Are you looking to get a tarp or tent footprint and are wondering which one of the two to pick? While they serve nearly similar purposes, they have varying characteristics, and sometimes functionality. So, which of the two is better?
One of the most important aspects to consider when going camping is how to stay warm and dry, especially when you are camping in wet and cold conditions. Tent tarps and footprints are excellent for keeping you dry, but they come with many dissimilar features that set them apart. Here is a breakdown of each.
Tent Footprint vs. Tarp Comparison Table
| Item | Tent Footprint | Tarp |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Fits tent exactly | Has to be adjusted to fit tent |
| Material | Polyethylene | Canvas, polyurethane, heavy polyethylene |
| Versatility | Fixed use | Highly versatile |
| Weight | Lightweight | Bulky |
| Temperature control | Keeps you warm | Low temperature control |
| Availability | Buy Here | Buy Here |
Tent Footprint vs. Tarp – How do they compare?
Size
The main difference between these two is their size. A tent footprint is almost always bought along with the tent for which it is made, and it is precisely cut to fit the actual size of the tent. Tarp, on the other hand, is made to fit various tent sizes, and is often larger than the tent for which it is needed.
The tarp is large, making it better than the tent footprint.
Versatility
Tent footprints are made to go under the tent so that they can keep all moisture and cold out. They cannot, however, be used for any other function. Tarps, on the other hand, can be used beneath the tent, to cover the tent, as a cover for equipment on a rainy day, and you can even sleep under one if you do not have a tent.
Tarps are more versatile, making them better.
Tent Footprint vs. Tarp Review
Tent Footprint
Tent footprints are ideal for setting under your tent. Apart from keeping moisture out, they are also great at keeping you warm when it is cold. They are lightweight and easy to fold, making them easy to carry around. They cannot, however, be used for any other reason apart from lining the tent.
Pros
- Easy to fold and carry around
- Ideal for keeping you dry and warm
- Cut to tent’s fit
Cons
- They cannot be used for any other reason
Tarp
Tarps are known to be large and of tough build, and they are excellent for using in various scenarios. They are great for using under the tent, and they can also be used to cover up your equipment when it is rainy. They are often large, tough and a bit bulky.
Pros
- Versatile
- Completely waterproof
- Tough and durable
Cons
- Hard to fold and heavy
Verdict So, which is better?
Even though they are heavier and more difficult to carry around, tarps are more versatile and easier to use, making them better than tent footprints.
FAQs
What are tent footprints made of?
They are made using polyethylene.
Do tarps offer temperature control?
They do, but it is not the best. They are not great for cold environments.