Tarp Under Tent - Common Practice?

[NOPEC]

Another couple of items that work really well for us although not specifically under the tent but close, are closed cell pads which we put in the vestibules. Because we are kayak travellers and not backpacking anymore, a bit of extra weight and bulk aren't too big of an issue.

We are finding that the older we get and continue to tent camp, the more certain body parts enjoy (demand?) some pampering not the least of which are the knees. The up and downs get a bit harder every season but boy, is it nice having a soft kneeling platform at the doors which sometimes almost feels like a landing pad! We use thin yoga mats which we fold up to ensure they are completely inside of the vestibule. Because of the hard seats in the kayaks, we also use dedicated seat/back pads which are also closed cell, a bit thicker and smaller. I appreciate these cushions are a speciality item but they also work really well on the vestibule floor if you have them.

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[68camaro]

Actually tents are heavy, bulky and unnecessary. Just go with a tarp, properly set up with ground cloth and it has many advantages over a tent - I did this for years.

 

[ThundahBeagle]

Another couple of items that work really well for us although not specifically under the tent but close, are closed cell pads which we put in the vestibules. Because we are kayak travellers and not backpacking anymore, a bit of extra weight and bulk aren't too big of an issue.

We are finding that the older we get and continue to tent camp, the more certain body parts enjoy (demand?) some pampering not the least of which are the knees. The up and downs get a bit harder every season but boy, is it nice having a soft kneeling platform at the doors which sometimes almost feels like a landing pad! We use thin yoga mats which we fold up to ensure they are completely inside of the vestibule. Because of the hard seats in the kayaks, we also use dedicated seat/back pads which are also closed cell, a bit thicker and smaller. I appreciate these are a speciality item but they also work really well on the vestibule floor if you have them.

View attachment 837619View attachment 837620.

We kayak some as well. Not as much as you, but this looks like a great idea

 

[JaSAn]

Actually tents are heavy, bulky and unnecessary . . .

Except where there are biting insects or blowing debris (sand, dirt, snow, driving rain, etc.).
Or when you have to carry poles to erect.

Used both.
Advantages and disadvantages to each.

 

[IdaSHO]

Or when you are above tree line, with nothing to suspend tarps from.

Plenty of reasons why a tarp is essentially nonsense.
Unless you are on a hobo-budget.

Personally we backpack year round (even in the snow) with a 3-season Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2-person tent.
Complete packed weight is just 3lbs. Thats ground cloth, tent body, poles, and rain fly that includes two large vestibules.

 

[NOPEC]

We kayak some as well. Not as much as you, but this looks like a great idea

Using pads something similar to this system, your knees, back and butt will be eternally grateful