Is A Poncho Tarp The Right Shelter/Rain Gear For You? My Experience With The MLD Poncho Tarp/Bivy

[@MrFmiller]

I’ve used a military long range patrol poncho a couple of times. The easiest way to set it up in the rain is to set up a ridge line, while wearing the poncho stake out one side parallel to the line, set your pack under it, throw the loose side over the line, drop out of the hood and stake the opposite side. No need to ever get out from under the poncho at all. Your pack is already there so just lay out a ground tarp and everything can be set up out of the dirt and under shelter. The only reason to get out in the weather is to go potty.

[@heatherp540]

I love that you casually dropped that amazing shot of the mountains in at the end. I was doing dishes watching this and, genuinely, the soap slid out of my hand when I saw that… I love the Tetons. Thanks for sharing your videos, it satiates that part of me that wants to explore but has to wait while I’m in the toddler-aged-children season of my life. Keep being awesome, kind and curious.

[@rkatrails]

Love your willingness to experiment with a variety of shelters and other equipment, giving everything a fair shot instead of just making an uneducated guess. This was a great experiment and has helped me know for sure it's not a system I'd choose, it wouldn't work for me.

[@Swimdeep]

Agree. Dixie does stuff and tries out equipment I would unless it was the only option.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

There is a learning curve involved...as with almost ALL shelter systems.Remember this is just one bivy/tarp combo. The choices today are vast.

[@Swimdeep]

@@geraldhenrickson7472 I don’t care for the tarp/bivy experience. I have done it just not on a hike-I also don’t care for single wall tents or cuben fiber for that matter. It all feels to flimsy for me. And I backpack in boots almost exclusively. Old school, old girl.🌿

[@Swimdeep]

@S M Same to you! Best of luck and thank you for the kind wishes. Good days and bad but mostly pretty doable and definitely better than it was. All days I’m grateful to be alive🌿

[@maxsdad538]

I used a poncho as my rain/snow suit and my shelter for a week in the mountains north of Seattle in March in the USAF POW Survival school (SERE) back in the early 70's. No sleeping bag, ground cloth, winter clothing, or food. But crawl into any thick bush, tuck that poncho around you (as best as you can), and you'd be surprised how warm (relatively speaking) it can get. You may not like it, but you'll live. Next time, I'll share my recipe for cockroach tea. Good eats! 😆 Today, I prefer my motorhome, thank you.

[@asmith7876]

I've used a tarp and hammock all 4 seasons for over 20 years, I love it. Every season, torrential spring thunderstorms to winter snow. I'm also not a through hiker! LOL. Tarps are great IF you can set them up correctly AND the wind doesn't shift AND you have trees AND a lot of random string...you get the point. Great review, but if I was going to use a poncho as a shelter and rain gear, I'd use my old Army poncho. It might weigh a bit more but is bomb proof and was quite a bit less expensive, not counting the 4 years of active duty LOL. I use a 2 pound Aquaquest tarp, 10 ft. by 13 ft. Yeah, it's huge. It's a palace underneath with room for my stuff and can cook under it too. Not dyneema but $100 with lifetime guarantee. Works for my weekend warrior style of backpacking.

[@farstrider79]

I got their 10x10 to experiment with as a backpacking shelter and found I'd rather have the 10x13........or a tent 😂

[@CrimeVid]

does the wind not blow in America ? I have seen large heavy tents blown to rags in the wind, how can you be sure the eyelets just won’t rip out of a tarp, a thing I have had happen to me in a bit of a blow.

[@asmith7876]

@@CrimeVid Many tarps have sewn on tabs, stronger than an eyelet. Properly tied and secured it will withstand a typical spring storm. We have tornadoes here, but I’m not usually out backpacking in a tornado.

[@farstrider79]

@@CrimeVid If you're afraid of wind, you should probably stay indoors.

[@CrimeVid]

@@farstrider79 As usual you’ve missed the point !

[@melburnett]

I couldn't or wouldn't even want to try this setup. It's a TENT only for me. Nor would I try to use a Hammock on longer trips, maybe for a couple of nights. You are one heck of a gal and I've seen almost everyone of your videos. And every time you reached your end of the trail it was heartbreaking for me too. You did something I can't do. Oh, I'm from Carrollton, Ga. and the way you talk (like I do) is just so down home and proves you're a Country Gal. Waiting to watch any other new trips you go on.

[@re7478]

I feel like this would be great for a day pack as part of the 10 essentials since this has a double function.

[@shannonliedtke5820]

Yes, that's exactly how I use mine. Works as rain gear and emergency shelter. It wouldn't be my choice if I had other options.

[@michaelb1761]

I primarily use mine as rain gear - still light compared to a jacket and pack cover - but I have used it for shelter when I didn't expect mosquitoes in the Trinity Alps and Sierra last year.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

A double function is great if it saves weight or space. A 55 gallon drum liner bag works as raingear or makeshift bivi and is much lighter than a poncho. I must admit this poncho looks pretty cool.

[@carlbernsen1290]

But you do have other options, surely? You could pack something else.

