Truth About Using a Bivy - When, Where, Why and Why Not

[@johnzimmerman6516]

Grea explanation Luke. Thank you!

[@markleavey1]

Hell yea

[@jamesboyd5573]

@@markleavey1 x

[@tullochgorum6323]

Good summary, but there is an additional advantage which wasn't covered. In exposed areas where you might get caught in a storm, a bivy (or a very low bivy-like tent) keeps you safe at windspeeds that would destroy most larger shelters. The same goes for big dumps of snow.

[@proctortoad]

Used them in the army and they worked very well. It downpoured for 4 night when we were in the field and it kept me dry all night long. I have never been so thankful for a piece of gear. That gear saved my life as the 4 days it rained, it was only about 45-50 degrees out.

[@dexter24241]

Was it a constant doenpour? If so how did you stay dry? Were you also using a tarp?

[@GruntProof]

As a grunt I lived in my bivy for 4 years!

[@TheMarky26]

Sounds terrible

[@Longshot88]

@The New Crusader well, and because of physical strength. I'd like to see YOU haul 80lbs for a 10+ mile march... In under 4 hours, of course!

[@kakuto500]

@bali song Hardly, only twigs get broke....

[@bangurowned]

It’s actually easier for me to sleep in Bivvys over tents. Thanks Military. LOL

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

And let me guess, whenever you go backpacking you bring it up every thirty seconds and insist on carrying 60+ lbs because “i wAs aN 11B mOfo!!!1!1!1!”

[@danielkutcher5704]

Very good, honest, assessment of the use of a bivy. The thing that I missed the most (back around the turn of the century, while experimenting with ultralight hiking) was the ability to sit up, which I had in a tent which I already had at 1.5 lbs. more. I have since switched to a hammock and tarp system. I'm old now and don't feel like crawling through mud to sleep on the ground. Sleeping pads have gotten much lighter and more comfortable, but much more expensive as well. I like to tell people that my favorite thing about hammocking is that my floor never gets dirty and I can swing my legs over the side and stand up to exit. No crawling or stooping. ☺ I have used an eVent bivy by Rab, and I was always damp from my own sweat, which once froze inside the fabric on a 0F night. It's supposed to be more breathable than Gore-Tex. From owning jackets of both materials, l can say that neither works (noticeably) for allowing sweat to escape in the rain while hiking, hence the ventilation zippers, and they must be washed regularly in special detergents and occasionally have the durable water repellant coating (makes the water bead up, critical to the breathability function) replenished, usually a special spray, or by ironing after washing. I never kept a bivy long enough to need to wash it. For me, it was only carried for winter overnighters or emergency shelter when climbing above treeline.

[@christianb8228]

@Rich G underquilt and a good sleeping bag in combination with a a good sleeping pad you will be warm and comfortable

[@Jason-iz6ob]

Or one could say that your floor is always dirty. Since it is just dirt....

[@Gimo76]

My twin sister thinks I will fall on my head if I sleep in a hammock. We are 70 and it has been about 10 years since I slept in a hammock. My butt froze but now I know how to fix that. I found a hammock to be a lot more comfy than a tent. I have a tarp to use if it rains and some mosquito netting. Just had major surgery and since I didn’t die I guess I will start living and having some fun.

[@felixperalta5154]

what would be your current pick for a bivy tent ?

[@tomsitzman3952]

I gave up on gotex years ago.

[@cyberjonesy]

Im a retired Canadian Forces Veteran, and I loved using my bivy bag! Best thing in the world to have on a rainy right. Humidity will accumulate in your tent, but NOT in your sleep system. I have slept many stormy nights, with my lower body laying on an inch of water, yet completely dry inside of my Bivy. But the Bivy is not only a sleep system, we used it as a makeshift raft when we had to cross bodies of water. You would put your rucksack inside the bivy and close it firmly so that it is airtight and then cross the river using it as a raft. If you have a problem with condensation inside the Bivy, it is indeed too warm inside, just pull your sleeping bag down towards your ankle and you'll have the most comfortable sleep you've ever had. As a matter of fact, on hot summer days, I would not sleep in my sleeping bag at all and instead go naked inside my bivy bag, it was awesome.

[@kevinx6107]

We were using some draw cord and some tape. Canadian bivy did not have a zipper on the side making it a useful tool to cross bodies of water. I have the US MSS now, with the zipper on the side I doubt I could use it the same way. I wonder how the US force does this ?

