[TOP 5] Best Bivy Sacks Reviews

5 Best Bivy Sacks Reviews, Tips & Guides

Bivy sack is a short abbreviation used for “bivouac sack.” It is basically a waterproof shelter designed for a single person. These sacks are for people who frequently travel solo in the backcountry and desire to shed every possible ounce from their loads. As compared to tents, they are very small and lightweight.

The main problem with these sacks uses to be the humidity that condenses on the inner side. But with time, bivy sacks have evolved a lot to include waterproof breathable fabrics to help reduce internal condensation.

With hooped tent poles you can always convert bivy sacks to bivy shelters. Bivy sacks provide more warmth as your body heat is retained inside. Thus, they can be adapted for warm or cold weather.

As bivy sack is so confined, breathability will be extremely important. Thus, the selection of appropriate material is a must. Bivy design today involves 2 tiers of fabric; the top tier is usually a lighter fabric made of ripstop nylon and treated with a waterproof, breathable laminate and the bottom tier generally consisting of a sturdy and durable urethane-coated nylon.

5 Best Bivy Sacks of 2022

When it comes to selecting a bivy sack, confusion tends to arise as the market is flooded with options. We have filtered out five best bivy sacks for you by some of the best brands in the market. Take a look:

Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy

Outdoor Research has now grown into a leader in the outdoor industry and is a trusted brand for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. Their products are of the highest quality and with each new product, they bring something new to the market.

Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy is equipped with waterproof breathable 3-layer Gore-Tex Respiration Positive fabric that provides excellent breathability, soundproofing, and waterproofing.

The best part about this fabric is that it protects from rain and snow without collecting interior condensation. It comes with 30D ripstop upper – 2L and a nylon plain weave taffeta floor.

The durable nylon floor uses a Hydroseal polyurethane waterproof coating. This versatile bivy weighs only 32 oz. i.e. around 2 pounds.

It comes with fully taped seams that provide protection from outside elements. An integrated shock-corded Delrin pole runs over the top of the bag, keeping material off of your face.

The overlapped zipper opening lets you breathe freely without letting in the weather. The single overhead shock-corded Delrin pole keeps bivy up and off of face when a sack is closed. It comes with straps that keep your sleeping pad in place, thereby preventing the bivy from rolling over and ensuring a comfortable sleep.

It features a mesh internal pocket for your headlamp or phone. The Alpine has five-stake loops and a guy line loop. It features a removable no-see-um mesh netting at the opening to keep biting insects away, plus it offers an amazing night view.

The foot section is approximately 14.5 high and allows a more natural position for feet. The footprint is sized in a way to accommodate thicker sleeping pads.

This is a 4 season bivy that is durable enough to offer protection from any outside element. The comfortable features and the weather-resistance it offers is truly appreciable.

 

Outdoor Research Helium Bivy

Outdoor Research is a Seattle-based manufacturer of technical apparel and gear for outdoor sports. Their products are innovative and are known for their quality.

Weighing in at only 18 ounces, this functional bivy is one of the lightweight bivies you’ll come across. The Helium features a clamshell design that promotes a restful night’s sleep with a Delrin Single-Pole system acting as a stabilizing structure for the bivy itself.

This bivy is extremely comfortable and packs pretty small.

It is made from nylon Pertex Shield, a 2.5 layer, fully waterproof material and features a clear laminate upper. The Pertex Shield+ 2.5L has a 20,000 hydrostatic head rating, i.e. it is perfect for use in extreme wet climates.

The Helium is made of a durable TPU laminated 70 denier nylon floor that features an anti-fungal coating.

This bivy is equipped with five-stake loops (two at the feet, three at the head and none on the sides), one guy-line loop, sleeping pad straps, a high-volume toe end, and a single shock-corded overhead Delrin pole.

It includes a small internal mesh pocket that can store-in your valuables. This lightweight and breathable bivy feature a removable no-see-um mesh netting at the opening to keep biting insects away, thereby ensuring comfort. It is fully seam-taped and sized to fit thick sleeping mats.

The sleeve for the hoop is opened by velcro at one end and sealed at the other. One of the reasons behind its lightweight is that it includes a light plastic pole and not metal eyelets.

