Helpful Single Swag Setup Tips - [ For Beginners ]

[@rogerclift2705]

Hey Tim. Totally get camping is “to each their own.” No one size fits all. I love my stretcher. Why? Warmer in winter. Better insulation than a tarp. Cooler in summer with the better airflow. Easier to get in and out. Swag still look like the day I bought it as it’s never touched the ground. No stick and rock hunting! More comfortable. Easier to roll up as it’s elevated. I don’t need to worry about midnight downpours. Don’t need to worry about ants nests. Easier to level. (Only 4 points of contact with the ground. Generally camp on my own, so extra 7-8kgs doesn’t negate all positives above. Yes, extra thing to set up/pack up but worth it for all above. You asked why we prefer stretchers? Well, there you go.👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, Yeah spot on. No size fits all. Doesn’t matter what setup you have, just get out and go camping. Great feedback on why you use a stretcher. Appreciate it mate. Cheers Tim.

[@muzzaball]

Shit Roger, nothing for me to say here except 'what he said!' Thanks for reading me like a cheap novel. I have a wall at the end of my vehicle side awning, and I put my stretcher up the closed end; protected from the elements and outta the way - plus I can still get to my fridge which is accessed thru the passenger door. Cheers mate.

[@Digger43]

I’m an old bloke turning 80 next year, been camping for over 60 years. When my 4 boys were little we’d always sleep in a tent but then I discovered the swag. I just love sleeping in a swag !!, I like to sleep with my head out, so I never set the swag up as it’s designed, I roll it out on a stretcher, I use a yoga mat for a mattress which halves the size of the rolled-up swag and keeps the rising cold at bay and I find it very, very comfortable. The stretcher makes it easier to get in & out of bed and gives me somewhere to Gert my boots on. When I’m not sleeping under an awning and it starts to rain, I pull the flap up over my head. All my boys and grandkids do the same thing. We all love the stretcher.

[@rossdrayton5476]

Brilliant video as usual. One other tip. When you find the perfect spot on the ground, “look up” and make sure your not setting up under a loose tree branch that can break off in the night. One hell of a wake up call. Thanks again for taking time to help others Batesy. A real Aussie caring for others. 👍🏻

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Ross, Yeah good tip mate for any branches above that might snap off. Thanks for that and your reply. Cheers Tim

[@davidlovell4390]

Hi Tim, another cracking video, thank you. I have been a confirmed "ground dweller"(swags,tents, bivies, hootchies, etc) for nearly 50 years. Last year l "discover" tent/swag stretchers GAME CHANGER for me. Here's why *Super comfortable *Quick to set up *A reasonable weight (for car based camping) *when the weather is suitable i can remove the fly and sleep under the stars with the bug netting to protect me *l can sit on the stretcher and put my boots on a big bonus for an old digger *l'm off the ground away from the creepy crawlies and the wet,rocks etc So l'm a fan of tent/swag strechers and as a my Granddad always said "Any fool can be uncomfortable" But to be honest , getting away and going camping is what it is all about.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day David, Thats great feedback mate how a stretcher for your swag works so well for you. Being comfortable is key, thats for sure. Great reply mate, thanks for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@anthonyyounghusband5917]

I use a swag on the ground. Also use a ground sheet / mat for 3 reasons, 1. It helps to stop moisture from reaching the bottom of the swag. 2. Gives a little clean area to get in & out of swag 3. Minimise the dirt, sand, mud from gathering on the bottom of the swag and getting on the rest of the swag when rolling up. I roll my bedding up in the swag and use a self inflating mattress for warms & comfort. I find a swag is warmer to sleep in than a tent during the colder months. Airflow a moisture is sometimes a problem. When iv been away for a few weeks in the swag. I with give the swag & bedding a good wash & dry when I get home. The other downside I find with my swag is the weight & effort needed to set & pack up. Age is catching up with me lol

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Anthony, Great feedback mate. The ground sheet sure does help for keeping the warmth inside the swag. I'm always toasty warm in my swag, no matter what time of year. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim.

[@grantdoughty9657]

I’ve only recently purchased a stretcher after sleeping in the ground for many year. I love the stretcher for the fact I know I’ll be comfortable no matter what sort of ground I set up on and the extra height makes it easier to get in and out of. In saying that though I never found sleeping on the ground to be an issue. As long as I’m out in the bush somewhere I couldn’t be happier. Thanks for the video mate, cheers 👍🏼

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thats it mate. Doesn't matter what camping setup you have. As long as what ever setup you have , it gets you out in the bush camping. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@Peaceforall-3697]

Thank you Sir ! That was super helpful , first time swag user ❤

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Christina That’s great you found the swag pack up video helpful. Have fun camping in your new swag. Thanks for your reply Cheers Tim

[@touringwithtyrone4933]

The scenery that you use as a backdrop is simply fantastic. One day I will get there but love these videos champion. Mick

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Mick. Thanks a lot mate. It was a top spot thats for sure. Thanks for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@fionaludbrook8193]

Hey Tim. my stretcher is a Nature Hike one weighs 2.8 kilos and packs down to nothing. I love it. A total game changer for me, as so easy to get in and out of bed as I get older. Like the Helinox ones, but without the hefty price tag! I use it with a hike tent on top and my ultra light mattress and goose down sleeping bag.All super compact and light,takes up less space than a traditional swag, sets up fast and fits within the limited space of my car and is light and easy for me to handle. It's the system that works well for me. I can also pack it all into a big suitcase and fly interstate with it and hire a vehicle for fly drive camping. Pretty cool!

