Tent Vs Bivy - What's the Best Shelter for You?

** Stuff/Gear I Mention in this Video **
Big Agnes CopperSpur UL2 - amzn.to/2yOhHJc
ZPacks Duplex - zpacks.com/products/duplex-te...
OR Molecule Bivy - amzn.to/2yPVPxb
Black Diamond Spotlight Bivy - amzn.to/2invkJ7
EE Recon Bivy - enlightenedequipment.com/recon/
ZPacks 8.5 X 11 Tarp - www.zpacks.com/shelter/tarps.s...
AZT Section Gear List - darwinonthetrail.com/2017/09/...
AT Gear List - darwinonthetrail.com/2016/05/...
DISCLOSURE:
Some of the items in this video were given to me (for free) by the company. I have no contractual agreement with any company featured in the above video and only give reviews on gear I myself would use or feel would benefit my viewers to know more about. This is NOT a Paid Review, nor did I receive the product in TRADE for a review. I am self-employed and do not receive further compensation from any company for this gear review.
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[@azimuth361]

So, no kidding, there I was, my last weekend in the States before leaving to live in Europe for a few years. As my last hurrah in America, I decided to summit Pikes Peak. I planned on hiking halfway up to Barr camp on Friday, spending the night, summiting on Saturday then coming back down to spend another night at Barr Camp, then coming down on Sunday. I only have a freaking huge six-man tent. I thought, "No way I'm lugging that thing up and down Pikes Peak", so I decided to build a hootch, just a sleeping bag on the ground with a tarp for overhead cover. Barr Camp is a pretty easy hike. A lot of people bring their dogs. In the middle of the night, all the dogs started barking. I tried to sleep through it, but couldn't. I felt something sniffing around my feet. I yelled, "Hey! Get away from me, you stupid dog!" And kicked the sniffing creature in the nose, sending it scurrying. The next morning, a fellow in the next camp site asked, "Hey! Did you see the bear?" I froze, "Ba... ba... bear?" "Yeah. He was sniffing around your campsite." I turned white. "Hm. I'm pretty sure I kicked it in the face." Next time, I'm renting a cabin.

[@StonedAlone]

Hahaha that is an epic story, damn

[@micahwong6323]

That. Was TOTALLY WICKED

[@Director_Delta]

that bear gonna think twice about human camp sniffing now

[@lukehobbs3177]

That is hilarious!

[@aaronfuentes5919]

Don't mess w/ a man & his sleep

[@KD-bk7gd]

After my third night of racoons stepping on me in the middle of the night, I was over the Bivy hype.

[@WhoThisMonkey]

Haha, that sounds amazing!

[@netanel8897]

hahahah oh man

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

@Bill Randall lmao

[@LO-gg6pp]

@Bill Randall ah the "shoot em" guy - original

[@Ujasoncook9267]

Still intrigued by them. I'm gonna get a cheap one and try it out. But you have a point.

[@kemo1832]

First off let me say I liked this video good info. Though I'd like to say something to think about when it comes to bivy's. In many situations where maintaining a warm temperature throughout is important, bivy's are typically a better option as they are easy to heat up and hold body heat in.

[@-lien8string541]

kimo cataraha When I was in the Marine Corps, being cocooned inside a bivy sack early in the morning was heaven.

[@elidemosthenes5722]

I've often used a bivy + tarp setup when backpacking and I've found it just as good as tent when it comes to protection from the elements. There's obviously not the same amount of space to move around, but a tarp keeps the rain off you and the bivy keeps you from any wind or mud. The tarp also acts like a vestibule where you can cook if you have to and store your boots and backpack.

[@mateuszk3210]

My RAB bivy is about 550g which is pretty heavy with Cumulus tarp (which is must have for bad weather) another 170g, so total is 770g. That is above many of modern UL treking pole tents (that are below 500g including mesh and rainfly). What Bivy would you suggest that is not just a bugnet like the one Darwin showed ?

[@elidemosthenes5722]

@@mateuszk3210 I have an old-ish Integral Designs bivy that I love, but weighs about the same as your RAB. Unfortunately that company doesn't exist anymore, but you could probably find lighter setups of similar quality these days. I think the Black Diamond Twilight is pretty light (under 300g), and would probably be a little more breathable than the older models - though I've never owned one.

