A tent footprint is an essential piece of camping gear that serves as a protective groundsheet underneath your tent. While often overlooked by beginners, a high-quality tent footprint can significantly prolong the life of your tent and keep the interior cleaner and more comfortable no matter the conditions.
This detailed guide will teach you everything you need to know about choosing, using, and making DIY tent footprints.
What is a Tent Footprint?
A tent footprint is a detachable protective tarp that goes underneath the floor of your tent. It is not permanently attached to the walls of the tent. Key features include:
- Made from durable, waterproof materials like polyester, polyethylene, or nylon
- Slightly smaller dimensions than the tent floor area
- Lightweight and packs down small
- Optionally has vertical “bathtub” walls on edges
- Laid out on the ground first before pitching the tent
- Held in place by the tent itself once set up
Footprints create a barrier between the ground and tent floor to prevent wear and tear. They also provide insulation and keep out moisture. Most modern backpacking tents are compatible with specific custom-fit footprints.
Benefits of Using a Tent Footprint
High-quality tent footprints provide several important advantages:
Protects the Tent Floor
- Creates a shield between the floor fabric and rough, abrasive ground
- Prevents punctures, tears, and damage from sticks, rocks, and debris
- Reduces friction wear on floor seams and fabric
Adds Insulation
- Provides a buffer of dead air space for warmth
- Important for cold-weather camping to prevent heat loss on the ground
Moisture Barrier
- Waterproof fabric blocks ground moisture from seeping in
- Keeps interior drier by preventing absorption from damp earth
Cleaner Interior
- Stops loose dirt and grit from getting tracked inside
- Less need to clean the tent floor after trips
Prolongs Tent Lifespan
- Reduces premature repairs or replacement from floor wear
- Allows tent floor to last many more seasons
Faster Pitching
- Quicker to stake out footprint first on-site
- Saves effort pitching tent pristinely on bare ground
For minimal added weight and packed size, footprints deliver excellent value. They are considered essential gear for backpacking tents.
Tent Footprint VS Groundsheet
Tent footprints differ from integrated tent “floors” or groundsheets:
- Detachable vs. Sewn-In – Footprints are separate pieces. Groundsheets are part of the tent floor.
- Materials – Footprints use thinner fabrics to save weight. Groundsheets match heavier tent floor fabrics.
- Coverage – Footprints are slightly smaller. Groundsheets cover the entire interior floor.
- Pitching Sequence – Footprints go down first, then a tent. Groundsheets are already attached.
- Weight – Footprints are lighter than more robust groundsheets.
- Durability – The attached groundsheets are more durable long-term than separate footprints.
- Waterproofness – Groundsheets tend to be fully waterproof. Some footprints are not.
For ultralight backpacking, separate footprints are preferred. For long-term base camping, integrated groundsheets perform better.
Choosing a Tent Footprint
Here are the most important factors to consider when selecting a tent footprint:
Size and Style
- Get one specifically made for your exact tent make and model
- Vital for proper coverage and optimal functioning
Fabric Material
- Polyester, nylon, and polyethylene are most common
- Polyethylene sheets are fully waterproof
- Silicone-coated nylon or polyester resists moisture well
Denier/Thickness
- Heavier-denier fabrics are more durable and puncture-resistant
- Lighter denier makes for more compactable, lighter footprints
- The good lightweight range is typically 70D to 200D
Bathtub Edges
- Footprints with vertical walls prevent moisture from creeping along the edges
- Require proper seam sealing for full waterproofness
Seam Taping
- Sealed seams prevent leaks where fabric panels are joined
- Critical for waterproofness with bathtub edge styles
Packed Size
- Look for footprints that compress down small for packing
- Important for saving space in backpacks
Weight
- Lightweight materials enhance portability but can sacrifice durability
- Aim for the lightest footprint that still provides adequate protection
Price
- Typically $25-$60 for brand-name, tent-specific footprints
- Can find cheaper polyethylene sheets for under $20
How to Use a Tent Footprint
Follow these tips to properly employ a tent footprint:
Site Selection
- Clear areas of sharp sticks, rocks, and debris that could damage the floor
- Avoid obvious depressions or divots where rain could pool underneath
Layout
- Spread footprint flat and pull corners taut
- Secure the perimeter with stakes, rocks, or heavy gear to keep it in place
Pitch the Tent
- Set up a tent directly on top of the laid footprint
- The tent holds footprint fabric in place beneath it
Perimeter Check
- Ensure the fabric is not visible beyond tent edges where moisture could collect
Seam Alignment
- Line up tent floor seams with footprint seams to prevent moisture ingress
Staking
- Stake through both footprint and tent floor for stability in wind/rain
Ventilation
- Allow some airflow under the tent to avoid humidity and condensation
Cleaning
- Use a towel or broom to keep your footprint free of debris during use
Following these best practices will get the most from your tent footprint.
