This Is What a Footprint Really Does - Why Pro's Use Them with their Tents

This Is What a Footprint Really Does - Why Pro's Use Them with their Tents - It's A Must!

День тому

When it comes to camping, tents for most people are the shelters that most will invest in to keep them safe and comfortable. As you likely know, the majority of tent shelters are expensive with some speciality tents being very expensive.
Because your tent shelter is so important and also so expensive, it is important to make sure that it lasts as long as possible - one of the easiest ways to do this is to use a groundsheet or what is also referred to as a ground fly. Some will even call these footprints.
That is what this episode is all about; I’ll cover what they are, what they do, why they are important and I will be going over why Pros will use them and why noobs won’t.
This episode is all about increasing your skills as an outdoorsman / outdoorswoman while making your gear last longer, it will keep you warmer with less condensation and will lower the amount of maintenance and cleanup that you will have to do.
Pro's will use them every single time with their tents and Newbs Won't!
- Ultralight Black Footprint : amzn.to/46xToie
- Plastic Footprint Small : amzn.to/3rpYle1
- Plastic Footprint Large : amzn.to/48DsoQb
- Tyvek Footprint : amzn.to/3RY9gXh
MLD Plastic Footprint : mountainlaureldesigns.com/pro...
...
Additional Links :
- DJI Mavic 3 Drone : amzn.to/3m50usW
- Sony Alpha 7 IV : amzn.to/3vWgMa0
- Sony 20mm 1.8 Lens : amzn.to/3Fi3XbK
- Sigma 100 - 400 Lens : amzn.to/3NEONB1
- Sony 24-70 2.8 GM II : amzn.to/3kT5oIV
- SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod : amzn.to/3BEahZX
- Batteries : amzn.to/3geFtG5
- Rode VideoMic Pro Plus Mic : amzn.to/3iZMqMO
- Sony TOUGH-G SDXC UHS-II 128GB V90 Memory Card : amzn.to/3efDS16
- Outdoor Research 24/7 Shorts : amzn.to/3MuaCSS
- Darn Tough Socks : amzn.to/3mx20A5
- Soloman Boots : amzn.to/3AgcV5X
- Patagonia Men's Micro D Full Zip Sweater : www.patagonia.com/product/men...
- Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : amzn.to/3QSnzsi
- Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife : amzn.to/2Sej6aD
- Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Watch : amzn.to/3GvkPMC
- Oakley Men's Gradient Flak Jacket 03-881 Black Wrap Sunglasses : amzn.to/3BmWcBI
- Military Field Tarp : amzn.to/47feaEt
- 550 Cord : amzn.to/3JzkmNm
- Ultralight Cordage : amzn.to/3OJaymD
- Pack Back Designs White Food Bag : www.etsy.com/listing/86266036...
- NiteCore NU33 Headlamp : amzn.to/3NuMS38
- Large Dry Bag : amzn.to/3OmPuB9
If you purchase any products using these links, you will be supporting TOGR with a small commission.
...
100% Agenda Free :
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
Support TOGR through Patreon : / togr
or
Support TOGR through UKposts : / @theoutdoorgearreview
...
Web Site : www.theoutdoorgearreview.com
Come Join Us on Facebook, Twitter Instagram :
Facebook: / 281509538652229
Twitter: / outdoorgearrev
Instagram : / theoutdoorgearreview

КОМЕНТАРІ: 455

@Im_With_Stupid 7 місяців тому

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 7 місяців тому

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?

@Im_With_Stupid 7 місяців тому

@@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 6 місяців тому

I’m wondering, once it is washed, is it still as waterproof. Going from crinkly to soft, means the structure has changed.

@Im_With_Stupid 6 місяців тому

@@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.

@billpetersen298 6 місяців тому

@@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.

