Are Tent Footprints Worth It?

Tent footprints can be a worthwhile investment for ultralight tents, but whether they are essential depends on your priorities, the type of terrain you'll encounter, and how you use your gear. Here are the pros and cons to help you make your final decision.

Pros of Using a Tent Footprint...

1. Protection for Your Tent Floor

Ultralight tents often have thinner materials to save weight, making the floor more vulnerable to punctures or abrasion. A footprint provides an extra layer of protection.

This is especially useful on rocky, rough, or abrasive terrain.

2. Extended Tent Lifespan

A footprint can help prolong the life of your tent by reducing wear and tear on the floor. It's easier and cheaper to replace a footprint than an entire tent floor.

3. Improved Waterproofing

Some tent footprints are designed to enhance waterproofing by adding an additional water-resistant barrier between the ground and your tent floor.

4. Ease of Setup Options

Many ultralight tents allow a "fast-pitch" setup using just the footprint, poles, and rainfly, creating a minimalist shelter option & saving pack weight.

5. Custom Fit

Manufacturer-provided footprints are tailored to fit your tent perfectly, reducing excess material and weight compared to DIY solutions.

Example Of A Custom Fit Footprint

Made specifically for each model of tent custom made footprints fit perfectly under the floor of your inner & most designs also provide additional floor coverage in the vestibule area providing a dry space for you to store your boots & other gear without them being inside your sleeping area.

Cons of Using a Tent Footprint...

1. Additional Weight

Even though footprints for ultralight tents are typically lightweight (usually 200/300grams) , they still add to your pack weight.

DIY solutions like Tyvek or polycro sheets can be lighter alternatives.

2. Initial Cost

Manufacturer footprints can be relatively expensive compared to DIY options or generic alternatives. You need to weigh-up how you plan to use your tent & if there is a need for it in your setup.

3. Redundancy

If you’re careful about campsite selection & your tent does not offer a fly+footprint configuration, you might not need a footprint at all. Choosing soft, debris-free ground can mitigate the risk of floor damage. However, time is not always on your side in the hills & it's just a case of getting a shelter up to protect you from the elements.

4. Space in your Pack

Footprints can add bulk to your pack, which may be an issue for ultralight backpackers.

When a Footprint Is Certainly Worth It

Rough Terrain: If you frequently camp on rocky or uneven ground, a footprint can save your tent from excessive damage.

High-Use Tent: For those who use their tent frequently, a footprint can extend its lifespan significantly.

Moist Environments: If you're in areas with persistent wet conditions, the extra waterproof layer can be helpful.

Final Thoughts...

If you’re an ultralight backpacker focused on minimizing weight, a lightweight DIY footprint or skipping it altogether might be the best choice, especially if you’re diligent about campsite selection. For others who prioritize durability, convenience a tent-specific footprint is be a valuable addition to your kit list even if it doenst travel with you on every camping trip.

Backpack - Osprey Aether 65L Is Our Pack Of Choice

• Pack - A 60-65L pack will be plenty big enough to store the gear you will need
• Rain Cover - A rain cover is a must have for you pack and will keep you kit dry in a downpour
• Hydration - A water bladder gives quick and easy access to water on the move.
• Walking Poles (Rough Terrain) - Most Osprey packs contain walking pole straps on the exterior of your pack

Shelter & Camp Accessories

• Tent - Bonus features. A vestibule to store gear & boots, sub 2kg weight, room to sit inside
• Footprint - Camping on wet/rough ground? Pack a footprint to keep you tent floor dry and free from tears
• Sit Mat/Chair - An ultra light chair is a luxury item but worth the extra weight, if not a foam sit mat will do the job
• Sleeping Bag/Quilt - I personally prefer a quilt due to smaller pack size & ease of movement when sleeping.
• Sleeping Pad - I use the Nemo Tensor Insulated mat due to it performance in the cold & small pack size.
• Pillow - An adjustable air-core pillow is perfect for getting a comfortable nights sleep

Camp Kitchen

• Stove & Gas - I recommend the JetBoil flash, it's bomb proof, lightweight & will not let you down but cheaper options also get the job done
• Gas Can Stand - Cooking on uneven surfaces like gras & rock is made easier with a stand
• Titanium Cookware - Lightweight & super tough. Depending on your stove & meal plans a mug will usually do for boiling water & drinking
• Cutlery - Titanium or plastic cutlery is needed at mealtime.
• Food - I personally choose dehydrated meals as you simply add boiling water and it's done + my choice of snacks
• Water Filtration - Pack a Lifestraw water filter and you can drink safe water anywhere in the UK
• Water Bottle - Nalgene bottles will last you forever & I promise you they will not leak!
• Compressed Towels - Clean pots & yourself with super small compressed towels.
• Lighter/Matches - To ignite your stove. It's always worth packing one

Health & Safety

• First Aid Kit - Pack a first aid kit containing essential in the event of an emergency
• Foil Bivy Blanket - This emergency shelter could save your life if you are caught out in the elements.
• Mini Shovel - I will let you figure this one out
• Quick Drying Towel - Many uses for hygiene & cleanliness on the trial
• Wipe Off Body Wash - Pits & Bits have produced a super range of wipe off wash kits
• Sprays & Creams - Bug spray, sun cream & an antibiotic cream is well worth packing

Electronic Items

• Mobile phone - Navigation & Contact with friends/family
• Power Bank - Recharge devices & Lights
• Charging Cables - Phones, cameras, lights etc
• GPS - A gps is super handy for navigation and safety as phones don't always have stable connection
• Headlamp/Torch - Great for around the campsite at night.

Clothing

• Walking Socks - To minimise blisters
• Hiking Trousers/Shorts - Hiking trousers that zip off to shorts are my choice
• Thermal Base layers - For colder weathers
• Cap/Wooly Hat - Depending on weather & wind conditions
• Gloves - Depending on weather & wind conditions
• Snood/Buff - Depending on weather & wind conditions
• Down/Waterproof Jacket - Always pack a lightweight poncho for emergency but a down jacket depends on weather conditions
• Underwear - I take spare undies but the choice is yours
• Footwear - Walking boots or trail shoes are needed for harsh terrain.

Conclusion

As you embark on your camping journey, having the right equipment is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Invest in good quality gear that suits your needs, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the challenges and beauty of the great outdoors. So pack your bag and get ready for an extraordinary adventure in nature.

Download your free wild camping kit list guide by clocking on the PDF icon Here...