This Is What a Footprint Really Does - Why Pro's Use Them with their Tents - It's A Must!

[@jennikj225]

I just started camping so due to budget constraints I am using an old tarp that I already owned. It is so nice to have it not only to protect the tent, but also when packing up it's a nice clean spot to get my tent rolled up and my sleeping bag rolled up (can't afford a stuff bag yet but it's on my list). Then when I get home I can hang the tarp on the clothesline, spray it off, and let it dry. Glad I watched so many videos before camping for the first time; this is one of the things I wouldn't have even known about.

[@sarahskaggs8828]

My camping trip from last week, I just used a 6'x8' tarp. I've used tarps for most of my life when camping. No issues.

[@JimRodgers]

Great video, especially for those who want to get a nice tent and have it last for many years. I've been using Tyvek footprints for all of my shelters for years now. it's lightweight and inexpensive. I even use Tyvek when I'm sleeping under a tarp - it protects my sleeping pad and gives me space to store items under cover. No matter what you use, I recommend always having a groundsheet or footprint.

[@juniordelgiorno5260]

I’ve always used a ground shield to protect my investment (tent) but I bought a large sheet of gortex, 1000D, and made my own. 6 years later, still using the same sheet.

[@panhandlejake6200]

4:45 The lightweight plastic material. I have used Polycryo for the last several trips and it has not failed me - keeps the entire tent much cleaner, particularly if you have to pack up a wet tent. You can buy this plastic material at most local hardware stores - the plastic window "shrink wrap" material. You do have to cut it to the size of your tent floor -- and BE CAREFUL. The cut edge must be smooth. No partial cuts or rough edges as the material will tear easily at these locations. If cut properly, this material is pretty durable and low cost as well as very lightweight. Be prepared to weigh it down with small rocks, sticks or your trekking poles when pitching in even a light breeze. Overall, your typical very thorough review. One other point about footprints - thicker material (tyvek, sil nylon, etc) can actually double as a rain fly when it isn't under the tent. For example, this can make lunch in a pouring rain much more comfortable.

[@c0rnd0g_19]

I have been using a Polycryo ground sheet with my tent and kept getting frustrated setting it up in windy conditions. I've since attached it to my bathtub floor, so I don't even have to think about it; when I set up my tent, it's automatically there and in the correct position!

[@appliedphysicist]

Something to keep in mind about tent-specific footprints is that their gromet placement is often designed to make the difference between being able to set up the fly before the inner or not. This is important for example if setting up in the rain without a tarp overhead, so that the poles will already be correctly locked in and things won't get inside during the process

[@paulfranklin9771]

By far the most comprehensive, articulate, educational video I’ve seen regarding this subject. Keep up the great work!

[@darkangelgaming1117]

This is a big one for me. I didn't use a ground sheet back in the day (noob) until I saw it as a hack here on the channel and ever since I tried it last year, I am never going without again. In this area its not so much sticks or anything, its the heavy dew in the mornings. So much nicer not having to wipe mud and water off the bottom of the tent and way easier to pack the tent in it's bag if you have to leave early in the morning. I get cheapo plastic from Lowe's, doesn't even weigh an ounce and only a couple bucks at a time, do like Luke said, fold it to the size needed and you are golden. Thanks Luke!

[@markcummings6856]

It weighs more than an ounce. Weigh it and you will see. Another option is to slit open a larger garbage bag. Also, polycryo which is the stuff for window coverings (used for winterizing) is the latest practice in the Backpacking World.

[@darkangelgaming1117]

Im talking about the super light plastic stuff kind of like trashbag plastic, not tyvek or anything. I just toss it when I am done@@markcummings6856

[@kchizen100]

So mud doesn't stick to the groundsheet? You don't clean the groundsheet off if it does get muddy?

[@darkangelgaming1117]

Its like $2 at Lowe's, I just toss it in the recycle bin when I am done camping because it is wet and muddy. I only get out 2-3x a year though so its not a bother for me to buy a new one each time. This is not one of the official footprints, but cheap plastic. @@kchizen100

[@MultiTipsie]

I bought my tunneltent in the nineties, been in a lot of "hostile" places with it. But the first thing I did when I had the tent was ordering an custom made groundsheet (brand is Hilleberg). FYI: They made a distinction between a footprint and a groundsheet! A footprint only covers the surface of the inner tent floor! A groundsheet covers the whole surface, including the "living portal". They had a footprint for my tent, but not a groundsheet so that's why I had to let it be custom made. In that time they had not one for this model. It indeed cost a lot, but I still use it up until this day! I also had Hilleberg made me a second door in it on the opposing side of the original door. This way, when the wind is changing from direction I still have a leeward side where I can (keep) open the door. Together with the groundsheet is makes sure there can accumulate less moist inside the tent.

