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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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❤😂❤😂
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!
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.
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
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!"
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.
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
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. 👍
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.
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!
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! 👍 👍
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.
Tyvek is the best option. It's cheap, light, very strong and very puncture resistant (think holly leaves), highly water resistant and you can cut it to whatever shape you want. If the piece is large enough sometimes I like to leave a flap at the door that I can roll out so my knees and hands don't get dirty getting in and out. Get some Coghlan's tarp grommets and you can add stake or attachment points. Tyvek is very loud when you get it, but that's easy to fix. Use your preferred method to get it all wrinkly and then throw it in the washer on cold/gentle cycle with *no detergent* and let it air dry. Depending on how wrinkly you got it before you put it in the washer you might have to run it through twice, but when it's done it'll be soft and quiet.
@@andrewhyduke1974 Well, I heard him say it has to be used right, but my assumption is that, as you say, it needs to have the right side up. The most common type is Homewrap and you'd want to put the printed side facing the ground since that's the side designed to be exposed to the elements. That's what I do and it's always fine, never had any leaking, but then I never thought about it and only put it that way because it seemed to make more sense. Would it still work the other way? Possibly. There's several different types of Tyvek, though, and I don't think they're all obviously marked, so the best thing to do to, at least without knowing more about how to identify or use them, is just stick with Homewrap which is easy to identify because it has HOMEWRAP printed all over it. Homewrap also has the highest HH rating.
@@billpetersen298 I don't actually know, but a ground sheet is primarily for puncture and tear resistance while water resistance is mostly just an added bonus. Homewrap has a 2100mm HH rating, so even if washing it cut it in half you'd still be adding a 1000+mm waterproof barrier to your tent floor and that's nothing to sneeze at. I will say, though, that I've got Tyvek (Homewrap) ground sheets that I've been using for years and I've never had any moisture issues with them. Just the other weekend I rode out tropical storm Ophelia with one that's a good three years old and stayed bone dry throughout an entire night of torrential rain, but then the next day when I packed up the ground under my tent was completely dry, anyway, and that's usually how it is unless you're camped on a slope or in a valley. In those conditions your ground sheet's HH rating is largely irrelevant because the water is going to run over it as much as under it.
@@Im_With_Stupid Thanks for the reply. My daughter, myself, and her friends, just got back from a Vancouver area mountain hike yesterday. I did the hammock. She was in my new ultra light Durston tent. I'm laughing at myself, because I brought for her an old garage tarp for a ground sheet. It weighs half as much as the tent. Our gear is all over the map, but we still have a great time.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
@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.
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.
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.
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
@@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.
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
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.
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 😅
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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
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
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.
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,
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I’ve always been against ground sheets in my tipi tent but man when I could chill in my socks without worrying about mud and dirt for the first time I changed my mind. Cooking dinner in my wool socks on the clean floor with rain hitting the tent is supreme. Feel the goosebumps now.
funny, my experience its fairly opposite :) that "pros" - very experienced hikes, actually doesnt use them - pros pick a proper campsite and clean it, they carry a small repair kit - i have used tents for 100 of night - very thin UL tents, without issues
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 🤗
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 dynamic ground sheet under a dynamo tent floor. They move freely over one another to prevent snagging and abrasion and puncture.
How i love my Polish Lavvu.40 Quid (UK). Tested recently in heavy solar wind-storms in England that were very unexpected and it sure cut the mustard regally. A few modifications here and there,zippers instead of issued buttons (painful) d-loop for tree (pole-free) suspension plus 6 inch vinyl perimiter curtains to keep out the drafts.They rock.Nice and dark as well as leak-free which once fully damp, paradoxically afford a natural proofing as the fibres expand No need for nasty chemicals.Would'nt swap mine for anything,even north of a grand.Oh and they're perfect for wood-stoves and less inclined to be ruined by stray sparks from external fires. Why some entrepreneurs aren't working on newer models (these are 70's/80's Polish army issue) is perplexing given the enthusiasm they inspire in their owners ? Too much clever-dickery with modern stuff and usurious pricings ? I concur with Lukes conclusions regarding groundsheets totally/utterly.
