So, you’ve heard of regular camping, but how about bivvy camping? In this blog, I’ll provide all the essential information you need to get started with your bivouac.
In SHORT…
Why bivvy camping is a game-changer: Learn how using a lightweight bivvy or tarp setup slashes pack weight and brings you closer to nature—plus, discover when it’s better than pitching a tent.
How to Build Your Perfect Bivvy Kit: Discover the essential gear—shell bivvies, tarps, sleeping bags, mats, lighting, and cooking setups—explained simply so you can gear up without the overwhelm.
When to pitch, how to stay comfy: Discover tips on choosing flat ground, managing condensation, fitting everything snugly, and staying dry under your tarp.
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A bivouac, or bivvy, is a minimal, lightweight alternative to a regular tent. It’s almost like a shell jacket for your sleeping bag, providing the bare minimum in terms of space with maximum protection from the elements. Bivouac bags are made for one person, making them great for solo adventurers and fast and light missions.
What are the benefits of bivvy camping?
Depending on your adventure, there are multiple benefits to using a bivvy bag.
Minimal weight and pack size
If you’re seeking something with minimal pack size and less weight, a bivvy bag is an excellent alternative to carrying an entire tent. This would be ideal if you’re going bikepacking, backpacking, or fast-packing.
Feeling more immersed in nature
Sleeping in a bivvy set-up instead of a tent will also help you to feel closer or more immersed in nature; let’s be honest, who doesn’t want that?
All-season use
You can use bivvy bags all year round, too, if you use them correctly. I’ll be providing some tips and tricks for getting the best experience from your bivvy, so read on for more!
Should I use a bivvy or a tent?
It’s always worth weighing up whether you actually need to use a bivvy over a regular tent. Some people find it less comfortable, and you don’t want to sacrifice a good night’s rest for no reason. Consider the type of adventure you’re heading on, the weather, the terrain, and how long it’s for. If you need a little extra guidance, watch our ‘Lightweight vs Rightweight’ YouTube video to get the lowdown on taking the right kit for the right adventures; because lightweight isn’t always best!
What do you need for bivvy camping?
Essentially, bivvy camping is very similar to regular camping in terms of the kit list. The only significant difference is your shelter. However, some elements must be considered to ensure your set-up is functional.
Some of the must-have items for bivvy camping include:
Bivvy Bag (obviously)
A bivvy acts as the main sleeping shelter. They’re more compact and confined than tents and are generally designed for one person. Therefore, you might want to reconsider your shelter choice if you don’t like sleeping solo in the wild or have multiple people on your trip.
Tarp
A tarp is optional but highly recommended. Without one, it could be an extremely long night in the bivvy. This additional shelter would also provide reliable cover for cooking and socialising. Furthermore, it’ll give you somewhere to store bulky bits of kit, backpacks, and boots without leaving them out in the rain or stinking out your bivvy as you try to catch some z’s.
Your sleeping bag will keep you warm throughout the night, so investing in a good one is well worth it. Sleeping bags also have different weights and pack sizes, so consider what sleeping bag is best suited to your adventure, and your personal needs.
Synthetic sleeping bags work especially well for bivvy camping, as the interior of the bivvy is more likely to encounter moisture inside. If you’d prefer a down-filled bag, choose a bag with hydrophobic down and a DWR (durable water repellent) for optimum performance. You could even do one better and get a waterproof sleeping bag!
A sleeping mat is also an essential part of your sleep system, as it’ll protect you from the cold ground and help amplify the warmth of your sleeping bag. You can get various types of sleeping mats, including insulated, inflatable, or foam, to suit your preference. For bivvy camping, a tapered or mummy-shaped sleeping mat works best, as rectangular or wide mats may not fit inside a bivouac bag. If you need more clarification, measure up the dimensions of your kit before hitting the trail.
A camping light or a headtorch is essential for camping for obvious reasons. You’ll especially be grateful for a good source of lighting when cooking in the evening or heading out for a wild wee in the middle of the night!
A complete cooking system will include a camping stove, cooking pot, utensils, a mug, and food, of course. Freeze-dried camping meals are a great option if you’re looking to save weight and space. We stock a range of these at Trekitt, catering to all different types of diets. Click here to check out our current selection of camping meals and food.
Dry bags are great for keeping your kit protected, dry, and organised. You can buy different-coloured dry bags for organisation or use coloured ties to identify which is which. This little trick will save you time, so you won’t have to fumble through your backpack just to find your clean pants.
It’s crucial to check the weather forecast before camping. This will allow you to assess what kit and clothing you need. It’s a good idea to take extra baselayers to ensure you have some dry, clean clothing to sleep in. Merino baselayers work incredibly well. Merino wool provides exceptional temperature regulation and warmth. It is also naturally odour-resistant, making it ideal for multi-day pursuits when you have limited access to washing facilities.
Test out your set-up. You can pitch your bivvy in the garden and slide in your sleeping mat and bag to ensure they fit comfortably inside. Get in the bivouac and make sure you feel like you have enough space to sleep; chunkier sleeping bags sometimes take up all the room between the bag and your bivvy. If this is the case, consider that this could cause your sleeping bag to dampen overnight, as the face fabric is likely to condensate as the temperature changes.
Where is the best place to pitch a bivvy?
The best place to pitch a bivvy is on flat ground. This will help prevent you from sliding to the top, bottom, or side of the bivvy during the night, allowing you to get a better night’s sleep.
How to control condensation in a bivvy?
You can help to control condensation in your bivvy by keeping it slightly open at the head. A lot of condensation forms inside camping shelters because you breathe out warm, moist air during the night. So, by leaving it unzipped just a little, this air has somewhere to escape. However, this may have drawbacks if you’re camping in summer, as the midges come out to play! In this case, make sure you have a midge net with you if you don’t have one built into your bivvy. Insect spray would also be wise.
Additionally, you can also take a small microfibre towel to help manage condensation without taking up excess space in your backpack.
Before you go to bed…
Before you sleep, ensure your belongings are under your tarp or packed into dry bags to protect them from the elements overnight. There’s nothing worse than waking up to a soggy pair of boots first thing in the morning!
The best tip for bivvy camping
The most important thing to remember is to have fun! If the weather forecast is looking miserable, or if you’re planning on travelling somewhere challenging for your camp, don’t forget that there are other options available to make your stay more enjoyable. Sometimes it’s worth scrapping your initial plans and prioritising comfort to avoid having a miserable trip. If you’re not looking forward to using the bivvy when it comes to heading out, save it for another day.
Enjoyed this blog? Check out our previous post about keeping safe when hiking by clicking here.
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