[@RambloManiacs]

I remember when tents had tough, thick floors for these reasons. Now they're wafer thin so they can sell the weight statistics, but then recommend a ground sheet anyway. Just build it in!

[@StephenMcGregor1986]

#swaglife

[@duvessa2003]

Really! Enough of the marketing games.

[@Im_With_Stupid]

It's not entirely about the dollar, though. Tent materials have advanced quite a lot and we no longer need thick, heavy material for a tent floor to be strong. 20D nylon is very tough stuff and for polyester to achieve the same strength it has to be thicker and heavier. Sil/sil nylon is even tougher. To someone who doesn't know any better, not that you don't, the assumption is that the thicker, heavier material is stronger than the lighter, flimsier material.... but it's not. Even for me at 50 years old it's sometimes hard to trust these paper thin materials simply because I grew up on the thick polyesters of yore. Even back then ground sheets were commonplace, though. We just didn't use them because the tents themselves with their polyester material and fiberglass poles already weighed a ton.

[@jimsheeran4952]

In more than 40 years of camping -- I've almost always used some form of ground cloth. It's an added barrier between your tent and the ground and moisture. It helps keep your tent bottom cleaner, and reduces the odds of an unseen stick or stone penetrating your tent floor.

[@Andy-x3i8y]

Sell weights statistics? lol. There are many reasons why you would want a separate ground sheet and have separation of material between the tent floor and the ground. Here’s something that people continually ignore. When you have two separate sheets of material, they are able to move freely over one and other. So if there is any type of abrasion occurring on either the top, or the bottom, the material incurring the friction and abrasion abrasion will not move, it will simply have the effect of the opposing material sliding over it. This is why it’s still reasonable to have a Dyneema ground sheet under a Dyneema tent floor. They move freely over one another to prevent snagging and abrasion and puncture.

[@MountainsCallingMe]

Last time I was out I noticed a small hole in my ground sheet and immediately thought to myself "I am glad I actually use a ground sheet and this hole is not on my tent floor!"

[@nomadicyoutube]

I use Tyvek and cut custom-sized sheets specific to each of my tents. During a backcountry excursion in Alaska, we were able to repair a busted opening on our rental truck using duct tape and pieces from a spare Tyvek sheet I had in my backpack.

[@whatsnottohike]

I use an old poncho that folds into a perfect size. It's waterproof,light and pretty tough. I would never camp without a groundsheet.

[@PlayaSinNombre]

I use an 8 x 10 blue poly tarp from Walmart.

[@PlayaSinNombre]

When I first got back into going out into the wild, before I could afford Walmart gear, I used a shower curtain from the dollar-&-a-quarter store…😅

[@danos5181]

Same here

[@micheleaday3902]

I Use A Tarp folded Bottom Of Tarp Tent It Keeps All Condensation out And Makes the Bottom of Tent Softer While sleeping in bag. I Love It. And Yes I Tried Your Poncho Method Totaly Awesome❤😂❤😂

[@Longshot762x51]

I use heavy-duty tarps straight from home depot 😂

[@gymkhanadog]

@TheOutdoorGearReview I'd love to see you do a video on how you pack your tent and equipment up in the rain (specifically) or snow. How to keep from carrying a bunch of water with you, getting everything else in your pack soaked and what to do after you're back home, or where ever, to rehab the tent/ground sheet/gear for storage/next adventure preparation.

[@kenwebster5053]

I usually just use one of those heavy duty space blankets as a ground sheet, because it provides some extra thermal protection along with some puncture, abrasion & damp resistance. Considering that I have an X-mid 1P these days, it seems comparatively bulky and heavy at 340g. It has some pluses though, such as a complete block out day tarp in summer, then slip it under the tent floor at night, emergency signal sheet, improve sleeping matt warmth etc.