[@1barron]

Great explanation , At 77 I gave up crawling in and out of tents. However; I am concerned about finding trees for my hammock while motorcycle camping away from Michigan. So I have figured how to use my tarp and my bike to make a bivy like shelter with my hammock on the ground. I have not had to use it but I likely will this Summer.

[@vonsprague7913]

I have spent literally thousands of nights in bivvys, I currently use the USMC Gore-tex bivvy and a poncho. When I day hike I always carry one as an emergency shelter, usually a British Army Gore-tex bag for emergencies. I only use a tent if the weather is going to be very wet or snow is likely. The humble bivvy takes me back to my glory days with British Airborne and I always sleep like a log.

[@maximusjoseppi5904]

how do you deal with bugs?

[@buddhablack3316]

@@maximusjoseppi5904 not so much of a problem in Britan

[@TheRflynn]

Buddha Black depends where you are, midges can be horrific. Though mosquitoes and horse flies are a minor issue.

[@bwxbwx6453]

@@TheRflynn I had an issue with frogs one night

[@clevelandexplorer2221]

Aye, I bring my dd superlight hammock and tarp almost everywhere with me to prepare for all terrain. Usually I wouldn't mind walking a little further for some trees but my company might be wanting to set camp by a waterfall or whatever, and I can't blame them. Or maybe I just CBA walking further and don't mind dossing nearby when I'm tired. Being so open is amazing, and for me definitely worth the midgies etc. I only wish there was a super light solution to sitting up with back support, like a rock or whatever. On the contrary, while hammocking I wish I could cook without getting out haha. I have a lightweight slim table which stakes in the ground but still a little bulky for most occasions now. I could use something like a jetboil hung up on something but the table would probably be lighter and slimmer (slimmer being relative to my normal cookpot). Hammocking is grand!! What do you use for insulation below, an under blanket? I wish I did but having the exped downmat is good for ground and hammock dwelling :)

[@luluwan5212]

I've never used one except in the winter, and now after your review, probably never will . I like my tarp with a skeeter net in the warmer months..the net weighs nothing and the tarp/net setup is much more versatile. I love this channel; you're so blessed to live where you do and get to hike that amazing area.

[@noneshere]

I like a 10x10 tarp and a 4' pvc center pole. You can close it completely in a 3 sided pyramid or open it like a teepee. When its opened as a teepee I just toss a mosquito net over it. The best thing about using the tarp system is its truely waterproof. Ive stayed under a tarp tent for days during lengthy down pours. Long as your not on ground that floods your perfectly set for any weather.

[@goodredman]

You can turn a regular military surplus Gore-Tex bivy into a structured variant with two items. Your shoes likely boots either side of your body or head inside and then a common pool noodle or foam that used to insulate water heater pipes etc. The foam can also be used between your back and your rucksack or pack when you’re hiking to carry it and add some padding. Doesn’t weigh much and the main key component is the foam tube or noodle. Give it a try works like a charm. Keep that Gore-Tex up off of your face and also allows snow and water to runoff.🎉😅

[@NathanTeaches]

Very clever!

[@goodredman]

@@NathanTeaches thanks. Glad you got something out of it. Maybe I’ll use it this winter again. Bivy tends to be too hot in the summer where I’m at.

[@jonison6847]

Great tip, thanks. That goretex on the face thing kinda sucks. The Dutch military bivvy bag comes with a hoop - it's a great system, but heavy.

[@connorobridge]

I brought pool noodles last time I went backpacking, but they were to get me to the deeper water to catch some big trout! Then it rained the whole time 😅

[@johnlim7679]

When I was in basic training, we had field events and slept outside in a bivy with the sleep modular system. In twenty degree weather and rain, that bivy was a godsend. Best sleep I ever had. Great explanation; bivies have a place and time to use.

[@rowanblackwood1379]

Great video. I personally exclusively use a bivvy. I’m too lazy to bother with a tent. I use an alpkit hunka xl. Bags of room for gear inside, relatively lightweight, waterproof (I’m in the UK) only thing letting it down is the lack of meshing to keep bugs out. But just use a head net. Wild camping isn’t really Legal in most of England so you have to go under the radar, and for that, the bivvy is perfect 👌 also paired with a DD magic carpet gives a tiny space for gear/cooking etc if it rains. All for about 500grams and a total cost of about £60

[@kaikaikai458]

lol, how many nights? Did you ever get caught in a rain?

