Do You Need a Footprint for Backpacking Tent?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to backpacking, one of the most important items you will need is a tent. A good backpacking tent should be lightweight and durable, and provide adequate protection from the elements.

It should also provide adequate space for you to sleep comfortably. But what about the footprint? Do you need a footprint for your backpacking tent?

A footprint is an additional layer of protection between your tent and the ground. It helps protect your tent from abrasions, punctures, and other damage that can occur when sleeping on rough or rocky terrain. Additionally, footprints can help reduce condensation on your tent floor by providing an extra barrier between the ground and your sleeping bag or sleeping pad.

In most cases, using a footprint is optional but recommended. Some tents come with footprints included, while others require them to be purchased separately. Ultralight backpackers may opt out of using a footprint in order to save weight, but this can increase the risk of damaging their tents when camping in rougher terrain.

If you do decide to use a footprint with your backpacking tent, make sure it’s either custom-made for that specific model of tent or one that’s designed to fit tents with similar floor dimensions. This will help ensure that it fits properly and provides full coverage for all areas of the tent floor. Additionally, make sure that the material used for the footprint is waterproof and durable enough to withstand regular use in harsh conditions.

Conclusion: While not necessary for every backpacking situation, using a custom-made or appropriately-sized footprint with your backpacking tent can provide an extra layer of protection from abrasions, punctures, condensation and other damage caused by rough terrain. It’s an especially good idea if you plan on camping on rocky or mountainous terrain.