[@duvessa2003]

This seems like a good idea 😊

[@4053rubber]

Love your straight talking, no bullshit presentation Luke. I recently bought a Terra Nova tent. I already had the DD Hammocks Magic carpet. The XL one. 220cm x 140cm and has peg outs on each corner. £22. The Terra Nova proper footprint was £55. The Magic carpet is about 200g max and it's well made. It even gives me an odd ground floor between the fly and inner tent to put my kit off the wet ground and somewhere dry to cook. No brainer. Great video as always mate. 👍

[@NavigatingwithNafe]

I whole heartedly agree that a foot print should always be a part of anyone's gear. I prefer hammock camping over tent camping & use a foot print to organize my hammock gear as I'm prepping to hang it. Afterwards it remains under the hammock to be utilized as a clean place to place some other gear & my feet as I exit/enter my hammock. After some time I quit buying & save kinda worn bed sheets, coat them in boiled linseed oil, pretty heavily, attach gromets & pack them up to be used as ground cloths or rainflies. Great video Luke! Very informative in detail! Love what ya do brother! Stay safe, God bless, strength & honor! 👍 👍

[@kchizen100]

So you bring stakes with you hammock setup? Isn't not needing stakes one of the advantages of using a hammock?

[@NavigatingwithNafe]

Nah, I rarely ever use them. I mostly cut down some sticks to about stake size, or some good sized rocks, or even large logs that have either been broken or cut down, depending on where I'm at.

[@cwr961]

When first learning to camp was taught to always put a ground cloth under the tent after checking for obvious rocks, sticks, etc. I use a neat sheet from Costco under my tent.

[@jeffclark8555]

I was thinking the same. Plastic, tarps, I’ve even used a contractor trash bag. Now it’s like they’ve reinvented and given a fancy name.

[@MoonbeameSmith]

neat sheet?

[@jeffclark8555]

@@MoonbeameSmith I’m so old that I grew up knowing it as just a ground cloth or ground sheet. Now “footprints” are all the rage

[@ReRe-wd5sz]

When I camped in WI state parks I always used a blue tarp underneath my tent. I put another tarp and a king comforter on the floor inside my tent. Then a 12’x24’ over my tent. A double high queen size bed, a chair with a side table and a porta-potty was placed inside. I was always comfy and dry as a bone. The tent I used was a Coleman instant tent. Did this for many years with my standard poodle. Now I have a Flagstaff A-Frame camper, but I still LOVE tent camping.

[@ulnoohiker8983]

Luke, I agree with everything you said. I have always used a ground sheet with all my tents. Thank you for your time and reminding us the importance for using one.

[@tkasprzak]

After watching your reviews I improvised groundsheet for my tent and it makes a huge difference.

[@70cimabue]

25 out of 35 years trekking and camping 4 seasons, 10+ times a year, I never used a ground tarp…..just made sure the ground is free of rocks and sticks….never had a floor of any of my tents puncture….but my last 10 years I converted to hammock….less bulky, less weight, shorter set up time and so much more comfortable

[@jasperplace]

I always use the ground sheet that came with the tent (MSR Elixer). Ground sheet allows me to set up the tent in the rain while keeping the tent body dry.

[@johnshipley9755]

Super important backpacking in the late fall/winter,only time i go have snow peak ground sheet it is fantastic with hilleberg tent ,,,

[@scottsevers6194]

I'm an Aussie fireman, I use Orange builders plastic ( it's cheap and great for Ground to Air signal incised of emergency). For the other firies..... make 2 with white tape arrows, and you have 2 helicopter splat mats for bucketing or evac

[@kevinschwinkendorf3202]

The Tyvek doesn’t have to be 100% waterproof even though it pretty much is. A ground sheet is really to protect your tent from cuts, and abrasion. I make my own Tyvek ground sheets. They usually last years.

[@wolfeadventures]

It’s slightly breathable and water resistant enough. Works great.

[@neemancallender9092]

I use Tyvek from building supply stores or chains Cut them to size, hem them on a sewing machine Put in grommets or plastic grommets by the peg out points Add bungee or shock cord to the grommets I then spray against ticks White so you can spot ticks

[@earthprospector]

Agree 100% with Tyvek.

[@pr0n3]

I'm with ya. Tyvek and a few grommets for staking will last many years and trips.

[@Im_With_Stupid]

@@twhis9843 When I make Tyvek ground sheets I leave a little tab about 1.5"x1.5" at the grommet point so I can fold it back and give the grommet a double layer of material.

