Ground Sheet For Tarp Shelter

[bushwolf]

I am working on setting up a tarp shelter to try out (el cheapo 10x12 camo polytarp).

What do you use for a ground sheet???

I assume that a ground sheet is important since there is no floor in my tarp shelter.

I have thought of just using a second tarp, but that would add substantialy to my shelter kit's bulk and weight.

I look forward to hearing your sugestions.

[Sweeneyguy]

I use a space blanket, the heavy kind with OD on one side and silver on the other.

Another very good cheap ground sheet and light is Tyvek.

[WoodsJack]

I use a space blanket, the heavy kind with OD on one side and silver on the other.

Another very good cheap ground sheet and light is Tyvek.

I do, too. Or just an old, plain plastic one. I've got BCO tarps now, too, but too recent to lay claim to changed habits yet.

There's a local construction site with acres of temporary tyvek I've had my eye on, for a couple of possible projects, but I don't favor the colors and haven't yet ever tried to change 'em.

[J]

Casulty blanket, or a MEST tarp.

[BushTramp]

I don't -I like the USGI bivy.i can keep my pad in it (and bag rolled up in)and roll around and not worry about slipping off and also if I don't feel like a tarp or it's a beautiful night I don't use it at all.

[J]

I use a GI bivy too. A great piece of gear.

[Chert]

I use either a thick Grabber all weather blanket, or a piece of Tyvek

[BigHat]

either a casualty blanket or i use a bivy with my tarp. normally a bivy.

[Seeker]

i use a hammock under my tarp, and keep my sit pad underneath as a 'doormat', weighed down with a rock or my shoes or whatever... but the two items i've heard used as a groundcloth that I would try first are a casualty blanket (which i own, carry, and use as a hasty lunch counter when on a dayhike) or a piece of tyvek (which i do not own, but have smelled/ felt/ touched, and it seems like it would work well.)

[rdec]

I sewed up a scant ground sheet from coated ripstop, about 2' x 7' with peg loops on the corners. I don't move around much when I'm sleeping so the minimal size is fine for me. Inflatable mattresses tend to slip on a ground sheet, foam pads less so. I'm thinking about sewing pockets to hold the pad in place.

I also sometimes use the GI bivy.