[@petepete66]

Bivi is always in my bag … always … sommer also winter … you never know what happens… Bivi is a live saver 👍😎✌️🍀🔥 …. Always with a tarp above

[@shj2000]

Once hiking in the Smokies with my brother and his Son in Law we made camp right before a powerful storm blew through. Brother and SIL were using hammocks with tarp coverings. I had a tarp and US GI bivy. It was cold and the winds were shearing through the mountains. Brother's rig blew down. He had to try and put everything back together in total darkness. SIL's rig stayed together but he nearly froze and got zero sleep. I slept like a babe. Didn't know until the morning what the other guys went through. Bivys come into their own in terrible weather or for emergencies.

[@ryand141]

Lmfao.

[@davidfantle6721]

I've used them occasionally for decades. Best uses are for climbing, where you may need to rest or sleep on a ledge, for protection from dripping water from melting snow inside of a snow cave or winter tent with dripping frosted walls. They are miserable to get into in the rain, or when clouds of mosquitoes or biting flies are swarming you. You can't just 'dive in' like through a tent door. Entering is a slow, squirming process, with high chance of zipper snags letting in a dozen bugs before you can get it sealed up! Those without any pole system to hold them off your face will leave your head and face getting slapped all night long with the fabric billowing in the wind, or feeling every raindrop hit your face through the fabric. I will use one under a BD MegaLite tarp shelter for glacier camping or ski touring as well. It's definitely a love/hate relationship!

[@leewilson98]

Great overview as always Luke. Just like a tarp, benefit of a bivvy is it's adaptability. In the summer I just use mine as a groundsheet, if it gets chilly I hop inside with either sleeping bag or bag liner. Combined with a tarp in A-Frame or plow point config, can't beat it. For the netting just add an mosquito net, such as from Friendly Swede. I've got a British army bivvy which whilst a pain to get in and out its (I think) 8 foot long so even space for your gear if needed. Certainly heavier than an ultralight tent but so many options and leaves you to experience the outdoors without the claustrophobic feeling of a backpacker tent.

[@rowanblackwood1379]

Lee Wilson not to mention it’s probably a few ££££ cheaper 😆

[@ianshodan]

Rowan I paid £30 for my British Army bivi, absolute a bargain

[@simonh6371]

@@ianshodan Me too, on ebay, and it was brand new, or at least unissued and unused. Cracking bit of kit.

[@steveh100]

There was a time before we got issued bivvy bags, they were a god send. I always had to have my face out of it though, except when having a drag of me smoke. A wet gonk bag weighed a ton lol.

[@Capzuwa]

I personally use bivys all around the year from overnighters to longer trips. I think they are a great piece of kit and one thing speaking for them is the great prices you can get on military ones. At the same time you get a nearly indestructible piece of kit with an amazing quality. Yes there are lighter options but also at a much higher price and somewhat more fragile at times. I never had a problem with condensation because you simply dont ever close it fully. It's just not safe to do that and leaving at least a breathing hole is always a reasonable thing to do in terms of oxygen.

[@michamajka4169]

Hi Luke I use this heavy camping bag made of goretex. There is also a version of the Dutch army with a frame and a mosquito net. Big enough to fit a whole backpack inside. I found 3 more pros you didn't mention. 1: I don't use any floor, only this bivibag, so the weight is not so bad 2: when you put the sleeping mat inside you will not find yourself on cold ground at night. 3: at night protects the sleeping bag from the spark from the fire. Greetings from Poland.

[@M1L0556]

@Nikos Bushcraft and Survival not really, those military ones won't

[@kocronashi]

Interesting! I've used the Army Gortex bivy for years and never had any issues with humidity inside the bivy. It actually keeps me dry during overnight rain and the dewy mornings. In the military I usually just full-on cover my head and sleep on my side. Never bothered to dry it out after it got wet, found I never needed to since it drys out pretty quickly while I do my morning hygiene.

[@JoeMac1983]

Same. I haven't experienced humidity issues with the army bivy. Then again, I haven't slept with my face covered by it. As far as normal body heat and whatnot, it hasn't been an issue. I just unzip it if I'm getting too hot.

[@richardclayton2278]

I use a British ex army bivvi as well and I have never had any issues with condensation or dampness inside.

[@BAKEDPOTATOLARDYASS]

@@richardclayton2278 same

[@RefugeeOfModernity]

your bivy doesn't soak up water when it rains? my USGI MSS does, but the water doesn't soak through to my bags. wondering if i need to re-waterproof it.

[@kocronashi]

@@RefugeeOfModernity May need some waterproofing then. But yea, mine never had any water soak in and I don't think anyone in my company had any issues either. We trained in New England and it gets rainy out there on some nights when we trained.

[@KurtMcScotsman]

I've been thinking of getting a structured bivy for a while but now I'm rethinking things. Before this video I didn't think of the excess condensation problem that a fully enclosed bivy (w. bug net) would have. Thanks a lot for the video, it's definitely given me a lot to think about!

