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I’ve been on the lookout for a super lightweight tent that’s ideal for stuffing into a pack for weekend fastpacking runs. So when I came across the Alpkit Tarpstar 1, I was immediately intrigued — it’s light, quick to pitch, and packs down impressively small.
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First Impressions
I recently purchased the Tarpstar 1, which includes a standard outer flysheet and a single-person inner compartment. I was genuinely surprised by how light the outer layer is — at around 500g, it’s barely noticeable in my running pack. Even with the inner attached, the total weight of 950g is still extremely manageable, making it an excellent choice for minimalist camping or fast-and-light adventures.
Key Features
- Weight: 500g (flysheet only) / approx. 800g with inner
- Capacity: 1 person
- Design: Single trekking pole pitch (no poles included)
- Material: Lightweight siliconised ripstop polyester
- Waterproof Rating: 3000mm hydrostatic head
- Pack Size: 30 x 15cm
- Pitching Time: Around 2–3 minutes
- Setup: Flysheet-first or combined inner/outer pitch
- Additional Options: Compatible with Tarpstar 1 inner or groundsheet
What’s Included
- Tarpstar flysheet (outer layer)
- Tarpstar 1 inner tent (mesh inner with bathtub floor — if purchased as a bundle; sometimes sold separately, 2 person inner tents are available)
- 6 lightweight aluminium pegs
- Stuff sack for storage and packing
What’s Not Included
- Tent pole – the Tarpstar is designed to pitch using trekking poles or Vertex Tarp Pole (£32.99)
- Groundsheet / footprint – available separately from Alpkit if you want extra floor protection
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Waterproofing and Breathability
The Tarpstar 1 performs well for such a lightweight shelter. The 3000mm hydrostatic head on the flysheet offers solid protection against rain, and during my first few nights out, it kept me completely dry even in persistent drizzle. The fabric sheds water effectively, and the tension from the trekking pole setup helps prevent pooling.
As with most single-skin designs, condensation can build up in cooler or more humid conditions. However, as the tent doesn’t have a sown in ground sheet, it does an excellent job of allowing airflow and reducing internal moisture. When combined with the optional inner, this setup creates a noticeable improvement in overall comfort and condensation control.
Overall, for its weight and simplicity, the Tarpstar 1 offers excellent weather protection and manages airflow surprisingly well for a minimalist shelter.
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Pitching the Tent
Out in the field, I was genuinely impressed by how quick and simple the tent was to pitch. I don’t have the optional dedicated pole and instead use one of my trekking poles. The process is straightforward: lay the tarp out, peg in the corners, and raise it using your pole — the whole setup takes just a couple of minutes.
Getting the inner tent attached does take a little longer, but when it’s raining or you just need quick shelter, the outer layer alone provides excellent protection and can be pitched first.
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Verdict
I’m really impressed with the Alpkit Tarpstar 1. It’s been out with me on several trips now and has consistently performed well. The simplicity of being able to pitch it using just a single hiking pole is brilliant — fast, efficient, and ideal after a long day on the trail.
Most of the time, I’ve used the Tarpstar without the inner, and while it can get a little chilly at night, a good sleeping mat and warm sleeping bag easily solve that issue. My only real concern is its performance in high winds — with no guy ropes included, the flysheet can feel a little exposed, and I suspect a strong gust could lift it if not properly secured.
That said, for fastpacking, lightweight hiking, and minimalist overnighters, the Alpkit Tarpstar 1 is an excellent option. It’s quick to pitch, compact, and incredibly light — everything you want when travelling fast and light in the hills.
Pros and Cons
Pros
✅ Extremely lightweight — barely noticeable in the pack
✅ Fast and simple to pitch with a single trekking pole
✅ Compact pack size — ideal for fastpacking and minimalist trips
✅ Reasonably priced compared to similar ultralight shelters
Cons
❌ Stability in strong winds is questionable (yet to be fully tested)
❌ Can feel cool at night when used without the inner
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