[@mateuszk3210]

@@elidemosthenes5722 thanks I've been looking more at stealthy colors like OR Helium looks nice but as heavy, something like Tera Nova Moonlite or Borah biviy. It would be used with tarp anyway, but I don't know many options at the moment, so kind of researching.

[@karst-erikbus6346]

@@mateuszk3210 I have a Katabatic Gear bivy. 220 grams. Plus a DCF tarp that's also a poncho 150 grams. Saves me, poles, rain clothing and a tent (1.5kg).

[@mateuszk3210]

@@karst-erikbus6346 thanks, in the end I've got OR Helium, been using last winter and summer. So far so good, works as expected.

[@jeffs6229]

Bivy/tarp set up in winter/fall trips and a tent in spring/summer trips. It’s that easy. Smaller shelter allows for a heavier sleeping bag in winter trips and I’ve found the bivy adds a little warmth. Love your channel!

[@Argethebarge]

Please don’t stop making videos, you’re legit a hiking legend man I truly look up to you as a passionate outdoorsmen!

[@drumstickscarecrow]

I'm a former tent camper who made the transition to hammocks 2 years ago. When I switched to hammocks, I still wanted ample coverage, so I went with the Warbonnet Superfly tarp. It's an 11x10 foot tarp with doors, so it's much like having the same sort of protection from the elements as I'd have with a tent. Since I've made that transition, I've never looked back.

[@bisleykid]

I went to a hammock a couple of years ago and have never slept better. Like you I am somewhat claustrophobic and the hammock gives a lot of latitude as to how I pitch it, low and tight for bad weather or high and open for good weather. Really enjoy your vids, keep them coming.

[@4-SeasonNature]

Thanks Darwin as always. I have used both tents and a bivy and I agree with your evaluation of the pros and cons between the two items. I cold winter or very windy conditions, I feel that the bivy is warmer than a tent and less prone to wind interference.

[@TangoDeltaDelta]

Great video and "hike your own hike" advice. I like my hammock and tarp setup for most weather hot or cold, sunny or rainy. It keeps me comfortable and dry off the cold and damp ground, or in or out of the breeze as needed, and away from most bugs. I have had to "go to ground" a few times, which I found disappointing, when there was no place to hang. It works mostly like your bivy and tarp then with trekking poles, except the hammock body isn't as thick as a tent tub.

[@MorettiPyrotechnicsLLC]

On the trail its been an experimental thing to use a hammock set up but while im kayak camping I reach for the tent and I think the tent is just gonna be my all around go to shelter. I love the security of the backpacking tent.

[@chefcocoasadventures8794]

I am a Hammock person. But will go to a tent from time to time. Thank you for all the great vids. Happy hiking.

[@rudyo8409]

Man" I like having 3 options . Tent/bivy/hammock . And it does have condition preferences . Sweet Vid" Thanx 4 sharing.

[@carrdoug99]

I have always been a tarp - ground cloth guy 40+ years. Love the versatility, and lots of fresh air. Have added a Sol escape bivy in the last 10 or so years, pretty basic. In fact never owned a tent till I had to round up my son who had migrated 50' away in a meadow up in the Sawtooths. Found him sleeping with his butt up in the air. He was 18 mo. Old.😳😄

[@brianjones4413]

hilarious!

[@skategreaser]

Don't tell Mom.

[@wolfeadventures]

Does the sol bivy breathe well or do you get condensation?

[@carrdoug99]

@@wolfeadventures It does breath (I think they make one that doesn't, so be sure to check). It's synthetic, so it can get a little damp feeling, but nothing serious.

[@wolfeadventures]

@@carrdoug99 thank you.

[@progresiverocklover]

I am using the OR Helium at the moment, very happy with it. It's a four season bivy, already seam sealed, but water has gathered in wet mornings in side the tent and because of the limited space my sleeping bag was very wet more than once... It's great as a tent that's super light weight and that will be there in case of need more than an essential outdoor house. I'm hiking the Te Araroa in New Zealand now so it's perfect because it's mostly huts here and a light and small backup plan of a tent is just what I need here.