[@re7478]

@@carlbernsen1290 Oh there is lots of options, the more one knows about the more informed decision they can make for what they carry as there 10 essentials. With different goals, personalities, budgets, abilities, and bodies, what works best will also be different for each of person. I actually think she said this is not avaliable on their site anymore(did not check), but it is an interesting concept.

[@vicki2266]

For me at the end of a long day of bike packing I just really like being able to set up my little tent, sit up, have a snack, easily change clothes and get away from the bugs until I go to sleep! It’s all about the bugs! lol

[@rickkaylor8554]

Nice informative video. I always enjoy your great videos. A tarp is great because it is multi-functional being a shelter, pack cover, ground coveer and rain gear. I've been using the same cheap no name rip-stop nylon poncho for about 35 years. I periodically waterproof it and it has never let me down. I've used it in snow and rain here in California where bad weather is rare. Growing up in Boy Scouts in the 70's we never used tents but used tarps for ponchos. Only now that we are getting older have some of my buddies started using tents.

[@DrJosh2]

A big collapsible DCF bowl or dog dish works great for keeping items nearby and clean/dry, then can just cinch it up and throw it in your bag like a “junk drawer”. I got mine on eBay. Love it.

[@vincentleuga8135]

As always, thank you very much for your feedback ! I will never thank you enough for all the experience you are sharing with us ! Personally, after using a simple poncho like this one and a bivy bag, changing years ago to a Gatewood Cape, a polycro and S to S nano mosquito net was a great improvement to my comfort : more space to move inside the poncho, able to get dressed inside the poncho and the mosquito net, descent protection in bad weathers, no feeling to be enclosed into a bag. Some changes have been made to try to improve it over the years : replacement of default attachment cords by V lineloc and 1,2mm dynema Z-Line cord, replacement of the main guy line and plastic hook by same V lineloc, Z-Line, and a carabiner, reshape of the mosquito net and attachment to the polycro to make a kind of inner tent (used also with my ZPacks Hexamid pocket tarp with storm doors), non standard way to wear it as poncho, making it more easier to manage big size of the cape,... Even if it is not perfect, this is still my preferred system, used in nearly all my hikes, with a very low weight (1,12 pounds without tent pegs), at a very reasonable price tag (less than $200).

[@memathews]

Yes, I outfitted mine with a S2S Nano net, too. A really versatile combination.

[@pawpawmike7372]

I think I will stick with a tent. Thanks for the info.

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you for reviewing the poncho tarp. I love the Six Moons Design Gatewood Cape because it is a shaped poncho tarp. The coverage is excellent and I have pitched it for inside in some crazy stormy weather and taken it down and put it on without going out. It definitely has a learning curve, but it is way easier to set up than a flat tarp, or an asymmetrical tarp. After writing all that I do have to admit I am really good at tying knots. I don't even need to look at most of them to tie them correctly. Thank you again for another great video. Safe travels.

[@memathews]

Yes! I love my Gatewood Cape. It sheds wind and rain perfectly as a tent; works great as a rain "jacket" with the front zipper fort added breathability. Just like you say, its possible to set up and take down from the inside without getting soaked. It's solid and really convenient from April through October here in Oregon, then I switch to a tunnel tent for full time rain and shedding snow in the mountains.

[@dylanstillwell]

MLD is putting it back up in the next couple of days, I emailed Ron.

[@MB-id2ok]

I use mine as a backup. Its sorta a jack of all master of none item to me.

[@neemancallender9092]

Before ultralight... I backpacked for years in the Eastern seaboard I used an Army surplus poncho, blanket, closed foam mat and a ground sheet Using a poncho is very easy and fast and light when you know how to use it

[@MrAKhiker]

Dixie, great as always! Very fair review of the pros and cons of this system. In my past backpacking (Sierras or Colorado) in fairly dry conditions. I exclusively tarped. Either a 7X9 or a poncho. Some tips that helped me: I used lighter weight fluorescent cord from Amazon, Pre-cut and melt the ends of you lines. I use about 8’ lengths (a little long, but better too long than short) then tie about a two inch loop on one end. You can slip the end of the loop through the tarp tie down and then just run the other end through the loop to secure it. The loops also allow you to quickly connect two lines if you need one long one. Stake out the lines before inserting the poles. I generally use a lean to style. Long side one the ground, and if expecting bad weather, one center pole in the middle high edge,with the two other sides staked out at an angle. Sleep inside at an angle. I have been using a Ti Goat bivvy with mesh you can zip in or out. Since moving to Minnesota, I have reluctantly switched to a tent or hammock. Insect pressure in the north woods is too much for me! I do like a poncho for hiking. As a major “sweat hog” I have yet to find “waterproof-breathable” that works for me. Poncho over my pack and secured with a light bungee cord around my waist greatly improves air circulation. Love your channel!