Making Your Tent Footprint
For odd-sized tents or tarps, it is possible to make your custom footprint. Here is what you need:
Materials
- Durable, waterproof fabric – silicone-treated nylon or polyethylene
- Tent dimensions – Measure floor plan shape and length/width
- Grommets or grommet installation tool
- Sewing machine or adhesive/seam sealing solution
Steps to Make Your Own:
- Cut fabric pieces based on tent measurements, adding ~6-inch margin
- Fold and seal/seam the edges to make “bathtub” walls if desired
- Install grommets in corners and around the perimeter for staking and venting
- For silnylon, apply silicone sealant along seams to waterproof
- For the adhesive approach, use fabric glue and seam sealer on layers
- Trim any loose threads or edges. Test waterproofing.
- Align seams with tent floor seams when pitching a tent
With some DIY skills and materials, you can make a custom footprint for any tent relatively easily.
Caring for Your Tent Footprint
Follow these tips to increase the lifespan of your footprint:
- Inspect – Check for holes, leaks, tears, and repair as needed
- Cleaning – Brush off debris. Use mild soap and water to remove stains.
- Storage – Keep folded or rolled up when not in use to prevent creases.
- Sealing – Reapply seam sealant treatments as they wear off over time.
- Use a tarp – Place a durable tarp underneath if camping on very rough surfaces.
- Replace – The average lifespan is approximately 3-5 years with proper care.
Tent Footprint (FAQs)
1. Do all tents need a footprint?
Footprints are highly recommended for lightweight backpacking tents with thin, fragile floor materials. They are less essential for heavy-duty, base camping tents but still provide protection.
2. Can you use a tarp as a makeshift footprint?
In a pinch, a plastic tarp will function as a basic footprint. But tarps lack useful features like bathtub edges, venting, and compact pack size. Purpose-built footprints are inexpensive and a sound investment.
3. Does footprint size matter?
The footprint’s dimensions should match the tent floorplan as closely as possible for optimal performance. Excessive overlap can cause problems. But having edges slightly shorter than the tent floor is fine and preferred.
4. How often should you replace a tent footprint?
With proper maintenance and storage, a quality tent footprint should last for approximately 3-5 years and 50-100 nights of camping before needing replacement. Inspect them regularly for damage.
5. Is it okay to camp without a footprint?
It is not recommended, especially in wet conditions or on rough, abrasive surfaces. Skipping a footprint risks premature floor failure and damage over time.
6. What materials are tent footprints made of?
Most modern tent footprints are polyester, nylon, or polyethylene, chosen for their lightweight, waterproof, and packable properties. Rubber and PVC may also be used but are heavier.
7. Why are tent footprints slightly smaller than the floor?
The undersizing prevents moisture from wicking between the layers while allowing ventilation. It also minimizes footprint shifting and fabric sticking out from under the tent.
8. Should you remove the footprint before packing your tent?
Yes, it’s best practice to detach the footprint before packing up your tent. This allows both layers to dry out fully and prevents premature wear from abrasion while packed.
Key Takeaways on Tent Footprints
- Footprints protect tent floors from damage and prolong their lifespan significantly.
- Choose custom-fit footprints for your specific tent model with durable, waterproof fabric.
- Pitch tent directly atop the laid footprint for optimal functioning.
- Well-maintained footprints can last for many years and camping trips.
- For lightweight backpacking tents, they help balance durability and pack weight.
- Making your own is straightforward with basic materials and sizing.
- Always use footprints for car camping or when on abrasive surfaces. They provide vital protection.
My Closing Words
A purpose-built tent footprint, when used properly, delivers immense value by protecting the vulnerable floor fabric, insulating from the cold ground, and keeping the interior clean and dry. They come in lightweight, waterproof designs to suit any shelter.
Take time to find the ideal footprint for your tent model to maximize longevity and enjoyment on all your camping adventures ahead. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose, use, and care for your next tent footprint.