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Sounds like a really top setup you have. Take it anywhere which is very handy. Thanks heaps for your reply. Cheers Tim

[@garyhankinson5695]

I just use a double dome swag on the ground and slide a couple of self inflating mats under the foam matress as I’m 113kg. I’m 61 with a bad back and find it easy as I can just step straight into the sleeping bag and have a milk crate beside the swag to put one hand on to help get in and out. When I was in the army years ago I could never sleep well on a stretcher.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Gary, Double swag would be great for the extra room. The extra mattress setup you have sounds good. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim.

[@peterszeligiewicz7239]

G'day Tim really enjoy your videos mate . I started on the ground but had go to a stretcher because my knees are buggered. The stretcher makes it a lot easier to get in and out of the swag . Keep the videos coming ,cheers Pete .

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Pete, Thanks mate. It’s great hearing from those people using a stretcher and why they use one. I greatly appreciate your feedback mate. Cheers Tim.

[@ThePlim62]

I have a version of the Jet Bunker Stretcher Swag and use an Exped 100mm SIM. The combo has resulted in the best sleeping in my 40 odd years of camping. I’ve converted four mates away from their canvas ovens to this setup. As nostalgic as the canvas swag is, it’s had its days I’m afraid.

[@ShepMike3934]

I’m a stretcher man Tim. Metal knees put paid to sleeping on the ground for me. But I do love my big stretcher and swag. Always comfortable, warm and dry. MikeE

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Mike, That’s the go mate , get your sleeping setup that works for you. Glad to hear you can still get out mate. Thanks for sharing. Cheers Tim.

[@jeffcox3544]

I’m from the USA Just found your video on swag tent setup (great video by the way) Have been watching Aussie videos about swag camping so I recently purchased one (Kodiak Canvas swag is readily available in the states) Why spend 20 minutes or so setting up a tent when you can just sling a swag tent off the roof rack and have that sucker set up in less than 5 minutes . Keep up the good work and I look forward to seeing more of your videos

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Jeff, Thanks mate for dropping in from the USA. I'm hearing you, swag camping is so quick and easy to setup. Leaving a lot more time to enjoy your camping experience. I googled up that swag you have. I like the look of them and easy to setup. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@jamiesullivan8900]

That's the only way and the traditional way to set the humble swag up! Great work 👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Jamie, Thanks mate. It works for me and my swag. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@maxgermasi3302]

G'day Tim and thanks for the video. I use my swag on the ground and always with the tarp underneath it, because it's less messy to pack it up. When I travel solo it stays on the rear seats, the double one (for the honey moon trips with the swmbo) stays on the roofrack. I leave the bedding in there only for the duration of the camping trip, once at home I hang it in the wardrobe, i like to look after those feathers. Although when we travel with tent we sleep on stretchers, we found hey are a bit more comfy in the tent. And for us the swag it MUST be Aussie made! Thanks

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Max, Yeah the tarp works well mate. My bedding stays in all the time. I get it out every now and then to air it out. Great feedback mate. Cheers Tim.

[@muzzaball]

Hey Max, I agree - I pull the feather bag out at the end too, to let them breathe!

[@arkhamkillzone]

Great video I enjoyed it. Just bought a 23zero 1400 bandit yesterday. I love it and am chilling in it now in my room lol.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Haha lol That’s gold mate your in it now inside. Hope you have some great camping trips in your new swag. Thanks for your reply, and glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers Tim

[@Matty-Travels]

I live full time off grid in my campervan in the UK. I don't just sleep in my campervan though. I park the campervan then I go and find somewhere to set up either a hammock and tarp, or my wynnchester bedroll, or my outhaus swag bag or even just a cot bed and sleeping bag next to the campervan. I love just sleeping out in nature and being exposed to the cold and elements alot more rather than just always sleeping in my campervan. Great video. Ill subscribe to your channel.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, I totally agree mate, you cant beat camping out in the bush and excepting what ever weather conditions come your way. Thats just part of the experience of camping in the outdoors. Your bush camping setup when you head away from your campervan, sounds just great. Simple and easy to setup. Thanks a lot mate for dropping in from the UK and for subscribing to my channel. Cheers Tim

[@Matty-Travels]

@@timbates4wdadventures Looks a great channel. I'm going to watch all the videos you've done over the next few weeks. Looks great.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@Matty-Travels Thanks a lot mate. I hope you enjoy the videos on m y channel.