[@andrewharmon8332]

I use an MSR backpacking tent for most of my hiking. I recently however have started to try hammock camping and I love it. My gear and I are off the ground in stay dry no matter what. I use a sleeping mat and plan to get an under quilt, a bug net, a hammock and a 6 sided tart from my favorite hiking gear site outdoor vitals. I primary hike in Minnesota were I live and the surrounding states on the superior hiking trail and a bit in other places. I am 18 and this summer I will be going on my 3rd hike without any parents or adults. Hiking is the ultimate freedom and way to connect with the outdoors.

[@Pumpkin_Fart]

I love the Snugpak Stratosphere bivy shelter. I feel like its a backpacker's dream shelter...packs up very small and very light.

[@krisstaty4460]

hello darwin, thank you for your videos. I am starting to go camping by myself (I used to go with my parents when I was a teenager and they took care of everything, I am 31 now) so I am looking up for videos that talk about gears and how to use them, I have seen many of your videos, and I love them, thank you for explanations. I am not doing any hardcore camping, just the weekend kind. So I love how you compare and talk about different options, other youtubers seem to only be talking about hardcore kind of camping the kind you spend months on the trail. My favorite video of yours was how you packed your bag, using your old backpack and your new one. It never occur to me to separate the sticks from the tent, God I am just a fool. I was trying to put it all together inside the bag and it was impossible. Thank you.

[@cgriggsiv]

As you are correct I have several ways to keep myself dry in the storms and what trail I decide to go on I have a hammock that can be turned into a bivy with my tarp shelter of course I also have a polis tent or a trekking pole tent technically speaking I also have two other tents only one I will use on the trail oh those times and that's my osprey so it really is up to the person and the trail that that person is going to be going on again thank you for your insights of your trails and what to expect between the pros and cons of each keep hiking

[@jearago]

The bivy / tarp combination like you've shown gives me all of the storm protection, space, and vestibule advantages of a tent, but with unlimited pitch options, and without the weight and condensation issues of a tent. Great videos!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yep! It's a very versatile set-up for sure! Hike On, Darwin

[@2AFreeState]

Hammock for me currently. And if I can't find any trees, I have an 1/8 inch body length sleeping pad from Gossamer Gear that I can sleep on the ground with. Normally I use it as a folded up leg pad while in the hammock but I can dual purpose it if I have to.

[@Lue_Jonin]

Good video Darwin. Reminded me of my years using a Swank 1 person tent...in the end ,after countless times of having to shelter up for 3 day periods due to inclement weather, I found out I just can't bring myself to crawl into that coffin enclosure again. I definitely was happy getting a larger sleeping structure like what you used on the AT. I'm willing to pack a bit more weight for the comfort.... Having that extra space is such a luxury comfort each night. Thanks again for your videos. ✌ 👣 👑 👑

[@jamesh8571]

This is a great channel. Concise and straight to the point. I would LOVE to see you do a video of a 3 Season 'one pack for life' gear list. If you had to assemble a pack capable of 1-3 Season travel which would see you across deserts, mountains, everything and live with just that gear for a whole year, or longer. Granted it is fun swapping out and experimenting with gear, but if you had to live with just with one pack for a while I would be fascinated to see what gear you committed to

[@tomkruczek668]

I agree, Darwin that the conditions really dictate what to use. I have a 2GOSystems Trifecta Bivvy and 3 tents - Two from Henry Shires; the other is a Big Agnes Foidel Canyon 2. The Trifecta is for staying in shelters, emergency use as a bivy or tarp but also part of a sleep system using a Vapor Barrier Liner for cold and sub zero temps. In wet conditions, the combination of the bivy and my one person tent makes sense to help avoid my EE quilt getting damp. This doesn't happen with the double wall Foidel Canyon tent as it's very solid, but is also a much heavier tent and its for hiking w/a partner where we split the tent between us to help reduce weight. It's also for winter camping. Anyway, I was reluctant about bivy's and now I see how they can really add value. I take the Trifecta with me all the time as a "just in case" piece of gear, too.

[@kenmarapese9085]

Big Agnes Fly Creek Ul1, I can move around in it and stow my gear if it rains. The additional weight over what you just showed is worth to me. As well, on shorter trips I take a Kelty Salida 2 person tent, I like the room.

[@gboltonatrail1099]

Would love to see a follow up video showing how you set up the Tarp and bivy with your trekking poles. Always looking to perfect my methods of going to the Ground as a hammocker.