@jennikj225 7 місяців тому

I just started camping so due to budget constraints I am using an old tarp that I already owned. It is so nice to have it not only to protect the tent, but also when packing up it's a nice clean spot to get my tent rolled up and my sleeping bag rolled up (can't afford a stuff bag yet but it's on my list). Then when I get home I can hang the tarp on the clothesline, spray it off, and let it dry. Glad I watched so many videos before camping for the first time; this is one of the things I wouldn't have even known about.

@appliedphysicist 7 місяців тому

Something to keep in mind about tent-specific footprints is that their gromet placement is often designed to make the difference between being able to set up the fly before the inner or not. This is important for example if setting up in the rain without a tarp overhead, so that the poles will already be correctly locked in and things won't get inside during the process

@JimRodgers 7 місяців тому

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.

@gymkhanadog 6 місяців тому

@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.

@kevinschwinkendorf3202 7 місяців тому

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.

@wolfeadventures 7 місяців тому

It’s slightly breathable and water resistant enough. Works great.

@neemancallender9092 6 місяців тому

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

@earthprospector 6 місяців тому

Agree 100% with Tyvek.

@pr0n3 6 місяців тому

I'm with ya. Tyvek and a few grommets for staking will last many years and trips.

@Im_With_Stupid 6 місяців тому

@@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.

@juniordelgiorno5260 7 місяців тому

I’ve always used a ground shield to protect my investment (tent) but I bought a large sheet of gortex, 1000D, and made my own. 6 years later, still using the same sheet.

@kenwebster5053 7 місяців тому

I usually just use one of those heavy duty space blankets as a ground sheet, because it provides some extra thermal protection along with some puncture, abrasion & damp resistance. Considering that I have an X-mid 1P these days, it seems comparatively bulky and heavy at 340g. It has some pluses though, such as a complete block out day tarp in summer, then slip it under the tent floor at night, emergency signal sheet, improve sleeping matt warmth etc.

@duvessa2003 6 місяців тому

This seems like a good idea 😊

@MultiTipsie 5 місяців тому

I bought my tunneltent in the nineties, been in a lot of "hostile" places with it. But the first thing I did when I had the tent was ordering an custom made groundsheet (brand is Hilleberg). FYI: They made a distinction between a footprint and a groundsheet! A footprint only covers the surface of the inner tent floor! A groundsheet covers the whole surface, including the "living portal". They had a footprint for my tent, but not a groundsheet so that's why I had to let it be custom made. In that time they had not one for this model. It indeed cost a lot, but I still use it up until this day! I also had Hilleberg made me a second door in it on the opposing side of the original door. This way, when the wind is changing from direction I still have a leeward side where I can (keep) open the door. Together with the groundsheet is makes sure there can accumulate less moist inside the tent.

@cwr961 7 місяців тому

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.

@jeffclark8555 7 місяців тому

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.

@MoonbeameSmith 6 місяців тому

neat sheet?

@jeffclark8555 6 місяців тому

@@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

@raymondglassford1299 7 місяців тому

Your reviews are consistently accurate and concise, Luke. Woe to those who don't follow your advice.

@RambloManiacs 7 місяців тому

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!

@StephenMcGregor1986 6 місяців тому

#swaglife

@duvessa2003 6 місяців тому

Really! Enough of the marketing games.

@Im_With_Stupid 6 місяців тому

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.

@jimsheeran4952 2 місяці тому

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.

@user-zo8ck6kg1n 2 місяці тому

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.

@ReRe-wd5sz 6 місяців тому

When I camped in WI state parks I always used a blue tarp underneath my tent. I put another tarp and a king comforter on the floor inside my tent. Then a 12’x24’ over my tent. A double high queen size bed, a chair with a side table and a porta-potty was placed inside. I was always comfy and dry as a bone. The tent I used was a Coleman instant tent. Did this for many years with my standard poodle. Now I have a Flagstaff A-Frame camper, but I still LOVE tent camping.

@whatsnottohike 7 місяців тому

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.