[@ericchilver9113]

Quick and easy Tim , done n dusted. Works for me ..enjoy the Gin, and sun, catch you on the next, 🇦🇺👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Eric, Yeah mate, simple and easy is the go. Thanks heaps for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@louiskudlak2241]

Good stuff, always good to c how other people do their put ups and pack down, I have a swag & RTT, I used to use a stretcher but didn’t like the sag in the middle so now on the ground,👍👍👍 cheers buddy

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Louis, Yeah im the same mate when it comes to stretchers. Some people like and others aren't so keen. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@warrenhaywood8425]

Just one little tip I leave a pair of easy slip on shoes outside my swag for those trips during the night, leave the boots in the landcruiser and put them on when ready for the day. I am 74, like the milk crate idea for helping to stand, will incorporate it on my next trip.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Warren, Great idea leaving your main boots inside your 4wd. Never know what might climb inside them at night. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@thebigw3377]

Tim I like your old school minimalist style of camping. Many go way overboard with their wiz bang rubbish

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Yeah i do like the old school simple ways of going camping. For me along with many others, it works really well. My video on Monday night, i show all of the gear i have for camping. It's pretty simple. Thanks a lot mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@mmmmdeliciousbacon]

Onya Tim! I camp in a similar way to you. No stretcher, just my swag on the ground on a tarp. But you have a very modern, posh swag with poles. Mine is a tapered shape swag about 27yo from an Aussie company called Fleming and Sandford (they no long exist). Just 2 straps from the head end that I tie to a tree branch or my 4wd's mirror to give that head height. It's been on zillions of trips with me and I still love, it going strong. Love your videos mate.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, I love one of the old style swags. There’s a company in Perth making them. Yours is an old one but a good one. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim

[@stevemcnaughton324]

G’day Tim. Good setup for your swag there. Mines pretty much the same except my swag has a spreader bar on the top. I did upgrade from a 50 mm mattress to a 75 mm. Big difference, a lot more comfortable. I store my swag in a bag. Much better when up on the roof rack, stop bugs getting in. All the best, keep up the great vids.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Steve, Thanks mate. It's pretty simple my setup, but works well for my camping trips. Yeah the swag bags are handy while stored on the roof, at least it keeps the rain away from the swag. Thanks mate fore your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@alanbates5596]

Good sack there Tim, when im hunting in the high country using my hiking tent i have house wrap silverside up cut about 2 inches shorter than the tent, it reflects any heat loss from the bottom and being tucked in unfer the bottom stops water pooling under the tent from run off, thanks alot for the video Tim

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Alan, Yeah mate, my swag goes alright. Good tips when the tarp mate. I appreciate your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@timmoss1481]

Stretcher all the way. My knees are buggered so getting up and down of the ground is a no go. Plus being in a stretch is easier for me to roll up 👍🏼

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thats the go mate. As long as it works for you is the go. Thanks for your reply. Cheers Tim

[@richnegs5828]

Hey Tim, bought a stretcher for mine…lasted one night, just not comfortable, but got a tip from a mates mrs who’s in the ses to put foil emergency blankets underneath the mattress in the swag to keep the heat in. Haven’t tried it yet but thought that’s not bad idea… as long it doesn’t rustle like a shopping bag when you move.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Rich, Not a bad tip on the foil emergency blanket. But, yeah as long as it doesn't make a noise in the middle of the night. Lol Great feedback mate. Cheers Tim

[@muzzaball]

Hey Rich, I use one of those yoga mats - not for yoga but under my swag mattress and on a stretcher for that little extra insulation!

[@richnegs5828]

@@muzzaball crackin idea, her thought process was to keep it thin enough to wrap up in the bag which works better for me. 👍theres just too much droop in the stretcher for me.

[@JasonISF]

Good video mate, I'm liking my 23zero Bandit 1400 on the ground and great point about the extra weight and bulk of a stretcher. Cheers from SA 👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, Yeah the weight of stretchers is a big, specially if you’re carrying a few of them Thanks a lot for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@westralianoffroad]

Good stuff mate. Nothing like the old swag. Nice to hear some of your thoughts too. Matt

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks Matt, greatly appreciate your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@hamish1162]

Stretches are great for summer in my opinion plenty of air flow underneath, but in winter I don’t like them they have a constant cold blowing underneath taking any warmth away, on the ground is the way to go when it’s cold

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Hamish, Yeah I have heard a lot of feedback saying that about stretchers. The cold air under them in winter. Not great in winter. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@Palmetto705]

Thanks for the video. I am just getting into swag use and appreciate the tips. Spent 30 days in oz with the 25 th. Inf from Hawaii. We landed in Brisbane and went to an enormous sheep station. Had a great time and consumed more than my share of 4x. The Aussie soldiers were great.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Ron, Sounds like mate you had a great trip. Swag camping is easy if it works for the camping you want to do. Cheers Tim