I have always used a ground sheet even as a noob and was never more grateful when I pitched my tent in a field and then wandered off to hang with friends. It rained. I went back to my tent and to my horror, an underground spring surfaced right under my tent! My little tent was dancing happily upon the spring, I shone my flashlight inside and everything was dry. I of course had to bunk with someone else but I hate to think what would have happened without that ground cloth.
Yup, I too always use a groundsheet/footprint with my tent. In my case one made for the tent and it only cost $20. Here's a tip for the Tyvek users. Tyvek can be quieted down by machine washing your Tyvek and tumble drying on cold.
We never did that I ever remembered. But I think we just never thought about it. Didn't know that the floors had a waterproof coating and I guess we never thought of the possibility of condensation. We usually only camped during summer. But after pointing out the condensation and coating parts i think I might know what happened to our dome tent years ago. One morning at home i woke up and there was a bunch of water in the corner. And if i remember right it didn't really storm that night if only a little. We had used it 2 or 3 years probably without issues and had seam sealed it the first year we got it. But I bet that's probably what had happened to it. I haven't been camping in probably 10+ years now. I miss it. And if we ever go again i'll know there is more to it than just extra protection and keeping it clean. Also I never heard of or knew anyone that ever talked about ground sheets back then either.
Living in a small apartment a ground sheet is a lifesaver. With no floor space to properly lay out the tent, cleaning it would be a nightmare. Instead hang it to dry and air out, pack it away and bring the ground sheet to the shower with me. If I wet the wall the clean side will stick to it, allowing me to hose down the dirty side. Easy!
sometimes we use a groundsheet, sometimes we don't. if we have the space and can carry the weight, why not? that being said, we have never had any issues when we did not use a foot print. if it is properly cut to fit the bottom of your tent, it can only help. I would not consider myself a pro, as i do not get paid to camp, but i have been camping in extreme condition for about 25 years.
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.
That was one of the first lessons taught to me decades ago by my mentor who was a very experienced backpacker and mountaineer. Out west, we have evergreen trees most everywhere we hike/camp, and they LOVE to drop pitch/sap everywhere, often hidden in pine needles, grasses, and rocks/soil. And when needing to pack up and move the tent from night to night, for days at a time, the LAST thing you want is to get pitch/sap all over the tent and your gear and have it spread further by the day! 🌲Same goes for areas with bird/animal droppings that may still be "fresh"! 😁
@@kchizen100 the pitch/sap sticks to the bottom of ground sheet, you always fold the dirty side in, always put on ground dirty side down, so sap/pitch stays contained.
I have a dollar store shower curtain that fits my tent fairly well and is also durable. I suppose, for a larger tent, I could lay down two of these economic substitutes.
I had a very strange happening once, when using a ground sheet, the only time I ever used a ground sheet under my tent. There was no rain that night, and yet I woke to find my sleeping pad had heavy condensation under it, but nowhere else. I lifted the tent and found that there was heavy condensation between the tent and the ground sheet. I came home and I tested the waterproof of the tent floor and found it to be 100% watertight. In a lifetime of tent camping I have never seen anything so odd, and I am still unable to explain it.
Your body heat was transferring through your pad and was coming into contact with the cooler ground. It happens to me often when camping in cooler or cold weather. On my Teton pad which is more of a foam type pad i can actually see the moisture make a body outline for me and a smaller outline on my daughters pad where we laid. It's the same concept as a glass of ice water sitting on a table, warmer air meeting a cooler surface.
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.
I always use a ground sheet under my tent but I have a friend who never does I keep telling him how important it is but he just shrugs me off .so I told him to watch this video hopefully you can change his mind great video luke......🤪
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.
Nice! I just produced a video on tent care. I explained the importance of a footprint, though you did it better. Being a pro, I agree, and advise the use of one.
My primary tent is DCF and so is my ground sheet. I have always paid up and purchased the ground sheet that is made for the tent. I am sure other options would work fine. UL is very important to me so that is why I use DCF.
Sound advise. I've done the same for over 40 years for the same reasons. I recently watched a popular TH-camr 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.
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
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.
Ground sheets! You’re a Genius! Now the itch is gone! Always thought it was a pain to clean up the tarp, and specially the bottom!! That solves all the imperfections of camping out!
