Why Should I Use a Tent Footprint?
Camping trips are exciting, but they require a lot of gear. Getting the right equipment for your outdoor adventure is essential because it can make or break your vacation. We are probably not teaching you anything by saying you need a tent, a mattress, and a sleeping bag. But did you consider getting a tent footprint? Many forget to get this item despite its usefulness.
Read ahead to learn more about tent footprints, why you should get them, and what to consider when buying one.
What is a tent footprint?
A tent footprint is a waterproof cloth you put between your tent and the ground. It comes in various fabrics, like polyethylene, oxford nylon, polyester, or cuben fiber.
Most tents do not come with a footprint, so you must buy it separately. The size you need to get depends on the size of your tent. Therefore, we highly recommend you buy your tent first or buy the two items at the same time.
Reasons you should use a tent footprint
Some are hesitant to get a tent footprint because it is an added expense and an extra piece of luggage to carry. However, there are many reasons to get one:
Additional warmth
If you like to camp during the colder months, a tent footprint helps provide extra warmth. It does so by raising you above the ground and preventing heat loss. Since most of the heat is lost to the ground, you will be grateful for your footprint, especially on cold nights!
Additional durability
Tents are expensive, so you want to protect them from damage, like cuts and abrasions. However, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find a spot without stones or twigs to lay down your tent. Using a footprint provides a protective layer between the ground and your tent, and you are less likely to damage it. They are the perfect way to protect your investment!
Reduces condensation
Condensation in your tent is never good because it can make it a pretty uncomfortable place to sleep. Tent footprints reduce condensation by repelling moisture from the ground downwards.
Provides a template to pitch your tent
We've all been there: you start pitching your tent only to realize it lays on top of a massive root, which means you have to start over. Footprints should be about the same size as your tent, so they can save you valuable time when picking a spot.
You can move the footprint around to see if your tent will fit or if it will be on top of things like rocks or roots. Once you have the perfect spot, you can start pitching your tent, knowing you won't have to move it.
Additional waterproofing
Waking up in a soaked tent has to be one of the most aggravating things that can happen when camping. Thankfully, tent footprints are an easy solution. They provide a double layer of protection against rain and wet ground, so you can sleep peacefully knowing your tent is better protected.
Faster pack away
Have you ever tried putting away a wet tent? It is time-consuming because you have to wipe the water and the mud before letting it dry to pack it. Tents stay cleaner when they are on top of a footprint, and you can put them away much faster.
The footprint itself is also easier to clean than the tent. You can wait until you are home to clean it thoroughly if you have a sack to keep your dirty footprint.
Things to consider when buying a tent footprint
There are two main things to consider when purchasing a footprint. First, the size: it is best to select one slightly smaller than your tent to prevent the water from accumulating between the footprint and your tent.
The second thing to think about is fabric. Pick one that best fits your needs. For example, if you are going on a backpacking trip and need to carry the footprint on your back for long distances, choose a lighter material, like an oxford polyester.
Dwight's Outdoors: the best for all your camping gear
Are you ready to gear up for your next trip? The Dwight's Outdoors team is there for you! Our mission is to help clients make the best out of their outdoor adventures by providing them with equipment of the highest quality. We test and review everything we sell to ensure the material meets our high standards.
Head to our website's Camp & Hike section to learn more about the tent footprints we sell. You can email us at online@dwights.co.nz or use our contact form if you have questions. Our team will be pleased to assist you!Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tent footprint?
A tent footprint is a custom groundsheet cut to fit the floor of your specific tent. It sits between the tent floor and the ground, protecting the floor from abrasion, moisture, and sharp objects. Using a footprint extends the life of your tent floor significantly.
Do I need a tent footprint?
A footprint isn't strictly required, but it's a worthwhile investment if you camp regularly. It protects the most expensive part of your tent to repair — the floor — from the most damaging surfaces. For rocky NZ campsites, it's particularly useful.
What size tent footprint do I need?
A footprint should match your tent's floor dimensions exactly — or be very slightly smaller so it doesn't channel water under the tent floor. We recommend using a footprint custom-made for your specific tent model for the best fit. Dwights makes custom footprints for their Enterprise tent range, and MSR and NEMO make custom footprints for all their tent models.
Can I use a tarp as a tent footprint?
A tarp can work as a general groundsheet, but it needs to be cut slightly smaller than the tent floor to avoid channelling water underneath. A custom footprint is the better option for regular use — it's lighter, fits precisely, and won't cause pooling issues.
Does a tent footprint make a tent warmer?
A footprint provides minimal insulation value on its own. For warmth from the ground, a sleeping mat with an adequate R-value is the effective solution — not a footprint.
Where can I buy tent footprints in NZ?
Dwights stocks custom footprints for MSR, NEMO, and Dwights Enterprise tents, as well as universal groundsheet options. Browse at /collections/hiking-tents.