Aurora Backpacking Tent & Footprint: What's Included?
By NEMO Equipment | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Product Reviews
Find out exactly what comes with the NEMO Aurora backpacking tent and footprint bundle. Learn about included accessories, setup tips, and the purpose of the footprint.
Quick Answer
The NEMO Aurora backpacking tent comes with the tent body, rainfly, poles, stakes, guylines, and a stuff sack. The footprint is sold separately but can be purchased as a bundle. This guide explains each item and how to use them.
What's in the Box?
When you unbox the NEMO Aurora backpacking tent, you'll find the tent body (inner mesh and floor), the rainfly, the pole set, aluminum stakes, reflective guylines, and a compression stuff sack. The tent body features vertical sidewalls for more headroom and livable space. The rainfly provides weather protection and can be staked out for added ventilation.
The footprint is not included in the standard tent package. You can buy it separately or as part of the Aurora Tent & Footprint bundle. The footprint is designed to fit the tent floor perfectly and adds a layer of protection against abrasion and moisture.
Why Use a Footprint?
A footprint serves as a groundsheet that protects the tent floor from sharp rocks, twigs, and dirt. It also helps keep the tent cleaner and can extend the life of the floor. For the Aurora tent, the footprint is cut to match the tent's shape, so it fits snugly without bunching up.
Using a footprint is optional but recommended, especially for rocky or uneven campsites. It also makes setup easier because you can stake the footprint down first and then pitch the tent on top.
Setup Tips for the Aurora Tent
The Aurora uses a color-coded pole system that makes setup intuitive. Start by laying out the tent body and inserting the poles through the corresponding sleeves. The hubbed pole design reduces confusion and speeds up assembly. Once the poles are in place, stake out the corners and attach the rainfly.
For best results, practice setting up the tent at home before your trip. This helps you become familiar with the clips, stakes, and guylines. The included guylines are reflective, which improves visibility at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the Aurora tent come with a footprint?
- No, the footprint is sold separately. However, you can purchase the Aurora Tent & Footprint bundle to get both together at a discounted price.
- What is the purpose of the tent footprint?
- The footprint protects the tent floor from punctures, abrasion, and moisture. It also makes cleanup easier and can extend the life of your tent. It's especially useful on rough or wet ground.
- How do I set up the Aurora tent?
- Lay out the tent body, insert the color-coded poles into the corresponding sleeves, stake out the corners, and attach the rainfly. The hubbed pole design simplifies assembly. Practice at home first to speed up the process. Stake the footprint first if using one, then pitch the tent on top for a clean, stable setup.
- What accessories are included with the tent?
- The tent includes the tent body, rainfly, poles, aluminum stakes, reflective guylines, and a compression stuff sack. The footprint and any additional accessories like gear lofts or vestibules are sold separately.
- Is the Aurora tent suitable for backpacking?
- Yes, the Aurora is designed for both car camping and backpacking. It offers a roomy interior for its weight class, making it a good balance of comfort and portability. Check the packed weight and volume to ensure it fits your pack. If weight is critical, consider the Aurora's weight specs compared to other backpacking tents.
Product Facts
- Aurora™ Backpacking Tent & Footprint: Offering massive interior space that’s truly unmatched for its weight class, Aurora™ is a worthy investment for the adventurer that loves a roomy shelter when car camping and backpacking. Updated with premium hardware and features, this tent now also measures up to NEMO’s high sustainability standards with a PFAS-, FRC-free fabric suite and bluesign® approved recycled floor. The Aurora gives you generous headroom and floor space without adding much weight, making it a versatile choice for both car camping and backpacking trips.
Aurora™ Backpacking Tent & Footprint