[@gregharbin3531]

Another good and honest assessment. My current bivy set-up is the Gortex Military Sleep System with bug net and tarp. While it is a little confining and very heavy by many modern standards, it is still very effective and gives a wide temperature range of usability. That being said, I do not use that set-up on longer multi-day recreational hikes when lighter weight is the order of the day.

[@soldier-Dave]

I’ve used the British military goretex bivi bag forever! In all seasons and can’t fault it and like you say it keeps you warmer and is windproof as well as dry! I’ve never got condensation damp !

[@ZoggyWoggyII]

You use a tarp on top? You use a groundsheet below? Light sleeping bag? Could you make do without sleeping bag and just wear your heavy clothes?

[@labellaescrima1996]

I like your style Luke, honest and to the point. Of course your experience accounts for the quality of your videos and the seriousness of your explanation. Sure helped me make up my mind about bivvy! Thanks keep up the good work you are helping people beyond your wildest dreams.

[@fradee2830]

We used them when I was a ranger in Ft Lewis. They're great when you only get 3 hours of sleep and you just want to maximize your sleep time.

[@maximusjoseppi5904]

how do you deal with bugs?

[@johnturner4559]

Maximus Joseppi by zipping it up

[@napalm3899]

@@maximusjoseppi5904 Rangers eat them for the extra protein.

[@MrTowton1461]

Great vid Luke. The best thing about Bivy's is speed to set up and low profile for stealth camping.

[@danielmeans9539]

I always wondered about bivys because I've never used one. Thank you for the excellent info! Keep up the awesome vids man!

[@Chris-lp3dm]

Good advice. Used to own a Camp 7 bivy that I absolutely loved and used year-round. Had it for about ten years before my truck was broke into and gear stolen. Bought it used at a swap meet and used on many backpacks and SAR missions in all kinds of weather. It was a sprung hoop type, could either seal it up or just netting over your head and shoulders. Used it in pounding heavy rain, a real deluge with water running around it and I stayed dry. Used it in high mountains waking up to discover an unexpected snowstorm had dumped a foot of powder. I've owned a lot of tents, simpler bivy bag too. But that Camp 7 was by far my favorite.

[@michaelvandegriff6696]

Finally! I've read lots of books that use the word "bivouac" but this is the first time in my 41 years I've heard it pronounced.

[@ottomechanic1370]

I own a bivy, which I purchased a few years back. The only time I used it was in a tent, when the climate was cold. Enjoyed your presentation and it helped. Since we are in spring-summer mode will put it aside. Thank you.

[@tinderkeep5652]

This was one of the best reviews of the Bivy I've seen - thanks.

[@southernhorseman2006]

This video is spot on. Bivy covers are not the way to go in warmer climates, but if you tarp camp in the winter, it can be a valuable asset. For me, Goretex is the only way to go with a bivy. Yeah, it weighs, but I believe it's worth the extra weight when the temps drop way past freezing.

[@magnusbrogren2849]

I think you left out some important things about condensation in relation to volume and outside temp and also air, moisture and gas permeability of different fabric types and laminates. Some do allow for complete closing whiteout running out of oxygen... but safety is an important topic for sure. Also, I missed a detailed discussion on design features.

[@diminpalkatoyj4254]

Stealth camping is my main reasong to have military goretex bivy. It makes it very easy to camp enywhere, also tarp is good for heavy rain.

[@doozerakapuckfutin]

I’m more of a DD Frontline Hummock good for both ground and between two trees but always with a tarpaulin .

[@per-erikekberg5365]

Very, VERY good walkthrough of the pros and cons. Like you, i`m faiirly experienced. I found myself smiling in recognition most of the time. Cheers.

[@TheP0STMAN]

I love my military bivy. I use it every time I camp, whether I’m tent, tarp, or hammock camping. In the winter, yes it’s nice and toasty warm. In the summer, I usually use just the bivy no sleeping bag maybe a blanket. Also warmer nights I may just sleep on top and use it as a ground covering. Also it makes a great backpack. Just load everything in it, fold it up and attach it to my Alice pack frame.

[@johnnybeanz1296]

Good comment.

[@diggernick01]

I feel like having to empty your backpack (on the ground, I assume?) every time it's nap time is not the most convenient arrangement.

[@caseysimpson1806]

Excellent discussion. Cold weather use for me as well. One of my best outings was behind a rock wall on a very windy ridge, 10,000'. The protection offered by the bivvy was excellent and comforting. Quick to pack up in the a.m.. Note: anchor your bivvy on windy ridges.