[@tommynikon2283]

I admire what you've accomplished so much; The Big Three. WOW! Been following since Day One.....I still remember it; it was your first day, first trail, and you were petrified!! Now look at you!!! I was a mountaineer for decades; not much of a trekker ever....so what you've done, something I think I could've never accomplished, really makes an impression. Hell, I didn't even know there was two other national trails besides the Pacific route! Women= "cold" all the time. 4 seasons. What I'd recommend, and virtually no weight penalty: Down booties and Down Hood/Hat, both worn in your sleeping bag. Your head loses about 35% of total heat, so insulate it. And popsicle toes are no fun. As you know all too well....the "right gear" makes all the difference in the world. For me, it's always been a tent AND tarp; decades worth. And although I've used a variety of tents far more often, and tarps exclusively on weather appropriate/environments, when I used the tent....I ALWAYS used the tarp for something else, be it wind/sun block, additional ground cover, used to bear safe food in trees, etc. So the tarp was a Swiss Army knife "tool"...offering great flexibility. But could I do a tarp exclusively, only? NOPE! Because in the Tetons, whaddaya got? SNAKES!!! The tarp/poncho: Uh, that looks like a cross between a baggy Hari Krishna robe and a squirrel wing suit. It's biggest plus is: the orange color will help the rescue choppers find you. For $400+, I'm passing. You did a great job of testing the product, reviewing it candidly/honestly; it helped me quite a bit. I learned something.

[@lynettepatten904]

The best person I ever saw "handling" a long poncho was a judge! (I guess from using robes.) She donated it to our sweep guide(who only had a cheapy Disney type 2$ one) on the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.

[@nedanother9382]

that was just the most thorough review you can get. You covered all the things I've thought about and more.

[@richardross7219]

A poncho/tarp is a great supplement to a tent and can be a shelter in an emergency. I carried two. Good Luck, Rick

[@tommynikon2283]

Same here; for decades. SOP. And even when I used the tent the majority....I ALWAYS found a use for the tarp. Hardly any weight, and the "tools" it offers are totally worth it: a roof, a tent, groundcover, additional insulation, windblock, sunblock, a layout pad/organize gear, yoga mat, etc.

[@lethiapage4767]

that is smart! as an extra piece of gear but not to replace anything.

[@richardross7219]

@@lethiapage4767 If going minimalist, it will work as rain gear and as a shelter. We did it in the Army 50 years ago. The good Army ponchos could also be used as a strecher or a hammock. The poncho that I like now is from River Country for $10 but they seem to be running out. Good Luck, Rick

[@lethiapage4767]

@@richardross7219 maybe? I had a military poncho tarp purchased from a surplus store. I loved it and it was super well made. I used it for a great number of things! Laying out my gear blanket. Firewood gathering. End wall on a tarp. Sitting on it. Peeing under it. Wearing it over my jacket or sleeping bag for a little warmth. Buuuuut I posted this elsewhere on the thread for this video that I would never risk carrying\wearing my shelter through any sort of hostile terrain where I might damage it on brush or thorns. UL performance fabrics tend to be very thin and even if stronger than they look they aren't indestructible. I would hate to ruin a piece of gear that is so important...it would be a complete suckfest. Also if you were in the army thank you for serving!

[@richardross7219]

@@lethiapage4767 I did 29 years with the US Army and Reserves. My wife did 21 years. I agree with the worry of damage which is why I usually carried 2 ponchos and a roll of 200 mph tape. That allowed me to snap them together and make a pup tent like shelter. Those old Army ponchos are hard to find now. My two disintegrated after only 40 years(the air mattresses too) and I haven't found any more. If you still have yours look at adding a woobie(poncho liner) to yours so that it can be a sleeping bag. Woobies do not have a head hole to wear it with the poncho. If I can learn to use the sewing machine, I'll try to sew two cheap fleece throws together with a head hole for lining my River Country Ponchos. Corporal's Corner did some good videos on setting up poncho shelters. Good Luck, Rick

[@russellinthebush2897]

There's an easier way to pitch the tarp. Stake one end's corners first. Next set the ridgeline on the opposite side followed by that side's corners. Go back and finish the ridgeline on the other side. Finish by adjusting any stakes as needed. I used a tarp throughout my CT and PCT hikes along with several other trails. I've never had a problem under it in stormy weather, though my tarp is larger than the poncho tarp discussed here. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@haggis525]

Excellent video... I love tarping. It's just way more versatile than a tent. That said, I'm not a thru-hiker - I'm into bushcraft/survival hiking and camping so I can spend way more time setting up a comfortable camp. Love your channel! I'm also a fan of southern accents so listening to y'all is fun! Greetings from Canada 🇨🇦... be safe out there.

[@pclarin]

Seam sealer? They don’t do that for that kind of money?

[@3nertia]

Yeah, no kidding - my Hennessy hammock cost less :/

[@dirtygirlhikes2228]

Funny, I thought it was great service that they included a tube of seam seal at all (I'm assuming at no extra cost?) It's a fast process and a great way to check over the seams on a handmade product. I've always found seam sealing my shelters to be a sort of bonding experience, but I'm admittedly strange!

[@pclarin]

@@dirtygirlhikes2228 I’d not thought of it in that context.