The hood can be unzipped whenever you require extra ventilation plus provides an amazing night view.

However, some people find it difficult to deal with the hood as it can’t be rolled up. It actually falls over the opening, but it includes a toggle with which you can pin it out of your way.

Overall, this waterproof and super breathable tent is not very spacious but offers plenty of room for you to feel comfortable. If weight is a concern while traveling, this lightweight bivy is perfect for you.

 

Aqua Quest Hooped Bivy Tent

Aqua Quest is the World Leader in outdoor waterproof gear protection. They have been making top-notch dry bags, backpacks, tarps, and tents since 1994. Hooped bivvy bags are like tiny tents.

They are much better in the rain. The Aqua Quest Hoopla bivy bag is a comfortable hooped bivy bag that comes with amazing features on a budget.

The total weight of this tent is around 2.4 lbs (1.1kg), making it a lightweight tent. Measuring 5-inches in width and 15-inches in length, this Aqua Quest tent is really compact.

However, the shoulder and foot area is wide enough to give you enough space to move around.  You can easily carry this lightweight tent inside your backpack or attach it to the outside of your backpack.

This tent is available in orange and green colors. It just takes a couple of minutes to set up this tent, as the work gets relatively simpler with the included stuff sack.

As far as construction is concerned, it uses breathable and waterproof laminated ESTER PU Coated 70D Ripstop Nylon Taffeta, a high-quality material that is durable enough to withstand extreme weather conditions.

It features one lightweight collapsible shock cord pole and 5 lightweight aluminum pegs. It also includes an air-vent in the head section, and ‘Batwing’ stiffeners to elevate the footbed, thereby increasing airflow and comfort.

The outside layer rolls down to the base providing excellent insect protection.

It comes with a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm and a breathability rating of 3000 gr/m2/day. It comes with heat-taped seams so it offers complete protection from outside elements.

Even if you close the top panel, as a rain-protection measure, you still can enjoy the beautiful sky via a TPU window straight above your head.

It features a fixed rear panel mesh for added circulation and condensation prevention but the foot area is without any opening. Therefore condensation can be a big problem in colder weather. Thus, this tent is only suitable for quick overnight and weekend tours.

As far as price is concerned, it is one of the cheapest bivy tents available, but that doesn’t mean it compromises on quality.

 

Snugpak 92860 Stratosphere One Person Bivvy Shelter

Snugpak is manufacturers of quality sleeping bags and insulated clothing not only in the UK but across Europe. Their products are famous all-over and are known for their quality.

Snugpak Stratosphere is an ultra-lightweight one person bivi-bag system that is very easy to set-up and dismantles. It is a very good sleeping bag with a water-resistant shell.

The base of the Stratosphere is 70-Denier Nylon Taffeta with PU coating and the top is 40D Nylon Ripstop, which is waterproof and moisture permeable.

This bivy bag is extremely light, weighing in at just 1.13kgs and comes with a ground area of 230 x 106cm. It is quite spacious for a bivy bag, giving you ample headroom.

It comes complete with six ultralight alloy stakes and one spare to create a self-supporting canopy around the head and shoulders. This, in turn, allows increased breathability and movement while giving protection from the elements.

It’s breathable, yet highly waterproof. It comes with a 5000 mm waterproof polyurethane coating. It also has a roll-away mosquito net in front of the hood. The bivy bag comes with its own compression stuff sack.

A zipper located on the right side when lying in the bivy opens down 3/4th of the length of the bivy, which makes for easy entry. All the seams are sealed with a layer of waterproof sealant. There are extra velcro fastenings on the zipper which provides protection from the rain.

Overall, it is an excellent choice for a 1-person bivy which feels more like a tent than a bivy bag. This bag stands up to severe weather and makes you feel comfortable and dry even in the harsh weather conditions.

 

Chinook Summit Bivy Bag

Chinook has made innovative breakthroughs in mainstream outdoor products, such as apparel, sleeping bags, tents, backpacks, and technical cookware.

Chinook Summit Bivy Bag is more of a sleeping bag with a miniature tent for just your head area. This lightweight bag just weighs around 32 ounces. This bag measures 91 inches long and by 32 inches wide.