[@colinspratt9580]

Hi Tim. Thanks for another gr8 vid. I generally only use a stretcher for winter camping & wet ground, otherwise most of the time it’s the swag on the ground. Cheers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Colin, Thats cool. You have the best of both worlds going on , depending on the time of year you're out camping. Thanks mate for your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@kmac.jimmy123]

I love my swag…I’ve had it for nearly 15 years! Still going strong. I always roll my bedding up in it, so much easier 😎

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Keiran, Another good swag that’s still going well. Rolling the bedding up is way easier than taking it out. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@fattso51]

Hi Tim. I use a traditional Cooper swag. And on recent trip to Gippsland the temperature plummeted below zero. I usually sleep on the ground as well, but on this occasion I used a kampright tent / stretcher combo. I put my swag into the tent.So being of the ground was what I was aiming for. Big mistake. The condensation was rampant, although I slept pretty well. I'm still trying to dry the bugger out. I guess I should have slept on the ground as usual. Love the content mate. Cheers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Ross, Ahhh condensation is a bugger is it's bad enough. Good thing that you still slept ok, but as you say. It's drying the swag out later on for the next trip. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@camsin1973]

No stretcher for me either Batesy. Definitely a fan of the emergency blanket under the mattress though. Keeps the body heat radiating back into the mattress. Toasty and warm 👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Cameron, A few people have mentioned those blankets under the swag for extra warmth. Sounds like a top idea. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@L-lp9fl]

Just to bulky when rolled up for my set up. Thanks for the tips, ground sleeping, you can roll over. With stretchers you turn on yourself

[@timbates4wdadventures]

No worries mate. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@herbmarsh8519]

Great stuff Tim

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks mate. Cheers Tim

[@Moza960]

Thanks Tim 👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

No worries mate. Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for watching it. Cheers Tim.

[@outdoors5352]

I've had exactly the same swag for the past 15 years. The only upgrade I made recently was to buy a 75mm Oztrail swag mattress (non eggshell type) because mine only came with 50mm eggshell originally. I also put one of those traditional blue sleeping mats (those cheap 10mm thingys) under the mattress, but in the swag and it stays there. It helps insulation and also if the ground is a bit rocky.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Sounds like a good old swag mate. My mattress is still going ok for comfort. I might upgrade it down the track. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@ShannonBeal80]

Awesome video as usual Batesy & congrats on the 20k subs mate.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Shannon, Thanks a lot mate for your feedback. The channel is slowly going in the right direction. Cheers Tim

[@joea3235]

I use a canvas bedroll on a cot (stretcher). I find it more comfortable since I have a 3 inch thick dense foam in there aswell.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Joe, Sounds like a comfortable setup you have. Thanks for your reply. Cheers Tim

[@Australianzwayne]

I’m trying to get my wife and kids into swags only mate, but..l have a way to before I get them to sleep outside of our tent, which we love, but gee the set up is killing me. Thanks for another informative vlog mate. Happy safe camping champ.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thats great mate that you head away camping with your family. Getting a setup that works for your family is the go. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@rubigor]

Thanks for your videos, they are great ! For me it was the opposite, when I got a stretcher it was a game changer. I love it.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Gordon, That’s great mate that your stretcher works well for you. Thanks mate for your reply and feedback, I greatly appreciate it. Cheers Tim.

[@AbysmalTomb16]

Great video as always Tim of information and easily understandable. Glad to see your keeping well

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Mathew, Thanks mate for your feedback. I greatly appreciate it. Cheers Tim.

[@colinlong1669]

all good an simple well workt out an easey thanks tim

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Colin, Simple is the go for sure mate. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@willshunting]

Yep... my stretcher is a heavy pain in the proverbial, but, in my experience and opinion, the positive 'yings' for the weight 'yang', need to be experienced.... then I recon you won't ever choose to sleep on the ground again, ...... as long as you buy a strong, stable model. While cheaper ones usually weigh a lot less, their instability will put you off.... so go for the heavier, self stabilizing models with three sets of legs, an integral stretching system and ridgitity struts. Even then, always actually try it out on the shop floor before buying. I mean repeatedly sit down on it and get up from it, lay on it, roll over in both directions, and try to jiggle it end to end to emulate pulling/ tugging at your bedding as you might during a nights sleep. All the while, make sure you're not feeling the stretcher excessively rocking and/or hearing squeaks and creaks that would wake you up. I put a self inflating mattress in my swag on top of the supplied mattress and the set up is at least as warm and comfortable as my bed at home. With the addition of a small fly over the swag and stretcher, I have slept soundly and stayed completely warm and dry through teaming rain, snow etc. Each of my stretchers six feet sit on non skid rubber pad floor protectors I got from a well known hardware chain.These stop the feet of the stretcher legs sinking into soft ground so there's no need to clean and dry the feet when breaking camp. All of that said, when I'm using my swag setup, I'm fishing and/or hunting solo and the 4x4 is packed accordingly. I completely agree that carrying stretchers for the whole family would, sadly, not be practical or acceptable for most people. Any worthwhile stretchers would collectively take up too much room and weigh too much.

