It Got Dangerous and I Had to Bail - Testing the Bothy Bag Emergency Shelter in an Ice Storm

In this episode of TOGR's Lone Survivor Series, Luke is going to put the infamous Bothy Bag to the test in some truly nasty conditions; some love them, some absolutely hate them; let's find out why that is.
Testing begins in a heavy rain but ends in an Ice Storm along with very strong winds and things go from Bad to Disaster in minutes.
Gear List for this Adventure :
After receiving countless messages from viewers about supporting the channel through Amazon, I have begun using Amazon Affiliate links in the Adventure Videos and if you choose to purchase one of these products via these links I will receive a small commission which will help fund future honest reviews and adventures.
The channel remains as it always was, 100% Agenda Free with no sponsored videos, no paid reviews, and I don't care if you purchase these products or not; you won't find affiliate links in review videos only in adventures.
I'm going to do my best to put gear lists into all of my videos since everyone is asking for them all the time.
For this trip, here are the big items that I used.
Survival Gear List :
Camera Equipment :
Bothy Bag Test - Gear List
….
Camera Gear :
- GoPro 10 : amzn.to/3BSAJhZ
- GoPro Batteries : amzn.to/3jPJba9
- GoPro Wind Cover : amzn.to/3AtoN58
- SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod : amzn.to/3BEahZX
- POVGear GoPro Stick : amzn.to/2VKFeLk
Clothing :
- Outdoor Research Interstellar Rain Jacket : amzn.to/3ubSTsw
- Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Pants : amzn.to/3bKRiS9
Socks
- SCARPA Men's Kailash Trek GTX Hiking Boot : amzn.to/342zFcd
- Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : amzn.to/3i3CRfb
- Fjallraven Zip-Off Pants : amzn.to/3leUdXb
- Woolly Merino Wool V Neck Long Sleeve : amzn.to/3olwBmn
- USMC Fleece Sweater : eBay.com for green amzn.to/3xVNWph for brown
- Minus33 Merino Wool 723 Kobuk Baselayer Sweater : amzn.to/3DmJWPx
- Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie : www.outdoorresearch.com/us/me...
- Smartwool Merino Wool Hat : : amzn.to/3feJv0Y
- IO Merino Wool Mask : No Longer Available
- Knit Gloves Base :
- Outdoor Research PS150 Gloves : amzn.to/32AxVd5
- Outdoor Research MGS Shell Gloves Waterproof Gloves :
- Gear :
- Terra Nova Bothy Bag : amzn.to/3uadtJH
- Mountain Hardware JMT 35 Backpack : www.mountainhardwear.com/p/jm...
- Komperdell Trekking Poles : amzn.to/3uadBc9
- NiteCore NU32 Headlamp : amzn.to/3fxqLbU
- Nite Ize Lantern : amzn.to/3fCFbHN
- Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Watch : amzn.to/3GvkPMC
- Osprey Kit Bags : amzn.to/3oPWsBx
- Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife : amzn.to/2Sej6aD
....
100% Agenda Free :
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
Support TOGR through Patreon : / togr
or
Support TOGR through KZbin : / @theoutdoorgearreview
...
Best Emergency Shelter? - Fjallraven Wind Sack - First Look and Preview
What it is : This is a Lightweight emergency shelter, known as the Wind Sack and it was designed to keep out wind, snow and rain for up to 3 people.
Agenda Free Link : www.fjallraven.com/us/en-us/b...
Versions : 1 person and 3 person : There was a 2 person version in the past but I believe it has been discontinued and is no longer listed on the Fjallraven web site.
Materials : 100% polyamide 40D TripleRip Sil/Sil 3000 mm
100% polyamide
Dimensions : 7.5 x 7.5 x 4”
Weight : 1lb 6oz
Price : $150
...
Web Site : www.theoutdoorgearreview.com
Come Join Us on Facebook, Twitter Instagram :
Facebook : / 281509538652229
Twitter : / outdoorgearrev
Instagram : / theoutdoorgearreview
.....

[@neemancallender9092]

Please examine the POU, Philosophy of Use The British Mountains have no trees The countryside is open When a storm comes in you are in driving horizontal rain If you have been delayed and cant get back to camp, you are benighted and can't walk in the dark and mist and have to stay put over night and bivi in the storm weather First you must get out of the driving rain and wind, which together makes a deadly combination for hypothermia . Before Bothy Bags, you carried a very big 8 x 4 ft heavy gauge plastic bag, that you pulled over your head and sat in it We called them sweat bags, but they kept you out of the driving rain and deadly wind. They then developed the Bothy Bag, which were much bigger and fully protected you from driving rain. Yes with lots of condensation but minor in regard to driven rain . So they offer an uncomfortable but safe night to survive a British Mountain storm

[@ashropshirelad]

Hi Luke, I have a couple of these, they are purely for emergency use only, I carry one in my daypack in case I'm ever stranded and need to wait for help. Its just designed to be better than no shelter at all for a situation when you might be out in a storm and not have a tent. They are limited in use just for that sort of emergency situation and designed to keep you alive until Mountain Rescue arrive on scene in case you are unable to move.

[@considerlizards]

Yeah, but they make claims that do exceed the reality of the bag, that's problematic.

[@TM-iq6sx]

Have you tested yours? Is it a different brand or model?

[@spiderreed350]

But they claim to be comfortable and cozy.

[@instantchiro85]

@@spiderreed350 terra nova never claim it as an overnight shelter. Or even describe it as cost but it is warm when used correctly (needs 2 people or more). Used them all the time and for their purpose (emergency or Marla boost for 30’mins ) they are perfect. I live in the US now and I’m ordering one for me and the kids.

[@boson285]

I'd think anything that requires your body to hold it up is going to be more miserable than a tarp with some rope and poles.

[@TheRst2001]

Great practical test. I have the same bothy bag and have used in action in uk a couple of times . I think they are excellent bits of kit . In uk most national parks including Scotland oftendo not have trees . They are just high up WET WINDY barren landscapes fit only for SHEEP 🐑 🤣 .one of Last time I used was on dartmoor , cold wet WINDY . Rain sideways visibility less than 50m . Weekend camping Solo , after walking for several hours in this climate, disorientated and morale low ! Nowhere to get out of wind and rain , I decided to use the bothy , straight away out of the wind !! In 15min bothy was warming up . This valuable respite allowed me to regain my senses , reorientation my self with maps compass . Readjust my kit out !, eat some food , have a hot drink from my flask , and get my morale and energy right back up ! . Brilliant ! You can drop a feather inside a bothy while its howling outside . Would I take one in summer , not really , also having certain types of tents u can set up the outer only in 5 mins was also an option . But yes for me day hikes in fowl weather , weekenders on cold wet windy barren hills fit for sheep definitely take one . To get out of the wind when your disorientated, low morale , its a life saver ! 💪👍ps in uk we have excellent mountain rescue , and wildernesses are small compared to usa Canada sweden so a rescue may arrive less than 8hrs ! windows too whats not to like 🤣, I do genuinely look forward to your tarp use for same scenario with NO TREES ! 💪👍😃

[@Bobbycastenada]

Windows 🤣 you've sold it to me

[@taylor8199]

Totally agree. Imagine being out in UK weather when it turns on you, solo, on the moors or mountain and injured to boot. He seems to think a person in that situation would complain about a bit of condensation. Would like to see someone incapacitated by injury putting a tarp or tent up. To discourage people from carrying one is irresponsible in my opinion.

[@asef698]

Can we see a comparison of you sat with no shelter for 3 hours 👍🏻

[@life-outdoors]

In a mountain rescue team in the UK, we used similar (no longer active). Much of what you have said is accurate. They are used to cover the casualty while they are treated and warmed, very useful. That weather is typical for me here. In my opinion that it is for short term and needs multiple people in to get the space warm, it makes a difference. It has to be vented, but condensation is still an issue. The main issue with that bothy is that it seems to be too enclosed. Personally I have one but more often carry a tarp. A bothy or kisu is better for very short durations, like a quick lunch stop because it's so fast to use. If we were likely to be out all night, we would have either a bivi bag or tent, never use these.

[@mikepiper8799]

entirely agree

[@SeanSmith-mg1ee]

Coleman Pop

[@charlessalmond7076]

Good info. Thank you, sir.