[@CheeseCrackersandaJeep]

I actually learned a lot! From being a tent person myself, I never used a bivy! Thanks for the info!!!!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

No Prob! Hike On, Darwin

[@kevincorp1671]

I'm currently using an army bivy/ tarp. I also bring a light hammock for heavy rain so I can get off the ground if need be

[@waynehead7271]

Congratulations! You seem to be an honest broker of information, to me. BTW: I'm 55 y.o. and have been camping/packing all of my life. I live in the PNW now, and in a tsunami zone to boot, so my OSB (e-bag/BOB) always has a traditional/military surplus WP bivy and a tarp. I add the tent & small chair, with a decent menu of extra food, when I am "just going camping." Kinda wish I was still young enough to do what you do, with today's tech, but really appreciate that you seem to be an honest broker of information. There is so much pablum out there now, that I have to give props where it's due. Keep trekking/questing ... and make it home safely. ~Peace~

[@tomhealy2405]

Great job Darwin. I love my Hyperlite Echo 2 shelter. It's light, can just use the tarp and not the insert. But agree with you not needed on the lower portion of the CDT where we mainly just cowboy camped. I like a tent especially in buggy or wet times.

[@jgaffney2010]

Tarptent. I used a Contrail for 10 years, but recently upgraded to a Notch because I wanted a side entry. I met Henry Shires when I drove to his house, and he was nice enough to set up 3 tents in his yard so that I could try them on. Sturdy, lightweight tents that give you some privacy and protection from the elements and bugs. Highly recommended.

[@Lee-70ish]

Had my Golite Hex 3 tipi for 8 years still love it. Ultra light uses a single pole or a walking pole with supplied 12inch alloy extension or a strong stick or outer branch hanging loop and some para cord. Can sleep 3 at a squeeze but acres of room for 1. Don't need an inner tent as condensation runs down to outer edge. No guy ropes just peg edges to the ground (I bought titanium one's to save weight) open door and erect pole . 5 minutes max set up.

[@johneric3886]

You did a nice job with that video. I've been on the Appalachian Trail myself.

[@teenoltae]

Everyone should spend atleast one night in a Bivvy with no extra shelter in the rain - I guarantee you'll want to hit the trail arround 4.30 am . .

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

lol.... Hike On, Darwin

[@Dawn2DuskAdventuring]

T Noltae lol 14 years in the USMC I spent many a night in a bivy. But after that every else is just a luxury.

[@stevejazzband]

T Noltae literally what happened to me last trip....

[@johneric3886]

Your comment made me laugh.

[@360flip19]

T Noltae I use a heavier bivy (Outdoor Research advanced bivy) and it is completely waterproof. I'veeen stuck in heavy North Western rain/snow and it was fine. It's also the only 4 season shelter I own. I understand that the main draw to using a bivy setup in the first place is the weight that can be saved, but I just love the flexibility of where I can set up camp. I do greatly prefer a tent if I'm at a crowded spot - just for a little privacy.

[@stevemac1956]

Tent. BA Copper Spur UL1. Like you said, I too want to spread out and if needed have somewhere to wait out a storm. In my 2012 attempt of the PCT I used a BA Fly Creek UL2. Great tent but don’t need that much room hiking solo. Just received confirmation of my 2018 PCT Permit. Start date 3-19.... see you on the trail.

[@midwestoutdoors3286]

I have traditionally been a tent camper. I’m currently using the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 but I have been debating on giving hammock camping a try.

[@renaecummings8068]

Most of the time I’m hiking with my husband. Based on that alone, a tent like the Duplex or Gossamer Gear The Two, are both very light shelters that are great for one if I decide to solo, or two. So...tents gets my vote.👍

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

There's just something really nice about having a Bunch of room to spread out, isn't there? Hike On, Darwin

[@ronnieo9571]

I met this guy who was bike packing across the country and he rolled himself up at night on the side of the highway in a walmart tarp.

[@glbwoodsbum2567]

I've got a hardcore buddy that's gone cross country many times on his Harley after the Marine Corps. And he would sleep at the side of his bike in a parking lot.

[@WhoThisMonkey]

I've done that many times on the fly when you don't have enough time to set up camp properly. Just lay it out flat, fold it in half and lay in between. You'll be damp in the morning due to condensation, so propping up an air hole with a stick helps. If you can find a load of long grass or hay, you can make yourself a comfy mattress too!