[@DJSAS]

Another great video mate. Cheers DJ

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks mate. I greatly appreciate your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@marksomerville1275]

Great clip Timmy.. my tips.. Agree with Gary, milk crate outside to help get up (for us old barstards) & for your boots.. yellow cable ties on zips, makes easy to see & grab (when you need that urgent 3am pee).. spring clamp to hold flap open.. polar fleece blankets (like yours).. also entry sequence, face head, step in, knees, slide, roll, fart, zip.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Mark, Thanks mate and thanks for you’re extra tips. Yellow cable ties would work well at night Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim.

[@MrGraemeb2022]

Loving ’ the cable ties. I’m stealing that one👍

[@limitlessadventures7626]

Loved the vid still not keen on a swag yet still use air bed in back of the wagon

[@timbates4wdadventures]

That’s cool mate. As long as you find it comfortable, that’s the key. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim

[@lauriebates5180]

Thanks again Tim ,you make it looks so easy. But stretcher as well for us old fellas cheers from Loz

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Loz, One of the best things about a swag i guess. Is that they are easy to set up. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@craigstevens2112]

As always a great video 👍

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks mate, i really appreciate your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@matthutch5919]

Yet another great video Tim 👍 I use a stretcher (if I get to a camp sight before midnight) mainly because I have had more than a few broken bone's & it makes getting in & out a lot easier. Also find the comfort a lot better for me. Most of my m8's don't use a stretcher......yet 🤣🤣 judging from their comments I don't think it will be to long till they are

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Matt, Broken bones don’t sound good mate. But, if your stretcher makes it easier to get in and out of your swag, that’s all fine mate. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@JMCKAY351]

Have been using a stretcher under my swags for over 20 years now, 1 reason is I have a bad back and just cannot sleep on ground even with a 4" mattress in swag, 2nd reason is it us soo much more comfortable, no lumps, no sticks, no rocks, even when the Mrs comes along we have 2 matching stretchers and we simply use 2 sets of vice grips to connect them together and then set up out big daddy deluxe swag on top, also it gets u off the ground.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Jeff, Great feedback mate about why you use a swag for camping. Joining the two stretchers together is a great idea. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim

[@jasonplumridge2821]

Great video Tim, never thought of putting poles through the top loop before rolling swag up. Bet you'll still get asked why you sleep on the ground next live stream though. LOL

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Jason, Yeah mate putting the poles in the top loops works well. Always in a handy spot for setup. Thanks mate, i appreciate your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@warrenhaywood8425]

Just subscribed mate, great informative video.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks very much mate. Welcome to my channel. Cheers Tim.

[@MOOSEDOWNUNDER]

Fair play Batesy, I'm too tall, heavy and broken to be a ground dweller these days lol, cot and swag on a solo bush camp or Oz tent and double inflated queen mattress and wool blankets when camping with the handbrake lol, glamping.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Thats cool why you are sleeping off the ground. The Oz Tent is an addition im also looking at for longer trips. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@JarvisJiri1998]

hey batesy mate cheers for the video, most nights in my swag i get condensation on the inside in cold weather and if im on the move i'll roll her up and the condensation will soak the mattress do you battle condensation in the cold weather? ive been leaving the windows open too

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, No, condensation isn’t a issue I have. Sometimes I’ll roll the front flap open. But even when it’s closed it still doesn’t happen. Not sure why mate yours does that. Cheers Tim

[@shanestaff6307]

Hi Tim I have a RTT and swags just bought a new swag and a stretcher to try out. Myself and 3 mates are planning a trip up cape next year and the Vic high country for New Years my RTT is a soft top and hard on my own to pack up so I’ve went back to the swag when on my own I find they are very warm and so quick and easy to setup and pack up i have a mesh bit to put underneath swag so when getting in and out your not dragging mud and dirt into swag can’t wait to see Vic high country end of the year love your videos mate and what style of Akubra is that you wear ? Keep the videos coming mate cheers 🍻

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Shane, Sounds good mate. I hope you can get the trips to the Cape and Vic High Country in. Both are amazing places. My Akubra is a Riverina. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@shanestaff6307]

@@timbates4wdadventures I’ve watched you in the high country it looks so nice we are from nsw wollongong so hopefully bye New Years we can get down to checking it out thanks again Tim

[@stanleyj.mitchell4851]

Love my swag, on the ground, under my awning. Takes me forevermore to set up camp coz I keep getting distracted. Well, one must get firewood. And get a fire going. And talk to the neighbours. And boil the billy. Besides, what’s the hurry. Thanks Tim. Looking forward to the next one.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Stanley, Yeah spot on mate. Simple setup means more time for relaxing and kicking back. Next weeks video is my full simple set up. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@jefgraham4686]

Hey Tim jef again I meant to say in the High country I'm from Melton Vic and been camping for over 50 years mate ,,,love it but I don't have 4wd just a hiace van with awning and awning tent

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Jef, Ahh that’s cool mate. There’s plenty of really nice places to camp where I 4wd isn’t needed. Simple set up mate, way to go. Cheers Tim.