@@kchizen100 of course you do clean the ground sheet; it’s just that it’s way easier to clean the ground sheet, than cleaning the the tent’s underside,
Clean your site, clean your tent after a trip, resurface it with silicone each season, bring a patch kit. There’s no reason to add weight. I have a tarptent and a z packs cuben tent, both with over 400 miles. Half of those miles are two 200 mile thru hikes and the rest is bushwhacking / hunting. Even with hard use in the ozarks, I’ve never had a problem if I care for my gear. 6+oz vs 2 oz for a patch kit (which you should have anyway) is a big difference in a 10lb total kit before food and water. The MLD polycro, which I have, is fine for weight, but adds almost 0 benefit. Mine was destroyed long before the tent itself. Maybe good for 3-5 nights on sap or a nice to have layer of bad rainstorm protection, to help stave off saturation. I just don’t think that adds enough to justify it.
When i bought my hilleberg anaris tent i just went a head and bought the ground sheet For that tent I figured it would make it basically Indestructible. Yea it was expensive but i know hilleberg is top notch. Other than maybe fjallraven. That and the bugs in the back ground are ridiculous
Even if it's just clear run of the mill toss away plastic. Long term it'll keep you from having to clean the tent as much. And if it rains after you place the ground cloth, at least when you break camp it's one area of none damp mud to deal with.
I've always used a sheet of plastic I cut to fit under my tent, if anything, it makes a good moisture barrier but I always patrol the site when I plan to set up the tent and clear any rocks, twigs, pine cones or what ever that may cause a problem.
Great argue... 😀 I don't understand why so many experienced tenters don't understand the fact that any new tent MUST be prepared before first use. Impregnation with nikwax should be done before each season, also on the underside of the floor. I also seal the seams of the rain fly with AQUA-SURE-SEAL where all loops are attached because during heavy rain water will always leak in there. AND it doesn't matter how expensive your tent is because this applies to ALL tents. And a footprint is of course an absolute necessity. Extra Weight, what? I mean about 200 grams. Are you kidding me? So why are people so dull?
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!
#swaglife
Really! Enough of the marketing games.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I use an 8 x 10 blue poly tarp from Walmart.
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…😅
Same here
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❤😂❤😂
I use heavy-duty tarps straight from home depot 😂
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!
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.
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
So mud doesn't stick to the groundsheet? You don't clean the groundsheet off if it does get muddy?
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
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!"
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.
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.
neat sheet?
@@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
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
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. 👍
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.
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!
Your reviews are consistently accurate and concise, Luke. Woe to those who don't follow your advice.
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! 👍 👍
So you bring stakes with you hammock setup? Isn't not needing stakes one of the advantages of using a hammock?
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.
Expertise & no BS, that's why I've watched your videos for the past 10 years, Luke!. Strength and honor!
Tyvek is the best option. It's cheap, light, very strong and very puncture resistant (think holly leaves), highly water resistant and you can cut it to whatever shape you want. If the piece is large enough sometimes I like to leave a flap at the door that I can roll out so my knees and hands don't get dirty getting in and out. Get some Coghlan's tarp grommets and you can add stake or attachment points. Tyvek is very loud when you get it, but that's easy to fix. Use your preferred method to get it all wrinkly and then throw it in the washer on cold/gentle cycle with *no detergent* and let it air dry. Depending on how wrinkly you got it before you put it in the washer you might have to run it through twice, but when it's done it'll be soft and quiet.
Luke mentioned that tyvek must be placed the correct side up to keep out the ground moisture. Do you know which side needs to be up?
@@andrewhyduke1974 Well, I heard him say it has to be used right, but my assumption is that, as you say, it needs to have the right side up. The most common type is Homewrap and you'd want to put the printed side facing the ground since that's the side designed to be exposed to the elements. That's what I do and it's always fine, never had any leaking, but then I never thought about it and only put it that way because it seemed to make more sense. Would it still work the other way? Possibly.
There's several different types of Tyvek, though, and I don't think they're all obviously marked, so the best thing to do to, at least without knowing more about how to identify or use them, is just stick with Homewrap which is easy to identify because it has HOMEWRAP printed all over it. Homewrap also has the highest HH rating.