[@3nertia]

@@dirtygirlhikes2228 Yeah but for $300 that should be *included* and I shouldn't have to Ikea that shit myself lmao

[@danielkutcher5704]

If you're too broke or cheap to buy American products 🇺🇸 you can support the communist Chinese government, which controls every legit business in the country and makes sure that they get a cut of the income.

[@namenotfound8747]

I have the DCF version and with the duo serenity bug net with the DCF floor they offered. I only use the poncho tarp with trekking poles in the desert. In a woodland or jungle environment, I use two trees and put my knot skills to the test. Same goes for the bug net that is as big as a tent made out of open mesh. That way I have the options of having the bug net only to sleep under the stars while keeping bugs away, or use both as a double wall tent essentially if there is rain coming or only use the poncho tarp to stay clear of the sun. Even in the most favorable conditions you're either sweating or getting wet when it rains, no matter what so personally, as long as a poncho can keep my core temperature from dropping in the rain, I find my extremities also ending up wet in rain or light snow, maybe some moderate snow. Moderate to severe snow, that's what other gear is for in my opinion. Of course changing out socks, washing and dry socks is also needed.

[@2laughandlaugh]

Thanks for going through this so we dont have to....your the best.

[@randybradley7427]

I like A tarp 10x10 for shelter. A poncho for wearing. I tried a poncho for tarp but like A tarp better. Good to see you exploring different things.

[@EspenFrafalne]

The Poncho Tarp definitely looks interesting, but i prefer my Hilleberg Bivanorak (raingear/bivy/windbreaker combo). Unlike conventional bivys, i can sit up and cook food and have a 360degree view of my surroundings - and i can even stand up and go take a pee without going out of my warm and dry shelter (provided i use a quilt or sleeping bag that opens in the bottom). I also dont need to crawl into my bivy. I use a headnet for bugs, which works surprisingly well. As it goes on the outside of the hood - and i sleep on the side - it does not touch my face. I really like being able to set up camp right on the trail, as quickly as blowing up my sleeping pad..! My Bivanorak weighs 500g including stuffsack, so its not as lightweight as the Poncho Tarp, but as i only need a small 1x1,45m tarp (

[@randyholloway920]

Two suggestions. 1. Pitch closer to the ground in inclement weather like extended rain storms. 2. Dog a moat around the perimeter under the edge of the tarp with channels to move the water away from you to avoid getting you or your gear underneath wet or wet through. Good job on pairing the tarp with a bevy. For a better and less expensive bevy, check out Borah Gear.

[@stevenoyes3988]

I'm so glad you gave the tarp another chance. I'm someone who in the military slept under a poncho configured in an A frame or a lean to a number of times. It looked like you got a pretty good variety to test in also. As a civilian, cooler weather would likely encourage a small fire to radiate heat up under the tarp as you went to sleep. And hopefully you would have coals to get another started in the morning before you really got out into the cold. Just a couple of thoughts on tarp sleeping. Side note, your Vista shots in the hiking video were stunning. Great job.

[@MDWavemaster]

Ive been thinking about this for a while. I think this is really for specific application. If you're going out to hike a mountain for a day, this is perfect so you dont have to take a load of stuff. If you're backpacking Dolly Sods, you probably would want something else. Just my opinion

[@muddsnyder]

just watch out for old mortar shells at Dolly Sods, no matter what you sleep under! 😅

[@rjhikes6248]

Oh wow, Hank. We do miss ya buddy. 😢 I like the idea of a convertible poncho/shelter but your setup depends on the bivvy a bit too much for me. I’m too claustrophobic of a sleeper to go with a bivvy. I’m pretty much set on a Gatewood Cape + net tent from 6MD. It’s a bit closer to a normal tent setup while still going for the minimalist thing. It actually has a vestibule, which is really nice. I personally am a huge fan of ponchos for rain gear based on experience as a kid in the white mountains, For stakes I’ve had good success with the Easton Nano Nail stakes but I keep hearing about problems with them breaking down on really rocky ground. I’m going to pick up a set of MSR CarbonCore stakes ($$$) and try them out. I give you a lot of credit for trying out something new. 🤗👍

[@memathews]

@@rjhikes6248 You'll probably enjoy the Gatewood Cape. I love using mine from April through October, the snowless months. It's also a great poncho with that front zipper adding breathability.

[@stuartsteele9984]

Aside from potential damage while wearing the poncho/tarp through shrubbery and the heat gain wearing a waterproof, (not breathable) material during warm weather, a poncho/tarp is a reasonable rain protection & shelter. A tent, is the ultimate shelter avoiding wind, wind swept rain and snow and critters both grounded and flying. After many years I'm finally content with my 4.7 ounce DIY Dynemma 5ft x 9ft x 3.5ft high tent.

[@michaelb1761]

I like my Six Moons Design Gatewood Cape poncho tarp (11 oz and $130 for shelter and rain gear), but it's a hexamid design shelter, so enclosed on all sides. I just use it with a ground cloth and my regular pad and quilt. However, I don't use it when I expect mossies, and I'm glad I had my Skyscape Trekker tent during the heaviest rain and hail storms I have ever experienced about 3 weeks ago in the Sierra.

