Only Footprints

Why You Should Always Use a Tent Footprint When Camping

Made from durable nylon or polyester, a tent footprint is designed to match the shape of your tent floor. Some campers swear by them, while others question whether they’re truly necessary.

The simple truth? If you value your tent and don’t want to replace it every year, use a footprint.

No matter how tough your tent’s floor is or how soft the campsite seems, the outdoors is unpredictable. Rocks, sticks, thorns, and even hidden rubbish can cause damage, and a footprint is the best way to protect your investment. But that’s not all, it offers plenty of other benefits too.

1. Protects Your Tent from Damage

A footprint adds an extra layer between your tent and rough terrain, reducing wear and tear from rocks, roots, and debris. It’s far cheaper to replace a footprint than an entire tent, making it a smart, sustainable choice that helps keep gear out of landfill.

2. Keeps Your Tent Clean

Camping is messy. Mud, sand, leaves, and even animal droppings can easily cling to your tent floor. A footprint acts as a barrier against dirt, making pack-up much easier. Instead of having to re-pitch your tent at home to give it a scrub, simply roll out the footprint. Once dry, it is an easy fold to store it for the next adventure. 

3. Helps with Campsite Selection

Laying out a footprint before pitching your tent helps determine if the site is suitable. If your footprint doesn’t fit, your tent won’t either! This simple step can save you from dealing with uneven ground, intrusive tree roots, or awkwardly close neighbours at a festival or campsite.

4. Provides Extra Warmth

Body heat can be quickly lost to the ground, especially on colder nights. A footprint adds an extra layer of insulation, helping to retain warmth. Pair it with a good sleeping mat, a Domex sleeping bag, and a liner for a comfortable night’s sleep in any conditions.

Final Thoughts

We can’t stress enough how valuable a tent footprint is. Even if you just want to avoid cleaning a mud-covered tent when you get home, it’s worth adding one to your camping gear. A simple, affordable addition that extends your tent’s life, keeps you warm, and makes pack-up easier—it’s a no-brainer!