[@apsynto]

Totally agree about using a ground sheet to prptect the tent, or in my case a biwi but i personally prefer ones that are not waterproof. In the mountains the selection of suitable sleeping places can be limited and there are very few things worse than having to set up in a dip and having your groundsheet become a swimming pool for your shelter.

[@willothewispl]

I never knew anything about a ground sheet. We have always used a thick heavy tarp to be clean and warm and to protect the tent..God Bless..we never thought about weight just always brought it.

[@HuntCreekBushcraft]

Good information you offer here. Thank you. I do use a ground sheet under my tents every time for all the reasons you stated. And when I’m packing up and looking at the underside of it with all the condensation, dirt clumps and scurrying bugs, I’m reminded why spending 17 seconds laying it down first was time well spent. I’m no ultralight camper, so I choose to use an emergency space blanket under my shelters. It’s stout, multi purpose, and the perfect size for me. To your point, I find the extra bit of width creates a convenient kneeling area outside the door. And I can stack spare firewood on on the opposite side, keeping it handy and dry. I have only purchased one footprint marketed for a specific tent. It’s the OneTigris footprint meant to be pared with the Backwoods Bungalow or Outback Retreat (which I have). I believe it cost less than $35 on Amazon. But I’ve never actually used that as a ground sheet. I prefer instead to carry it as a compact, lightweight tarp. And have used it many times as a vestibule type wall to block sun, wind and add additional privacy for my set up. Thanks again for putting this helpful information out there.

[@BillVorhees]

I use a harbor freight plastic tarp. Their smallest size is perfect for a two person dome tent. The extra material is just right to go under the vestibule as an area to remove shoes before entering.

[@robertnorman2333]

I always use a Ground Sheet, learned that back 45 yrs. ago when I started Back Packing, to Me it is a Must.

[@larryjanson4011]

i have been doing this for decades. just a “disposable” cheap tarp. works great. “disposable” as in if it get wiped out no loss. not as in put in the trash, leave behind, burn. but use for as many camps ad possible. just if damaged no big deal. even today with hyper inflation they are still far cheeper to replace, repair a tent floor.

[@robertmaxwell3220]

Learned about groundsheets as a scout MANY years ago.Wouldnt leave home without it!Last year purchased Nature Hike Cloud Up 2,which comes with one,so pretty inexpensive! Thank you for your constant good camping sense,and enjoyable commentary.Very rare these days.🤠🇺🇲

[@deanhockenberry9268]

Only a newby would set a tent up on top of broken glass or sharp sticks. I do agree a ground sheet can help with hidden things and protect against abrasion.

[@rthompson884]

I always use a ground sheet, always. I made two ground sheets from my old waterbed liner, and it worked great and not too heavy.

[@brnrecluse2946]

Expertise & no BS, that's why I've watched your videos for the past 10 years, Luke!. Strength and honor!

[@eddaugherty335]

Great video Luke! I always use a ground sheet. I typically buy the one designed for that tent because they usually have gromets in the proper place. I know I could save money but to me it's not worth the time and effort. Either way defiantly use a groundsheet!

[@PuffinPass]

Great vid and information. One thing about Tyvek is that if you run it through the laundry (by itself) a couple times (no detergent) it becomes very fabric like and it isn't loud at all anymore. The ultralight guys use this as a cheap more durable alternative to the thin plastic groundsheet since you can find it free a lot of times.

[@cpwatching5647]

I wavered many times on the use of a foot print or not. I have determined to not use one. I have seen and had a foot print backfire pooling water. We are adults and careful in the use of our tents. I've had and still have tents that are 15 to 20 years old. The failures of the floors I have experienced are due to age(20 years) not typical wear or abuse. We also use thermo rests. This is key and minimizes the floor wear and grind it goes through. Our packs are outside under the vestibules again minimizing the wear. I think how people use tents is a factor and every application is different. I've had guys say flat out get one or your crazy not to use one. Not my experience. I've been camping to 50+ years and have done many setups and situations. Thanks for the reviews we enjoy your videos. Just got back from the BWCA in MN. I recommend it.

[@lindawoods6841]

Thank you so much Luke.. I have to have a ground sheet. 👍👍👍

[@jimbrown8313]

I cut a sheet of Tyvek years ago. Amazing ly it still is working. For my car camp tent I got a piece of vinyl from a large billboard. It's so thick it's almost a cushion.