[@nateearle844]

Great to hear from someone with actual experience. I agree that the best time to use a bivy is for short duration severe events. They'll never be as comfortable as a more spacious tent, but sometimes you need the advantages of lightweight bomb-proof protection. I was recently caught out in a winter storm with only a tarp. The blown-in snow buried me in my quilt and melted around my face wetting out my down bag. A bivy would have changed this from a dangerous situation to a relatively benign one. So best uses for me, winter camping, cold temps, and high winds, in combination with a floorless shelter like a pyramid or tarp. In situations (like mountaineering) where safety, weight, and simplicity are more important that comfort, the bivy-only setup can be great.

[@andreasweber5638]

My two bivies are a Carinthia, German Army and a Defcon 5, Italian Army. Both are made of laminated Gore Tex and are extremely breathable ( must be clean fabric but you still have some dump patches in the morning) and have IR protection. The Defcon 5 however has some short stakes, just enough to provide some headspace,-helps if your claustrophobic . I use them always as an emergency shelter in the mountains as a protection from any kind of weather. In combination with my thermarest inflatable and a Vaude synthetic sleeping bag with 5 degree Celsius comfort zone I was able to sleep comfortably covert in snow at 3000 meter on a windy summit

[@PabloP169]

For some of my outings, I use in Oz what we call a "swag" and these range in style/types from something like the second two that you showed up to ones with support hoops and poles. They are almost always made from a good heavy-duty canvas, so they are NOT intended for backpack use at all, although their origin was meant for carrying on a horse or similar by stockmen. Crude earlier versions still being hand-carried by homeless people in the great depression years were basically a blanket or two rolled up and carried strapped to the back. From this use, we have the term "Swaggies" that is applied to roaming homeless people.

[@andredeketeleastutecomplex]

We 'swaggies' call others 'dorkies' bc that's what they are, dorks that bother us lol

[@MrMigido]

@@andredeketeleastutecomplex be a proud swaggie not a boasting moron. For sure.

[@faithlesshound5621]

So that's what a "swagman" was, a man who carried a bundle on his back to sleep in.

[@natureb2267]

I had an OR Gortex bivy years ago that I used in the White Mountains of NH for a a summer doing an overnights about once a week. It had the two pole system with the screen and worked well for me. I got rained on two or three times and it kept me and my gear dry as far the bivy was concerned. The water proof costing on the bottom part eventually failed so after sitting for many years so it was no longer usable. I have a marine core gortex bivy that I have used two nights in the recent past. It is a little more claustrophobic compared to the OR that i had years ago but has served the purpose. I had one rainy night and it performed well. I have a mat that is inflatable and that does not fit inside with a large bag so I guess I will need to run that underneath going forward.

[@hamishchoat4077]

I use a bivvy bag alot, primarily for wilderness Search And Rescue were speed of setup, and the ability to set up anywhere is a must. For example on a recent search we didnt stop to camp up till 0300 and in an area were there was no flat ground, our team of four all climbed into bivvy bags in a matter af minutes and slept sitting up against a cliff face.

[@r-pupz7032]

Thank you for what you do with Search and Rescue ❤️

[@pedroclaro7822]

Great clarification! I was thinking of going just with a bivvy, but If I need a tarp then I'll just use a mosquito net under that. For keeping crawlers away, a permethrin treated groundsheet as Luke said elsewhere is a great idea. That way you can lay your things on the groundsheet and not have to fear finding a spider in your hiking boots. I'll stick to hammocking, use the tarp and net I have to bring anyway, and IF I must sleep on the ground, I'll only use the bivvy if I expect really cold conditions, because a wet down bag is dead weight.

[@petepete66]

.... always for wild camping and emergency... perfect with tarp ... everywhere.... ✌️😁✌️

[@Seamus3051]

Thanks for a comprehensive evaluation of "bivy use". The analogies & examples are concise, applicable and provide a useful "baseline" for potential use ... Cheers.

[@scoutingfreegermany]

Great video! I use a light weight bivy in combination with a tarp in wintertime. It keeps the sleepingbag dry from the outside moisture and blocks the wind. I use it as an extra layer but don't close it over my head. That's the only way I use it. Once used it without a tarp in the rain and yeah, most uncomfortable and wet experience ever. Cheers, Marc

[@MOGOfficial85]

Thanks man. I've been contemplating a bivy for solo multiday trips and my condensation questions were answered.

