
TN competition
as its way too small, IMHO, to cook in. I may have to copy you!

 

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