I'm an Aussie fireman, I use Orange builders plastic ( it's cheap and great for Ground to Air signal incised of emergency). For the other firies..... make 2 with white tape arrows, and you have 2 helicopter splat mats for bucketing or evac

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.

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.

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

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.

By far the most comprehensive, articulate, educational video I’ve seen regarding this subject. Keep up the great work!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

A good idea is to not let the footprint layer extend out beyond the bottom of the tent. Otherwise rain or even dew running down the tent will be funneled under the tent and that much water is more likely to find its way into the tent. Especially tents that are well used and perhaps not as water resistant as they once were. Therefore, keep the footprint a few inches short in every direction under the tent so this water goes into the ground, not between the footprint and the tent bottom.

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.

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. 👍

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.

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.

For 20 some years my wife and I ran a wilderness travel company calledAdventures Unlimited. We ran kayak, canoe, bike and backpack trips. We never provided a footprint with our tents. We never had a problem with punched holes in the tent floors. Several weeks ago, I found a 1982 two person. North Face tents on a back shelf with my outdoor equipment. I figured it was most likely worn out, but before throwing it out I set it up and left it sit through a wind and rainstorm. survived years and no leaks. But I see no reason not to use a footprint.

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.

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.

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

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

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

I always use a ground sheet, always. I made two ground sheets from my old waterbed liner, and it worked great and not too heavy.

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

One more tip: I always tuck the excess groundsheet (if there is any) under the tent, otherwise, rain might collect on the groundsheet and pool under the tent, increasing the likelyhood of leaks.

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.

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.

What I always do and what works for me is setting a shower curtain or other cheap plastic material INSIDE my tent on the floor of my tent. Makes it much easier to shake out leaves, dirt/materials that get into the tent and also helps protect the inside floor of the tent. If you use a groundsheet and an inner layer sheet you are basically just doubling up the protection on the floor of your tent. That way it resists damage from the ground/surface, and also helps to prevent you bringing in materials from outside your tent into your tent and damaging the inner floor of your tent, or makes shaking out that debris sooo much easier. Cheap plastic liners you can get from Costco are GREAT for the inside floor of your tent and add almost zero extra weight.

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.

@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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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! 👍 👍

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.🤠🇺🇲

i have been doing this for decades. just a “disposable” cheap tarp. works great. “disposable” as in if it get wiped out no loss. not as in put in the trash, leave behind, burn. but use for as many camps ad possible. just if damaged no big deal. even today with hyper inflation they are still far cheeper to replace, repair a tent floor.

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.

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!

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).

Good video. I think you did a good job covering everything. Three of my tents (REI Half Dome, Marmot EOS 1 & Marmot Tungsten UL 1) were purchased with footprints. One additional advantage with using these footprints is they can be used as part of a minimalist setup. The footprint and the rain fly can just be used leaving then tent body out if you don't need to worry about bugs. This cuts the tent weight in half.

For car camping, I have always used a cheap tarp. It has always worked for me, we just tuck it under or fold it to fit the tent we are using.

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.

I camped with the scouts all through my childhood. This was in a often wet & windy UK. Old canvas tents you needrd 4 to carry. No inner tent. The ground sheet got dragged in once the tent was up. Then what was called 'sodcloth', so hessian sacking all around the bottom edges of the tent had to be tucked in under the edges of the ground sheet. The water still got in & puddled at the lowest poits. The ground sheets were so heavy duty. Toughened us all up 😅

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.

I use a tarp and bivy with a ground sheet. The bivy doesnt have a vestibule so I use the extra ground sheet for something to kneel 9n or cook 9n. ❤

Whooh there Luke! If you stick that ground sheet out in front of your door and it rains you are inviting rain to pass in under your tent to get the ground floor wet. Mistake!!

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.

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

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

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

I've read most of the replies B4 composing the following: I use a footprint designed/manufactured by Hilleberg for my Enan for all the reasons you mentioned + the 70D ground side material of the footprint & the tent floor is more protection than I'll ever need for my XTherm air mattress that I don't want punctured. I pitch the tent/fly/footprint all at the same time. The footprint covers the shape of the tent floor + it covers the vestibule ground. Yes, $60.00 is a princely sum to pay, however, 30 years from now the tent floor exterior of my Enan will still be like new. My Boy Scout weekend overnight monthly camping was under a GI Surplus Pup Tent. There was no such thing as a tent floor sewn in with the GI Surplus Pup Tent. I never was warm the next morning inside my sleeping bag even with a groundsheet. Back in those days 70 years ago there was no such thing as an inflatable air mattress. Finally along came those dense rubber roll up backpackers pads which were an improvement in insulating the camper from cold ground & GROUND IS ALWAYS COLD. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada

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.

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

Thanks for explaining this to me Luke, we have never used one before whenever camping and I had been wondering why everyone else was using such things. It makes a lot of sense in the long run to use such things if you have them.

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.

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.

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,

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.

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

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.

Groundsheets? Some thoughts: -- My first were improvised. "1000 mile paper" (check any lumberyard - that's what protects lumber in transit) works well but doesn't pack that well, and is heavy. Poly sheeting is relatively heavy, is available in various thicknesses, and travels better than the "paper." -- Noise matters. Do you want to listen to the stuff crinkle every time you roll over? -- It's useful alone when "cowboy camping." -- In my mind the ideal would be made of Cordura. Packs well and tough as can be. I don't want the sheet to be 100% waterproof -- that just traps water. I DO want it to resist absorbing water. Sunlight resistance not a big deal for something hat goes under you .Grommets? I might prefer a captive paracord loop around the edges.