[@markskeels1952]

Nice easy simple setup...have been doing this now for 50yrs (less a couple when using a PV back in the day) and still on the ground...tried a stretcher but fell off it and still don't know how it happened but it did...and if you have to take the bedding out to roll it up is it really a swag?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Mark, Yeah I’m not keen on sleeping on a stretcher. Not my thing. Rolling the bedding up inside the swag is the go. Quick and easy setup. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim

[@AdventureCampingAustralia]

Hey Tim, is this campground in Sundown NP at the Severn River?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

No mate. It’s just out from Licola. Cheers Tim

[@olsenstoursandtraining349]

I also sleep in a swag on the ground - but a real swag ;-) no hoops. My reasoning is that, as a tour leader, I need something simple and fast because I'm busy. I have silver tarp for the swag to go on top of, as critters prefer to go under the tarp than over it. I also never roll my swag out until I'm ready to get in it. No stretchers for me. Too much trouble and too cold. I nver pole the head end up. I just leave it down.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Can’t beat to ol style swags with no poles. Simple and quick setups are the go. I also find it so much warmer on the ground. Never cold in my swag. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@poeyd9624]

Onya Timbo , Legend 🤙🍺🇦🇺

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks mate. Appreciate it. Cheers Tim.

[@hisexcelencyflynn1]

Hi Tim, good tips there. Just a question about having your swag on the roof rack. It looks like you don't keep it in a bag and all your bedding is inside. If it rains do you get any water inside? I really hate wet bedding and for that reason always keep the swag inside of the car. I also prefer setting it up on the ground. I carry a small collapsible rake to rake the ground before I set it up to get rid of any sticks, gum nuts and small rocks. Nothing worse than having something poking you in the back all night.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, If it’s going to rain, I do throw my swag inside the two rear barn doors to stay out of the rain. But, during the warmer and drier months, I strap the swag down on my roofrack. Nothing worse that been wet inside your swag. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@SlackingSince1969]

Hey Tim, Swags aren't a thing here in Canada but I've done tons of tent time with Cubs, Scouts, Rovers, etc when I was younger. Going to be 52 next week. On the ground, on top of a tarp, under another tarp, with a thick sleeping pad, a warm sleeping bag and a good pillow is the best place for a tent for me. So I'm assuming it would be the same in a swag if I used one. I've seen enough of your videos to know that's how you roll. From the other side of the world -> I got your back dude...lol The high country is beautiful. One question though. Why don't you store you swag in a bag since you carry it on the roof? Love your videos Tim.🍻 Marc,

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Marc, Thanks mate for dropping in from Canada. Beautiful part of the World where you live. I also went right through cubs, scouts and ventures. Best years of my life. I didn't go onto rovers. All of my camping from those days were done on the ground, and today at nearly 58, im still on the ground. Lol I dont have a bag for my swag to go inside, but if it';s raining hard i will put my swag inside my 4WD at the back. Thanks mate for your reply and feedback. Happy birthday for next week mate, you have a good camping trip. Cheers Tim.

[@SlackingSince1969]

@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks for getting back to me Tim. I don't what Rovers was like in Australia but here (I live in Toronto) it was amazing.

[@SlackingSince1969]

@@timbates4wdadventures don't know what -> is how that should read...doh🤯

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@SlackingSince1969 Rovers is the next scouting level after Ventures. Rovers over here start at 18yrs old.

[@SlackingSince1969]

@@timbates4wdadventures Rovers is after Ventures here as well. After Scouts I stayed in my troop and became a Scouter in Training for 2 years. During the summer of 1985 I met a couple of guys who were Rovers at the summer camp I was a councellor at. They invited me to join their Crew. So I joined Rovers when I was 16 in the fall of 1985. You start Rovers at 18 here too but at the time if you turned 17 during that Rover year you could join if a Crew wanted you. Our Scout year use to end in Aug and since my birthday is in July I just made the cut. A month or 2 later Scouts Canada changed the rule that you had to be 18 before you could join. However if you were already a Rover you could be grandfathered. So I was never a Venture but a Rover for 10 years...lol

[@johnfranke9655]

My swag is also rolled up in my groundsheet and sealed so even up on the roof rack in bad weather the swag is always dry, the under side of the groundsheet may be wet but years down the track my swag swag is in good Nick but I have replaced the g/s a few times, much cheaper option, and always set up under an awning or flysheet

[@FordJ1]

Drag an offroad camper trailer for wifey but I miss sleeping in a swag. I remember always staying cosy even when it's below 0°c. Borrowed a stretcher off the inlaws for 1 trip and found it horrible. Dips in the middle and a big minus for me was i couldnt roll around in the night. I also felt old using the stretcher. Btw I'm 25 🤪

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Haha 25 only a young one. Lol. Yeah that’s the same issues I had with stretchers years ago. Just like being set up on the ground. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@radod6147]

Jazzaford, buy quality stretcher and you will change your mind again

[@FordJ1]

@@radod6147 interesting! Ill have a look

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@radod6147 one day maybe mate.