[@Alba67]

I was on an outward bound course when a teenager in the Scottish highlands in the 1980’s. We got caught in a snow blizzard on a mountain plateau. We were only out for the day and had no tents. We sheltered in a Kisu until the blizzard calmed down. It was great, kept us safe,dry, warm and out of the snow until we could safely leave.

[@slippery999]

@@Alba67 exactly what it is designed to do. It saved your life in an emergency when you didn’t have tents or other shelter.

[@AndrewParkOutdoors]

Hi Luke, These are basic survival bits of kit that most experienced walkers in the UK will carry ( the other cheaper version being a large orange plastic 'survival' bag ). I've always carried one on the basis in an accident or a benightment it's probably the difference between life and death. The windchill in the Cairngorms would kill you very quickly without one of these. Despite our low altitude hills we genuinely have arctic conditions in Scotland. Yes mine gets used a lunch shelter and yes I've never had to use it an emergency. Yes you'll get wet, yes you'll be cold but yes, you'll be alive when the chopper finally finds you. No more, no less. I prefer to carry a tent if I can but it's hard to get at that weight and pack size and to be scrunched up in the bottom of your pack. I guess maybe a Goretex or eVent version would be ideal iin reducing the moisture element and maybe the industry is missing a trick here..you got me thinking! All the best. A

[@moab_in]

We use them (larger ones) in our hillwalking club in the Cairngorms as a group shelter to have a lunch break and regroup/map read/warm up a bit, in sometimes extreme conditions. On these occasions with full winter gear and a lot of weight/bulk already carried, these are simple/packable/robust/lightweight/group-foolproof, a tarp setup would be too much faff, if it could even be successfully pitched, and wouldn't encompass a group huddle very well

[@davidrickard1418]

Wouldn't a bivy be better?

[@rebel_is_here]

@@davidrickard1418 If you're out solo, maybe. But, a bothy shelter is usually for a group where you can use your combined body heat and motivational skills to defrost the person in your group that's suffering.

[@ct5465]

I’m sure everyone would love a video of you doing this type of trip, showing what you WOULD do and recommend for a survival shelter and what to do in an emergency situation like this

[@duesouth180]

I would like to see same conditions with square tarp, please.

[@clivewilkinson5394]

Waiting for a video from him that does not use a tent and no tree's to build a shelter. Wonder what he. We do in the Beacons or on Dattmore. Very few trees

[@rabadabadoo491]

Hi from Scotland Luke 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 A "bothy" is the name we use for a basic mountain shelter. Most often the word refers to old shepherd's huts. They're usually proper stone buildings with roof, windows and doors but not much else. Definitely better than that bag though!

[@adif7542]

I have sat through 30 minutes of criticism, however; Imagine the complaining we would hear if he was sat outside in that weather for 3 hours. He would probably be hypothermic. In an emergency with injury’s you might not be able to walk off the mountain, a bothy bag will help to keep you alive until rescue.

[@alaskaraftconnection-alask3397]

Here are the realities of what is actually being showcased. Please - Bag (pun intended) all the cons and take them more as gainful perspectives. Enhancing survival situations are not necessarily optimal solutions and should be seen as positives. Now ---- compare this entire video, timeline, exposure issues faced, and soaking --- WITHOUT THE BAG!!! Yes - ie. 'Sitting or standing' out there (for whatever the reasons - no matter) completely exposed with what he's wearing, 3 hours windstorm, driving rains, darkness, etc. Sorry to burst an overly repetitive negativity bubble here... credit the little bag of instant preparedness that did indeed create a more tolerable environment to have a snack/lunch, shoot a whole video, talk to us calmly without shouting, changing camera batteries, addressing shortcomings, etc. So let's not rag to harshly on a bag. How long do you think the video would have been without it soaked, colder, shouting at us above the lashing of the wind driven rains? What the video provided is good perspective of what can be potentially expected. I liked the video Luke --- However in most respects, the video is made possible by the bag (while having issues) actually providing simple, expedient sheltering in a situation that most would not be standing out in for 3 hours. I'm not a bag fan, but do see an advantageous application. What I am a fan of (personally and professionally) is 'high-end' mountaineering pyramidal single pole tents for this sort of thing. Especially if endurance, exposure, comfort, versatility, and duration are factored in.

[@ryan4640]

very well said. I think if its for an emergency then it works perfectly. Dry, limited wind exposure, warm etc. The luxury part comes 2nd. Interestingly it seemed not big enough for someone to lie down in so if it is for emergencies head/neck injury, back or leg i presume the person would be lying down so don't know how well this would work.

[@alaskaraftconnection-alask3397]

@@ryan4640 Yes - this is a safeguard cover expedient that affords a lightweight/simple, planned/prepared strategy. It provides a reasonable level of protection. I may just be the rapid-deploy game-changer when wanted/needed.

[@MG-bs5mr]

​@@ryan4640 I've been in a 4 person bothy bag with 3 adults and a fourth laid on their back with an injury Yes, it was cramped and uncomfortable but they were better off than they would have been if exposed to the elements for the few hours it took for a mountain rescue team to arrive.

[@MG-bs5mr]

​@@alaskaraftconnection-alask3397 I'm in Scotland and I always carry mine in the bottom of my rucksack. I can access it and deploy it in less than a minute.

[@user-zo3uv7rc7r]

As an American, who is not familiar with bothy bags after watching this video, and more importantly, reading the comments, I think these are a good idea. The comment section really says it all so I’ll not repeat it. In these times I think we are all too damn comfortable to the point of expecting it where we shouldn’t. Most of my outdoor experience is in the White Mountains of New Hampshire where extreme weather conditions happen, especially above treeline 3500-4000 feet. Many trips all year round lots of ‘suffering’. One of these bags could make the difference between living and dying and yes you’re right it would be a most miserable night out but alive is better than dead any day of the week! Also, to be able to get out of the wind for an hour or two to regroup could make the difference between making good decisions rather than bad ones. Thanx for making this video and keep up the good work.

[@joeydr1497]

My grandad was mountain rescue for 40+ years (hoping to follow in his footsteps when I’m old enough) and he says these things where some of the best kit that he saw and he made sure they got put on the D of E kit list.

[@wynwilliams6977]

LOl You two are trying to do damage PR for the company? it just makes the company looks worse especially since Charley boy insulted him, no doubt Luke knows a hell of a lot more about this subject then you ever will :D besides he used it for exactly what the manufacture advertises it for :) and the video speaks for itself

[@TheMustardSeedChurch]

My experiences also.

[@TheMustardSeedChurch]

@@wynwilliams6977 wow, a true fanboi. I was stationed with the US 10th Mountain Division out of Fort Drum NY with numerous training missions in both Northern Germany and the Italian Alps. Trust that I have MUCH experience with this product. And I can attest that there were flaws in the so-called testing.

[@wynwilliams6977]

@@TheMustardSeedChurch LOL! Well good for you I spent over a decade in the Para's whats that got to do with anything? and I am damn sure the 10th never used that bit of kit so why don't you go back to fantasizing and scamming people? that IS what you are isn't it pastor? a scam artist taking money from the gullible so why don't you take a seat over there :)

[@davidcann6021]

I heard the same from my navigation instructor on the weekend who was also ex mountain rescue, if something happens to someone you can all jump in at least very quickly for a bit until the situation is fixed.

[@reggydofe]

most uk mountains you are going to struggle to find anything to tie off to to use that windsack. our mountains are not covered in trees and are very exposed. To do a control, sit for the same amount of time in the same conditions and see how you fair up.

[@FuttFel]

Yeah he complained a lot for being mostly out of the wind and rain. I'd like to see the same thing done again, but just sitting on the ground instead in the wind and rain. Would he last several hours in that? Also. Some of these come seam sealed and some don't. If it's a concern, get a model that has seam tape or seal it yourself.

[@LOFIGSD]

fair comment, and just highlights, that people should pack a decent 4 season tent or a bivybag and a good sleeping bag, relying on a wee bag to act as a tent is never going to end well, Luke is right to call out the shortcomings of these, Ive seen a Duke Of Edinburgh group huddled under one of these up the hills in April and they were very happy to be out of the rain for a bit, but were still wet and miserable and didnt want to be there.