I would say that most pros today aren't even using ultralight polycro groundsheets anymore. It's easier and lighter to simply carry some repair tape and be more careful where you set up your tent. If you're going to wipe dirt and leaves off the bottom of a groundsheet before you pack it up, you can simply do the same for your tent. Someone who uses their tent a couple weekends a year is concerned about prolonging the life of their tent. A pro who uses their tent say 75 times or more a year knows they're going to wear out their tent quickly, so a groundsheet isn't really going to do much to prolong the life of the tent. And the ground is much warmer than the air, so condensation on the floor of the tent is all but nonexistent in most cases.

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.

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

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!"

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!

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

I bought a tent that doesn't come with a ground sheet, that is sold only on their website (bought the tent at a local store). I went to different places to see if they happen to have one since the store stock wasn't showing any to be available (this was during covid supply shortage). One employee was trying to tell me that I do not really need a ground sheet, the tent is so good that you should be fine. Sure it would be fine if I only use it once a year, but I plan on using the tent for hiking long distance and would want to be safe. In the end I bought an MSR ground sheet and so far it is working just fine.

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

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

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 🤗

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.

I’ve always been against ground sheets in my tipi tent but man when I could chill in my socks without worrying about mud and dirt for the first time I changed my mind. Cooking dinner in my wool socks on the clean floor with rain hitting the tent is supreme. Feel the goosebumps now.

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

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

Ground sheets under the tent are a major plus for wear and tear. However, to keep the inside of my tent dry, I put a cut to fit (bathtub style) tarp on the inside.

Great advice to prolong a tent’s life. 👍

I live in a second floor apartment with no outdoor space so I have to dry/air out my tent indoors. A groundsheet means that I don't have dried mud, leaves and twigs dropping all over my living space. I rinse off the groundsheet in the shower and let it dry off in there.

That was one of the first lessons taught to me decades ago by my mentor who was a very experienced backpacker and mountaineer. Out west, we have evergreen trees most everywhere we hike/camp, and they LOVE to drop pitch/sap everywhere, often hidden in pine needles, grasses, and rocks/soil. And when needing to pack up and move the tent from night to night, for days at a time, the LAST thing you want is to get pitch/sap all over the tent and your gear and have it spread further by the day! 🌲Same goes for areas with bird/animal droppings that may still be "fresh"! 😁

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.

Much easier to clean a ground sheet than the tent bottom. Use is really no inconvenience.

I use a waterproof tarp from Home Depot for $20. Works well, rolls up small, and hardly any weight!

sometimes we use a groundsheet, sometimes we don't. if we have the space and can carry the weight, why not? that being said, we have never had any issues when we did not use a foot print. if it is properly cut to fit the bottom of your tent, it can only help. I would not consider myself a pro, as i do not get paid to camp, but i have been camping in extreme condition for about 25 years.

I have always used a ground sheet even as a noob and was never more grateful when I pitched my tent in a field and then wandered off to hang with friends. It rained. I went back to my tent and to my horror, an underground spring surfaced right under my tent! My little tent was dancing happily upon the spring, I shone my flashlight inside and everything was dry. I of course had to bunk with someone else but I hate to think what would have happened without that ground cloth.

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

We camp for 8 days a year for Sukkot we've experienced All the above ! We buy a new tent once a year . Have a plan B for weather events off the ground and dry .

How i love my Polish Lavvu.40 Quid (UK). Tested recently in heavy solar wind-storms in England that were very unexpected and it sure cut the mustard regally. A few modifications here and there,zippers instead of issued buttons (painful) d-loop for tree (pole-free) suspension plus 6 inch vinyl perimiter curtains to keep out the drafts.They rock.Nice and dark as well as leak-free which once fully damp, paradoxically afford a natural proofing as the fibres expand No need for nasty chemicals.Would'nt swap mine for anything,even north of a grand.Oh and they're perfect for wood-stoves and less inclined to be ruined by stray sparks from external fires. Why some entrepreneurs aren't working on newer models (these are 70's/80's Polish army issue) is perplexing given the enthusiasm they inspire in their owners ? Too much clever-dickery with modern stuff and usurious pricings ? I concur with Lukes conclusions regarding groundsheets totally/utterly.

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 dynamic ground sheet under a dynamo tent floor. They move freely over one another to prevent snagging and abrasion and puncture.

We never did that I ever remembered. But I think we just never thought about it. Didn't know that the floors had a waterproof coating and I guess we never thought of the possibility of condensation. We usually only camped during summer. But after pointing out the condensation and coating parts i think I might know what happened to our dome tent years ago. One morning at home i woke up and there was a bunch of water in the corner. And if i remember right it didn't really storm that night if only a little. We had used it 2 or 3 years probably without issues and had seam sealed it the first year we got it. But I bet that's probably what had happened to it. I haven't been camping in probably 10+ years now. I miss it. And if we ever go again i'll know there is more to it than just extra protection and keeping it clean. Also I never heard of or knew anyone that ever talked about ground sheets back then either.

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

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.

I use a ground tarp to also keep the moisture off the bottom of my tent that sometimes builds.

I use a Onetigris footprint for my tents, very lightweight, yet strong and waterproof

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

I have a dollar store shower curtain that fits my tent fairly well and is also durable. I suppose, for a larger tent, I could lay down two of these economic substitutes.

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

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