@PlayaSinNombre 7 місяців тому

I use an 8 x 10 blue poly tarp from Walmart.

@PlayaSinNombre 7 місяців тому

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…😅

@danos5181 7 місяців тому

Same here

@micheleaday3902 7 місяців тому

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❤😂❤😂

@Longshot762x51 7 місяців тому

I use heavy-duty tarps straight from home depot 😂

@darkangelgaming1117 7 місяців тому

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!

@markcummings6856 7 місяців тому

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.

@darkangelgaming1117 7 місяців тому

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

@kchizen100 7 місяців тому

So mud doesn't stick to the groundsheet? You don't clean the groundsheet off if it does get muddy?

@darkangelgaming1117 6 місяців тому

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

@4053rubber 7 місяців тому

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. 👍

@ulnoohiker8983 6 місяців тому

Luke, I agree with everything you said. I have always used a ground sheet with all my tents. Thank you for your time and reminding us the importance for using one.

@nomadicyoutube 7 місяців тому

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.

@sarahskaggs8828 6 місяців тому

My camping trip from last week, I just used a 6'x8' tarp. I've used tarps for most of my life when camping. No issues.

@Ian.. 7 місяців тому

I use various types of groundsheet, some ultralight (polythene) and some heavy duty nylon, but I use them because I find it makes the tent floor easier to clean and keeps it slug-free.

@Im_With_Stupid 6 місяців тому

Keeps the pine sap off, too, and that's good because pine sap can really wreck your tent floor.

@robertnorman2333 7 місяців тому

I always use a Ground Sheet, learned that back 45 yrs. ago when I started Back Packing, to Me it is a Must.

@BillVorhees 7 місяців тому

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.

@tkasprzak 7 місяців тому

After watching your reviews I improvised groundsheet for my tent and it makes a huge difference.

@apsynto 7 місяців тому

Totally agree about using a ground sheet to prptect the tent, or in my case a biwi but i personally prefer ones that are not waterproof. In the mountains the selection of suitable sleeping places can be limited and there are very few things worse than having to set up in a dip and having your groundsheet become a swimming pool for your shelter.

@DarksideFistofFury68 4 місяці тому

I’m not a ground camper as I like sleeping in a hammock. I like the idea of ground sheets especially water resistant ones as a means to keep the area under the hammock dry after erecting cover to protect you from the elements. All thanks to you I know what not to buy and what to buy. As I live in Japan most of my gear is for emergency shelter dooms day prepping situations.

@jamesr-lc2yh 7 місяців тому

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.

@earlgrey691 7 місяців тому

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.

@willothewispl 7 місяців тому

I never knew anything about a ground sheet. We have always used a thick heavy tarp to be clean and warm and to protect the tent..God Bless..we never thought about weight just always brought it.

@bubba7626 6 місяців тому

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

@johnshipley9755 4 місяці тому

Super important backpacking in the late fall/winter,only time i go have snow peak ground sheet it is fantastic with hilleberg tent ,,,

@robertmaxwell3220 5 місяців тому

Learned about groundsheets as a scout MANY years ago.Wouldnt leave home without it!Last year purchased Nature Hike Cloud Up 2,which comes with one,so pretty inexpensive! Thank you for your constant good camping sense,and enjoyable commentary.Very rare these days.🤠🇺🇲

@jonathan461965 7 місяців тому

Great advice luke 👍 I always use a groundsheet, even if it's a cheap 6x4 tarp! 😊

@cuz129 7 місяців тому

Great advice from a true pro!

@panhandlejake6200 6 місяців тому

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.

@jerryfife2015tacoma 7 місяців тому

Hi Luke, I use a ground sheet on my tents all the time, any type of ground sheet is better than nothing, That was a great video I try telling people all the time that I camp with to use a ground sheet and they will be glad they did, but they usually don't think they need one or they forgot to bring on. I have a ground sheet packed up with every tent I own just so I don't forget to bring one. Thanks Luke.