The bag features an expandable height of 17 to 22 inches. It is fabricated from 5000 gauge nylon. The bag can be compressed into a compact size for easy storage.

It is equipped with DAC Featherlite aluminum poles to create a self-supporting canopy around the facial area for better breathability. It features a waterproof and breathable fabric top, and a waterproof Ripstop Nylon bottom fabric.

The seams are factory-taped and completely waterproof. There is a mesh flap behind the head and on the front flap that can be opened up to allow airflow.

It comes in two colors: blue and olive. Perfect for multi-day wilderness trips or trekking and snow camping, this bivy contains a contoured hood. The hood’s design is in a way that it can be kept open during heavy rain.

The mosquito netting ensures that you aren’t attacked by unwanted insects at night. The is a 4 season bag; perfect to handle any condition, including snow and heavy rain.

The bag comes with a roomy foot box, allowing you enough space to move and sleep comfortably. The interior is designed in a way to offer you a lot of warmth.

Overall, this is an affordable bivy bag that offers amazing functionality and will keep you warm even in the harshest winter conditions. This is truly worth the consideration.

 

Buying Guide – How To Choose The Best Bivy Sacks

Factors To Consider When Buying The Bivy Sack

Weight

The weight of the bivy sack is an important factor to consider because it affects your comfort, whether you are hiking or camping. Also, having a lighter bivy sack means that you will have to carry less weight so it will be easier for you to hike and climb up mountains. However, keep in mind that there are some extra benefits if you opt for a heavier one so do not just buy by the numbers! Find out if the added benefits outweigh the added weight.

Outing Duration

You should be asking this question to yourself: How long will I stay outdoors? This is an important factor because it affects the size and insulation of the bivy sack. A shorter trip means that you can afford to use a lighter and smaller bivy sack. However, if you are planning an overnight trip then you should consider buying a larger and heavier one but keep in mind that they may not be as light as those for shorter durations.

Waterproofness

There are some bivy sacks that claim to be waterproof as well as breathable which would mean that they do not let out any condensation or moisture from inside the sack. This feature is useful during rainy days or cold nights when your body begins to sweat. However, keep in mind that waterproofness will eliminate any airflow which means you will be trapped inside with all the moisture. Also, these sacks can increase your weight and thus affect your comfort level. Try to look for a balanced option by getting something that is not too breathable or waterproof – something with average characteristics.

Packed Size

You should consider this factor if you are planning to use the bivy sack during camping trips on foot as they require carrying more equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and other things. Make sure that the packed size of the bivy sack is small enough so that it fits into your backpack easily without taking up much space! This may seem unimportant but packing tiny objects can be quite irritating if you do not know how to do it properly!

Insulation Level

This factor is an important one to keep in mind because you will need something which can keep you warm during cold weather and nights. Usually, bivy sacks come with a water-resistant shell and they tend to be quite thin so they cannot provide insulation by themselves. Thus, they come with different kinds of insulation like Primaloft or Goose Down for warmth. You should choose the appropriate option based on where you live and what kind of weather you usually get there – if your location has extreme winter seasons then obviously down insulation would be better while if it is summer all year round then go for Primaloft or another synthetic material!

Insect Protection

If you are planning to use the bivy sack during summer then you can go without this feature but if you want something for spring or autumn then it is a good idea to opt for one with insect protection. There are mosquito nets mixed in them which keep away insects and thus, keep you safe from diseases like malaria! But make sure that the netting is breathable so your sleep does not get disturbed!

Types of Fabric Used

Depending on your needs and what conditions you prefer (e.g., weather), choose the right fabric such as nylon, polyester, cotton duck or another type; they all provide different levels of protection and comfort. However, make sure to choose a lightweight fabric such as nylon or polyester if you plan on hiking and climbing up mountains because it can get really heavy quickly which will affect your physical performance.

Weather

Make sure to look at the weather conditions of where you will be going when buying a bivy sack so that you have an idea about how protective your bivy should be. Make sure that when sleeping in it, the temperature won’t drop below freezing point otherwise you might risk frostbite! Also, add another few degrees just in case since safety always comes first! The amount of rain might also affect your choice so think about what kind of weather to expect before making a decision.

