Selecting hiking poles for porch mode

[Jeff Kindy]

I don't use my poles much for porch mode. If my tarp is going to be used that way it is usually pitched way higher than my poles will reach anyway.

I just find a couple of sticks in the woods. There are always plenty to have. In the areas I frequent alot I keep a few sticks around along with a tripod or two to hang my gear on.



This way I can walk under the tarp without bending over. One of the advantages of hammock and tarp camping is the ability to stand up and not have crawl on the ground.

[SnrMoment]

Porch mode - no poles, no sticks.

[Banana Hammock]

Porch mode - no poles, no sticks.

Would sticks or poles help get your tarp pitched more taut? How much extra rope do you carry, to not use sticks? What are the trade-offs?

[Wisp]

Wow, some great ideas here! I have BD cork, but I also have used my very lightweight Gossomer Gear trekking poles.

The last time I went out, I grabbed a couple of sticks, but they've never been as nice as the sticks "Jeff Kindy" found in his pics. Mine were sort of wimpy, but held up just fine. If you like hiking with a pole, use whatever you like to walk with.....