Shirley C
Do we need 2 poles? Looks like we do but it is not mentioned anywhere.
KIM K
Not if there are trees nearby. The whole thing can be strung up to trees at two ends, then the sides tied to other trees or to stakes. I did buy one pole so that in a worse case scenario I could at least mount it more like a lean-to situation. These are great tarps. I have a larger one too (12x12) and use this smaller one as a tarp for an old tent I still like to use.
JOSEPH J
It depends on how and where you want to use it. I use mine for backpacking and tie it to two trees to cover my hammock which also needs two trees. If I ever end up in a spot where I can't find two usable trees, I plan to sleep on the ground and use my hiking poles for supports since I will have them with me anyways.
CHRIS V
In answer to your question about needing two poles - it really depends where and how you intend to use the tarp. I have used it with both 1 and 2 poles, and also on occasion with no poles - If trees are in close proximity obviously there is not much need for poles at all. The tarp is so versatile with its fitted shape, there are a lot of configurations you can use. In windy/storm conditions I would suggest tying a guy line to the grommet the pole secures into and run the line to the ground for extra support and to help hold the pole in place.
WALLACE S
Sorry, i`m out of the country till fall so i haven`t seen it. My relatives reported that it arrived promptly. I ordered 2 for a beach camping trip in December.
I didn`t order poles because I plan to tie it to the side of my pickup for noonday and afternoon shade. For the pictured application you would need poles, rope, and stakes.
If i decide I need poles, I will probably just make them out of locally acquired electrical conduit. Commercial poles are made in sections for shipping and transport in cars with small trunks. For pickup camping or occassional backyard use you can make beefier ones yourself.
GREGORY M
Of course, if trees are handy, you can use them, as David said.
GREGORY M
Poles are not included, but four lines and four handy plastic tension adjusters are included. I've been using two trecking poles. If you want to pitch your tarp higher, you can purchase Kelty poles, or use those inexpensive metal poles for propping up washing lines. (A friend suggested this, and I'm going to give them a try!)
DAVID K
One or two poles are usually needed to set up the tarp although you could string it from two trees in lieu of using poles. There is also one configuration I've seen that uses only one pole. You can find several videos on Youtube that explain how to configure this tarp.