[@adam_1t641]

Hey Tim I'm thinking of bying a burke and wills iorn bark swag do you rate the burke and wills swags

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Do your homework on B&W swags. Mine were made in Australia. I think they are now made off shore. So check them out. Cheers Tim

[@adam_1t641]

@@timbates4wdadventures thanks mate I think you can still get these swags made in Aus

[@johndelaney2957]

I just do the ground, i've thought about getting a stretcher because of bad back but that's as far as its gotten just a thought. I was up in the darling downs about 6 weeks back, it was very cool at night but i was very warm in my swag. Yes it rained too with that black dirt that sticks like shit to everything when wet, swag was a mess after a week. But anyway give it a wash when home all good. Do you sleep with the door open in the summer? Looking at the stars.. Thanks Tim.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday John, Yeah pros and cons with a stretcher. I see the benefits from those that have them and why they use them. I don’t it will ever be for me. During summer, I have the top canvas thrown back. Really nice looking through the mesh on a night night. I roll the from up pretty much all year round for the fresh air. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@33523418]

I can attest to the warmth of those blankets, I keep a blue one in my swag.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah mate, they are wicked those blankets. So warm. Must be the bright colours. Lol Cheers Tim.

[@SLVBULL]

Tim just a quicky, if it's pouring cats and dogs does the swag bedding inside get wet when it's on your roof. I assume it would be. Cheers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

If it's going to rain full on, i generally put my swag inside my Patrol at the back. Better off keeping as much rain out of as i can. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@TimsBitsnPieces]

I've just recently been given a 2nd hand swag and waiting for all this covid shit to stop so I can go away and use it when I go camping with some friends.. I have always used a stretcher with a sleeping bag and doona in a tent as I have a stuffed back and getting up from the ground takes me forever, so a stretcher I can sit on, get dressed, put my shoes on etc.. so I will be using my swag on my stretcher and see how it goes.. one question I have is I have heard others talk of thermal blanket or just some insulation sheets for the bottom of the swag to stop the cold getting to your back.. is that still a necessity and will I need it when I'm using the swag on a stretcher, I don't like getting cold and it won't do any good for my back?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, I really hope mate that you get out camping soon and try out the swag you have been given. I've never used a thermal sheet under my swag, only the small drop sheet which i find is plenty for staying warm. I've never been cold in my swag. It's pretty tight inside and maybe that helps with me staying warm while on the ground. Thats great mate if the stretcher works for you. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@bazradventures]

Good vid Tim, where was this video shot?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Thanks mate. Just out past Licola. Cheers Tim.

[@aguyandhistroopy]

On my last trip up through Central NSW it wasn’t ants that I had to worry about, it was mice. Lucky the old Burke n Wills was sealed well. But I must say I didn’t get much sleep for 2 nights with the mice running over the swag all night !!

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, Sounds like a great trip though. I’ve had a few bush mice run over my swag in some of the bush huts I’ve camped in. Your old B&W swag sounds like mine. A good old swag. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@aguyandhistroopy]

@@timbates4wdadventures wasn’t a few.. its was like Burke St during peak hour ! 😂😂

[@andrewbarry5130]

I find my swag has moisture coming in through the pvc floor and wetting the mattress. I use a standard blue tarp as a ground sheet. If I rolled up the swag without drying it out, it would be mould city.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Andrew, Yeah mate, not ideal rolling up the swag still wet without drying it out. Mould can be hard to get out if it's bad enough. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@pauldelazzer84]

G'day Tim is that a Burke & Wills swag?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

It is mate. Cheers Tim

[@shalininaicker]

What make/model is that swag Tim?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, Its an old Burke and Wills. Redgum Cheers Tim

[@shalininaicker]

@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks Tim.

[@jiffijoff9780]

Hi Tim, did you ever have an encounter of snakes moving close to your ground setup in the evening or morning? Especially if there's some fire close by which the snakes usually get attracted to...

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, No, I’ve never had any issues with snakes near my swag. I always look under my swag though when I’m rolling it up, just never know what’s crawled under the swag to keep warm. Lol. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@chriscoyne4827]

There's nothing better then sleeping in a swag on the ground it's the best bush way I've still got my old high country swag that I brought in Mansfield back in the 90s

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah mate. On the ground with my swag works a treat for me also. Thanks for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@chriscoyne4827]

Also less to pack away when camping I love a easy packing

[@GregPalmer2]

Gday young felah l am a bit nervous sleeping in swags because your vulnerable,l sleep in the trusty old Land rover with nice thick foam and warm doona,works a treat. These days l,m in Queenland temporary of cause,l feel like l have the plaque when they hear l am from Vic,hopefully you guys don't stop me from coming back it's not easy pretending to be a Queenslander.