[@edpikestone6800]

Luke - you have a great channel and I really like your content. Good honest independent reviews -big fan. I know that you had a similar experience with the Fjallraven bothy bag, but I see these as valuable pieces of kit and my reason is as follows. Should a member of the group you are out with gets injured the bothy bag gives you enough shelter until mountain rescue or the emergency services can get to your group. Yes they are not very comfortable, but what they do do, and your video shows this very well, is that they keep the elements - rain, snow and wind from the casualty. This gives the other members of the group a place where they can treat the casualty out of the elements. I take your point that the Terra Nova is small and might be a little tight for more than one person - maybe not a great design. The fact that there is condensation on the inside is way better than the snow, wind and rain on the outside. This can make the difference if the casualty is getting hypothermic etc. I was always taught to use a bothy bag a quick, simple deployable shelter until you can be rescued.

[@edpikestone6800]

I should also say that you are correct that they are popular in the UK. Unlike many other countries, the UK hills and mountains are not very wooded or forested. So in an emergency situation where you may use a tarp for shelter, this is probably not an option in the UK as there would be little to no trees to attach the tarp to. The bothy bag does not need trees as the people inside act as the support or as you have done you can use a trekking pole. So in the UK context the bothy bag provides a quick and simple shelter system to protect a casualty from the elements.

[@Karatekidhero]

But why get this instead of a tarp?

[@edpikestone6800]

@@Karatekidhero Kian, for the simple reason that it is very quick to set up, it gives 360 degree protection and you don’t need a tree etc to erect it. Bothy bags are designed as emergency shelters. Imagine you have a person in your group who snaps an ankle, the weather is horrendous and they need to be evacuated off the hill. A bothy bag provides a quick deployable shelter to treat the casualty, keep them out of the elements and act as a large visual beacon for Mountain Rescue - this generally why they are bright colours. As Luke said, they are popular in the UK due to our climate, terrain and lack of trees on the hill. I would never see them as a overnight shelter for camping. A lot of UK hikers will carry them as park of their emergency kit as well as a tent or bivy bag.

[@Karatekidhero]

@@edpikestone6800 I see. Honestly I don't have experience using either. I've allways used a tent when hiking. I just thought a tarp wouldn't be that much slower to set up. Thanks for the reply

[@bigskies2202]

There are definitely a few things that would make it work better. Firstly leaning against a rock or even on the backpack helps remove both the discomfort of sitting unsupported on the ground and stops so much fabric resting against the user directly. Secondly positioning the vent downwind might reduce ingress. But as uncomfortable as the experience was it was vastly safer and more comfortable than sitting in the open unsheltered for the 3hrs prior to bailout. These aren't really made for spending the night in but massively better than direct exposure to the elements.

[@vatsmith8759]

Here in the UK we learned long ago that if you go outside when it's raining eventually you're going to get wet, no matter what you're wearing.

[@wallace-bv4rl]

I had been muttering “looks like Scotland” from the start. So much outdoors content I see is from cold and dry places in Scotland it’s usually dreich!! 👍

[@scotbotvideos]

Not today it ain't. **breaks out the factor 50**

[@indycharlie]

Great test !! Bad bag ...maybe . But what if you were caught at elevation in the winter . Wouldn't this better to sit out a ice storm in ? Having hiked in ice storms a few times , and half frozen before I could set up . I think it might have specific uses for emergency's . I believe there was a case on Mt. Washington in the winter , like 6-8 yrs ago where 2 people used one of these overnight and survived . Be safe out there folks .. gubs .

[@agnidas5816]

yeah... on top of that most people cancel such trips during spring ice storms ... and been doing that through all recorded history :P . Historically people just don't take trips out of season :) And so the tent should be tested in the appropriate conditions .

[@mayhembeading3737]

Hi there. Having been born and raised in mountainous regions in Wyoming and somewhat familiar with those cold-weather conditions, I'd like to comment. In SOME conditions, yes, something is better than nothing. However, there are times when "nothing" is the safer option. (For example we're now living in a tornado-prone area. Get to shelter in a tornado? Yes. Absolutely. What if the only shelter is in a mobile home? That's not a case of something is better than nothing. The "something" can at times compound the danger presented by the conditions. In that case, the safer option is flat in a ditch.) The best plan is to adequately PLAN. Most experienced hikers/campers who PLAN to need shelter will be aware of the weather conditions beforehand and be appropriately prepared for those conditions especially at higher elevations, and that is why we don't hear about them. The ones you cited were likely inexperienced and inappropriately prepared. It sounds as though they survived because they just happened to have pure dumb luck on their side. Having said all of that, the issue here is that the company states that this product is safe in dangerous conditions. Those who are not experienced with gear and adverse weather conditions will read the label and think this is a good option when, again, the product is not weather-appropriate. The main goal of this video is to test the product under the conditions stated by the manufacturer as "acceptable". This product will, if it hasn't already, kill someone who is inexperienced with this scenario.

[@indycharlie]

@@agnidas5816 Yeah , in 2016 when my son was leaving his practice in Portsmouth N.H . He took a couple of weeks off before he joined the Group in Michigan . During that time we hiked a lot of the Whites . He had hiked up to Mt. Washington , but he & I drove up . Did a little " deck " wind surfing :D. Anyway , I was shocked to learn about how many people tried to hike UP to Mt. Washington in the winter & had died . Hell , weather dependent , you can go up from the bottom in the winter to the station in "their " tracked vehicle , but ... ONLY if you have all the gear required JIC you got stuck up there , or get caught on the way up That road can also be closed ANY time of the year for weather . Mt . Washington is a amazing place , with unreal weather . Holds some records for wind and negative temps . Ergo , the Weather Station / Research ... bg

[@benchant1057]

Hey, just my thoughts as someone who has used one before once. Always thought it was a while-you-wait shelter, not an emergency tent. Obviously "Bothy Bag" includes many designs, materials, brands and I have used one that held up well in a thunderstorm on a hill with 3 mates, got warm enough inside you had to create gaps underneath to stop sweating. Really can't emphasise how I believe the whole design is centred on utilising multiple people, which would explain why you're getting blustered around and sitting uncomfortably. The tea-stop anecdote speaks truth to me as the main reason people carry them, being a backup on a fair day in case the rapidly changing UK weather turns is just a plus.

[@Neverwho667]

An emergency shelter is, by definition, a last ditch survival effort. You should not expect to be comfortable, just alive.

[@PaulDukich]

Maybe.. but getting wet isn't conducive to staying alive.

[@TM-iq6sx]

Not being able to move can contribute to list limbs or life.

[@ElectricityTaster]

@@PaulDukich less wet than in the rain. What worries me is people getting a false sense of security, staying put when they could rescue themselves.

[@PaulDukich]

@@ElectricityTaster.. Eh.. Wet is wet.

[@xbdgames6355]

Used 1 of these in 2018 in an emergency, if we didn't have it I dread to think of the outcome, it saved 3 of our lives that night. It was much more comfortable than what this 1 looks. It was big enough for 3 of us sitting with our legs out.

[@lotabob]

I carry a small Vango emergency shelter for short term shelter. Ventilation isn't great but a small gap round the bottom and the vent trunk on the lee side definitely helps. They're not perfect, comfortable or roomy but I'd rather be in there in a pinch than exposed to the elements. I do think if I ever need to use it for anything other than keeping my sandwiches dry I'd be considering needing help too. Hopefully that won't ever need to be the case.

[@MG-bs5mr]

I have the 4 person Vango and yeah I agree, theyre a good way to increase the odds in someone's favour and get out of some of the elements, particularly the wind.

[@snick3896]

I just tested out the Carinthia defence 1 with a woobie as my liner last night. When I climbed inside it was 38 degrees, when I woke up it was 33. Had to take my pants off because I was starting to sweat lol. Those 2 items are by far the best purchases I’ve ever made. Just wanted to say thank you for getting me back outdoors and for your awesome content brother. 👍🏻

[@spiderreed350]

I hope you didn't have hash marks on your drawers.LOL, peugh!

[@michaelknecht4484]

38 degrees to 33 degrees how was you hot when you woke up ??

[@danielatkinson3058]

I would love to see the proper way to set up a tarp in those same conditions. Keep up the good work educating and helping folks enjoy the outdoors safely.