I’m wondering, once it is washed, is it still as waterproof. Going from crinkly to soft, means the structure has changed.
@@billpetersen298 I don't actually know, but a ground sheet is primarily for puncture and tear resistance while water resistance is mostly just an added bonus. Homewrap has a 2100mm HH rating, so even if washing it cut it in half you'd still be adding a 1000+mm waterproof barrier to your tent floor and that's nothing to sneeze at. I will say, though, that I've got Tyvek (Homewrap) ground sheets that I've been using for years and I've never had any moisture issues with them. Just the other weekend I rode out tropical storm Ophelia with one that's a good three years old and stayed bone dry throughout an entire night of torrential rain, but then the next day when I packed up the ground under my tent was completely dry, anyway, and that's usually how it is unless you're camped on a slope or in a valley. In those conditions your ground sheet's HH rating is largely irrelevant because the water is going to run over it as much as under it.
@@Im_With_Stupid Thanks for the reply. My daughter, myself, and her friends, just got back from a Vancouver area mountain hike yesterday. I did the hammock. She was in my new ultra light Durston tent. I'm laughing at myself, because I brought for her an old garage tarp for a ground sheet. It weighs half as much as the tent.
Our gear is all over the map, but we still have a great time.
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.
After watching your reviews I improvised groundsheet for my tent and it makes a huge difference.
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.
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.
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.
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.
@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.
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.
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.
It’s slightly breathable and water resistant enough. Works great.
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
Agree 100% with Tyvek.
I'm with ya. Tyvek and a few grommets for staking will last many years and trips.
@@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.
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
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.
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 😅
It Is Very Wise To Use A Ground Sheet Or Use Another tarp Folded Under Tent Floor And A Poncho is Also Great Idea
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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
Super important backpacking in the late fall/winter,only time i go have snow peak ground sheet it is fantastic with hilleberg tent ,,,
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
Great advice to prolong a tent’s life. 👍
In Germany we use the "Elefantenhaut" (Elephant Skin from Bundeswehr). Light Weight and extremly durable. 😊
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.
Great video, you sure covered all the bases on ground coverings.
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,
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.
always had a groundsheet, because the first tents we used had no bottom, the groundsheet was all that was between you and the ground!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I use a small tarp which can have multiple usages if needed.
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
Much easier to clean a ground sheet than the tent bottom. Use is really no inconvenience.
Exactly. However I can see the weight of a ground cloth can be a limiting factor for backpackers.
I’ve always been against ground sheets in my tipi tent but man when I could chill in my socks without worrying about mud and dirt for the first time I changed my mind. Cooking dinner in my wool socks on the clean floor with rain hitting the tent is supreme. Feel the goosebumps now.
I'm hearing you, and the older you get your bones remind you. 😂😂😂
Yup a ground sheet is essential I also use them if Im just tarp camping
Very good review bud,it makes good sense👍
funny, my experience its fairly opposite :) that "pros" - very experienced hikes, actually doesnt use them - pros pick a proper campsite and clean it, they carry a small repair kit - i have used tents for 100 of night - very thin UL tents, without issues
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 🤗
I use a ground tarp to also keep the moisture off the bottom of my tent that sometimes builds.
Never considered the condensation from the ground good call. 👍
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 dynamic ground sheet under a dynamo tent floor. They move freely over one another to prevent snagging and abrasion and puncture.
I have been using heavy tarps as ground sheets for years.
Tyvek is the way to go. Ultra light, super strong and absolutely impervious to moisture.
How i love my Polish Lavvu.40 Quid (UK). Tested recently in heavy solar wind-storms in England that were very unexpected and it sure cut the mustard regally. A few modifications here and there,zippers instead of issued buttons (painful) d-loop for tree (pole-free) suspension plus 6 inch vinyl perimiter curtains to keep out the drafts.They rock.Nice and dark as well as leak-free which once fully damp, paradoxically afford a natural proofing as the fibres expand No need for nasty chemicals.Would'nt swap mine for anything,even north of a grand.Oh and they're perfect for wood-stoves and less inclined to be ruined by stray sparks from external fires.