[@patrickgardner396]

Super interesting, thanks for sharing! Comparing this to my current setup (Zpacks Altaplex tent + single CNOC Carbon Cork pole, Zpacks Vertice jacket and pants) and considering pluses and minuses. If you factor in the weight of the poles, they land in about exactly the same place weight-wise. Plus I can see, beyond what you mentioned: the tarp poncho probably takes less total pack volume. Smaller volume = smaller pack = potentially lighter pack. But beyond that it looks like a lot of minuses. A lot harder/fiddly-er to set up and potentially less reliable in really high wind/bad weather. Like you I really enjoy the sense of climbing into a tent and sealing the world out a bit. Was just hiking Goat Rocks in WA and the ability to keep out hordes of biting black flies was critical. In the Altaplex there is still room for gear, keeping it all off the ground and available within that bubble. If it gets very wet and you start to get water flow on the ground, you have a bathtub floor to rely on. And I like the idea of having redundant equipment. In the tarp poncho case you are relying on one piece of cloth for a lot. With the Altaplex set up you have a couple of redundant items. I also use my jacket and pants as windstoppers when it gets colder/windier. Since even in summer hiking in these areas you can sometimes end up with unexpected temp drops, even below zero, I don't know how it's possible to go without that and stay safe. Think I'm staying with my current setup. But was very interesting to explore this option with you - thanks again and for doing it in such depth!

[@NorthernMIPathfinder]

You could just pre-tie all your guy line ends with bowline knots and just loop them thru your poncho-tarp loops rather than tying and untying every time. Also when setting up the poncho-tarp. Lay it out flat, string out your corners (loosely), stake them down, THEN put your poles up into place. All you need to do then is adjust tension. SAVES ALOT OF SET UP TIME :)

[@bdv861]

I have used a Six Moons Designs Gatewood Cape extensively. Like anything else, it has its place but it is not the ultimate shelter. It goes if rain is possible. If rain is certain, it stays home. It has its advantages and disadvantages. Every design is a compromise.

[@AquaTech225]

Ya gotta check out the ultralight poncho from wilderness innovation. Ultralight poncho/tarp tie outs and built in Dyneema cord in each end to slap it up as a hammock. I was skeptical when I first seen them without much on KZbin. But awaiting my second one and it’s 100% top notch an made in the US. Have been more than happy with it. So ya have the poncho. Ya have 12 I believe tie outs on it to string it up as a tarp. And two runners with Dyneema cord built in with an eye on each side to throw it up as a hammock. Just need a ultralight tree straps an two toggles. They even pretty much made to size depending on what’s ordered.

[@kellydtth2749]

Bravo! No way I could sleep in a poncho-tarp. Never a dull or uninformative moment.

[@RAINSMAN79]

Taking a rain kilt to also rig up as a block for one end of the A frame helps a lot

[@overweighthikerwannabe901]

Maybe a compromise of a mesh inner tent and a tarp arranged over it instead of a conventional rain fly. I saw someone do that recently on youtube (I forget the channel) and they said it worked good for them in buggy conditions. Seems like it would have real good breathability.

[@DrewBoswell]

That's a good, thorough look at the poncho tarp. MLD is a great company and I like their products a lot. I've been tarp camping since 2013 on the ground and later in hammocks and doubt that tents will ever tempt me to change. Still fun to see you getting outside your comfort zone.

[@berniesbend]

Great addition to any tarp is the Zpacks trekking pole cups. Lets you put the pointy end of the trekking pole in the ground for added stability and your hand grips aren't in the mud.

[@sticksakimbo2186]

Thank you for the review Dixie! The details, like getting up in the night in the rain, really help in decision making.

[@audrey9561]

I’ve never tried anything other than the traditional tent setup. First time I went I forwent the sleeping pad. Terrible idea lol. Will never go without one again. It was cold and my back was so sore! I like the idea of a space blanket underneath to prevent your stuff from getting damp on the ground

[@miken7629]

I have been trying to have a minimalist bedroll since I watched my favorite movie "The Earthling". My latest iteration is where I use a 5x7 Grabber Space Blanket, folded in half lengthwise, as a ground sheet. Then an inflatable sleeping pad. I have a Down Top Quilt with a SOL Escape Bivy over the Top Quilt. I modified the Sol Escape Bivy into a top quilt, by cutting down the center of the top, leaving a foot box, then turn it over and use the bottom as the top. The Down Top Quilt easily fits inside the modified Sol Escape Bivy. Lastly, the poncho is usually set up as a plow for rain cover and angled so the plow point is pointed into prevailing wind. It all rolls into a bedroll with the poncho on the outside.

[@lukedorrington7455]

I use the ranger roll sleep system consisting of military poncho and poncho liner (woobie) I add to that a thin wool blend blanket and a cheap inflatable sleeping pad and that keeps me warm enough down to 5 degrees celsius, the only thing I found is if used how the KZbin videos show you condensation is awful so I pitch the poncho in A-frame or plow point configurations

[@kentlburgess]

Such a helpful video. Even as someone like me considering regular non poncho tarp camping I found your detailed, practical run down super instructive. Thank you.