[@charliekendall4288]

@@glbwoodsbum2567 I knew a biker who would chain the bike to his leg while sleeping where ever he stopped.

[@glbwoodsbum2567]

@@charliekendall4288 Good thing no one ever took off on the bike with him attached.

[@stoicodysseys6352]

I am currently looking into an ultra-light tent. I am currently using a hammock system.

[@raidersofmylostnut9413]

for me a tarp footprint duck down bag sleeping bag liner sleeping mat inside my bush pro bivvi sack i am toasty warm even when its raining and cold usually wear my down jacket...sometimes i use bush pro tarp with my sleep system and set it up in a lean too configuration so just five pieces of kit with a tarp love your videos keep up the good work

[@ImranWorldCyclist]

Great educational video. I was looking into getting a bivvy but after watching this it has to still be the tent for me all the way!

[@blacksheep6821]

Still using a sleeping bag. I like to feel like i'm outdoors. I feel like i miss that in a tent or bivy. Great episode. Thank you.

[@ALPACABOWLCOMPANY]

I love my hammock. Was looking at other options for the desert or other places without many trees.

[@predfan3261]

With my back, i go the hammock. I have an ul option at 3lbs for hammock, tarp, and sleeping pod. And the comfort model at 6lbs for larger hammock with bugnet/winter cover, larger tarp, tq, and uq. I carry a tyvek bathtub for going to ground emergency. And i mean emergency.

[@dougturner790]

Yeah, I like a little room and have been using the Kelty Salida 1, although I'm thinking about the Zpacks offerings.

[@trailhiker6501]

DarwinI really enjoy you gear reviews and hiking tips. I recently picked up the EE Recon Bivy. I used it for the first time 3 days ago hiking the Three Ridges on the AT. I used a lightweight tarp with doors made for hammocks and a piece of tyvex for the floor. It worked absolutely perfect. One night I stayed in a shelter with several other hikers. I used the bivy in the shelter without the tarp. When the mice came out they couldn't get to me. I love this new piece of gear

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

NICE!... Yeah, I've really been digging mine! EE knocked it out of the Park with this one! Hike On, Darwin

[@ReverendRusty]

I have done both tents (the Zpacks Duplex right now) and a hammock. With the right insulation underneath, the hammock was more comfortable, but I still go with a tent for the same reasons that you do. Love that home and the duplex gives a good space/wt ratio. Yeah, I'm claustrophobic too, so no bivvy.

[@halfadane6466]

I personally use a tarp and ground sheet. Because I like have some room for my gear, it’s fairly light and there’s a ton of different configurations to my shelter.

[@matteosaottini930]

Hey Darwin keep these great video coming! I walked TeAraroa in New Zealand last year and I am planning for the pct 2018. See you out there ;)

[@jeremyleclair3617]

I have been using a MSR Elixer 2. I like that little bit of extra space.

[@TheHavnmonkey]

Of course I grew up camping in a cheap 2 pole dome tent. As I got older the square foot print was a little too short for my 6ft height. Now I have two setups a Dream Hammock Darien with a Warbonnet Superfly tarp and a Tarptent Motrail. I love the hammock set up and think it is the more comfortable option for me, however it does take some more time to set up than a tent. The Tarptent is for when I'm with my GF. It's super quick to set up and fairly roomy for two. Only con is how slippery the floor is, even with silicone strips. Given a choice, I choose hammock!

[@birdbrainZ]

I'm using a Alpkit Hunka XL bivvi over my sleeping bag. I like the small volume them pack down to and naturally they weigh quite a bit lesser than a standard tent setup.

[@tommyclough9981]

Tent for sure. I live in Florida and the bugs can get crazy. Plus with the surprise rain storms, a tent works the best for me. Some of the guys I HIKE with though are tarp guys, but that's what they like. I also have the Zpacks duplex as well. Vestibule room and the option to open both sides make it ideal for keeping it somewhat cool. Best of all, pack explosion occurs when I am in my tent. Thanks for the video, as always!

[@mezio1]

I still love my Big Agnes Scout Plus tent. Weighs 1# and offers loads of room while hiking the Superior trail way up north in Minnesota. We get a lot of heavy rain storms and has yet to fail me after three years. Hike-on!