[@seisies-mama]

Tysm for the information I'll be using a ground sheet with my tent from now on. Very interesting and informative video. SaH to you all stay safe

[@bubba7626]

I’m a tarp and hammock guy , or tarp only guy. I carry a polish poncho/ half shelter as well because its also a poncho - but thats great advice for tent folk. Thanks

[@markswishereatsstuff2500]

I use a piece of Tyvek cut just smaller than the floor of my Tarptent Double Rainbow Li. Keeps the bottom of the tent clean. Fold the groundsheet dirty side into itself so it doesn't get the inside of my backpack crusty.

[@DarksideFistofFury68]

I’m not a ground camper as I like sleeping in a hammock. I like the idea of ground sheets especially water resistant ones as a means to keep the area under the hammock dry after erecting cover to protect you from the elements. All thanks to you I know what not to buy and what to buy. As I live in Japan most of my gear is for emergency shelter dooms day prepping situations.

[@Campbell_Clan]

I use a small tarp which can have multiple usages if needed.

[@NadesikoRose]

Thanks for explaining this to me Luke, we have never used one before whenever camping and I had been wondering why everyone else was using such things. It makes a lot of sense in the long run to use such things if you have them.

[@genglandoh]

For my old backpacking tent I used a picnic table plastic sheet for my footprint because I had one, it worked well. With my new backpacking tent I bought the tents footprint because in the rain I can setup the rainfly and footprint first. So my tent body is protected while I set it up under the rain fly. To be honest I have never needed to do this but just in case I thought it was a good feature.

[@GoofyKahn]

Thank you Luke, I had no idea about these. Will be getting a ground sheet here pretty soon now.

[@tomsitzman3952]

For 20 some years my wife and I ran a wilderness travel company calledAdventures Unlimited. We ran kayak, canoe, bike and backpack trips. We never provided a footprint with our tents. We never had a problem with punched holes in the tent floors. Several weeks ago, I found a 1982 two person. North Face tents on a back shelf with my outdoor equipment. I figured it was most likely worn out, but before throwing it out I set it up and left it sit through a wind and rainstorm. survived years and no leaks. But I see no reason not to use a footprint.

[@rickkaylor8554]

Good video. I think you did a good job covering everything. Three of my tents (REI Half Dome, Marmot EOS 1 & Marmot Tungsten UL 1) were purchased with footprints. One additional advantage with using these footprints is they can be used as part of a minimalist setup. The footprint and the rain fly can just be used leaving then tent body out if you don't need to worry about bugs. This cuts the tent weight in half.

[@granitesand78]

I have the ground sheet for the big Agnes and it lets you use the rain fly as a shelter with it and you can dump the tent itself. It’s a neat party trick

[@ArielleViking]

Great advice to prolong a tent’s life. 👍

[@troytaylor1913]

I made one from Tyvek. I set up in town often where there might be glass, I also have a beach mat on top.

[@ferryvantichelen6521]

One extra reason (depending on the design of the tent,for instance the Naturehike Mongar) can be that it makes it possible to set up a rain-protection layer (ground sheet + rain fly) first and hang your inner tent in a nice and dry environment. This saved my stuff from getting drenched when we arrived at the campsite in some of the worst weather I ever camped in. After the rain cover was set up I could simply wipe the groundsheet dry and comfortably sleep in a nice dry sleeping bag (actually I use an Ice Flame quilt but hey).

[@irishfields]

Very good review bud,it makes good sense👍

[@mikepreslar8686]

I love Tyvek for a ground sheet. Put it through a wash cycle first to keep the noise down. Super light and packs down small.

[@a.ramosakadrumgrl6677]

For car camping, I have always used a cheap tarp. It has always worked for me, we just tuck it under or fold it to fit the tent we are using.

[@jerryfife2015tacoma]

Hi Luke, I use a ground sheet on my tents all the time, any type of ground sheet is better than nothing, That was a great video I try telling people all the time that I camp with to use a ground sheet and they will be glad they did, but they usually don't think they need one or they forgot to bring on. I have a ground sheet packed up with every tent I own just so I don't forget to bring one. Thanks Luke.