@jasperplace 6 місяців тому

I always use the ground sheet that came with the tent (MSR Elixer). Ground sheet allows me to set up the tent in the rain while keeping the tent body dry.

@HuntCreekBushcraft 6 місяців тому

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.

@GoofyKahn 6 місяців тому

Thank you Luke, I had no idea about these. Will be getting a ground sheet here pretty soon now.

@ArielleViking 6 місяців тому

Great advice to prolong a tent’s life. 👍

@PuffinPass 7 місяців тому

Great vid and information. One thing about Tyvek is that if you run it through the laundry (by itself) a couple times (no detergent) it becomes very fabric like and it isn't loud at all anymore. The ultralight guys use this as a cheap more durable alternative to the thin plastic groundsheet since you can find it free a lot of times.

@deanhockenberry9268 7 місяців тому

Only a newby would set a tent up on top of broken glass or sharp sticks. I do agree a ground sheet can help with hidden things and protect against abrasion.

@seisies-mama 7 місяців тому

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

@NavigatingwithNafe 7 місяців тому

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! 👍 👍

@kchizen100 7 місяців тому

So you bring stakes with you hammock setup? Isn't not needing stakes one of the advantages of using a hammock?

@NavigatingwithNafe 6 місяців тому

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.

@Daui91 7 місяців тому

In Germany we use the "Elefantenhaut" (Elephant Skin from Bundeswehr). Light Weight and extremly durable. 😊

@johnsnow2347 7 місяців тому

Excellent post. Appreciate you taking the time to explain :)> Keep up the good work and reviews.

@eddaugherty335 6 місяців тому

Great video Luke! I always use a ground sheet. I typically buy the one designed for that tent because they usually have gromets in the proper place. I know I could save money but to me it's not worth the time and effort. Either way defiantly use a groundsheet!

@ferryvantichelen6521 6 місяців тому

One extra reason (depending on the design of the tent,for instance the Naturehike Mongar) can be that it makes it possible to set up a rain-protection layer (ground sheet + rain fly) first and hang your inner tent in a nice and dry environment. This saved my stuff from getting drenched when we arrived at the campsite in some of the worst weather I ever camped in. After the rain cover was set up I could simply wipe the groundsheet dry and comfortably sleep in a nice dry sleeping bag (actually I use an Ice Flame quilt but hey).

@fenriswolf039 7 місяців тому

Bro... your music is like an 80's scifi TV show.... sweet.

@JefferyHall-ct2tr 6 місяців тому

Hi Luke!: Thanks for the informative video on footprints! Learned a lot! Makes LOTS of sense to use one! I hope everyone listens!

@gunsofmasseffect4321 7 місяців тому

I always do, for all the reasons you stated, it makes sense to do so.

@micheleaday3902 7 місяців тому

It Is Very Wise To Use A Ground Sheet Or Use Another tarp Folded Under Tent Floor And A Poncho is Also Great Idea

@nonservitium 7 місяців тому

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.

@tfranks4 7 місяців тому

I've always used poly. It can be custom cut to not only fit the tent floor but include the vestibule as well.

@freesom53 7 місяців тому

Enjoyed. Thank you for the video

@lindawoods6841 7 місяців тому

Thank you so much Luke.. I have to have a ground sheet. 👍👍👍

@mtadams2009 7 місяців тому

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.

@lasseystad3266 7 місяців тому

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.

@scotlackey9819 7 місяців тому

I’ve been camping since I was a kid and was just taught to use 6mm plastic as a ground sheet under my tent, I never really thought about it much, it was just how my parents taught me to set up my tent, I have three mid grade tents and a snugpak and they are all in perfect condition and I use them a lot and so far no problems with anything, so I will keep using 6mm plastic, my parents used blue Walmart tarps under tent but the plastic they taught me to use works just fine and is 40 a roll but is enough to pitch all three tents with left overs that can be used for multiple applications such as the wall you mentioned

@thetruereview6780 6 місяців тому

Great advice. Thank you.