Height

The height of a bivy sack might not seem that important but it actually is! Your legs and hips should be completely covered by the bivy if you want to spend a comfortable night in it. It does not have to go all the way down so choose one with adequate height depending on your preference. Also, thinner people will need less height as well which can be achieved by choosing a slimmer model so there you have it!

Weight Capacity

For those who are still looking for more space inside their bivy, look at the weight capacity because some models can even fit two people which could be helpful if you want a bit more comfort or just an extra person to keep you warm at night. However, go for something light and simple such as a single person bivy if you plan on using it alone. Some models also come with more than two doors so choose the one that “fits” you best!

Size

Bivy sacks are measured in length x width (e.g., 90×35) and decide for yourself whether this is enough space by measuring your height and comparing it to the product’s dimensions; remember that there is no standard size chart for these things! You can also consider buying a bigger model because you might need the extra room depending on what type of trip you want to take (e.g., backpacking, camping, etc). Extra-long models provide more floor space while the curved ends provide extra headroom.

Weight

Some bivies can be extremely heavy so if you plan on taking a trip that requires quite some hiking and climbing up mountains, look for something lightweight first. If the weight is not an issue (e.g., car camping), then choose based on your preferences and options such as extra features or extra space inside the bivy sack. Also, note that there are ultra-lightweight models out there with an average weight of under 1 pound; they might cost more but think about what kind of trip you will be going on (e.g., backpacking) before purchasing them because it might not be worth spending all that money for such a small addition!

Comfort

Before buying a bivy sack, look at the comfort you can get from it. Make sure that there is enough room for your sleeping bag and use the added features to find out how comfortable it will be outside! Some models have pillows or foot vents which could make you feel more relaxed while others come with extra space inside. Do not disregard these extras because they might make your trip even better! Also, note that some are meant to be used without a tent because of their weather resistance which provides more protection but will not be as comfortable as one that comes with an inner tent.

Ease Of Setup

Some bivies are specifically designed to go on top of another piece of gear such as thermal insulation pads or sleeping pads so remember to find out about the product’s specific features before purchasing it. If you are looking for something simple, choose a model that does not have any special features apart from being waterproof. Also, check if the models come with stuff sacks or compression straps because this will help pack them away more easily!

Breathability

Insulation is great but try to find out whether the material is breathable or not! If you are looking for something waterproof, make sure that your bivy will provide enough ventilation in case condensation builds up. Also, look for materials with mesh sidewalls because they can be very useful in keeping moisture away from your face when it’s raining.

Durability

Some models are extremely lightweight which might seem appealing at first but it actually means that they can wear out more easily simply because they are not heavy enough to withstand rough weather conditions! Try to prioritize durability overweight if this is what you care about most when choosing a new piece of gear such as a bivy sack so that it lasts longer and provides better protection.

Ventilation

Some bivies have extra features on the zippers which can be very useful during your trip. This includes mesh vents or even loops at the ends of the zipper to tie it off so that you can either close or open it up depending on what you need. Use this feature to your advantage because ventilation might become a problem depending on where you are camping!

Warmth

Waterproofness is great but if you do not have good insulation, then there is no point in getting a bivy sack in some cases. Remember that waterproof material will not provide any warmth unless combined with thermal insulation otherwise moisture will accumulate inside and make everything damp. Having high-loft insulation built into the bivy sack will keep your bag dry as well as provide extra warmth for those cold nights camping out in the wilderness!

Zipper Location

The zipper is probably the most important part of a bivy sack and must be taken seriously. The best location for it would be on the side so that you do not have to unzip or detach it when getting in and out of your bag! Side zippers will make access easier without having to fully detach the upper portion like other models out there. Some also come with an adjustable drawstring at the hood which can keep it tightly closed against wind and rain while letting you get in and out easily.

Budget:  Think about how much money you are ready to spend on this product because there are models which can cost hundreds of dollars! You might want to choose one within your budget range but do not forget that some expensive products are actually worth the money depending on what kind of trip you plan on taking so it’s up to you if you think they are worth spending extra cash on.