[@micheleaday3902]

It Is Very Wise To Use A Ground Sheet Or Use Another tarp Folded Under Tent Floor And A Poncho is Also Great Idea

[@jonathan461965]

Great advice luke 👍 I always use a groundsheet, even if it's a cheap 6x4 tarp! 😊

[@jamesr-lc2yh]

I've used a ground tarp for years. Really helps alot. I always enjoy all your videos Luke. I've gotten alot of information from your videos. Keep up the good work.

[@earlgrey691]

I tend to use a cheap builders tarp with pegs pushed down into them (tight to the ground) plus a secondary one tucked internally.Keeps those invertebrates at bay and Lyme disease agents that might be lurking.Hike camping isn't my bag tbh.I'd be happy with a pack-horse-arrangement for this type of camping though.Strictly bushcraft for this cat.

[@phatforrest]

Great video, you sure covered all the bases on ground coverings.

[@azclaimjumper]

I've read most of the replies B4 composing the following: I use a footprint designed/manufactured by Hilleberg for my Enan for all the reasons you mentioned + the 70D ground side material of the footprint & the tent floor is more protection than I'll ever need for my XTherm air mattress that I don't want punctured. I pitch the tent/fly/footprint all at the same time. The footprint covers the shape of the tent floor + it covers the vestibule ground. Yes, $60.00 is a princely sum to pay, however, 30 years from now the tent floor exterior of my Enan will still be like new. My Boy Scout weekend overnight monthly camping was under a GI Surplus Pup Tent. There was no such thing as a tent floor sewn in with the GI Surplus Pup Tent. I never was warm the next morning inside my sleeping bag even with a groundsheet. Back in those days 70 years ago there was no such thing as an inflatable air mattress. Finally along came those dense rubber roll up backpackers pads which were an improvement in insulating the camper from cold ground & GROUND IS ALWAYS COLD. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada

[@scotlackey9819]

I’ve been camping since I was a kid and was just taught to use 6mm plastic as a ground sheet under my tent, I never really thought about it much, it was just how my parents taught me to set up my tent, I have three mid grade tents and a snugpak and they are all in perfect condition and I use them a lot and so far no problems with anything, so I will keep using 6mm plastic, my parents used blue Walmart tarps under tent but the plastic they taught me to use works just fine and is 40 a roll but is enough to pitch all three tents with left overs that can be used for multiple applications such as the wall you mentioned

[@spuriouseffect]

I would say that most pros today aren't even using ultralight polycro groundsheets anymore. It's easier and lighter to simply carry some repair tape and be more careful where you set up your tent. If you're going to wipe dirt and leaves off the bottom of a groundsheet before you pack it up, you can simply do the same for your tent. Someone who uses their tent a couple weekends a year is concerned about prolonging the life of their tent. A pro who uses their tent say 75 times or more a year knows they're going to wear out their tent quickly, so a groundsheet isn't really going to do much to prolong the life of the tent. And the ground is much warmer than the air, so condensation on the floor of the tent is all but nonexistent in most cases.

[@dwaynestewart411]

I never worry about weight . I carry an extreme duty Tarp for a ground sheet for the extra protection. Dwayne

[@LeopoldElwes]

Hello from Vorarlberg 🇦🇹 This is actually a very useful video 🤔 I'm thinking of using a ground sheet when I next go sleeping outside just because of the dirt😅 Kind regards Leopold 🤗

[@karenstein8261]

Groundsheets? Some thoughts: -- My first were improvised. "1000 mile paper" (check any lumberyard - that's what protects lumber in transit) works well but doesn't pack that well, and is heavy. Poly sheeting is relatively heavy, is available in various thicknesses, and travels better than the "paper." -- Noise matters. Do you want to listen to the stuff crinkle every time you roll over? -- It's useful alone when "cowboy camping." -- In my mind the ideal would be made of Cordura. Packs well and tough as can be. I don't want the sheet to be 100% waterproof -- that just traps water. I DO want it to resist absorbing water. Sunlight resistance not a big deal for something hat goes under you .Grommets? I might prefer a captive paracord loop around the edges.

[@amonster8mymother]

I use a tarp and bivy with a ground sheet. The bivy doesnt have a vestibule so I use the extra ground sheet for something to kneel 9n or cook 9n. ❤

[@iduswelton9567]

Most of the tents i ever were involved with didn't have a floor as part of it construction so having a good ground sheet was very important - it helps keep u dry, clean, protects ur bare feet and helps control condensation - so a good quality ground sheet is very important

[@nonservitium]

I've had a tyvek ground sheet for well over a decade now, I used the old washer and dryer trick to soften and quiet it down.