[@Strange-Viking]

Theres bivies out there that are double hooped so you have more space for ventilation and front and back a mosquito net. Those hardly condense. Especially if theres a small breeze and placing it so the wind can pass trough. I personally use a defcon 5 extra large. Hardly any condense in it.. and that what is there forms on the raised part so doesnt touch my sleepingbag

[@marjiecleveland]

I only have an emergency bivvy, which I (thankfully) have never had to use. Tents will always be my preferred choice!

[@louiszepher666]

I bring a bivy when I go tarp camping in the fall and winter. Helps when the wind changes and the snow comes inside the tarp.

[@johnschmalbach8243]

Great info! The idea of a Bivy is now kinda blurred as you noted. Mountain Laurel Designs, Paria Outdoors, Enlightened equipment (among others) even make "Bug bivies" now. They are basically just a bug net with a bath tub floor for one person. Some you can almost sit up in. I kinda dig them. If it's going to be a clear night the bugs stay away. If it's going to rain I put up my 9x9 tarp and I have the rain protection along with the critter protection and plenty of "hang out"/work space for a lighter weight than my UL two person trekking pole tent. I also love my 2goSystems Trifecta in Bivy mode, either as an emergency Bivy/blanket or an addition to my sleep system in the winter.

[@Jbzero999]

love a tarp and bivy for summer backpacking. I just use a lightweight sleeping bag liner instead of a sleeping bag. I also will use my bivy when I'm using a down bag as insurance against condensation. They are a great budget option for people just getting started. With a REI house brand bivy and a cheap tarp, you're well outfitted for less than a hundred bucks if you shop the sales.

[@steveescher1554]

U must live somewhere cold. In PA during the summer you can barely sleep naked on the ground because it's too hot. It's like 80 f right now at 6 30 am with brutal humidity

[@ernestpaul2484]

Carried around a bivy sack (USGI) for years in my ruck (with and without a civilian sleeping, but ALWAYS with a poncho liner). Different strokes for different folks. Mine was issued so the cost end never factored in, ( I did buy an extra one for $20 15 years ago ) the weight was not really considered because when the time came to rest, being as comfortable and dry as possible was a real morale booster and a necessity. Also always had an 8x12 camo tarp.

[@alexandergutfeldt1144]

Thanks for explaining the pros and cons of a bivvy. Seems to me that any large enough tarp, e.g. a 7x9, could substitute for a bivi in a pinch: Put the tarp on the ground, lie down on it, pull 1/2 over you, done .. add stakes to hold the top down, if needed. So a small moskito shelter & a tarp sound really good (in Summer). In winter, when you need a more elaborate sleep system anyway, the weight of a tent doesn't really count.

[@keisha717]

Exactly. Using a tarp in place of a bivvy bag is especially useful when camping on a steep slope. Tie the tarp off to trees - or use stakes as you mentioned - and it functions like an arm sling to help prevent your body from sliding down the hillside.

[@brucematys8597]

I have the MSS, bivy, and try to carry it on as many trips as I can. It's a little heavy but I usually only go for over nighters or for a weekend, no thru-hiking. Cheers Luke!

[@summitsparrow]

Thanks! To add my experience I'd say the bivy really shines when it comes to setting up a shelter in a rocky, uneven surface, like say on a mountain ridge - in this case bugs are much less of a problem than down in the valleys where a tent would be most useful. In these conditions typically the temperature plummets as you go higher and are exposed to high winds up on the ridge. Because of your inability to properly stake a tent out on rocky uneven surface, the bivy will not cause you to blow off the side of the mountain either. Pretty much any other situation I'd go with a tent.

[@Zeriel00]

What if someone is climbing down and they step on you? or if a rock falls on you? lol

[@digitallyafflictedgamer7757]

Awsome information! Was thinking of buying a bivy recently, this will prove to be an intellectual boon in my quest.

[@BlackdogADV]

Well, I guess they’re not for me! I think I’ll go with an ultralight tent and my light Big Agnes sleep system as I’ve got to be comfortable. Thanks for the video!

[@SonofChurchill]

I've been watching your channel and other for some time. Just starting out in camping it's meant to be good for mental health. Last week I ordered my first shelter went for a bivy as low profile. Watching this video hope I haven't made a big mistake! Thanks good information, I'll think about getting a tarp.

[@StevanOutdoor]

I use bivy's when traveling light (fewer gear) and when it gets cold in my hammock.

[@alexungur1]

Hello from Romania. I follow you for a while now and you are awesome. Keep it going!