[@jamesrund9359]

Awesome channel. Glad you do honest reviews of the products. I tend to look for honest reviews for future possible purchases. Thanks again for the great information.

[@lauras_youtube4]

We sell them at our store. Meant to be used in emergencies only not for comfort. Not supposed to be used as a tent. It's an emergency storm shelter. Only supposed to be used short term until emergency services come or the storm subsides.

[@Dean_Smith]

Feels very much like you've missed the point of these emergency shelters. you're comparing being inside to a full tent for a planned overnight...rather than being outside with no protection at all. The fact you can sit, video with lighting and be heard , potentially prepare a meal show that its fulfilling its requirement. You'd have been much wetter and colder sat outside in the same weather with nothing at all.

[@simpleoutdoors1]

great video, yes please show us on how you would use a tarp, we like using tarps here the most but wanted more ideas for them, thanks again for more amazing info.

[@joeherndon6170]

Luke, great advice. I have two Aqua Quest Tarps, 10x10 and 10x13, thanks to your reviews. The 10x10 is always with me for emergencies. I hope everyone watches your past videos on tarps for true emergency shelters.

[@briw1286]

I'm confused by the expectation in this review. I've used it many a time for getting out of a heavy shower. It seems like you may have expected Hilleberg quality from a £40 emergency bothy. It literally is for an emergency situation. Many use it just to have lunch out of the wind/rain, as you say. It can also keep a casualty out of the wind/rain in an emergency. I know of mountain rescue teams that carry them in Ireland. I'm not sure it is built to live in. Surely it is best to have one with you, than not??

[@briw1286]

@FukTheGender Agenda I totally agree with everything you have said. But would you carry a tarp just to go for a hill walk? I wouldn't and I assume most people don't. However, these are tiny when packed and super light. I carry it for the same reason I carry a shell jacket. I literally just stick in a bag pocket. In fact it lives there and I barely notice its existence. Additionally, if you have an injury, a tarp would be more tricky to set up.

[@ljdellar]

@FukTheGender Agenda Try setting one up in a 50mph wind with no trees. This is not meant to keep you comfortable. It is meant to keep you alive. Yes you will get wet if you don't regularly ventilate it. Yes it is uncomfortable, but less so than trying to set up a tarp with a broken ankle.

[@dreamthyf]

It's about the companies lies, not a difference between having it or not.

[@robertsadler9079]

If needing to eat your lunch counts as an emergency then this product is OK. I think that the clear conclusion from this video is that this product is useless for a real emergency. Why not carry a tarp? They are lightweight and easy to set up. If you have a broken ankle there are probably better options.

[@patriciaruelland4655]

I would really like to see you do a video with a above tree line tarp set up! That would be great! Thanks for your informative videos!

[@thomasmusso1147]

Yes, that would be interesting .. especially under the same conditions wit a set of hiking poles and not a tree or bush in sight.

[@Mart687]

@@thomasmusso1147 You can set up a plow point shelter with a 3 x 3 m tarp pointing into the wind with just 1 hiking pole. That's pretty wind resistant and good for more people. Or a tarp tent that's a little bit more work and smaller inside. Both no trees needed, just a hiking pole or a stick.

[@grumpyoldman6767]

@@Mart687 I agree with Mart. A 3x3 tarp packs smaller, is lighter, and can be used in any situation.

[@mikekraut7643]

@@Mart687 3x4 tarp teepee FTW 😏

[@nodescriptionavailable3842]

You said “above the tree line” but I still pictured it attached to a tree, still drinking my coffee this morning

[@rmpruitt228]

Appreciate your real world testing and reporting . I needed a hot shower and a wool sweater to just recover from the chill you shared!

[@brandieerkkila1930]

Luke thank you for the information and I hope that you were ok and didn't get sick. Prayers for you in keeping you safe for you to do all the good you do. You are appreciated my friend.

[@TheStickbow]

I agree I would use a tarp in a small shelter configuration with some ventilation. Great video thanx.

[@richardturnnidge]

Used ours just last week. On top of a wet and windy exposed moorland, temperature just above freezing. It does need two people to keep the shape. But, ours has a vent both sides and after half an hour for a lunch break, no condensation and very warm. Apart from legs getting a little cramp, didn't want to leave!

[@sherrygreen9481]

Luke was testing the conditions the item could handle…he said it was for an emergency shelter … maybe you have listened

[@richardturnnidge]

@@sherrygreen9481 Mine isn't the same brand. But, definitely works better with two people to help it keep shape. I was more concerned that someone might report an emergency while we were inside, even though we were just having a break from the rain having lunch! However, anyone venturing out where those conditions could happen should be prepared for whatever is thrown at them, with all their equipment.

[@Chris-eh3du]

I really hope you keep going with the emergency shelter series. I'd love to see one that you recommend. I myself don't really have a good solution, as a long distance full day hiker with a minimal pack...so this is very helpful.

[@tylerandmaren]

What about the T6Zero by Coalcracker Bushcraft? So lightweight and compact. I would like to see Luke review that one too.

[@jerrykern4405]

not sure what you consider minimal. I consider it as 30lbs. I spent 30 years in the Marine Corps and I can easily do 10 + miles a day with a 30lbs pack. Tyler wood gave a suggestion to you. you are not getting a good shelter that weights 6oz. I don't care who makes it. I always carry a one man military combat tent on longer expeditions. If I am going on something short with the wife I carry (MY) emergency shelter. I use a 4 man USMC combat shelter rain fly only. I have some custom Titanium rods for the frame (you can use the norm). is weighs a few pounds, but like I said I don't worry about weight, I am in shape. on a week plus hike I carry 50 plus pounds at over 50yrs. one time we were caught in a thunder ice storm for 12 hours, never got wet and was able to cook and lye down to stay comfortable for the night. . my point is, you don't get good equipment in ultralight fashion. I have put some to the test, failed. my friends are ultralight fans and they found out they don't work. if you want to stay dry and safe add the weight

[@mr.m8123]

Thank you, Luke....Your review offers some very important information over and above the Bothy Bag. Thank you for 3 crappy hours that may help someone re-think and better prepare for an 'emergency'....Kind regards.

[@darlenekozlovskis6907]

Luke you truly are brave. Thank you for all you do.

[@jecejka]

Just a quick observation, Luke…if the shelter had been set up with the vent on the leeward side, perhaps the vent may have functioned better. I could see that the wind was collapsing the vent into itself, possibly preventing it from functioning properly.

[@davidfinnie121]

jecejka is correct in his observation. The windward side of shelter is being blown inward, the leeward side ballooning out, due to lower air pressure on this side. This lower atmospheric pressure would allow air to flow through repositioned vent, reducing condensation within shelter. You complained about heat loss from your back through the fabric, if you had put on your backpack, you would have separated your back from fabric and heat losses through conduction would be reduced.

[@mattressfour20]

Was thinking the same thing.

[@Dirty_Squirrell]

Correct. What do you do when wind comes from all around or changes direction, during bad weather and if, heaven forbide, you fall asleep and don't notice?

[@davidfinnie121]

@@Dirty_Squirrell This is not a tent, it is not pegged down. It is a large bag , that is held down by sitting on it. Wind cannot possibly come from " all around ", if it changes direction, move your butt. If you fall asleep, bag will continue to give you some protection from rain and wind chill, regardless of vent position. Condensation will only cause minor discomfort, I have never heard of anyone drowning in condensation. If this equipment is dangerous, as some of the comments would have us believe, try sitting injured ,without any protection for hours, in same conditions. I don't know what Ray expected from this equipment, it weighs practically nothing, takes up very little space and is deployed in seconds. The alternatives to this kit are a tent or a tarp. A tent would give far better protection, but would take much longer to set up, would weigh more and can't be pegged down on solid rock. To say a TARP would perform better than the Bothy Bag is nonsense, can you imagine trying to practice your ORIGAMI skills in a howling gale on solid rock, with not a tree in sight. This is emergency equipment , nothing else, it will HELP I repeat, ONLY HELP to keep you alive. Can I liken this kit to a LIFE PRESERVER on a boat or plane, you might never need it, but it is there. But in the event, you do have to go into the water, it WILL NOT stop you from, dying of exposure, it WILL NOT stop you getting eaten by sharks. But what it WILL DO , IS KEEP YOU AFLOAT, until hopefully rescue comes.