[@eliaswb4133]

Im Very happy with my msr elixer 3 for the two of us. Heavy maybe but loads of comfort.. using it in Europe, also perfect in rain and cold

[@raulf195]

Great video, pros and cons of each, thanks

[@Pac_437]

I run hiking trails in the alps with a 30L UD fastpack and there I use a bivy, sometimes I miss the comfort of a tent but the when weight and size really effects you, nothing beats a bivy. I use Black Diomond Spotlight Bivy

[@cherylcave7379]

Love my Big Agnes copper spur. Live on Vancouver island where we get a lot of rain

[@szymonolszewski9840]

I use surplus bivi + surplus tarp (which i often use as a raincoat and for maaaaany other things). For me it was cheaper and easier to carry. Worked well in summer and in winter time with no problems.

[@tootsla1252]

I'm with you! I love my tents. I think I have four of them - one for every occasion. But make no mistake - it's a tent for me every time - no cowboy camping, no bivvies ever! I want that home on the trail as you say.

[@EDCAdventures1991]

I’ve had the OR Advanced for 3-4 years now. It’s never let me down and it’s good for 4 seasons. I take a grabber space blanket to use as a ground cloth, so if I really want more space I can set it up overhead if it’s going to rain. I like the Bivvy because it’s it requires virtually no setup unless I want to bring the 2 small poles to give myself some headspace. There’s also versatility to a Bivvy, I can set it up just about anywhere since it requires no trees and has a smaller footprint than most tents. Also for the materials it was a lot more cost effective for me. I got it for about $120 which is a bargain for a Gore-Tex shelter. There is a con to a Bivvy which is condensation. Gore Tex is breathable but only to a point but I’ve never ended up with puddles in the bathtub. At most, just able to feel it if I wipe the inside surface with my hand. Overall I’ve really enjoyed using it over the years.

[@anitavaughn1968]

I’ve been researching because I want to hike the AT next year. I recon I’ll get the ZPacks Duplex.

[@Prodigalson0078]

I'm rocking the Mountain Laurel Designs Grace Tarp Duo and Serenity Net Tent Duo. It is 14.7 Oz for the net tent including stuff sack, and it is 12 oz for the tarp including the stuff sack. I weighed them on a food scale.

[@MrDanAng1]

Tent or bivy.. depends on the weather, how long I will be out, were I hike and several other factors. So, this video with pros and cons for both is really hitting the nail for me. 😀

[@wewewewewewe363]

I feel like this is great to throw in your pack along with your hammock just in case you want a change on extended trips

[@daleroller1208]

I had an Outdoor Research bivy years ago, then had a nice Mountain Hardware bivy that was burned up in a house fire last year. I now have a US Military goretex camo bivy that I carry in my car. Will use it this week to backpack around hot springs. I prefer a bivy because I don't want to bother breaking down and setting up a tent. I can set up a small tarp over the head part if i want more room during bad weather.

[@brandondziamba2438]

I used a tent on my first section hike of the AT here in pa but I’m thinking of trying out hammock camping this spring when I go again

[@GoneFeralWithSquidly]

I have a bivy which i used for a few years on the east coast. One long night/morning of rain ended that. I still have it though and my son uses it.

[@echo3whisky]

I agree with you on everything you said for both items. I am considering getting a hammock and trying one out. I personally think its what every your most comfortable with. For myself I have a 2 to 3 person backpacking tent from walmart because I usually go out with atleast one other person. This allows for us to both be in the tent as well as get out gear in out of the weather it also prevents us from dealing with bugs ticks and spiders being on or in our packs. I'm currently tryimg to decide if I get a hammock what I will do with my pack.

[@garybolenable]

I'm using the Zpacks duplex, and it's hard to beat the space to weight ratio, but I really liked your bivy/tarp setup on the Arizona Trail. I thought about giving it a shot as the duplex doesn't pack down very small but then I kept thinking about the black flies and mosquitoes and I like having the space of the duplex and not having to worry about bugs. Having said that, your bivy/tarp setup looks perfect for shoulder season camping when the bugs aren't out in force.

