Simply put,
if you can afford a dedicated tent footprint, one cut to size for your specific tent, it will probably offer you more protection than a tarp
. However, if your recreation funds are a little short, a tarp will always do in a pinch, and can even be used for other functions around the campsite.
What makes a good tent footprint?
What size should a tent footprint be? Ideally, a tent footprint should be
slightly smaller than the base of the tent
. This is so that water doesn't collect between the footprint and your tent, which would totally defeat the purpose of it!
What is a tent footprint made of?
Like tents, footprints will be made of either
nylon or polyester
. In a previous article, we talked about the properties of nylon compared to polyester. For the most part, nylon is a stronger material, is more stretchy, and is less water-resistant.
Can I use a tarp instead of a footprint?
But can you use a tarp as a tent footprint?
You CAN utilize a tarp as a tent footprint
. Due to the tarps' durability, we often use them to protect the tent's exterior from the elements. Therefore, a tarp can be used under the tent to protect the bottom from the elements and ground debris as well.
Which side of tent footprint goes up?
Footprints typically have a shiny (coated) side and dull (uncoated) side. You should place the
dull side on the ground (shiny side facing up)
in order to minimize abrasion on the coating. A tent uses waterproof fabric in 2 places: the floor and rainfly.
What can I use as a tent footprint?
Tent Footprint vs Tarp (Store Bought vs DIY)
The best tent footprints, especially for ultralight backpacking, are often Do-It-Yourself. The most common materials are
Tyvek, a high-density polyethylene fiber, and Polypro, a lightweight plastic found in painter's tarps and thin window plastic
.
How thick should tent footprint be?
How thick should a footprint be? Depending on how abrasive the terrain is, a heavy-duty, thick footprint will work better, but you should consider the extra weight before going for it. The thickness ranges between
0.5 millimeters for the lightweight designs, to 1.8 millimeters for the heavy-duty models
.
What should I put under my tent?
Whatever option you choose, always use a
ground cover
under your tent. This will help keep moisture from seeping through your tent, getting your gear wet, and will protect the life of your tent. Abrasive ground will wear out the floor of any tent no matter how durable it is, so ground cover or tarp protects the tent.
What is a camping tent footprint?
A tent footprint is
a piece of protective fabric or material that you lay under your tent that provides a moisture barrier and protects your tent floor from abrasion and punctures
.
How do you put a footprint under a tent?
How do you clean a tent footprint?
Use a non-abrasive sponge, cold water and a non-detergent soap. Gently scrub soiled areas by hand, being extra gentle on coated areas of the floor and fly
. Avoid household cleaners such as harsh dish soaps, bleach, spot removers or laundry presoaking products.
Is a tent footprint waterproof?
A tent footprint is simply a piece of material that you place between the ground and the floor of your tent.
Footprints are usually made of a durable waterproof material
like silicon coated polyester or nylon fabric, Tyvek, or polycryo (polycro).
How do you make a tent footprint?
Does Tyvek make a good tent footprint?
Tent Footprints Are Heavy
The two most popular ultralight groundsheets are made using an industrial plastic called Polycryo (sold by Gossamer Gear) and Tyvek.
Window wrap plastic insulation makes a great tent footprint substitute
. This piece weighs just 1.3 ounces.
How do you waterproof a tent footprint?
Place a ground cloth under your tent
. A tarp underneath the tent can help prevent wear and tear on the waterproof coating. Always set your tent on higher ground than the surrounding areas. This will help the groundwater drain away from the tent and not toward it.
Why do you need a ground sheet under a tent?
Adds Insulation and Warmth
The footprint groundsheet will give you a waterproof base to work on, and will protect the tent or awning from the cold ground underneath.
How do you make a lightweight tent footprint?
What is cowboy camping?
Cowboy camping is
camping outside with a hammock, tent, or another type of “rustic” shelter
. Some people refer to this style of camping as “roughing it,” too. If you are planning a cowboy camping excursion, there are a few things you should plan to leave at home. These things include: Tarps.
