Camping entails you investing in the proper equipment. One of the things you will need to look into would be your tent. After all, a tent will keep you dry and warm, whether you are chilling during the day, or sleeping at night.
With that being said, it's also best to keep your tent safe and protected from the wear and tear of rough terrains. A tent footprint will help you do just that. But what is a tent footprint?
If you are unfamiliar with the accessory, we will show you all you need to know about the tent footprint.
What Is A Tent Footprint
To put it simply, a tent footprint is a piece of cloth or groundsheet put under your tent. It's made out of waterproof material to reduce the chances of your tent from getting wet or getting damaged by rough terrains.
For example, you will be setting up camp on wet ground or rocky beaches. A footprint or ground sheet set under your tent will help reduce the chances of water seeping into it, or the usual wear and tear a tent may get.
A tent footprint varies in size, depending on how big your tent is. It may already come with your tent when purchased, or you will need to buy one separately. You can even create your own footprint with household materials!
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Why Is A Tent Footprint So Important?
A footprint is an important accessory when pitching your tent, but a lot of people take it for granted.
It holds a ton of benefits that you can take advantage of, making it worth the investment or extra time setting it up. Here are some advantages a tent footprint has to offer:
- You are assured a piece of dry ground. This helps lessen the hassle of disassembly when packing your tent. It will also save you a lot of time having to dry it up before folding it or once you get home.
- It will keep you comfortable as you stay in your tent. Since there will be times that the ground is wet, you end up sitting on the slightly wet ground, despite being in a tent.
Or worse, water may seep into the tent, especially during extreme weather conditions. With a tent footprint, you won't need to worry about that. Plus, it can keep you warmer as you sleep during cold nights.
- It gives you an easier time pitching your tent. You won't have to worry about pitching it on rocky ground because of it tearing apart, because a tent footprint has got you covered.
- If you don't have the budget, then no problem. Household materials can make great tent footprints as well. It's actually a great investment, whether you are putting your time or money into it.
You end up saving a lot of money in the long run, as you get to protect your tent from damage.
Do I Need A Tent Footprint?
To simply put it: YES, you will need a tent footprint!
You won't need to spend hundreds of dollars for a tent footprint, but it certainly does wonders if you use one when camping. It's easy to set up, only taking few minutes. Those few minutes and extra packing will go a long way!
Basically, if you are into camping and in it for the long run, then you'll definitely want to consider getting a tent footprint. This goes especially for those who would usually camp in wet or rough terrains.
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Where Can I Purchase The Best Tent Footprint?
There are many places that sell tent footprints. You will be able to purchase them from reputable online shops. You can also find them sold in local athletic or camping stores near you.
But with the many models and brands available, how can you distinguish the best tent footprint for you? To help you out, here are some factors to consider when doing so:
Size
This is to ensure that your tent footprint is not too big or too small for your tent.
Measure your tent and look for a footprint or groundsheet that has a similar size or can be adjusted to your tent's dimensions. It will be easier to assemble that way.
Material
The best type of material would be something waterproof and strong. Seeking those tent footprints made out of quality material that can withstand any rocky campsite or weather condition.
This is for it to last long and to make the investment worthwhile.
Reputation And Customer Feedback
The more positive, the better! I recommend you to start off with popular brands and names of camping accessories. Read up reviews from fellow campers online, or ask trusted sources around you.
You'll be experiencing something similar, so watch out for what to expect with the tent footprint you are planning to get.
Price
You won't want to go over budget, nor will you want to scrimp on something not worth it. Create an average budget to filter your choices and avoid breaking your savings.
Not interested in purchasing a tent footprint? You can also create your own tent footprint through using household materials such as waterproof tarpaulins or even a strong nylon cloth.
Create holes to install the hooks for an easy assembly. You save money and still protect your tent.
Conclusion
When it comes to traveling outdoors, you'll need a good tent! Not only should you invest in a strong tent, but you will also want to make sure you have the proper accessories.
This is to ensure better comfort on your side, and a longer-lasting tent. With a tent footprint, you will be able to reap the many advantages it has to offer.
Hopefully, this article helped you become more knowledgeable and answer your question: What is a tent footprint?
So what are you waiting for? If you're planning on going camping, then invest in a good tent footprint today!
Did you enjoy the article or have any thoughts on tent footprints? Then comment down below! We would love to hear what you have to think.