[@ExploringAndMe]

I love bivies with bug nets hahah my favorite for stealth camping i slept in the middle of maastricht park in holland and noone saw me its one of the biggest cities of the Netherlands waa happy it had a net because that park was fullbof beavers climbing on my bivy sack lol

[@richardrichards5982]

You are right on the humid environments. I tried a bivvy many years ago in sub tropical Australia (south east Queensland). The bivvy was so wet on the inside that it made it difficult to sleep. In tropical Australia it was even worse. I went back to a lighweight tent, mat and light sleeping bag for these conditions.

[@rowdybroomstick1216]

This video definitely made my case and my love for my hammock tent, off the ground, no snake's, no mosquitoes, no running water in the event of hard rain and with the right system as I have used I have stayed warm and dry for nearly 6 year's of chasing flooded mountain Creek's and river's doing white water kayaking and in Arkansas from 2007-2013 we were in El nino quite alot and chasing water all winter long & into spring. Once you understand how to get in a x pattern for sleep and can rest without a rock sticking in your back you probably won't return to anything ground related.

[@jeffccr3620]

Bingo

[@PapajosTraders]

What kind you got? I have a Clark and love it!

[@danielkaranja7978]

What do you do when hiking to tree-less areas (if you go there)? A hammock is awesome but to me I find it limiting in the regions I want to explore.

[@myhubbyislouisvuitton4218]

I love my USMC gortex bivvy, I ordered two along with the USMC two man combat tent (super heavy) that were delivered to me in the UK. I use my bivvy every time I camp in every season, glaming, car camping or camping. it’s super spacious, breathable. Mine zips all the way around so it’s one sealed unit and it has press studs. I would never go out without her whether summer or winter because I detest being cold. One of the best pieces of gear I own despite the weight.

[@wildbrigante9596]

Apart from the situations you described, I use the bivi when I want to stay very low profile which can be often in UK if you do wild camping. The law here is a bit different I guess.

[@cigh7445]

How do you find the situation with rain and dampness etc? I'll be walking the UK and Ireland and was planning to use a bivvy bag to sleep in but I know it rains a lot so I'm not so sure now

[@wildbrigante9596]

@@cigh7445 yes you do need to be prepared for rain. I would take an ultralight tarp as shelter. Tarp and bivi are a great combination in changing weather conditions. Winter might be hard but can be done as long as sleeping bag is up to the challenge. I am sure it will be a great adventure!!

[@cameronbryan2088]

@@cigh7445 I do 4 nights in a house and 4 camping around cliffs along with 5-6 10-14 day adventures all camping mostly in the uk need any help getting set for a uk adventure let me know :)

[@rahuldoes]

Who, POSSIBLY, could dislike such a video and, more importantly, WHY?

[@jonNH123]

The ultralight weight ratio for tents are a pretty great reason not to take a bivy anymore. Except for the arena of mountaineering, I don't see much advantage to having one. That being said: memories of my early days of backpacking and using the contractor bag bivy in a pinch still makes me smile. :-)

[@theknave4415]

Good presentation. Balanced presentation of the pros and cons. A few inches of snow on your bivy keeps you toasty, too. :) Bring a small tarp and wrap yourself and the bivy inside of that, like a burrito. ;) I've done that a few times. It works and keeps you dry.

[@AlexT-md9df]

Thanks for the video! I’d love to see a full review of the US military bivy, I don’t think you’ve done one on your channel yet

[@myhubbyislouisvuitton4218]

I’d love to see that too! I can’t go anywhere without mine!

[@andrewwheelerguitar]

Time and a place to use a bivy are some of the most logical words I’ve ever heard! Yes! Thank you. It makes all my time learning to use a tarp system worth it to know that there is this “fourth season” opportunity.

[@chrisb9345]

They are too claustrophobic for me, I prefer and hammock and tarp myself. One with a larger structured area around my head might be OK I guess.

[@simonh6371]

I put up a basha (largish tarp) or a poncho, with the poncho I cover the head area and it doesn't matter if my feet/legs are sticking out...so I do have a larger structured area around my head.

[@CarlKem]

Great video. I have used homemade bivies, and I found they are wonderful in cold environments (like the high Rockies year round or the semi-arid savannas such as in Colorado, Utah & Wyoming in the fall, winter & spring). I found that a small tent with one of these bivies is another type of shelter multiplier. I have a few tales about doing that in Wyoming & Oregon.

[@Imightberiding]

Excellent review of the overall use of a bivy. Thanks for the solid information. Your non-biased, straight forward opinions, experience & knowledge is refreshing & appreciated. I have found your reviews of gear invaluable as it is far too impractical & expensive to test & try so many different options as an average, casual user prior to making a final purchase. Cheers from Canada.