@DevilDog68 5 місяців тому

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.

@granitesand78 7 місяців тому

I have the ground sheet for the big Agnes and it lets you use the rain fly as a shelter with it and you can dump the tent itself. It’s a neat party trick

@mikepreslar8686 7 місяців тому

I love Tyvek for a ground sheet. Put it through a wash cycle first to keep the noise down. Super light and packs down small.

@Campbell_Clan 7 місяців тому

I use a small tarp which can have multiple usages if needed.

@brnrecluse2946 7 місяців тому

Expertise & no BS, that's why I've watched your videos for the past 10 years, Luke!. Strength and honor!

@markswishereatsstuff2500 7 місяців тому

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.

@oldcrackadated 7 місяців тому

I use poly tarps as ground sheet a foot larger than tent & tuck under when they get holes or wear I use as covers for equipment around the farm

@CombatBanana 6 місяців тому

Actually a lot of pros DON'T use them because they aren't really needed. One example - Dan Durston, the creator of the very popular X-Mid tents. That said, you did make some good points so I guess it's worth having.

@StephenMcGregor1986 6 місяців тому

Yeah, I consider pro's needing the least amount of equipment, certainly not reliance on even more things.

@CombatBanana 6 місяців тому

@@StephenMcGregor1986 Yeah so like if you're casual backpacking then you might as well bring a plastic footprint for the reasons he gave but if you're trying to come in first in a backpacking race and want every advantage you can get or you're trying to set a time record on a trail then you might as well leave it behind.

@troytaylor1913 7 місяців тому

I made one from Tyvek. I set up in town often where there might be glass, I also have a beach mat on top.

@Scott.Farkus 5 місяців тому

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.

@Im_With_Stupid 5 місяців тому

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.

@Scott.Farkus 5 місяців тому

@@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.

@emeryz10 7 місяців тому

Thank you for the video! ❤

@dwaynestewart411 7 місяців тому

I never worry about weight . I carry an extreme duty Tarp for a ground sheet for the extra protection. Dwayne

@MountainsCallingMe 6 місяців тому

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!"

@azaradog1804 6 місяців тому

Thanks Luke, this was really interesting to me.

@Ijsje1979 7 місяців тому

The Savotta FDF mat is a great piece of kit for this , put your hooped bivy or small tent (i.e.Ionosphere ) on top 😉

@dwaynebeavers2088 6 місяців тому

I have a ground sheet for my tent and I didn't use it when I set my tent up in my yard for the first time since it was in an area that didn't have any trees or anything else around the area, but I wanted to measure the tent to get the right size foot print for the tent, because the ground sheet I have is really large and I would have to tuck it in if I use it and the tent I have is a bell tent and I needed an octagon ground sheet and the weight doesn't matter to me since I truck camp and not hiking.

@jimsheeran4952 2 місяці тому

A couple of notes... Run Tyvek through the dryer on cool/air for about 20 or 30 minutes, and it'll get a LOT quieter. Depending on circumstances, I'll roll the tent up inside the ground cloth. Fold the tent (I usually fold in thirds), then the ground cloth over top, and roll them up together. This is a nice way to protect your tent from a wet morning start, and speeds set up at the end of the day. Ideally, your footprint shouldn't extend beyond the edge of the tent. If it does, it can funnel rain between the ground cloth and the tent... exactly the opposite of what you're trying to do!

@akaCamo 7 місяців тому

Luke , you mentioned cleaning off pine sap (tar) is a pain. What method or chemical do you use that not damage the tent materials. Thanks.

@beverlyjohnson8801 7 місяців тому

I enjoyed this video. This host is great. I learn a lot.

