Footprint (tent footprint / groundsheet)
Overview
A tent footprint or groundsheet is a protective layer placed under a tent to reduce abrasion, puncture risk, and moisture transfer from the ground.
Key points
- Extends tent floor life by reducing wear and abrasion.
- Helps protect against sharp rocks, roots, and thorns.
- May improve moisture resistance depending on materials.
- Available in manufacturer-specific and universal designs.
- Ultralight hikers may use thin plastic sheets instead.
- Must be sized correctly to prevent water pooling.
Details
A footprint is positioned between the tent floor and the ground to prolong the life of the shelter's materials. It shields the tent from abrasions caused by rocks, sticks, or uneven surfaces and may improve resistance to moisture in saturated conditions.
Manufacturers produce dedicated footprints cut to match tent dimensions, while universal sheets allow adaptable coverage. Ultralight hikers sometimes use thin plastic or polycryo sheets to reduce weight.
Footprints must be sized smaller than the tent base to avoid catching rainwater runoff and channeling it under the tent floor.
Related topics
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