[@theamazingfreak]

Hi Darwin, Another great video. Thank you. A different option that we have here in Australia is called a Swag. NO.. not your gangsta walk and talk rubbish. This originated in the 1920's during the Great Depression. Many men would walk from town to town looking for work. What they slept in was a simple bed of oil cloth wrapped around a few wool blankets. This became known as a Swag. If it was raining these men would make a rough primitive shelter from tree bark or debris. Today the Swag is still a very big part of camping in Australia. I have one, and use it when I travel home to visit my family every year. The drive home is a 3 day drive, so when night rolls in, a lot of animals are on the road, more than you would believe. So I pull over, roll out the swag, light a fire, camp the night, and pack up and head off in the morning. The cost of the swag has been repaid many many times over from what I would otherwise be paying in motel accommodation. And I am only sleeping out 2 nights, going home, they understand I will stink, and I can shower there :) This is a Australian style swag... kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5qTo2qDhrt0Z5Y

[@117Canada]

I have been using the eureka solitaire it is a Bivy and I have use it for 40 more Multi day hikes and on the WCT as well

[@WyeExplorer]

I'm using a tent Darwin - the six moons and I love it. I Like the z packs and have thought of shipping it in - I will do one day. I like the ease of set up with these types of shelters and as you say the retreat and space. Never gone for a bivvy and never will. I just know that. Why? it was designed for some other use as you rightly mention. Great video. Take care out there. Mark

[@TheTroublemakersGuild]

I'll be putting an OR Alpine Bivy in my BOB. Relatively light, water proof, nearly indestructible gore tex material and should pack up pretty small as well

[@ScoutManSteve]

I'm currently a fully fledged hammock camper, but pretty much like having multiple options for different scenarios. It all depends on what sort of camp/hike you're doing. For instance a place in England called Dartmoor, you would probably be hard pushed to find a place for a hammock, but there is lots of areas for bivy or tent.

[@starlightfrontier2218]

I've got an MSR Elixr 2p, which is a little on the heavy side, but that thing is so water proof. I've had that thing sitting in inches of standing and running water and never gotten wet inside except from the usual condensation

[@symphonyofdestruction2015]

Great Video, I got myself a bivy because of weight and simplicity. I want to try tarp and decide if this would be a better choice.

[@111crackerjack]

Using a Paria outdoor bivy plus 9’x9’ tarp, works pretty well. Looks very similar to the recon bivy in your vid

[@axlent123]

Love the minimal size.. I camped once under the boughs of a tree in a tiny pup tent, having only about 28” of clearance below the boughs. Kinda stealthy. I imagine a bivy doing the same.

[@RowdyFisk]

Tarp and Hammock currently - have my old tents but like the more open feel and comfort of tarp & hammock

[@bruin4937]

Good and helpful segment - thank you! For me, a tent. Offers you a bit more shelter from the elements, including any wild animals snooping around your campsite.

[@maximusmeridius1272]

I am a huge fan of both tents and bivy's. You've nailed the pro's and con's of both. I have been hunkered down in a bivy as a blizzard raged outside on a couple of occasions. A bivy adds about 15% more warmth to you in a sleeping bag, so they are very warm. But that being said, I'm like you Darwin, and I need my space. I love using a tent because it allows me to stretch out, hang and dry clothes, etc, a bivy really limits your activity inside.

[@simon6652]

Your videos and advice are brilliant

[@GreenJeepAdventures]

I combo a military bivy with a tarp. I sleep cold, and the bivy adds an extra layer to keep me warm.

[@damark376]

Gonna be using my MSR Hubba NX on the Appalachian trail next spring, have to say I don't think I could go for much less room than that. I do like me some rolling room haha

[@glennbur]

I live in wet, buggy North Carolina so it's a tent for me. I use a Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout one person tent. There's room for all of my gear inside.

[@intothebackcountry2658]

Great video! I was thinking of getting a bivy to lighten up my pack, but weather is a concern for me with that setup. Still on the fence

[@StregAnders]

I used the Carinthia Explorer 2 Plus (Now called XP two plus) for a few years when I was in the army. We all really liked it, because it gave you an enclosed space with a little bit of headroom, as opposed to the earlier model where you had no enclosed space at all (Hello mosquitoes!). We still had a tarp with us, as your backpack wouldn't fit inside the bivybag, and sometimes it would be needed for other army-stuff ;-). A bonus of this is that you could have a little more dry space for getting in to your clothes if time allowed. This is something I would always want; so my go-to today for hiking is a lightweight tent. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Good video, Darwin. I think you got around most of the pros and cons of bivybags and tarps vs tents pretty well.