Features, Extras & Add-Ons

Depending on how much room you have inside your bivy sack and where or when you plan on using it, look through all the added features offered by different manufacturers such as single door vs. double door, netting in front for increased ventilation, mesh roof with rainfly cover, light diffuser pouch at ceiling height, etc. These extras might not be completely necessary but they can definitely make your trip more comfortable! If you are going out for a car camping trip, these features will certainly come in handy because sleeping inside a bivy sack is already enough without them so you should take advantage and purchase one with as many added extras as possible.

Weather

The weather where you plan on using the bivy sack should play an important role in choosing which model to buy. Is it currently winter? You need to ensure that this product keeps you warm at night especially if you’re planning on sleeping outside during cold nights! However, do not forget about ventilation as well because you don’t want condensation building up inside the product during those humid summer nights! Also, you might want to consider buying a bivy sack with rainfly especially if you plan on using it outdoors during the summer because it protects against rain, wind, and yes… even insects!

Types Of Bivies

There are three main types of bivies to choose from which are basically different designs based on how or where they will be used. They are as follows: tarp-style, one-piece dome-style, and two-piece dome-styled. Check out which is best for you by checking out each design! For example, some people like having more space inside their bivy while others like strapping theirs onto their backpacks; there’s no right or wrong here so do your research to find the product which you think will make you more comfortable!

 

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A Bivy Sack?

A bivy sack is a waterproof shelter that is usually made from nylon. It’s different from a tent because it doesn’t have its own poles, walls, or ceiling, but instead relies on the fabric itself to protect the occupant from rain and wind.

Why Do I Need A Bivy Sack?

Bivy sacks are a great option for fast and light camping, mountaineering, hiking, and rock climbing/ canyoneering. These all require gear that is lightweight, compact, weather-resistant, and easy to carry. Plus if you share a tent with someone else then the bivy sack will allow you both to be in it without taking up too much room or weighing down your pack too much. Another benefit of this style of shelter is that they’re generally cheaper than buying full double-walled tents!

A couple of things to note: Bivy sacks don’t offer bug protection so if mosquitos or other small animals like mice are prevalent where you’ll be camping then you might want something with more coverage unless you’re okay with being woken up in the middle of the night to bug bites. Also, bivy sacks are usually meant for one person so unless you have a super lightweight option it might be worth buying two so you can cuddle your fave camping buddy!

How Are Bivies Used?

Bivy sacks are most commonly used in conjunction with a tent because they’re meant for more exposed conditions than your average two or three-walled shelter. They can be used on their own but generally don’t provide enough coverage and protection from bugs/small animals to make them ideal by themselves.

To use a bivy sack it’s best to put your sleeping bag in the bottom of the sack and lay it out so that there is about an inch between where you’ll be sleeping and the walls of the bivy (this will add some insulation). Then when you go camping just slide into whatever you’ve got set up, zip yourself in, and off you go!

How To Care For A Bivy?

Thankfully because bivy sacks are simpler than tents they’re generally easier to take care of. Here are some general guidelines:

-If the bivy is new try not to use it until it’s been fully broken in (to reduce water resistance) or test out your waterproofing by using the shower on yourself for a few minutes (make sure you dry it off before doing this though).

-For storage make sure that no part of the fabric is touching another part, otherwise, you’ll develop mold/mildew.

-Make sure all zippers are closed and everything has dried completely before storing it for an extended time period otherwise mildew can form if moisture gets trapped inside.

When To Switch From A Tent To A Bivy Sack?

There are a few situations where it would make sense to switch from using a tent with your bivy sack. For one, if you happen to use two or more tents when you go camping (or know someone who does) then combining the weight of both can be too much for some people. Instead, use smaller tents and put them inside of the bivy- either in separate compartments or by laying out your sleeping bag on one side and setting up another tent on the other side.

Another situation is when there is no shelter at all available like if you’re backpacking along an exposed ridgeline where everything around you is flat ground. In this case, using a bivy sack instead will help give you a bit more shelter from wind and weather.

If any of these situations apply to you then going for a bivy over a tent is always a good choice!

How To Pitch A Bivy Sock?