Why some entrepreneurs aren't working on newer models (these are 70's/80's Polish army issue) is perplexing given the enthusiasm they inspire in their owners ? Too much clever-dickery with modern stuff and usurious pricings ? I concur with Lukes conclusions regarding groundsheets totally/utterly.
I have always used a ground sheet even as a noob and was never more grateful when I pitched my tent in a field and then wandered off to hang with friends. It rained. I went back to my tent and to my horror, an underground spring surfaced right under my tent! My little tent was dancing happily upon the spring, I shone my flashlight inside and everything was dry. I of course had to bunk with someone else but I hate to think what would have happened without that ground cloth.
Yup, I too always use a groundsheet/footprint with my tent. In my case one made for the tent and it only cost $20.
Here's a tip for the Tyvek users. Tyvek can be quieted down by machine washing your Tyvek and tumble drying on cold.
We never did that I ever remembered. But I think we just never thought about it. Didn't know that the floors had a waterproof coating and I guess we never thought of the possibility of condensation. We usually only camped during summer. But after pointing out the condensation and coating parts i think I might know what happened to our dome tent years ago. One morning at home i woke up and there was a bunch of water in the corner. And if i remember right it didn't really storm that night if only a little. We had used it 2 or 3 years probably without issues and had seam sealed it the first year we got it. But I bet that's probably what had happened to it. I haven't been camping in probably 10+ years now. I miss it. And if we ever go again i'll know there is more to it than just extra protection and keeping it clean. Also I never heard of or knew anyone that ever talked about ground sheets back then either.
Living in a small apartment a ground sheet is a lifesaver. With no floor space to properly lay out the tent, cleaning it would be a nightmare. Instead hang it to dry and air out, pack it away and bring the ground sheet to the shower with me. If I wet the wall the clean side will stick to it, allowing me to hose down the dirty side. Easy!
Great idea!
Thank you Luke, I had no idea about these. Will be getting a ground sheet here pretty soon now.
sometimes we use a groundsheet, sometimes we don't. if we have the space and can carry the weight, why not? that being said, we have never had any issues when we did not use a foot print. if it is properly cut to fit the bottom of your tent, it can only help. I would not consider myself a pro, as i do not get paid to camp, but i have been camping in extreme condition for about 25 years.
Thank you so much Luke.. I have to have a ground sheet. 👍👍👍
I've always used poly. It can be custom cut to not only fit the tent floor but include the vestibule as well.
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.
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.
Hi Luke!: Thanks for the informative video on footprints! Learned a lot! Makes LOTS of sense to use one! I hope everyone listens!
That was one of the first lessons taught to me decades ago by my mentor who was a very experienced backpacker and mountaineer. Out west, we have evergreen trees most everywhere we hike/camp, and they LOVE to drop pitch/sap everywhere, often hidden in pine needles, grasses, and rocks/soil. And when needing to pack up and move the tent from night to night, for days at a time, the LAST thing you want is to get pitch/sap all over the tent and your gear and have it spread further by the day! 🌲Same goes for areas with bird/animal droppings that may still be "fresh"! 😁
The ground sheet doesn't get sap on it? You don't have to pack the groundsheet in your pack? Idk
@@kchizen100 the pitch/sap sticks to the bottom of ground sheet, you always fold the dirty side in, always put on ground dirty side down, so sap/pitch stays contained.
@@heidih2887 so you carry extra dirt and sticks with you everywhere. Useful.
I have a dollar store shower curtain that fits my tent fairly well and is also durable. I suppose, for a larger tent, I could lay down two of these economic substitutes.
Would have absolutely loved that back in my Hot Shot days.
The Savotta FDF mat is a great piece of kit for this , put your hooped bivy or small tent (i.e.Ionosphere ) on top 😉
I had a very strange happening once, when using a ground sheet, the only time I ever used a ground sheet under my tent. There was no rain that night, and yet I woke to find my sleeping pad had heavy condensation under it, but nowhere else. I lifted the tent and found that there was heavy condensation between the tent and the ground sheet. I came home and I tested the waterproof of the tent floor and found it to be 100% watertight. In a lifetime of tent camping I have never seen anything so odd, and I am still unable to explain it.
