If you have ever wondered what a tent footprint is, and how it differs from a groundsheet, or whether your tent needs a carpet, you're not alone. 

These three camping essentials all go with your tent and serve a different purpose. In this blog we talk through what each item is, their differences and which one you need for your next camping holiday.

 

Tent Footprints

A tent footprint is a protective layer that sits under your tent, between the ground and the tents built in groundsheet. It's usually made from strong, durable waterproof fabric and is cut to match the exact model of the tent. You may find it the same size or slightly smaller.

Benefits of Tent Footprints:

  • Protection - Tent footprints offer a layer between the ground and your tent which helps prevent it from cutting wet, scuffed or damaged for uneven and stony ground. 

 

  • Pitching Guide - When pitching your tent, the tent footprint is pegged down first. This can be used as a guide when erecting your tent. Simply peg the footprint and pitch your tent directly on top.

 

  • Cleanliness -  Using a tent footprint will keep your tent base layer clean after a camping trip. This also makes packing your tent away much easier.

 

 

Choosing the right Footprint

Each brand of tent will have their own range of footprints specific to that tent model. If your tent is from a relatively new range, then bundles deals are available for tents. This includes your tent, footprints and other extras. Have a look at the tent listing or call the superstore to see what deals are available on 01452 742233. 

If you have an older model of tent and require a footprint, some brands offer generic footprint sizes that may suit your tent model. Lots of brands have similar tent shapes and sizes, so always get in touch to see what footprint may suit your older model. Contact us via email on camping@attwoolls.co.uk.

 

 

Tent Groundsheets

Like a tent footprint, groundsheets offer another protective layer for the bottom of your tent, Its acts as a barrier between the tent floor and the footprint. This helps to keep the inside of your tent dry and protected especially on uneven or damp pitches.

Types of Tent Groundsheets

  • Universal - flat sheet that can be used on any size tent
  • Tarpaulin - Heavier-duty and highly durable sheets
  • Integrated - A sewn in groundsheet into the tent itself (this is popular in family tents)

 

 

 

 

Benefits of Tent Groundsheets

  • Protection - Sitting in between the tent footprint and tent base, it offers another layer of protection ideal for uneven camping grounds. Things like stones, sticks and thorns can tear or rip the floor of your tent and a groundsheet will help prevent this. 

 

  • Cleanliness  - Keep mud, dirt and sand out of your tent. This also helps when packing away, your tent is clean and ready for your next camping trip.

 

  • Improved warmth and comfort - Sewn in groundsheets block airflow under the tent so the tents retain heat more effectively. This ideal for family camping when it's colder, the floor feels less cold underfoot. 

 

  • Stops creepy crawlies - A sealed base on your tent prevents any unwanted creepy crawlies coming into the sides and bottom of your tent. 

 

  • Protection from rain - a sewn in groundsheet helps prevent water and flooding entering the tent through the bottom. This is ideal for those impromptu rain showers!

 

Choosing the right Tent Groundsheet

Each tent model offers their own groundsheet or as mentioned above, your tent may have a sewn in groundsheet already. Check the product listing to see what is available for the tent you are purchasing. Please speak to an Attwoolls expert if you are unsure on what's available on 01452 742233 or send us an email on camping@attwoolls.co.uk.

 

 

Tent Carpets

A tent carpet is a soft, insulated floor covering that sits inside your tent. It sits on top of the built in or loose groundsheet to add warmth and comfort.  The fleece top is usually backed with a waterproof polyethylene which is sandwiched between a thin layer of foam for insulation.

Tent carpets can turn your tent into a home away from home. Great for family style tents, it will make the space feel cozier and certainly a lot easier to persuade the kids to take the shoes offer before entering.

 

 

 

 

Benefits to Tent Carpets

  • Comfort - Provisioning a cushioning surface, a tent carpet makes it more comfortable when walking around barefoot inside your tent. 

 

  • Insulation and warmth - Not only is a tent carpet comfortable underfoot, it also adds a layer of insulation between the tent floor and yourself. Cold from the ground is reduced and heat can be better retained inside the tent. 

 

  • Homely feel - creating that ‘home away from home’ feeling, lots of brands have patterned, colourful carpets making a huge difference to the look and feel of your tent. 

 

  • Cleanliness - Trapping dirt and grime under your carpet is another way it keeps your tent cleaner. Campers are more inclined to remove shoes before entering when a carpet is down. It's also light in weight so it's easy to shake out or wipe clean when needed.

 

Choosing the right Tent Carpet

Each brand will offer a range of carpets to suit individual tent plans. If you are unsure on whether a carpet would fit your model we are also reachable by email or phone. Call 01452 742233 or email us on camping@attwoolls.co.uk for all details.

 

 

 

A final note from us

When it comes to creating a comfortable, long-lasting tent setup, each layer plays its part. A tent footprint protects your tent floor from wear and tear, a groundsheet shields against moisture and rough terrain, and a tent carpet adds warmth and comfort underfoot.

By combining all three layers, you can enjoy a cleaner, cosier and more durable tent experience. Explore our range of footprints, groundsheets and tent carpets at Attwoolls Outdoors today, we have added the quick links below to shop online.

SHOP FOOTPRINTS

SHOP GROUNDSHEETS

SHOP CARPETS

Follow our social channels to stay up to date with all things Attwoolls outdoors, we share deals, advice and the occasional giveaway!

 

 

Â