[@desfunslow762]

Hi Tim, I use a kings double deluxe under the awning plenty of room in sleeping bag the lab has his side as well If I am in the tent or gazebo tent i usually will use a stretcher of course the lab has to sleep under , he does not get the idea of a sleep in though Cheers Tim

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Greg, Thats cool mate if your sleeping setup is in the back of your Landy. I hope all is well for you in QLD mate. Stay safe up that way and hope you get back down here ok. Cheers Tim.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Des, The bigger swags would be great for the extra room. Thanks for your feedback on your stretcher mate. Cheers Tim.

[@antonyrayson7425]

Hi Tim. Tony from Briagolong. The reason l put my swag in a tourer tent is my swag is of older design with no hoops etc. lt keeps my self inflating mattress and sleeping bag and pillow all contained together and putting up a tourer tent is relatively quick. Also for being able to stand up in privacy, keeping swag clean, storage of gear out of sight if staying in one area, safety (tent can be seen easily from other vehicles, swag on ground hard to see at night) and if it's windy/raining l'm more protected and l don't like the coffin feeling of hoop swags (got one also). Tip: instead of blue tarp which can trap water between use some shade mesh instead, lets moisture through. Cheers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Antony, Great place where you are living. Great feedback mate. I always have my swag setup beside my Patrol to cover the safety issues with being seen at night. The shade mesh mate is a pretty good idea. Thanks a lot for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@limitlessadventures7626]

Was this filmed at Licola champ

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah, out along Tamborthia Rd. Cheers Tim

[@jefgraham4686]

Hey Tim where can I camp in the country in my van .....not 4wd.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Jef, Those options are endless mate. Depends where you are from and how far you want to travel. Cheers Tim.

[@graemeward120]

Gday Tim, what brand is your swag?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Mine is an old Burke n Wills, Not sure what they are like today. Cheers Tim.

[@shayne617]

Hey Batesy, been off grid for a bit. It’s always refreshing to get back and see a smiling face, great information. Your too political correct (lol) stretchers are a pain in the arse and not worth the hassles,.Keep the vids coming, and thanks for sharing m8. Cheers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Shayne, Hope you had a great trip. Yeah I’m not keen on a stretcher either. Setup on the ground works for me. Thanks a lot for your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@pb8582]

I'm the same no idea why I like it straight on the ground I think people keep sleeping with a crappy mattress and this is the problem, Get yourself a proper act foam mattress 85mm then you won't need the stretcher! I slept under my awning when it's raining though

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, I couldn’t agree more. Swag straight on the ground with a good mattress is key. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@pb8582]

@@timbates4wdadventures I could give you another feed back mate! Please get back into those solo camping video they are awesome! Cheers!

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@pb8582 thanks very much mate. I’m trying after 2 years of Covid lockdowns.

[@pb8582]

@@timbates4wdadventures no lockdown in beautiful Queensland!

[@MichaelRoyDuckworth]

I want to get something like that. It's the only way I have seen that one can set up a shelter and bedding in the rain or storm and be dry.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah mate. I do like how simple the swag is to setup. Cheers Tim

[@Tylerbraithwaite1]

Dig a trench where you plan to lay your swag and fill it with hot coals, cover back over with dirt and you'll be toasty warm

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Ahh righto. Not sure I’ll try that one. But can see how it would work. Cheers Tim.

[@CP-wv2qs]

If a Swag says its water "repellent" - is this a red flag? I always assumed that Swags in general the tops were completely water proofed.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yes , that would be a major red flag for me. A lot depends on the quality of the canvas as to how water proof it's going to be and where it's made. Cheers Tim

[@soundzrinmygarden3833]

Setting up around ants is a bugger, especially those bullants when they come at you with their sleeves rolled up

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah not great setting up on an ant nest. Cheers Tim

[@Peter-ml1is]

dont forget to check for ant nests

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yep i did mention that hot tip. Cheers Tim.

[@BruceschultzAU]

I like my swag on the ground so when I get out at night I don't have any snakes underneath.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah that wouldn’t be great having snakes staying warm under your swag. Cheers Tim.

[@warwickmartin6720]

I use a stretcher because lm 73 and can't get up off the ground 😂😂😂😂

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Warwick, Thats fine mate. If it works thats great. Cheers Tim.

[@darrenrichardson6936]

Hi Tim, set up just like you do, just don’t do it enough 🍻🔥🏕🇦🇺

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Darren, That’s the go mate. Can’t beat the swag. Very simple beat to go camping Thanks mate for your feedback Cheers Tim