[@chrisinstasis7986]

@@davidfinnie121 well said

[@mariusengelsen7194]

I am sorry, but I think you have misunderstood this product. 1: To change into dry clothes, you need to set up a tent. This is something different. If you bring a tent, you would not need a bothy bag. 2: Shelters and widsacks are not supposed to be made og breathable materials! The evaporation takes a LOT of energy, mand makes you a lot colder! This is why it is freezing cold to get out of the shelter or windsack. 3: When walking in the rain for an extended period of time, you get wet. You will not be able to dry if the rain does not stop, thats why a vapor barrier is used by rescue personell (to prevent evaporation). 4. In an mergency, you should lie down in a curled up position, and tuck yourself in the shelter. 5. A tarp will not stop evaporation, unless you roll yourself in the tarp. Setting up a tarp in the storm, when you are hurt, is almost impossible. This is meant for a quick lunch shelter or for emergency use, if not carrying a tent. How about sitting outside for 40 minutes, and see how that compares? ;)

[@WindinyourSails]

Great content as always. On this occasion however I really do think you missed the point of the kit you tested. The Bothy bag is a short term emergency shelter, it's not meant to be compared with a tent that has enough room to get changed in etc. It's also not intended for overnighters in woodland where you have trees to tie a shelter to. Its purley to get you out of really harsh weather in exposed locations whilst you await rescue or for a change in the weather etc. It's not designed to be comfortable, it's designed to help keep you alive or to keep a casualty out of the worst of the elements until rescue. Its a quick deploy shelter for really harsh exposed environments and that's it. I would be interested to know what type of shelter you would have preferred to have used on this test, in this location/weather that wasn't a tent, didn't need trees to tie off to, no poles or pegs, tiny pack size etc but gave you everything you said you wanted and felt was essential that the Bothy Bag didn't provide. You will have guessed by now I'm a big Bothy Bag fan :) Didn't realise that these were mainly a British thing though. I am now really curious what emergency shelters others pack that's not a tarp or an actual tent cos that's bushcrafting or camping and not survival. Cheers.

[@davidfinnie121]

Good comments, he really did miss the point of the shelter. Try setting up a tarp in adverse conditions, on solid rock. IS comfort more important than survival ? Regards

[@georgiafl8285]

In those conditions, what emergency shelter would have been better? It was very quick to get under... took the wind without blowing away... a bit small... damp but not wet... space blanket sleeping bags/ pup tent not better... Genuine question. What would be a good emergency set up?

[@ferebeefamily]

Good question Georgia.

[@rossmacrae8406]

I agree, they are very compromised but they are small and lightweight. I have a two man bothy bag and it is about twice the size of the one you tested. It is large enough to sit on the base with a draw cord to tighten it under you for use in really windy conditions. Never want to use it as it would be very uncomfortable but I would prefer to be in it than outside in an emergency situation when injured.

[@Big-Government-Is-The-Problem]

why not just carry a tent and a sleeping bag or top quilt though? price seems to be the only pro argument for this thing i can come up with, but there are tarps/ground sheets that are way under $75 and ofc the sleeping bag is a separate cost completely, but a decent coldish weather sleeping bag can be had for around $200. im not saying you're wrong, but it just seems weird that anyone would go out into the wild without proper gear. even on a day hike i take my shelter, sleeping bag, food, water, water filter etc. ive seen way too many stories of people dying in the wild because they thought it was a simple day hike and they had no gear. ill gladly carry 10 pounds or so on my back if it can save my life.

[@rossmacrae8406]

@@Big-Government-Is-The-Problem weight is the problem. In UK, we typically do day trip hill walking with no intention of staying out overnight. Taking overnight camping kit is fundamentally different and 15 miles with 1500 - 2000m of ascent is much more of a challenge weighed down with stove, bag, tent, food, etc. I have loads of tents and great when required. Not convinced tarps work in horizontal rain but the trick is not to get benighted 😀

[@Big-Government-Is-The-Problem]

@@rossmacrae8406 yeah but survival situations happen when you have no intention of them happening like on day hikes. you can get a great tent and sleeping bag setup for under 4 pounds which certainly isnt going to prevent you from walking up a 2000m hill. ive walked over 1000 miles with my kit at around 10 pounds and ive had no issues walking up and down 14,000ft (4267m) mountains in Colorado. you should check out the show "i shouldn't be alive" here on youtube and see dayhikers that end up wondering around in the desert lost for weeks because they had no intention of staying overnight.

[@rossmacrae8406]

@@Big-Government-Is-The-Problem you are missing the point. Scotland is small, we don't have deserts and the average hill walker isn't doing expeditions like you are. We have over 1000 small mountains with perhaps 20,000 people on them at the weekend. I can guarantee that less than 1% take a tent - it is total overkill. It would be like taking your hiking boots to walk to the shops.

[@Big-Government-Is-The-Problem]

@@rossmacrae8406 do you carry a tourniquet? most would say thats overkill, until it isnt. the average person can easily carry a 10-15 pound kit with every piece of survival gear and even some luxuries with ease. why go so lightweight on short hikes? wouldnt you want to maximize your strength and endurance gains or weight loss progress. just because there are maybe 20,000 people around that doesnt mean you can rely on them to save you especially if you have a deadly wound. if you trip and snap your leg bone and it severs your femoral artery you're dead within a few minutes, and those 20k people around probably dont have a tourniquet, or they may not even be near you within that crucial first minute. i carry a first aid kit with a tourniquet in my hiking bag and i have had to use it and im 100% certain it saved the mans life that did have his femoral artery severed (hence why i used that example). thankfully for him that guy was able to rely on someone else to save him, but i dont play those odds with my life. you may be more careless with your life and so be it, but its negligent not to carry the proper gear. complacency kills and too many people end up dead even on well populated easy trails.

[@letgo8118]

It's a emergency shelter! And that's better than nothing.

[@stevendelio6483]

I respect your honesty

[@randytate2250]

Master Luke, I’m sitting here freezing watching you,and I’m here in New Orleans. When I got finished watching you I was soaking wet. Buddy some of the things that you do and go thru to make sure others are safe when they go hiking and camping. Thanks for taking me on your journeys,just remember that this old man can’t take to much of this for a long period of time. Please keep making these great videos and keep me smiling and laughing. Strength and honor my friend.

[@swissguy8052]

Hello Luke, as I said in another video, if I expect to get caught in a storm on my trip, I have a Helsport Fjellduken Pro in my backpack next to my tent or tarp. This or a Järvenbag have been tried and tested for decades and work. Expensive ? Yes. heavier ? Yes. More comfortable ? No. But safe and multifunctional. At minus 20°C in the Swiss Alps for 1 night and can write this years later.

[@thomasmusso1147]

👍

[@jamesgibbs8827]

TY for the 411. Thank the Good Lord you Are still here w us all .

[@BC-bj1cs]

Seems to be a reason why nobody has ever heard of this product. It is ineffective and useless. But fun to watch anyway. Thanks Luke Strength and Honor

[@burninsherman8284]

I've used the Sarma TST thermal cloak in similar conditions. It's Varusteleka's variant of a Jervenbag.

[@dbharrold]

Good review Luke with lots of valid points. I'm in the UK and I use a bothy bag. I use it for lunch stops but never had to use it in an emergency. Another difference the UK is a small island and most of our wild national parks are not far from help whereas in the USA you have vast areas of land and much higher mountains. If I had to use mine in an emergency the chances are that I could still receive a cellphone signal which I suspect in the US you wouldn't be able to. I also carry an EPIRB as I walk solo. If I contact the emergency services I would expect to be rescued fairly quickly by a mountain rescue team. I'm tempted to do what you have done and test my bag during some crap weather and see how it performs and put it up on KZbin. PS you complained about not being comfortable, it is after all an emergency shelter and not designed for comfort.

[@elsizzle2000]

Love this guy honesty

[@scousiered3124]

I am in the UK and carry one all the time. First it weighs nothing, and squashes to nothing. Second it is easy to set up. You loop the seat under your bum and sit. A rucksack can take the other seat ir your feet. Ive used this in sudden heavy rains or to take a time out from the weather. I love mine.