Due to its simplicity pitching a bivy sack shouldn’t be very hard. Generally, the only thing that needs to be done is pegging out the four corners (use rocks if necessary) and then clipping on whatever accessories might be needed like an interior liner or mosquito netting if desired. Then when you’re in, zipping in around your face and you’ve got yourself some shelter! This doesn’t need to take more than 2-3 minutes in most cases so don’t be discouraged by little time is involved; after you do it a few times you’ll be able to get it done in no time!

How Much Does A Bivy Sack Cost?

The price of bivy sacks varies widely but usually, they range anywhere from $30-100. The cost is generally determined by both the product’s durability and its waterproofing/breathability. Some higher-end bivies are actually more expensive than some 2-3 person tents which can be surprising at first because it seems like they’d provide less protection but in reality, they’re perfect for use alone or inside another tent without requiring too much additional space.

Here I’ve tried to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about bivys sacks. If anyone has any other questions about bivy sacks please feel free to leave a comment and I’ll try and answer it as soon as possible.

Is A Bivy Too Tight For You?

There are some bivy sacks that come in different sizes- if you find that the one you bought was too tight then try going for a bigger one. If it’s still too small then you could squeeze the excess fabric into the bottom and use it as padding to add extra insulation to your sleeping bag.

How To Keep Mosquitoes Out Of A Bivy?

Unfortunately due to their design there usually isn’t much room inside of a bivy sack when it’s being used so having a net is pretty much out of the question. That said, I would recommend buying a mosquito net at least 2 inches thick (just hang it from something above your head or near your face) because this should prevent any mosquitoes from getting to you. This isn’t 100% effective though because mosquitos are incredibly tiny and could get through the holes in the netting so make sure to keep your mouth shut tight or use a separate mosquito net if possible!

What Is A Bivy Sack Made Out Of?

As discussed before, bivies are made out of many different materials including but not limited to helium-3, polyurethane, vinyl, silnylon, etc. The one you choose should depend greatly on your intended use for it. If it’s just for occasional camping then using something that’s more affordable is probably best whereas if you’re backpacking long distances into remote areas then something lighter/more expensive would be better suited. How much does a bivy cost?

Is A Bivy Sack Good For Cold Weather Camping?

Bivies are not very good at keeping warm in cold weather camping situations which is why I’d recommend buying a mummy-style sleeping bag that will hold in your body heat better. If you plan on using a bivy sack in the winter then make sure to get one with a draft tube along the length of it because it’ll help prevent cold air from getting inside and should keep you relatively warm even when the temperature drops well below zero [0°F/-18°C].

What Is The Best Sleeping Pad For A Bivy Sack?

For best results, use a closed-cell foam pad which should provide insulation while also being durable enough to last for a while even if you place it on some rocky surfaces. This kind of pad isn’t too pricey and will do a better job than using inflatable pads because they tend to pop once in a while so this is why I’d recommend going with the option I just mentioned.

Does A Bivy Sack Have An Inbuilt Blanket?

Some bivies come with some extra insulation on top, but a lot of them don’t have anything like that at all which means you’ll probably need to bring along some sort of bedding. Some people use sleeping bags while others only use the sleeping pad/bag that they already have which will suffice in most cases…but if you want something more lightweight then perhaps an under quilt could be used which doesn’t need too much space inside the bivy sack.

Is A Bivy Sack Uncomfortable?

It should provide more comfort than using a traditional tent because it’s lighter and takes up less space…however, there’s no way to stop your head from pressing against the hard material (if you use one) so this is something to keep in mind before buying one. Make sure to bring along an inflatable pillow if possible to make things even more comfortable!

What Is The Difference Between A Bivy Sack And Tarp?

A tarp will give you more space underneath but won’t protect you as well from wind/rain whereas a bivy will keep the wind/rain out of your face but won’t give you much room to move around. Depending on where I go camping I’ll bring both with me because they have different benefits which are worth taking advantage of.

How To Sew A Bivy Sack?

This is something that can be done by hand if you don’t have easy access to a sewing machine but it may take longer due to how small some parts are…I wouldn’t recommend trying this unless you know what you’re doing or else there’s a chance that stitching will come undone after just one hike! Also, make sure that any fabric used is durable enough so it doesn’t rip apart when being pulled onto itself repeatedly.

How Does Air Circulate Inside A Bivy?