Your body heat was transferring through your pad and was coming into contact with the cooler ground. It happens to me often when camping in cooler or cold weather. On my Teton pad which is more of a foam type pad i can actually see the moisture make a body outline for me and a smaller outline on my daughters pad where we laid. It's the same concept as a glass of ice water sitting on a table, warmer air meeting a cooler surface.
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.
I use a waterproof tarp from Home Depot for $20. Works well, rolls up small, and hardly any weight!
I always use a ground sheet under my tent but I have a friend who never does I keep telling him how important it is but he just shrugs me off .so I told him to watch this video hopefully you can change his mind great video luke......🤪
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.
Nice! I just produced a video on tent care. I explained the importance of a footprint, though you did it better. Being a pro, I agree, and advise the use of one.
My primary tent is DCF and so is my ground sheet. I have always paid up and purchased the ground sheet that is made for the tent. I am sure other options would work fine. UL is very important to me so that is why I use DCF.
Great advice from a true pro!
Sound advise. I've done the same for over 40 years for the same reasons. I recently watched a popular TH-camr 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.
This is an optional extra. Some benefits indeed, but by no means a must.
I've used the 3mn plastic window insulation for years cheap, light weight, lasts a long time and I can cut it to just a little smaller than the tent
I never worry about weight . I carry an extreme duty Tarp for a ground sheet for the extra protection.
Dwayne
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
We always use a ground sheet, I don't think a few ounces will kill anyone.
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.
Ground sheets! You’re a Genius!
Now the itch is gone! Always thought it was a pain to clean up the tarp, and specially the bottom!! That solves all the imperfections of camping out!
You don't have to clean off the groundsheet? You just carry all the mud and sticks with you?
@@kchizen100 of course you do clean the ground sheet; it’s just that it’s way easier to clean the ground sheet, than cleaning the the tent’s underside,
Clean your site, clean your tent after a trip, resurface it with silicone each season, bring a patch kit.
There’s no reason to add weight. I have a tarptent and a z packs cuben tent, both with over 400 miles. Half of those miles are two 200 mile thru hikes and the rest is bushwhacking / hunting. Even with hard use in the ozarks, I’ve never had a problem if I care for my gear. 6+oz vs 2 oz for a patch kit (which you should have anyway) is a big difference in a 10lb total kit before food and water.
The MLD polycro, which I have, is fine for weight, but adds almost 0 benefit. Mine was destroyed long before the tent itself. Maybe good for 3-5 nights on sap or a nice to have layer of bad rainstorm protection, to help stave off saturation.
I just don’t think that adds enough to justify it.
I've got some tyvek but I've used the PU and it like it. ❤
As i learned recently, make suee your tent covers the ground sheet, so that you dont get rain causing puddles under your tent.
When i bought my hilleberg anaris tent i just went a head and bought the ground sheet For that tent I figured it would make it basically Indestructible. Yea it was expensive but i know hilleberg is top notch. Other than maybe fjallraven. That and the bugs in the back ground are ridiculous
Excellent post. Appreciate you taking the time to explain :)> Keep up the good work and reviews.
my exlair 3 comes with ground sheet to me it is part of setting up the tent not a option I am happy with this 3 season tent
You've got to protect the investment!
Even if it's just clear run of the mill toss away plastic. Long term it'll keep you from having to clean the tent as much. And if it rains after you place the ground cloth, at least when you break camp it's one area of none damp mud to deal with.
I've always used a sheet of plastic I cut to fit under my tent, if anything, it makes a good moisture barrier but I always patrol the site when I plan to set up the tent and clear any rocks, twigs, pine cones or what ever that may cause a problem.
From the other TH-cam posts I've seen, a few of them DON'T take a footprint with them, some of them don't use anything under the tent floor.
I use Tyvek cut to fit as a ground sheet.
Great argue... 😀
I don't understand why so many experienced tenters don't understand the fact that any new tent MUST be prepared before first use. Impregnation with nikwax should be done before each season, also on the underside of the floor. I also seal the seams of the rain fly with AQUA-SURE-SEAL where all loops are attached because during heavy rain water will always leak in there. AND it doesn't matter how expensive your tent is because this applies to ALL tents. And a footprint is of course an absolute necessity. Extra Weight, what? I mean about 200 grams. Are you kidding me? So why are people so dull?