[@1adamuk]

They are an emergency shelter, not a comfortable tent you expect to use. They aren't really common here in the UK either. Not sure why the seams aren't taped though. Still, they're much better than not having one.

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

I agree emergencies aren't comfortable. I just thought about how awful it would be to sit outside in the rain with your rain gear on for hours. You would be praying for a little shelter.

[@jariperho]

A lot of folks here don't seem to understand what constitutes an actual emergency. If someone only needs to set up a tent or a tarp for cover or is able to pack his stuff and get to a car, that's camping, not a life-threatening emergency. Better to be wet and warm than dry and dead. I am relieved though that a clear majority of commenters and voters (top-rated comments) show an understanding of what these types of emergency shelters are about. I would also really like to see someone set up a tarp in these conditions: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIe1ep5trcpsers

[@MG-bs5mr]

The seams are taped on mine, not the same make though. And I'd agree that they're never a substitute for a tent.

[@MG-bs5mr]

​@@Jeff-jg7jh indeed, mine has taped seams and seems more waterproof than the one in the video. I would hate to spend a significant amount of time in it. However I'd hate to spend the same amount of time in the elements without it.

[@mikealwill7013]

Tape seams do not work on silicon nylon. Big Agnes sprays silicone on one side and PU on the inside so that seam tape adheres. The negative is the PU and seam tape will get sticky and tape start falling apart. One can buy silicone seam sealer for silicone tarps.

[@simonwoodward438]

I have one but I have never used it or seen one being used when out and about. I do carry a Snugpak Poncho which covers all my kit and pretty waterproof, so if needed I'd get my mat out and sit out the worse of the weather. I also carry one of those orange plastic bivvy bags and a small tarp so worse case I could knock up some protection. I know the British Army Basha is popular over here but also a lot of people use the US Poncho as well, both well regarded kit. I am glad I watched this today, I bought mine about 7 years ago and always had a nagging doubt in my mind about using it.

[@sandyquinn491]

thank you for the honest review

[@rogers917]

Thanks for the straight forward info. Enjoy your videos! My wife and I day hike and we would love to see what you would do for a emergency tarp setup that would protect two people.

[@cornishsean1]

i think you missed the point of this product

[@SeanHendy]

The bothy bag is an incredibly simple and very useful bit of kit. It is for emergency use, and great to get out of the elements. Even in the worst weather conditions, like 70mph winds on top of a peak, used the two man bothy bag to get out of the weather in seconds, as we stopped for some lunch. Two people sat facing each other, bothy over the top. Highly recommend this piece of kit.

[@peterevans8194]

One thing that struck me was that the reviewer looked to be doing a lot better inside the bothy than if he was sitting outside in the weather! As a young soldier, two of us were caught out in conditions like that with just ponchos and 58 pattern (feather) sleeping bags and looking back, we really were lucky to survive. A bothy would have been a god send even with all its limitations. What I would like to know though is what is the alternative to a simple bothy? A Gore Tex bivy bag will keep you dry if you are dry going in, which is frankly unlikely...in an emergency situation, a plastic bivy bag is far more miserable to use than a bothy...a tarp is a non starter as in many instances you will have no structure it pit h it against, and even if you do, in high wind/storms its only one step away from being a sail!. A four season tent? Not many day hikers are willing to carry the weight, and even if they did, they would really struggle to pitch it in those conditions.. Now that particular version of the bothy being reviewed might have some quality /design issues, but as a concept, I think the bothy is definately worth carrying as an emergency shelter...however, if anybody can suggest something better I would love to hear about it..

[@davidkost418]

You probably saved a few lives here! Good job. I love your channel Luke. Thanks

[@paulbaker4941]

Do a few hours with and without this, might be a better test....

[@emtpete]

Many Search & Rescue teams use these to set up over casualty while treating and packaging for extraction/transport. Would be great to see you do a video on emergency tarp above tree line on rocky ground and how to secure it for windy conditions. Good review.

[@davidfinnie121]

Spot on. When you see the shelter set up with the vent , facing into the wind , and having the material of the shelter directly against an uninsulated jacket. When a rucksack and seating pads were available. It makes you wonder. See reply to jecejka at beginning of stream . False Prophet springs to mind. You seem to be slightly more than irritated. Great post. Kind Regards

[@davidfinnie121]

Above reply was relating to Charley Farley's comments.

[@Jeff-vp9vz]

Thanks. Talk about taking one for the team.

[@rebeccaedwards8262]

I love tarp set up videos. Thanks for exposing this product.

[@gregtruscott6334]

Interested to hear your thoughts. I use one here in the UK and consider it fit for purpose. It can be deployed in seconds, offers protection from wind, cold and precipitation, is small and lightweight and stand alone (with you inside) To me it ticks all the boxes as an emergency shelter. What it is not is a tent or more elaborate shelter. Comfort to me would be down the list of priorities. This to me is a simple survival aid to protect from exposure to the elements. You can even carry it on your person rather than in a rucksack. The same cannot be said of most tarps and items such as fjelldukens. These are great but take up a lot more space. As with all kit it really depends how and when you intend to use it. I’d be interested to watch the follow up test you mentioned and enjoy hearing your perspectives on kit and testing in real world conditions. Keep up the excellent work

[@smbynum12]

Did you not watch the video? He got soaked?

[@slippery999]

@@smbynum12 he was wet when he got in and to say he was soaking because of the bothy bag is rubbish. The water “pouring” in through the vent was a little trickle. Moisture inside is a result of his breath and body heat condensing on a cold surface which is the whole point of the bothy bag, it’s creating a micro climate to prevent further heat loss. Shame he didn’t film himself sitting there for 3 hours without the bag and see how comfortable he was then. I just watched another of his videos where he was sitting in a tent with a hot stove, big sleeping bag eating steak clearly he likes his comfort, no wonder he was bleating in this one.

[@ManOnTheRange]

@@slippery999 yes camping is about comfort and not being miserable... you dont need any kit to be miserable...

[@slippery999]

@@ManOnTheRange Wise words indeed and good to know, I’ll bear that in mind next time I go camping at the Mandarin Oriental, NY. You’re still missing the point: an emergency shelter is not supposed to be comfortable it’s a last ditch attempt to save your life when it’s all gone wrong. It’s like the survival shelters fire fighters carry during wild fires. They don’t plan on using them, they don’t want to use them, they are a last ditch attempt to save their lives when they don’t have another option. They are relatively small and lightweight and can be carried fairly easily when fighting fires. I would imagine that having to use it for the purpose it was designed for is terrifying and almost unbearable with the heat, hot gases, wind and smoke. I highly doubt they would be “comfortable” and I would expect them to suffer smoke inhalation, burns, dehydration etc but they would almost certainly die or be severely injured without it. The same with the bothy bag, you might be cold, wet, uncomfortable but you would be a whole lot worse without it and at far greater risk of death or serious injury. I really don’t know how to make it any clearer…

[@pennywise146]

@@slippery999 👈🏻 Totally agree…couldn’t have put it better myself! The guy in the video (and all those agreeing with him) is getting the ‘survival’ aspect mixed up with the ‘let’s have a ging-gang-gooly with a big camp fire & sausages’ angle. I have one of these and have used it many times on Dartmoor (where trust me when I say…it rains!) just to make a ‘wet/brew’….and it works fine for that. I’ve also seen them used to protect an injured walker until better help arrived. This review totally missed the point imho.

[@r.c.z.7139]

An emergency shelter must tick a few boxes: small, light, easy setup (even when injured), cheap - and be better than being without. So while I understand your critiques I'm sure there is very limited possibility to create a shelter that is at an equal level as the one you tested and much more comfortable. Clearly you can setup a tarp - when you are an expert and don't have a broken leg. A manufacturer could use high-tech materials that are breathable and watertight - but it would be expensive and probably heavy. A space blanket is even more basic that the bothy bag - and has saved many lives. So maybe the term shelter is misleading - these things are contraptions that hopefully keep you alive till you are saved. They are not designed for comfort. And maybe the marketing guys of the companies should mention that a bit more often.

