Proper Tent Pitching & Groundsheet Guide: Stay Dry and Secure in Every Camp

Posted by EZCAMP OutdoorHub | Your Trusted Source for Premium Car Camping Gear

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a first-time camper, knowing how and where to pitch your tent is one of the most important skills for a comfortable and leak-free experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the proper way to pitch your tent, how to use a groundsheet or footprint correctly, and tips to keep water from getting inside your shelter—especially during unexpected downpours.

✅ How to Choose the Right Tent Pitching Location

• 1. Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Never pitch your tent at the bottom of a slope, riverbank, or basin. Rainwater naturally flows downhill and can accumulate in these areas, potentially flooding your tent.
• 2. Look for Slight Elevation: Choose slightly raised ground so water flows away from your tent. Even a few inches can make a big difference.
• 3. Clear the Ground: Remove sharp rocks, branches, or anything that can puncture your groundsheet or damage the tent floor.
• 4. Check Above You: Avoid pitching under dead tree limbs (widowmakers), fruiting trees, or areas with heavy falling debris.
• 5. Consider Sun and Wind Direction: Face the door away from prevailing winds to avoid rain being blown in. In hot climates, a shaded spot can help regulate heat.

🏕️ Proper Tent Pitching Steps

1. Lay Down the Groundsheet (If External): Place your groundsheet slightly smaller than the tent base to prevent rainwater from collecting and pooling under the tent. Never let it stick out past the tent walls.
2. Stake the Corners: Peg out your tent base evenly and taut to avoid sagging. Use all guy lines for maximum stability, especially for larger air tents or dome tents.
3. Check for Tight Seams: Ensure tent fabric isn’t overly stretched, but avoid loose sags which cause water pooling and condensation.
4. Use the Flysheet Correctly: Make sure your rainfly fully covers the tent body and that vents are open to minimize condensation build-up inside.

🟫 Groundsheet Mat: Tips for Smart Use

The groundsheet (or tent footprint) is essential not only for protecting your tent floor but also for keeping moisture from seeping in. Here's how to use it properly:

• Undersized is Better: If you’re using a DIY tarp or generic mat, cut or fold it so that it stays within the outline of your tent floor. Excess edges sticking out act like a funnel for rainwater underneath your tent.
• Dry Before Packing: Always dry your groundsheet and tent after use. Moisture trapped during packing leads to mildew and foul odors.
• Choose Breathable or Coated Types: Some high-end groundsheets offer PU or silicone coatings for better waterproofing. Brands like Naturehike and Campingmoon offer durable footprints that match their tent dimensions.

🌧️ What To Do If Water Still Gets In

• Double-check that no part of the groundsheet is exposed past the tent base.
• Ensure all seams are fully sealed (some tents allow seam sealing spray for added protection).
• Use the included rainfly properly—tension it so water runs off instead of pooling.
• Improve drainage by digging a small trench around the perimeter (only in emergencies or primitive camping areas; avoid in Leave No Trace campsites).

📌 Final Reminders for a Dry & Safe Camp

• Read your tent manual or watch pitching tutorials before your trip—practice setup at home.
• Use guy lines and stakes even if the weather seems calm—wind and rain can come suddenly.
• Invest in a quality groundsheet, especially for larger tents or wet seasons.
• Always check the campsite terrain and elevation before setting up your gear.

At EZCAMP PH OutdoorHub, we carry premium-grade tents, mats, and accessories tested under Philippine conditions—from heavy downpours to sunny car camps. Browse our collection of Naturehike, Blackdog, Campingmoon, and more for your next adventure!

🛒 Shop Camping Tents & Groundsheets Now →

Got more questions about waterproof ratings or tent care? Visit our Gear Guide Blog for more expert tips and education.