[@vernshein5430]

If Im not running conventional rain gear I use a 5'x8' Silponcho. 12 attachment points give you setup flexibility. To keep your legs and feet drier I recommend good quality goretex gaiters.

[@drewwatts2803]

Yeah… I’ll keep my home made a frame tarp. Cost me 1/4 of the price in materials and somehow it’s much lighter. Great review!

[@charliemcdowell5231]

I like being under a tarp but not a tiny one. I don’t sleep so well in the ground even using multiple pads or heavy luxurious car camping pads. Now that I have my Dutch ware chameleon I don’t think I’ll go back to just a tarp or even a tent except in the coldest of camp outs. Not only is it a less messy breakdown of set up when it’s crazy rainy or muddy, but the open space seems to help prevent my sleep paralysis, which is terrifying lol

[@macmann3902]

I've used a GoLite sil/nylon poncho and Western Mountaineering Apache Gore-Tex set up for years with a kite Tyvek ground sheet, if it's buggy I bring my A16 bug bivy absolutely bombproof set up. I did the AT in 2006 with that set up and section hiked a lot of the PCT. My go to set up

[@jastdi2]

I used this set-up, but with a ground sheet, on a 10-day section hike on the AT in the summer of 1976. Rained every day and every night, but the system basically worked at keeping me dry. Wouldn’t do it again because of the lack of bug protection. Gear was (much) heavier then and I packed the ten days of food. Was a bit younger then too.

[@cbigg81]

I love tarps for quick and dirty shelter. I've never been a huge fan of ponchos but this would be a good option since I carry a rain jacket and tarp on longer day hikes. Thanks Dixie!

[@marcjohnson4385]

For years I used to use my old GI poncho,the liner and wool blanket Rolls up compact strapped on the pack. The only modification I made was I had a zipper installed so I could attached it to the poncho and use the hood.

[@Motorep146]

Use shock cord with snipped mitten hooks out to the tarp tie outs. That eliminates the need for 4 extra stakes. Also, if you’re hiking in an area with consistent tree cover switch to a continuous ridgeline from Dutchware. That drops 6 stakes from your kit and makes setup a breeze.

[@rodmeisterful]

Thanks for your clear and unexaggerated reviews and tips for backpacking. Very helpful.

[@scottbecker3485]

As usual for your videos, this one does the hiking community a great service, telling it like it is. And you've done a commendable job of stating the cons and (few) pros of such a system. Would I go this route? No way. The intended savings in weight certainly don't seem worth all the disadvantages, since the bivy also weighs in. Adding the bivy (which would also be a must for me since I hate getting crawled upon or eaten up while sleeping) is kind of like having a 2-walled (mesh inner) tent, and there are such tents on the market that really don't weigh much at all and that offer incomparably more rain and wind protection plus overall comfort (moving around when camped out in a storm, spreading out and/or packing up gear, rolling up air mats and stuffing sleeping bags, etc. Sure, there might be some cases in favor of a tarp experience, but where I live in northern Europe (plenty of rain and wind and cool temps), having a tarp would just make for a miserable experience. And a poncho? That would force me to put it on and off as needed (or not), thus negating the dual duty one can get out of an ultralight rain jacket (which offers wind protection and warmth, too, plus being zippable for ventilation). The weight of a Duplex plus an ultralight jacket (and maybe even ultralight rain pants) can certainly compete, and make one's experience a heck of a lot more enjoyable, and easier.

[@vahikertrash543]

Tarp and bivy is where its at. Anyone knocking it hasn't tried it. You can't beat the ventilation of a tarp. I wish someone would make a beaked tapered Silpoly tarp. The ability to hang your pack from your trekking pole handle solves the gear sprawl issue with ease.

[@peterpopplewell8763]

I would suggest a bigger tarp, a ground cloth, no bivy and a head net.

[@willek1335]

The tarp is 9 feet and about 5ft wide. How big do you need? I agree about the rest. 100%.

[@nomoore]

This is fine in colder weather with few bugs. In fact in those conditions I would recommend skipping the head bug net. But in the hot summer when you sleep in your skivvies with a sheet or less and the flying critters come out I would highly recommend a bug bivy of some sort.

[@peterpopplewell8763]

5ft wide would be a problem for me. I thru hiked with a 10 by 12 I think. Nice to have more room for rain and not much more weight. Ultra lite tarp that is small sort of sucks. Especially if you want your sides up a bit to see what's coming. Bivy makes me feel like a bear candy bar.

[@peterpopplewell8763]

If it is hot out you probably don't need a tarp just sleep in an area that has some wind to stay away from bugs

[@chrishanssen1980]

I love using a tarp as a way to feel in nature rather than weight saving. The experience of being in the scenery rather than blocking it out is really special. Especially when you wake up. There is no bigger dry space than a tarp so maybe sacrifice weight (is that a terrible thing) and have a bigger tarp and rain jacket. The weight cost is not significant and for a picturesque route maybe very very special.