There are usually loops along the bottom which you can hook an air pump cord through to inflate/deflate your pad whenever it’s needed…I’d recommend using a mattress pump because they’re easier to control and won’t overinflate by accident.

Are Bivy Sacks A Good Way To Protect Sleeping Bags?

Some bivies will protect against rain & wind but not all of them do so I’d recommend doing research online to find out beforehand if this is something that your sleeping bag of choice will benefit from or not.

What Is The Temperature Rating Of A Bivy Sack?

The temperature rating of a bivy sack should be the same as the sleeping bag [or quilt] that’s being used with it, but just to be safe I’d recommend buying something which is rated a couple of degrees lower in case the weather turns out to be colder than expected.

What Is The Best Material For Making Bivy Sacks?

I’d recommend using a material similar to what most bivies are made from because it’s lightweight, water-resistant & tear resistant. It’s also machine washable so you don’t need to worry about cleaning it yourself after returning home from your hike!

Will A Bivy Really Keep A Sleeping Bag Dry?

If it has a waterproof coating then yes, you’ll be able to keep your sleeping bag dry even when it’s raining. However, if water can get in through the seams & opening at the top then there’s no guarantee that your sleeping bag will stay dry so I’d recommend using a tarp underneath just to be on the safe side.

Where Can You Buy A Bivy Sack From?

You can buy bivies from most outdoor stores including online retailers which have an actual brick & mortar store nearby too…this is where I buy mine whenever I’m in town because they always have the best stock available and are very knowledgeable about how each item works too! There are also some great deals online with people selling their old gear so it’s definitely worth looking for bargains before buying new items which are just as good.

Where Should A Bivy Sack Be Positioned On A Tent?

Many people like to put most of their stuff inside the bivy sack (i.e. sleeping bag, sleeping mat & rucksack) and then position it in front of the door of their tent…but no matter where you put it make sure there’s enough space on both sides so you don’t get caught up in any awkward positions while trying to get into your bivy! If you like privacy then try aiming your bivy away from everyone else unless you want them to see what you’re doing when changing your clothes etc.

Will I Feel Claustrophobic Sleeping In A Bivy Sack?

If you’re used to having a lot of space then it might take some getting used to but chances are, once you actually get into your bivy and zip yourself up inside then there won’t be any problems. Also, it’s worth pointing out that the opening at the top is usually big enough so you can stick your head out if needed.

How Much Does A Bivy Sack Cost And Is It Worth The Investment?

Like all hiking equipment, prices vary massively and depend on what type of item you need…I’ve noticed that some companies charge more than others for exactly the same thing which I think is wrong because they should always sell their products for as cheap as possible. In my opinion, however, whether or not it’s worth the investment depends on how long you plan to use it for…if it’s your first bivy and you’re unsure if you’ll like the whole idea then I’d only buy one that’s cheap just in case. If however, you know that investing in a quality item won’t let you down then, by all means, go ahead and splash out!

What Can Bivys Be Used For?

Bivies can be used for any activity involving camping or hiking including both summer & winter activities too which makes them good value for money if they last a long time. You can also use bivies when cycling, canoeing/kayaking & rock climbing too so there are plenty of possibilities when it comes to spending your time outside.

Are There Any Drawbacks To Using A Bivy Sack?

In my opinion, the only real drawback to using a bivy is that they can be quite expensive…but if you find one which is of high quality and has a number of added features then this might not be as big an issue as it first appears. However, if you’re on a budget then you’ll probably have to settle for something cheaper with fewer features instead…however, make sure you get all the information before buying anything by checking online reviews & learning about the item’s pros & cons before committing to buy!

How Big Should A Bivy Sack Be?

Bivies come in different shapes and sizes but basically, you should choose one which is just big enough to fit a sleeping mat inside along with your rucksack and other bits & pieces. The bivy will then take up some space too but nothing that’s going to be a problem when the items are sealed inside.

Is A Bivy Sack Easy To Set Up?

A bivy sack is only as difficult as you make it…there really isn’t anything complex about them at all so simply find a suitable spot, put your sleeping mat down first and then put the bivy on top of this before zipping yourself in! It usually takes less than two minutes from start to finish so they aren’t difficult to use regardless of what people might tell you in any online reviews!

