Only footprints - Do you really need a footprint with your tent?
Made from thick nylon or polyester, footprints are cut to match the shape of your tent's floor, and there is quite a bit of debate on whether it is *really* necessary to use one when camping.
We could delve into the merits of both sides of the argument, but the succinct truth of the matter is simple: If you like your tent, and don’t want to fork out for a new one every year USE A FOOTPRINT.
It doesn’t really matter how thick the floor of your tent is, or how plush the ground you are camping on, sticks happen. And rocks, rubbish, thistles, and all manner of things that can damage the floor of your beloved tent.
It is often assumed that a footprint will make your tent floor more waterproof, but it actually offers a wide range of benefits.
Protection
A footprint adds a layer of protection against rocks, roots, and other debris that can wear holes in your tent's floor. This extra layer helps extend the life of your tent. It is cheaper to replace a damaged footprint than an entirely new tent, making it more affordable in the long run, and more sustainable, sending less gear to landfill over time.
Keep it clean
Nature is a dirty place. mud, leaves, sand, animal poop, grass, it will all make your tent grubby. A footprint acts as a barrier, keeping the body of the tent clean. When it comes time to pack up, the soiled footprint can be rolled up and stored separately, keeping the rest of the gear fresh and clean.
Site selection
Taking the guesswork out of site selection, if your footprint doesn’t fit the spot you’ve chosen then your tent definitely will not! Laying out the footprint first will determine if the tent fits the site, helping you avoid issues with trees, roots, uneven ground, or neighbours nearby at an overnight festival.
Warm it up
Never underestimate how much body heat can be lost into the earth when camping. A footprint will reduce heat loss to the ground, as adding another layer adds to heat retention. Combining this with a decent sleeping mat and Domex sleeping bag and liner will provide a comfortable sleep in all kinds of weather.
We cannot stress enough how helpful a footprint is for your camping experience. Even if you’re just looking for ways to avoid the clean-up of a muddy tent bottom when you’re home again it is worth making the time to add a footprint to your gear list.