[@carlbernsen1290]

Hmmm, I get that, I just leave the tent door open and sit in the doorway to enjoy the view, unless it's buggy, then I look out through the mesh. once I'm asleep I can't see the view anyway.

[@hikebot]

Duplex and rain jacket seems a lot easier.

[@daveys]

I have something similar in my pack and it is an awesome rain jacket, good to sit on and able to be used as a tarp. So many uses that you’d be crazy to leave it at home!

[@scottbutler1561]

Nice review, I applaud you for taking time to try something new for our benefit. Given your preferences, did you consider the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape as an option as well? The Gatewood cape is definitely more tent-like and protective. Just curious, thanks.

[@granite-headgold1038]

Less weight and cost too!

[@User123456767]

I like to keep an extra piece of polycryo when i use a tarp just to have some extra dry ground

[@craigcampbell6961]

Perhaps a major positive of tarp camping is the lack of condensation. So a comment on condensation - my perception is the way great majority of condensation is from breathing (is there a study on that??). So a bivy would only collect minimal condemnation from your body. So not a problem. Tarp doesn't collect much condensation because it is so open to airflow. Maybe you should try out the Nemo tent which has a zip down sheet across the chest so that moisture from breathing doesn't enter the rest of the tent - that is quite a thing - as condensation is such a big issue for winter camping tents.

[@tomgip]

Another great and informative video Dixie. Thank you!!

[@bjackson30303]

You are right. Having dry night clothes is a sacred must.

[@robertrockwell7581]

Just like you Dixie I will go with a tent. something about feeling more secure and keeping more of the warmth inside .

[@stephenwest1491]

Dixie i tried a poncho over 20 years back i take a poncho and tarp and hammock now that's all i take after years of this i cant sleep well on the ground anymore but i don't care about weight its good equipment that makes me happy... If you wear a poncho the hood is always a pain make sure you have a water proof baseball cap to hold the hood out...

[@joewells7360]

Good to hear from you it’s been along time thanks

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

I post a video every week :)

[@kirsten0233]

omg $260 for a thin nylon tarp with a hood... maybe there's a very very specific person this is meant for, but overall seems like a product for someone with more money than sense...

[@alreadylost6587]

Through hikers when your attempting to hike 2000+ miles every gram of weight count's.

[@alfredlear4141]

@@alreadylost6587 Amen

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

Just make your own. How many hours will it take you? How much is your time worth?

[@sheepmasterrace]

using a poncho is a great idea. but spilling 200 bucks for one isn’t. cheap poncho is da wae

[@ricksandstorm]

People spend over 600 on a gore tex jacket tho, so if you compare the two this is pretty cheap

[@lukedorrington7455]

I carry two with me, I have the mil-tec military poncho that I sleep under and another that I lay on the ground as a ground sheet. I set them up in either plow point or A-frame Configuration.

[@sk-wx1cf]

Thanks for this good presentation. I noticed the tarp/poncho when I watched your Teton hike video. I prefer the living space of a tent, including a floor to put gear on and sidewalls to keep rain from splashing in.

[@fschiller4189]

I have the Tarptent Protrail, which weighs just under 700 grams. It provides good protection and plenty of space. I sometimes use a poncho-tarp as a "porch" during bad weather.

[@salcin73]

Your reviews are truly amazing. Thank you so much for this review! Answered all of my questions and more.

[@adam_1t641]

I love using a tarp but a big on I use dd xl tarp it's 3x4.5m great for hammocks and ground camping

[@kielhawkins9529]

I imagine that building up a small dirt berm around the inner edge of the tarp line would prevent water flowing back under the tarp. Alternatively a shallow trench could be dug to direct water flow where you wanted it to go.

[@trakyboy5128]

How was entry & exit in that bivy ??? I found this video to be of interest because I have been toying with the idea of a small tarp setup like the poncho to go with my one man tent simply because in bad weather it would extend my living space. I've been looking at cantonary cut tarps simply because in my mind I saw the upper point of the tarp extending over the opening of the tent a bit and adding a little bit of wind / rain resistance... like an extension of the tent I guess you can say. Did you get any leakage in the tarp/poncho ?????

[@a.normagene5303]

I'm into bushcraft and use tarps most often, a gum blanket or similiar makes all the difference for the dirt and wet.

[@KarenandBradStoriesNFlight]

We use a CCS tarp and love it. We use a small one for two people and a large one for 4.

[@rjstewart]

To me, a poncho tarp setup is a good skill to know for a survival situation but intentionally combining rain gear with shelter means when it’s raining you are stuck in your shelter and also have to get wet setting it up or taking it down. I’d rather bring a larger (cheaper) tarp as a shelter and keep my poncho as rain gear (on over my pack to keep that dry too). Back to survival use, on a day trip a poncho stuffed in my pack with some cordage gives me the option to use it if it rains or if I end up stuck out at night, use it as a sitting shelter or set it up as a tarp.