[@chuckdaniel817]

When hiking, a goretex bivy is the way to go. On the last trip, the rest of the cohort had tents and they leaked. My bivy had pools of water on top of it. Shook that off and was comfy and dry all night. And setup and tear down were each about 10 seconds.

[@edbooth9439]

Agree completely. Had an LNT trainer weekend in SNP past Thornton Gap on the Virginia AT and Blue Blazed into parts unknown. Graded on our impact each day when we broke camp. Some had hammocks, some bivy and the rest UL tents. My tyvek ground cover for my Copper Spur did not leave any more of a trace than the bivy if you only used one side door. The ticks, mosquitoes and midnight visitors made me real happy I had a tent. So really believe it is personal choice. (Our females were happy in their hammocks since we were completely dispersed at least 70 steps from each other and privacy was not an issue).

[@daleroller1208]

I live in Oregon. I just got a US Army goretex bivy last week. Looking forward to using it with a small tarp to set over my upper body.

[@truett4260]

I've used the MSS goteex bivy for years. I have been in heavy wind and heavy rain on multiple occasions in that thing and stayed dry every time. It is bombproof and I'll never leave without it.

[@LaconianConcepts]

Another PNW-er here that loves his Bivy. I have used the MSS for years and can attest to its fame. I recently switched to the Snugpak SF Bivy to save a full pound, and while not as bomb proof it is VERY waterproof. With a good 10x10 tarp I can setup a tarp-tent that rivals the trekking pole tents and is the perfect system for me. I hammock camp most of the time and even use it in my hammock. This allows me to carry gear than can crossover so I can change my setup as terrain changes on through hikes without adding a bunch of stuff I don’t use.

[@lgodwin63]

My go-to is a Big Agnus Copper Spur UL1 tent...less than 3 lbs. I think of it as a jumbo-sized bivy. I’m short enough to be able to bring my backpack inside. But I like your bivy/tarp combo. Most people I meet on the AT down here in GA talk about the latest Darwin video. Hike on, brother.

[@30-06]

First time watching your video and I’m very impressed! Subscribing! And since you asked, I’ve been using Kelty’s 2 person tent modified by myself to trim down weight, I can’t remember the model name... I just got Nemo Hornet Elite 2person tent so I’ll be using it for my next adventure and I’m so excited about it!

[@JenniLevenbook]

I use an old Spinnaker Gossamer Gear The One tarp-tent. It is that tent which comes in weighting a pound just like a bivvy + tarp.

[@fredrickhardyway]

I use a hammock with bug net, if I have to go to ground, it is very similar to a bivy set up, plus with the hammock set-up I always have a tarp.

[@dnaylor2484]

this is in Australia.. in my youth i used a bivi during non winter walks with a poncho/tarp as a roof over the opening end and a bivi bag as a cover during snow cave camping on ski tours but now a days its a reasonably light weight 3 season 2 person tent (i always think of a 2 person tent as 1 person +gear) been caught in weekend long rain too many times to not have a tent.. :)

[@martialbushcraft]

me and a couple pals went up to a mountain lake in colorado a few weekends ago with intention to try some high altitude ice fishing. hiked up 4 miles to about 10500 with an auger and all. we got there and started shelter. we had no tents lol. just tarps and wool blankets. made a shelter in dug out snow with the tarps and such. made it about half way through the night till we got up to start fire again cuz couldnt sleep. oh yea it snowed an hour from when we arrived to the lake till we left the next morning. winds 10-15. and we didnt bring snow shoes... man it was fun. saw a fox about 15 yards away, some yotes circling us for awhile. and it was satisfying knowing we could and did indeed do it.. needless to say no fishing was conducted

[@christiankoval7936]

I use the MSR mesh house with the rain trap. its light and doesn't take up much room.

[@cwoodswalker4646]

Just last year I hiked (4 days) for the first time with a bivy (Outdoor Research Helium) instead of a tent. I really enjoyed the compact size and low weight. This year I am considering taking along a siltarp as well so that I have shelter if it's raining and I need to be outside the bivy. I've hiked a lot previously with tents and while they do have their advantages, the compact size and weight of the bivy now make it my fave to hike/backpack with.

[@RealLuckless]

After getting into large format photography, I've started giving through to 'hiking' with a bell tent and a donkey. Or at least some kind of light one or two wheeled cart.

[@gravitykillz924]

Thank you for the vids. Been binge watching them :) Subbed.