[@bmoney_0827]

The thing doesn’t even keep u dry that’s a huge down fall

[@spiderreed350]

It's Johnny Rodz approved,he's a top flight Navy seal equivalent in the U.K.

[@davidfinnie121]

@@bmoney_0827 See replies to jecejca If Ray had used common sense and had NOT positioned vent facing windward side, his experience may have been different. The bag is like bubble, it HELPS create dead air around you, this helps reduce the effect of wind chill. Note I said HELPS. Did Ray take this out of the bag, before testing it ? If he did, then how did someone with, his vast experience, expect so much of, what is only a bag made out of waterproof cloth ?

[@davidfinnie121]

For "Ray " read Luke sorry

[@marvinvollrath5166]

Great information love your channel

[@danewood2309]

I assume the problem is with the brand you used. I used to carry a 2 man Summit bothy bag, which I passed onto my daughter, when I bought my 4 man "Vango storm shelter 400"....I picked because of its taped seams, and size .. its just over 4 long, 3ft wide and about 3.5 feet tall, and weighs in at about 600 or 700 grams. I've had to use it when I was out walking in the Lake District in October, the Weather forecast was for a brisk wind and clear day, but about 4 hours into my walk a heavy fog started to roll in ahead of me, I turned around to head back, but I couldn't see more than about 30 feet distance, and within 10-15 mins the visibility was down to less than 10 feet , and the temperature had dropped dramatically , I made the decision to "squat down" and see If I could wait it out rather than risk going off the edge of a cliff, so I ended up inside my shelter with my walking pole holding the roof up, my rucksack as a back rest, sat on my insulation mat, with my legs stretched out holding the other side of the shelter down. the temperature went down to -3c inside the shelter and out side I could see the walls and and window were iced over, .... it was nearly 6 hours before the fog lifted, I have no doubt that If I hadn't had the shelter with me I would have had trouble getting off the mountains alive. Yes there was some condensation , but no where near the problems you encountered.

[@flightographist]

What I think about this Luke is the same thing I thought about the other reviewed "emergency shelter", they are not tents, they are lightweight and meant to be packed on day trips or extended trips with minimal expectation of extreme conditions, not adventures. My first intro to these things was through Europeans I met through my x country paragliding exploits.

[@alburns7278]

don't take this the wrong way, its a survival shelter not a tent, if you had another person or two in there you'd be hot believe me I've used one , when the weather changes & you are stuck you'll be glad of that trust me

[@bushcraft_crush2455]

Thanks for the review! Would love to see the tarp in use in an emergency setup and more!

[@CragScrambler]

Its literally an survival shelter for conditions where you have no choice but to seek shelter in life threatening conditions. Also the vent is supposed to be downwind not facing into the wind and rain, thats why you were getting so much condensation as it wasnt even venting.

[@TheQuantumPotato]

Just to play Devil's Advocate for a moment: I think you've kind of missed the point of these shelters. These are intended for day hikers to take in the event of an absolute dire emergency. As you say, if you get out of this, you will be in trouble. The point is that you're not supposed to get out of it until you're being rescued. Think of bothy bags as a life raft. It's not a seagoing vessel and it's not comfortable, and you will still have to contend with the elements. It's just intended to keep you alive for long enough to be rescued when the alternative is to just float in the sea. Typically in the UK that's going to be in the order of less than 24 hours (usually much less than that) - we have very good regional and local volunteer Mountain Rescue services here and the country really isn't that big. I think one of the reasons these are popular in the UK is because here it's wet and fairly cold for most of the year, but the weather can take a severe turn and go from fairly mild to really pretty dangerous very quickly and unexpectedly. These things will keep the worst of the rain off of you and get you out of the wind in an emergency if you break a leg or get stranded. These are really meant for people who otherwise would have no shelter. I would argue it's a much better option than just having a tarp above the treeline which is really the closest alternative I can think of. Yes, you can use a tarp in those conditions, but bear in mind you have to set it up which would be difficult to do in high winds with an injury or when you're disoriented and absolutely freezing. This, on the other hand, is a pretty instant shelter. It's something you can just chuck in your bag for a day hike just in case the worst happens - but as I say, it's arguably better than just having a tarp, whilst being much lighter and more compact than most tents. I understand you were testing a worst-case scenario and trying to find the weak points, but coming from a Scot who is in the outdoors often, if someone is going up the hills in winter in Scotland, they really need to be more prepared in the first place. In any case, it would probably keep you alive until mountain rescue could get to you. It's similar to an emergency blanket/space blanket. Of course a sleeping bag is 100x superior, but an emergency blanket might just keep you warm enough to not freeze to death if you have nothing else. In terms of the space and being able to be tied off: They're supposed to be small so you can huddle together, as well as making sure that it doesn't take up a lot of pack space. It doesn't have any points to tie off because they're really intended to be used by hikers above the treeline. Of course the best option is to take a tent of some kind which will be 100% waterproof and roomy enough to change your clothes in - but going on a day hike, most people aren't going to want to take one. Edit just to add: A bothy is actually a more specific thing than the definition you found. It's a Scottish term for stone huts which are dotted around the mountains and rural areas, initially intended for shepherds to take shelter in. They're left unlocked and are free for anyone to use, and there's a Scottish charity which maintains them. They typically have a fireplace or a stove, and in many of them there will be tinned food, firewood, etc. They operate on an honour system and the rule is that you should replace anything you use with something of equal or greater value (unless it's an emergency). Most people use them as destinations to stop for the night when hiking, etc. and not for emergencies, and generally people follow the rules and leave them as they'd want to find them.

[@amberlopez7477]

Could you explain further?😊

[@BURNWOODBUSHCRAFT]

I wonder if you would've been better off in a quality single person tent or bivy? Good test!

[@teresaakins1408]

Hay Luke im learning a lot ..thank you so much for the video .and the heads up ..

[@paulmilsaps4476]

Hi Luke. First, I would like to thank you for putting yourself in danger and such discomfort for our benefit. Next, I would have to say I would not have lasted 1/10th of the time that you did. I would have bailed as soon as I set up the shelter and seeing the horrible conditions I was about to endure. You have my respect! And again, Thank you!

[@m__r1100]

Sorry Luke, I think you're misjudging this one. Try sitting out with no shelter in the same conditions. I've used them regularly for short stops for 30 years in the hills - they are spot on. I've also used one as an extra wrap around bag - to keep rain and wind off. My head was outside - solving much of the condensation issue. Fwiw, mine has two much larger vents than the model you have.

[@SeanHendy]

100% agree. Very useful bit of kit for emergency use, and getting out of the weather for lunch.

[@MrJayharr58]

I never write comments on his reviews but his review bothered me so bad I went out on a rant because he is so far off. I mean the camera doesn’t lie! He’s soaking wet after 3 hours. He says it leaks than says it doesn’t it’s just condensation. He calls it a death sentence meanwhile has sat inside it for 3 hours in a rain storm and wind storm is relatively dry, he is clearly warm and just fine, never do you see him in ANY bad conditions as he makes jokes, talks and continues to review the product. He probably bad mouthed a survival product 75 times that literally just saved him from hypothermia! I def don’t think of him the same. This one pissed me off.

[@idv1328]

But it’s am emergency shelter, right? Would you survive in an emergency…or is it better than having nothing?

[@marcogenovesi8570]

Emergency shelters aren't supposed to let water in, just a FYI.

[@idv1328]

So then have nothing?

[@marcogenovesi8570]

@@idv1328 get one that works? Or a tarp?

[@ninjamckickass]

At 400g + a requirement to bring trekking poles.... there are much better options to bring.

[@idv1328]

Ok, I agree with that

[@talisayslim5481]

Luke, I'd left that thing a long time ago. You actually risked your life making this video. God bless you.

[@TrainToTent]

Thank you for the much informative review!

[@williammaurer9450]

Man, that was a test! Thx for such great reviews. You're my "Go To Guy" for product evaluations. Huge Thx.

[@GunnyHighway13]

Sit outside in same conditions, with no shelter, just with your lightweight summer jacket. Maybe you get the sense of a bothy after….. You alive, aren‘t you?

