Do I really need a tent footprint?

Reviewers are split. Specialist subreddit threads we read note that footprints add abrasion protection and an extra moisture barrier, but several backpacking-focused commenters argue they're unnecessary weight on durable modern tent floors and that a cheap polycro sheet or tarp cut to size works just as well. For car camping on rough or rocky sites, the consensus leans toward yes; for ultralight backpacking on grass or duff, it's optional.