[@nickhikesinthewoods6150]

Yup a ground sheet is essential I also use them if Im just tarp camping

[@davidpike3464]

I camped with the scouts all through my childhood. This was in a often wet & windy UK. Old canvas tents you needrd 4 to carry. No inner tent. The ground sheet got dragged in once the tent was up. Then what was called 'sodcloth', so hessian sacking all around the bottom edges of the tent had to be tucked in under the edges of the ground sheet. The water still got in & puddled at the lowest poits. The ground sheets were so heavy duty. Toughened us all up 😅

[@Leafwink]

I bought a tent that doesn't come with a ground sheet, that is sold only on their website (bought the tent at a local store). I went to different places to see if they happen to have one since the store stock wasn't showing any to be available (this was during covid supply shortage). One employee was trying to tell me that I do not really need a ground sheet, the tent is so good that you should be fine. Sure it would be fine if I only use it once a year, but I plan on using the tent for hiking long distance and would want to be safe. In the end I bought an MSR ground sheet and so far it is working just fine.

[@Im_With_Stupid]

A lot of times you don't need one. It mostly depends on where you're pitching and how often you're using it. Established campsites that are routinely picked clean of debris? You can usually get by without one. In the backcountry where the leaves and sticks are 3 inches deep and the ground is damp? A ground sheet is good insurance, especially if you're not made out of money. Tyvek Homewrap is your best bet. It's usually much cheaper than a premade footprint, always tougher, it's naturally waterproof and Permethrin won't dissolve it. Plus, you can cut it to any size and shape you want it.

[@stevesampier527]

Ground sheets under the tent are a major plus for wear and tear. However, to keep the inside of my tent dry, I put a cut to fit (bathtub style) tarp on the inside.

[@robertknowles2699]

I suppose three lightweight tarps, unsure of Tyvek, - under, over, and as you say, inside, even if not exact fit should help. Thanks for the tip !

[@Mykaelous]

I used a Polycro ground sheet for 7 years before it finally kicked the bucket when I was trying to set up camp and 40 mph winds in the Gobi wiped it so hard it tore to pieces. I then just used my tent as is for the next 2 months without issue or breakage. I also use an REI Bivy without a groundsheet because it's so cheap(Less than $150) that I figure that I'll just buy another when it rips, but I have had the need in the 3 years of use I've put on it. I'm now looking to replace my 8 year old MSR Hubba Hubba and am considering what groundsheet I should use. Maybe I'll try Tyrek..

[@libbyd1001]

A good idea is to not let the footprint layer extend out beyond the bottom of the tent. Otherwise rain or even dew running down the tent will be funneled under the tent and that much water is more likely to find its way into the tent. Especially tents that are well used and perhaps not as water resistant as they once were. Therefore, keep the footprint a few inches short in every direction under the tent so this water goes into the ground, not between the footprint and the tent bottom.

[@Scott.Farkus]

I bought a piece of Tyvek home wrap for around $15; it was larger than my tent, so I trimmed it to fit, double the edges, and put grommets in the corners and the sides so I can stake it down to prevent it blowing away if it's windy. Once I get the tent on it I use the same stakes to stake the tent down. The stuff was rigid when I first got it = loud, so I smashed it into a ball and basically just twisted and crushed it, then ran it through the washer to soften it up, now it's much quieter.

[@Im_With_Stupid]

Depending on how the stake points on your tent body are made you can probably find a way to permanently attach the ground sheet to it with either shock cord or paracord. Then you won't have to mess with it at all.

[@Scott.Farkus]

@@Im_With_Stupid I thought about doing that, then I decided it was better to have it separate, that way I can if I need to get anything out from underneath it before I set the tent up.

[@Buffenmeyer]

I usually buy a common landscaping tarp at Walmart, then cut it according to the shape of my tent. Works great. I’ve even seen them cheaper at the dollar store, but I’m guessing they are also a lighter guage.

[@kevchard5214]

I learned my lesson a few years back. I bought a very expensive Eureka tent and used it 4 times without a ground sheet. The last trip a storm cam in and flooded the area and now My tent is stained red from Oklahoma clay.

[@tfranks4]

I've always used poly. It can be custom cut to not only fit the tent floor but include the vestibule as well.