How Do I Minimize Condensation In My Bivy Sack?

If you’re worried about condensation then there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of it happening…firstly, ensure that your bivy sack is breathable and not too thick because this could make a big difference. Secondly, try opening the top slightly while undressing which will allow moist air to escape, plus always put everything back inside the same way so the moisture doesn’t get trapped & cause any problems later on! Just take your time when using one, don’t rush it, and invest in a good quality model just like all other hiking equipment.

Are Bivy Sacks Waterproof?

Bivy sacks are NOT waterproof because they don’t have rain flaps or anything else that helps to keep the water out…they’re actually more water-resistant which means you should be ok if it rains slightly but obviously, you should avoid getting them too wet. This is why many models come with a hood at the top so if it does unexpectedly start raining then you’ve got some protection – not perfect but better than nothing!

Are Bivies Breathable?

Technically speaking, all bivies are breathable…it’s impossible for them not to be unless they’re made from completely waterproof materials which would make them NO use at all in my opinion. However, the ventilation system will vary between bivys depending on what you buy and where you’re planning on using it, so for example, a snowboarding bivy will be far more breathable than say a hiking one. A snowboarder needs to escape the cold as quickly as possible whereas a hiker is less likely to get as sweaty…you can use this as your guide! When choosing where to shop I’d recommend checking out some reviews first if possible because these should give you an insight into what people think of certain models which might help you choose between two or three & also save yourself some money in the process.

How Does Air Flow Inside A Bivy Sack?

Typically, there’s a zip down the side which allows you to control how much air flows through…it’s ok to take this up if it gets too chilly but try and remember to put it back down again later. I like to leave mine open slightly when using one because I hate feeling too enclosed but that’s just me – do whatever feels most comfortable for you!

What Are Some Tips For Sleeping In A Bivy Sack?

Firstly, never underestimate the power of a good quality insulated sleeping mat because these will make all the difference between a restful night & one filled with discomfort & cold! Second, don’t try and cook inside your bivy or light any candles as any sparks could ignite the materials. Plus, avoid drinking alcohol as this will dehydrate you, and always put everything back inside the bivy so it doesn’t get damp or wet.

Is It Difficult To Keep Warm In A Bivy Sack?

This is a difficult question to answer because everyone has differing opinions on what they consider chilly…some people think that 5 degrees Celsius is cold while others thrive in conditions hitting minus 15. Obviously, sleeping bags or any other kind of bedding can help but I’d suggest checking out some online reviews first just to see what other users have had to say about the topic! All of my advice above should come in handy regardless though…plus, make sure you buy a decent quality one like all hiking equipment!

Are There Any Tips For Sleeping Warm In A Bivy Sack?

A few basic tips to help you get a good night’s sleep inside your bivy include: invest in a decent quality model that fits you well, keep the top open slightly while undressing which will allow moist air to escape, leave the zipper open & place everything back inside afterward so it doesn’t get damp or wet. When choosing where to buy, always check out some online reviews first and try not to get too cold – remember, there isn’t actually much room inside one!

Are There Any Tips For Packing Up A Bivy Sack?

I’d recommend checking out my article about this subject because it covers all the key points…however in a nutshell, just stuff everything back inside and remember to dry it out properly if the weather forecast doesn’t look good. It’s also a great idea to leave your bivy in a big pile like you would an umbrella…this naturally lets air circulate around it meaning there is less chance of mildew setting in too!

How To Clean A Bivy Sack?

To help you buy one that’s more breathable, look for a model with mesh vents along the side. If the manufacturer has created an inner canopy of fabric, make sure it is non-absorbent so you can easily brush off any snow or moisture.

 

Conclusion

There are many ways that you can keep your sleeping bag safe from the elements, but you might find that having an insulated bib that is very breathable will give you the most comfort during those colder months. There are two ways to do this: either by keeping your sleeping bag dry by keeping it in a backpack or mesh basket, or by using a high quality insulated bib and jacket. If you plan on spending time in the mountains in the winter months or traveling for that matter, then the best bivy sacks and sleeping bags are made with high quality materials. Take a look at your options and see what kind of protection you need, then shop around for the best deals. No matter where you are, there’s a bib and sleeping bag out there to protect you.