[@creatureofrabbit2036]

Seems like a perfect setup to bring when there is no rain in the forecast. You totally have a safe viable option to keep you dry enough if it rains. If it doesn't rain you didn't carry the extra weight of a tent/rain jacket for no reason.

[@carrdoug99]

That price point is outrageous! The six moons design version of this costs about 150 bucks. As far as the poncho/tarp concept (kind of of funny because a regular poncho can be set up as a tarp), I found the Six Moons Design version was neither a very good tarp or a good poncho. That's coming from someone who chooses ponchos and tarps by default. My advice, get a square tarp in 8.5x8.5 or 10x10 (I like Yama Gear), and welcome to the world of versatility (even in cold weather). I save weight using a similar strategy, but instead of a poncho/tarp I use a poncho/hammock. I eliminate the need for a groundsheet, sleeping pad, and extra raingear. I use my quilt pod style, so I don't have the extra weight of an underquilt. I also save weight by only using one trekking pole.

[@RealHankShill]

What do you put under yourself while sleeping without a sleeping pad in a hammock? Especially in cold weather? That is contrary to all of my experience with the system unless you are not mentioning a bottom quilt, which would be a little unfair to leave that out.

[@sleroy1980]

@@RealHankShill He uses something like this www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Vitals-Ultralight-Backpacking-Compression/dp/B06ZY9RMXQ

[@carrdoug99]

@@RealHankShill The pod technique = quilt wrapping completely around the outside of the hammock. I really don't know why it isn't more popular. You can't lie on an angle to the degree you can with an underquilt + topquilt, but still enough to lay comfortably on your side.👍

[@carrdoug99]

@@RealHankShill P.S. Shorter hammocks probably work better for this. One thing you will want to do if you try this. Shove clothing, stuff sack or something like that down at the foot end to prevent drafts from blowing through.

[@trailblazermatt]

I bought the 15 X15 Aqua quest defender tarp. To large for back packing but wonderful water proof and full coverage for short jaunts..

[@Rpg39_]

This is a good setup for survival when comfort isn’t important. It’s the lightest possible shelter you can carry without just ditching the shelter all together.

[@mrdark9916]

In my opinion a poncho is not a substitute. It is a force multiplier. It is not to substitute rain gear, a pack cover, and a shelter, it is to give you much bigger capability when used in conjunction with rain gear, a pack cover, and a shelter.

[@mort902]

I'm not even a backpacker (yet!) but I love your videos. Thanks for all the info!

[@thepilgrim4473]

I have a great idea - sew the groundsheet to the tarp to cut down on dirt, rain, bugs and wind etc… oh… wait…. somebody already invented that - it’s called a tent? Sorry Dixie, couldn’t resist it…

[@Harry-Giles]

Love your channel and really enjoyed this evaluation. Thanks Dixie!

[@seetomgo]

I have tried so hard to like bivys, but had to give them up. The final straw was setting up on a slight incline on the Pinhoti last year when there was no other option - the upper stake loop tore sometime in the night and I woke up about 6 feet down the slope and much closer to the fire than I had intended, having slid over the length of my groundsheet. Now when I tarp camp and need critter protection I use a pyramid-style bug net (hooked to my tarp ridge line like you did with your bivy) and a groundsheet if needed. I also use a catenary tarp rather than a flat style - I feel like I get more flexibility when it comes to configurations that way. I'm on the fence as to whether this is in any way preferable to a tent, but it's good to have options, right?

[@EspenFrafalne]

A tent limits you to either lay down or sit cross legged, and i dont like either option for too long at a time. Having a poncho tarp would allow me to use it with a camp chair, or just set it up over a log that i can sit on. It is also nice if you dont like to make food in the tent, and tarps are also better suited for enjoying the view than a tent.

[@sethm7761]

Great video. Yeah, I'd just add a tyvek ground sheet and you'd be good to go / keep your stuff cleaner!

[@driftwood4458]

Did you cowboy camp with bivy only?

[@finnberglander7816]

Building a hooch is a skill to master.

[@blakecoleman4896]

So, I'm sure you've become this already, since you lived in Colorado, but a beautiful trek would be the collegiate mountains, they're a chain of multiple 14ers and an absolutely BEAUTIFUL trail that we took was the Elkhead trail, up over Elkhead pass, just a thought

[@PrincessofErised]

Tents all the way for me because of better protection, less dirt, more privacy, cozy den feeling and can relax "out of nature".

[@TarEcthelion]

For middle ground, I wonder if a Black Diamond Mega-light / Beta-light Pyramid would work well for you...

[@michaelmcphee2930]

I have a poncho tarp that I used for a week in the wet. It's been stored in the garage for a few years and it is unlikely ever to come out of there. I much prefer rain kilt, jacket and umbrella and the comfort that a tent provides at night.

[@ThisIsUnused]

Lol! You're so diplomatic! You'll never say "I hated this, I'm staying with what I have! 🤣🤣

[@christophergillespie9278]

DiD it all the time in the military. Love my Poncho!

[@DanielOutdoors]

In my experience tarp sleeping in winter time is the best time of the year. But, i also build a fire too.