[@silentmoniker]

Better to just have a tarp instead..flexible,utilitarian also you can lay down under or inside a tarp.Tarp any day 👍

[@supernoodles908]

@@silentmoniker good luck setting up a tarp with a broken leg. The point of a bothy is use when it's an emergency

[@vatsmith8759]

@@silentmoniker Depends where you are, a tarp would be useless on most UK mountains as there's nothing to tie them to.

[@FatalChaz33]

Great show. This is good, real product usage.

[@muskyman1018]

Great review Luke. I have a 2 man Jervenbag I got several years ago, I’ve tested it in rainy cold weather with decent results. It was a bit muggy in there, I should’ve left myself a little more ventilation. I didn’t get wet, but definitely felt I should’ve set it up more like a tube than just a straight bag.

[@grantkelbrick2554]

Hey Luke, sorry to hear that this product failed so badly as Terra Nova actually and their sister company Wild Country, actually make really good tents. Perhaps check out some of those? Great show and keep up the excellent work!

[@lorettahoffman6190]

My goodness! Thanks for your valuable video and the suffering you endured to bring the truth to light.

[@XJonAye]

Thank you for testing this product and being ballsy enough to test it in the sleet and rain

[@perfectweather]

Great video, thanks 👍

[@premlaseraphim1115]

90s music intro, winter... Good stuffs, Sir. Good stuffs. We are all waiting for this.

[@deanlongthon4963]

If I had nothing in that situation, I would love to have that just drop out of the sky. I'd make it work. It's not made for comfort. Well done though, it's realistic

[@marcogenovesi8570]

If you wish for something, at least wish for something good, like a tarp. This is a gimmick

[@firstlast-vq4xt]

@@marcogenovesi8570😀 Seriously, though - Luke *was* protected from the elements (to a degree, granted), so it's better than nothing, but not something I'd pack for myself 🙂

[@tenchraven]

How would you "make it work"? Please, tell us how, and be very specific. You can't out think thermodynamics. Doesn't matter if if it is windproof- you get wet, and if you don't have insulation even it is just an airspace between your back and the wall of this "shelter", given that it leaks and has catastrophic condensation issues, you're cold and you're wet. it's a hypothermia bag.

[@marcogenovesi8570]

@@firstlast-vq4xt you call getting soaked wet while theoretically unside a waterproof shelter "protected from the elements"? I have different standards. This is barely a wind barrier, I can do better with a fkin lightweight tarp and some string

[@firstlast-vq4xt]

@@marcogenovesi8570 Go on, then. Pack those things if it makes you feel better. Like I said it's better than nothing.

[@garyscott5746]

Sorry luke you are wrong in this case and have missed the point of them, they are not used to camp or to be comfortable in they are purely used to keep you alive until found, if you fell and broke a bone they would give you a fighting chance until you are found or help can get to you, I also have one I use for groups when on the summits in bad weather just to get out the rain to have lunch, they have saved countless lives. of course a tent would be better for the conditions you were properly going to face as a emergency shelter but these are designed as a last resort.

[@TheMaGidogs]

Agree 100% . This is an emergency shelter and you can't expect the comfort as in a regular tent.

[@Mart687]

I think you are right. This is better then nothing if you like twist an ankle.

[@Mertyboy1207]

you're spot on. I carry one instead of taking a survival blanket, for emergencies. I suppose you could also use it in a situation where weather comes down, and you just need to get sheltered ASAP. Or if you fancy having your dinner out of the wind.

[@margieest7424]

So that's exactly what luke is trying to demonstrate. Nobody said that in case you were in an emergency situation, the sun was going to be shining and birds chirping. An accident can occur in any weather and so far it did not withstand the intention at all.

[@TheMaGidogs]

@@margieest7424 Exactly. Luke is trying to demonstrate but he still compares and expect the shelter to have the same comfort as a regular tent. This type of shelter have saved many many lifes.

[@markfletcher8084]

Thanks, I can agree with you. I wonder how it would perform with just cold and wind, no rain.

[@pacediver2594]

That was a great demo ,I’ve only tried one once, I believe it was a 4 or 6 man bothy bag for our SAR honestly not impressed,the owner liked it a lot but I found within minutes we had condensation and my back felt cold , the larger version we sat on our packs that was holding the edges down,I had hoped it was worth getting but that demo changed my mind ,once again great demonstration

[@arthurrsaker8893]

What are you considering as an alternative which is capable of ameliorating the worst effects of the weather, bearing in mind the requirements of very low weight and bulk, ie pocket packable, simple deployment, and protection from the prevailing precipitation of any kind. Forget about warmth and comfort, they can only be relative to the effects of enduring severe conditions without shelter of any kind, so are not practical considerations in a packable personal or group shelter, which can be stuffed away in your jacket pocket. It is after all emergency kit, not camping kit. One of these can save a lfe in conditions which make the very thought of pitching a tarp nothing more than fanciful nonsense. On this ocassion I cannot agree with Luke's analysis, or any of the detractors condemning this useful survival aid. Note "survival aid" not, "comfortable temporary woodland residence"

[@pacediver2594]

You have very valid points ,which in the short term would be very useful such as open area etc ,I think I was sold on a longer term use as in hours ,but for Quick checks in bad weather or checking your team or lost party I do see value,just I think in my area a good tarp is as effective and can be setup with one person ,I guess I implied the product wasn’t worth having which is up to the individual and not my intention,I just couldn’t justify it from my trying it out maybe a few more try’s I might see worth but usually I go with my first impression right or wrong,but that’s why we try things out in training .

[@deaconsyxx322]

You crazy man! New to your channel but love your content 👍🏻

[@angryfishmonger]

Funny and fantastic review.

[@carmenvazquez512]

In feeling the rain and the cold waoooo thanks for your information we all must be prepare because things don’t look good

[@simontate1376]

Quite an interesting review on the same product from a Scottish you tuber who would never be with out it. I've used mine many times in bad weather. Yes you get condensation, just like a waterproof jacket. But the warmth from a couple of people is amazing in winter or windy weather.

[@trustbuster23]

First, thanks for taking the hit for the team. That looked miserable. I had been looking at these and wondering whether they would be any good. The main thing I was attracted to was the instant set-up. A thunderstorm is rolling through and you just need a quick place to hunker down for 20 minutes, or something goes wrong, you are hurt and now you can't mess around with a tarp. Seems like this might be ok for the thunderstorm or a quick lunch in the rain, but not for an actual emergency. Seems nobody has yet invented the inexpensive emergency shelter that sets up like a pop-up tent, folds down to the size of a soda can and weighs 4 oz yet. For now, I will continue to carry a mylar sleeping bag (basically imagine those mylar blankets but much larger and sealed on 3 sides, so it is like a giant potato chip bag.) I have no illusions about its severe limitations. But it at least checks cheap, small, light, and easy to deploy. Kind of like the best camera is the one you have with you, the best emergency shelter is the one you are willing to bring along even when it seems like nothing could ever go wrong.

[@SomeRandoInternetPoster]

I’d love to see a video of an above the tree line setup. I think the Bothy bags are an historic artifact of a bygone era. What I saw of them was somewhere for a quick sandwich and drink from a thermos, or it’s to be used as an absolute last resort up high in the fells to help take the wind and rain off in a confined space. 30-40 years ago these where the only light weight option to keep an emergency backup in your bag for a hike without taking up to much space, today the ultralight tents are better in every way.

[@WhenTheManComesAround]

Perfect area for extreme weather test. Great vid 👍

[@thomasmusso1147]

I would like to see a Tarp perform under exactly the same conditions .. out in the open, no trees with just two hiking poles in wind, rain, sleet and snow. I think that your test and perhaps the marketing is aimed in the wrong direction. One should not believe all of the the 'marketing blurb' .. or ..

[@rickzaleski4117]

Hey Luke, thank you for going out into that nasty weather to test a shelter for us. That could be a real weather and survival situation. I have to agree with you…very temporary emergency shelter in that scenario. Wow, that was some crazy weather! S&H

[@leesheraton5414]

When I go hiking in the UK I pull a tiny caravan with all the bells and whistles. Better than a bothy shelter or tarp mate😉 Great video Luke.👌

[@larstrans789]

This is not a tent. It’s for emergency use. Carry one (4 person) in the field, and one in my kayak. Great stuff.

[@tammieflemal7871]

Amazing that so many “emergency shelters” turn out to be next to useless. Thanks for the review