Groundsheets

FAQs On Our Tarpaulin Ground sheets:

What is a ground sheet and why should I use one?

A ground sheet is a protective layer of material that is placed on the ground, to create a barrier between your tent, sleeping bag, or other gear and the ground. By using a ground sheet you can go a long way towards keeping your items, bedding and more besides clean and dry, as well as keeping out nuisances such as debris. It also provides an extra layer of insulation and comfort.

Our ground sheets can be employed for a wide variety of other uses as well, for example as a garden cover sheet or ground sheet. They can also be used as general waterproof sheeting when required.

How do I decide what type of ground sheet I need?

The type of ground sheet you need will depend on the size of your tent and the type of camping you’ll be doing, as well as the weather/seasonal factors, and the underfoot conditions you’re likely to encounter. A lightweight covering may be more suitable for a short backpacking excursion in fair weather during the summer, whereas a more heavy duty ground sheet may be needed if you’re planning on a multi-day expedition (especially given that long -range forecasts are less accurate – you don’t want to get caught unprepared!)

Why should I use a tarpaulin for one?

Tarpaulins make excellent ground sheets as they are particularly durable, waterproof, and versatile. They are typically made from heavy-duty materials, which can withstand damage from rough terrain and harsh weather conditions that may prove too much for more lightweight products. Tarpaulins are also affordable and easier to find in various sizes, compared to specialised ground sheets. We have dozens of configurations available (including camo pattern tarps) so there’s sure to be something for you, no matter your needs.

Are your tarpaulins waterproof? Will they work in all weather conditions?

Yes - all our camping ground sheets are made from high-quality, waterproof materials that provide excellent protection against damp ground, rain and the elements in general. They are resistant to damage and general wear and tear, making them excellent choices for situations where you may need a ground covering. In extremely wet or snowy conditions, you may wish to consider using additional waterproofing measures to ensure maximum protection.

What about durability?

Tarpaulin durability is commonly measured using GSM (grams per square metre) which assigns a numerical value to how densely made and therefore how tough a tarpaulin is. We list the GSM ratings of all the tarpaulins we stock, so it’s simply a matter of choosing one that’s suitable for what you need. A 270gsm Supergrade Tarpaulin, for example, will be extremely tough and resistant to wear and tear, whilst a tarpaulin under 100gsm is more likely to be suited to lighter use.

How do I choose the right size of tarpaulin for my ground sheet? Can I cut it to size?

The size of the tarpaulin you need will obviously depend on the size of your tent or the area you want to cover, so you’ll want to measure the dimensions of your tent's total ground coverage and add a few extra inches on all sides, to ensure full cover.

In terms of cutting tarpaulins, yes you can cut one down to size to fit your specific needs. However, keep in mind that cutting a tarpaulin may affect its waterproofing properties, especially if you cut through the seams.

How do I secure a ground sheet so it doesn’t move?

To secure a ground sheet, you can easily use stakes, rocks, or other nearby heavy objects to weigh down the corners and edges.