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There isn't a definitive answer to this one. You are probably best off going to one of the larger camping places around where you live and ask advice from the retailers.

You will probably get quite a few different answers from folks on this site on what people have found is best for them but which may not suit you.

If you have a look at the different types available, then you can then make a decision on what you feel is best for your needs.

We've used the PVC groundsheets which are less noisy than a cheap tarp, and they look good when they're new, but beware they stretch and the eyelets aren't brilliant either. We still use the PVC one in the big tent, but have gone back to a cheap tarp for the weekend tent.

I'm not speaking from personal experience here, but from other posters on this forum, the eco groundsheets have small holes which can cause a problem if the ground gets very wet, as the water (or mud in some cases) rises up through the holes. Also, if using an eco for a longer break, the grass can grow up through them.

IMO the best kind of groundsheet would be made of PVC coated polyester, like tent roofs and mud walls are made of. It doesn't stretch and is soft yet tough. However, I'm not sure if you can buy ready-made groundsheets in this fabric.

 We used the tarp in our screenhouse, as its a comunal area it gets a lot of use... we looked at this site for a good one, they are good bu,t if its an area that will get a lot of use, then the tarp is a good alrounder. it has eyelets so you can peg it down, and it isnt noisy, stops the rain, and its cheap enough to replace regularly!

http://www.breathablegroundsheet.co.uk/

Quote: Originally posted by jayandruth on 20/6/2007

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hiya all,weve only used out new tent a couple of times and we love it.the only thing that does my head in about it is the groundsheet for our outer tent/porch area.

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