@markoruotsalainen5480 7 місяців тому

I use my Sea to Summit 70d nylon poncho. Works great

@bubbaray_1968 7 місяців тому

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,

@offthearrowshelf 6 місяців тому

The key thing to remember is tuck the spare material under the tent. I've seen people use ground sheets that are too big and stick out under the tent. Then it rains the the water runs off tent onto ground sheet and either into the tent or under it.

@jamicrawford6729 6 місяців тому

cut it two inches shorter than the tent dimensions and there's nothing to tuck

@TheGhjgjgjgjgjg 6 місяців тому

This is actually a useful tip that seems obvious but something you over look until it happens. Thanks man

@246810335 7 місяців тому

Thanks, that's a great idea.

@Foxr6 6 місяців тому

Never considered the condensation from the ground good call. 👍

@IMDARKFIRE007 7 місяців тому

On the more durable ones, I would think they can also help in frigid temps if your sleep system is lagging....concede the fact your tent will be touching the ground, yank it out from underneath and fold it as many times as possible to the width of your sleeping pad and put it underneath, bring the R-value up a bit. I've never had to try it, but in theory it should help some.

@nickhikesinthewoods6150 6 місяців тому

Yup a ground sheet is essential I also use them if Im just tarp camping

@EdwinCV-dh8qc 7 місяців тому

Hmmmm,I think a paint sheet may even work in a pinch. Thanks for the great info Luke.

@LeopoldElwes 6 місяців тому

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 🤗

@wayne8276 7 місяців тому

On board . Thank you

@irishfields 6 місяців тому

Very good review bud,it makes good sense👍

@zerohero187 7 місяців тому

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.

@jamesgudobba2974 7 місяців тому

My last trip, I sailed 180 miles in my sailboat, to get into the prince William sound, anchored in small cove,then hiked 42 miles. Crossing 72 rivers and climbing over 6 mountain's, just to get there. No trails, no roads,no people, and no signs of civilization at all. Stayed 5 days and then back. And im 60 years old.

@chrissknutson 6 місяців тому

Great idea!

@thisoldrelic 7 місяців тому

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.

@Wendylovespitties 6 місяців тому

As a Girl Scout back in the 1960's, we always used a ground cloth when camping. 60 years ago!

@kevchard5214 7 місяців тому

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.

@Buffenmeyer 5 місяців тому

I usually buy a common landscaping tarp at Walmart, then cut it according to the shape of my tent. Works great. I’ve even seen them cheaper at the dollar store, but I’m guessing they are also a lighter guage.

@g1mpster 6 місяців тому

Thanks for this video. I’ve been wondering about this topic because we’ve been using a basic tarp when car camping as a ground sheet. We’ve found that it tends to collect water on top and that then soaks through the floor of the tent, making damp spots. This happens sometimes when it’s just condensation forming on the tarp, but especially if it’s raining. My fiancé thought we should stop using it because then the water would be able to soak into the ground and I’ve been trying to figure out if I’m just doing it wrong. I was wondering if a ground sheet should always be permeable to prevent this, but several of the examples you gave seem like they’d have the same problem. What are your thoughts about how to address water ingress while maintaining the protection benefits?

@xmateinc 6 місяців тому

make sure your ground print isn't bigger then your tent, or water will just collect in between your tent and ground sheet

@jpkm123g9 5 місяців тому

always had a groundsheet, because the first tents we used had no bottom, the groundsheet was all that was between you and the ground!

@JebJones 6 місяців тому

I have been using heavy tarps as ground sheets for years.

@anthonyzummo867 7 місяців тому

I recently emailed OneTigris about the Stella tent I ordered and asked them why the Stella didn't come with a groundsheet because my Scaena came with one made for it. I prefer a ground sheet made for the tent I purchase but I am still looking for a great size ground sheet for the Stella. Maybe I need to just make one myself. I think I can use the Scaena groundsheet with the Stella, but I'd love to have a black or grey one to go with the Stella color scheme. (preference obviously)

@cpwatching5647 6 місяців тому

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.