[@zerohero187]

If you wash & dry your tyvek, it won't be loud. Some people say not to put it in the dryer but I think it comes softer when machined dried. It also makes it easier to fold. Fyi, printed side should be facing down when using.

[@MikePhotoGuy666]

What I always do and what works for me is setting a shower curtain or other cheap plastic material INSIDE my tent on the floor of my tent. Makes it much easier to shake out leaves, dirt/materials that get into the tent and also helps protect the inside floor of the tent. If you use a groundsheet and an inner layer sheet you are basically just doubling up the protection on the floor of your tent. That way it resists damage from the ground/surface, and also helps to prevent you bringing in materials from outside your tent into your tent and damaging the inner floor of your tent, or makes shaking out that debris sooo much easier. Cheap plastic liners you can get from Costco are GREAT for the inside floor of your tent and add almost zero extra weight.

[@JebJones]

I have been using heavy tarps as ground sheets for years.

[@CombatBanana]

Actually a lot of pros DON'T use them because they aren't really needed. One example - Dan Durston, the creator of the very popular X-Mid tents. That said, you did make some good points so I guess it's worth having.

[@StephenMcGregor1986]

Yeah, I consider pro's needing the least amount of equipment, certainly not reliance on even more things.

[@CombatBanana]

@@StephenMcGregor1986 Yeah so like if you're casual backpacking then you might as well bring a plastic footprint for the reasons he gave but if you're trying to come in first in a backpacking race and want every advantage you can get or you're trying to set a time record on a trail then you might as well leave it behind.

[@doubleT84]

They can trap water under your tent. A good tent has a good, robust, waterproof base. Yes, a groundsheet can reduce wear.

[@bubbaray_1968]

A heavy shower curtain works for a cheap ground cloth. You can pick one up at any dollar store and it will fit most 2 person tents and some 3 person tents,

[@Ijsje1979]

The Savotta FDF mat is a great piece of kit for this , put your hooped bivy or small tent (i.e.Ionosphere ) on top 😉

[@lasseystad3266]

Had to view this 2 times. First time I notices all the flyes around your head and could for the life of me not stop laughing. Just hillarious. Thank you Luke for this video and info on the groundcovers.

[@biologySoon]

I use a ground tarp to also keep the moisture off the bottom of my tent that sometimes builds.

[@JefferyHall-ct2tr]

Hi Luke!: Thanks for the informative video on footprints! Learned a lot! Makes LOTS of sense to use one! I hope everyone listens!

[@HollywoodTacticool]

i've always just used a regular cheap tarp. is that not as common because it's not that portable and lightweight? otherwise is there a problem with that?

[@paulthomas2337]

Whooh there Luke! If you stick that ground sheet out in front of your door and it rains you are inviting rain to pass in under your tent to get the ground floor wet. Mistake!!

[@EdwinCV-dh8qc]

Hmmmm,I think a paint sheet may even work in a pinch. Thanks for the great info Luke.

[@thisoldrelic]

I have a Coleman with a tarp bottom. Technically I don't need a ground cloth. I have strarted using a tarp folded under itself to size. Main reason I have had to put it away with a wet bottom. Then because of that had to being it home and set it up and dry it out when I got home. The ground cloth gets wet but the bottom of the tent stays dry. It's easier to hang a ground cloth then dry out a tent.

[@offthearrowshelf]

The key thing to remember is tuck the spare material under the tent. I've seen people use ground sheets that are too big and stick out under the tent. Then it rains the the water runs off tent onto ground sheet and either into the tent or under it.

[@jamicrawford6729]

cut it two inches shorter than the tent dimensions and there's nothing to tuck

[@TheGhjgjgjgjgjg]

This is actually a useful tip that seems obvious but something you over look until it happens. Thanks man

[@bcso4079]

Sound advise. I've done the same for over 40 years for the same reasons. I recently watched a popular KZbinr comment that he didn't use them or see the need. LOL. I have old tents that have had the bottoms saved due to this.

[@jpkm123g9]

always had a groundsheet, because the first tents we used had no bottom, the groundsheet was all that was between you and the ground!

[@gunsofmasseffect4321]

I always do, for all the reasons you stated, it makes sense to do so.

[@erinhenry9750]

Heard about u from ab camping Tony and Bruno. Just subscribed think u and Susie are bit of goobers but love the info and yall make me laugh ❤from Michigan