[@CaptainCamp]

Thanks for your view on bivies, you make some good points. Big advocate of the bivy here! It combines great with a poncho-tarp to cover just the opening. I have the (discontinued) MSR AC-Bivy which all around works well. If the virus allows, I'm using it this summer on a 500km thru-hike in relatively wet European climate. It works!

[@WhiteAngloSaxon]

The virus is a hoax and only exists on television .

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

Bivy = Bear Burrito

[@WillN2Go1]

Good video. Good point about weight and ultralight tents. This is why I've yet to take my hammock backpacking, and why I haven't bought one of the 'fancier' bivies. I have a (discontinued) REI Minimalist I picked up for $12 in one of their parking lot sales. Best deal of my life. Super light weight I sewed some loops on the mesh so I can lift it off my face with a string to my staked hiking pole. For me a bivy is part of my sleep system. I use it in the bunk I have in my Prius V when it's cold outside. I have a winter bag, a lighter bag, liners, air mattress, air pillow and the bivy. This allows me to sleep from warm nights to -10C in the mountains. Set-up? After my first night I let the air out of my mattress and then roll the whole thing up bivy, bag, liner, mattress loosely, tie it to my pack. It airs out, and I can set up the second night in less than five minutes. Condensation seems never to be a problem, My head is at the mesh, my breath is passing through the mesh. (There's a warning saying that you can't use it completely zipped up. In my living room? Yeah it was stifling. It's never been stifling out doors. Rain? I had elaborate mini-fly plans. But my night on Kitadake, at 10,000 feet in Japan it was blowing rain. Instant solution: You just turn the mesh away from the rain. Later I did get rained straight down on, so this didn't work as well. However, the water that got in stayed at the bottom below my air mattress so no wet sleeping bag. A fly of course is a better solution. The thing at 7:51, looks like all those Kickstarter miracle tent/bivy/hammock/boats.... it would work better as a sun distiller than a bivy. The beauty of a good bivy is below your neck it's just a limp bag, no air space, around your sleeping bag. Room? I always want a bit more room up around my head for my camera, binoculars, eye glasses, water bottle, bear spray. But the Minimalist seems to have enough space. It gets a bit cluttered. Maybe some pockets.... With a bivy you are where you intended to be when you hit the trail: outdoors. I've fallen asleep in my bivy more than few times with my glasses on because I was looking at the stars. Tents, especially two layers always make odd noises. This can be disconcerting. What's that???? Bivys never do this.

[@leehargreaves2289]

I'm ex British infantry and our sleep system was nothing more than sleeping bag, bivvi and a tarp. Even now as a regular wild camping civvy I still swear by that combination what ever the time of year. I've got into hammock camping and 1 or 2 man tent camping and still swear by the old tarp, doss bag and bivvi combo. So easy, simple and quick to set up. Granted there are comforts that could be prioritised, but I love it's simplistic ease and the ability to feel closer to nature.

[@TheOnlyZpet]

The condensation is 100% true, I set up camp in mid october on the side of mount jefferson, NH, and had a lot of condensation that froze before I woke up. This is an issue for me since I used a down sleeping bag. My socks were wet, and my roof being damp kept waking me up. I highly recommend bringing a tarp that is small enough to go over the entrance that can keep the rain off and allow you to open up the door but stay dry. I personally use the REI superlight bivy and I like it a lot, but experience is important when using a new tool correctly.

[@m39fan]

Sounds like I need to trade in my USGI Bivy (packed it but never used it) for a Snugpak Ionosphere!

[@markturnbull8672]

when i was in the brit army it was always a bivvy under a basher/tarp, but now i do as i want and use the ionosphere,love it would never go back to bivvy,treat yourself to a 1,you will be over the moon with it

[@odgreenoutdoors20]

I have the battle box one that they copied from the ionosphere and I like it , plenty of room in it for your gear

[@20Hikecdt23]

A very thorough and complete explanations of the pros and cons of bivi sack camping. Thanks. I do like the REI Minilamist Bivi sack I use along with a Gatewood Cape. Thanks OutdoorGearReview.

[@maxrenigado4046]

I have the same surplus goretex bivy. Living in Hawaii, it's mainly used as a windbreaker and rarely fully zipped up It's on a surplus aluminum cot and under a very large tarp when out fishing and hunting NO walking/hiking with it. Where the truck parks is where camp will be set up. Not used if heavy rains are forecasted during outing. Sleep system goes in the back seat of my 03 Dodge ram 2500.

[@Cog_In_The_Gear]

I got a bivy for bikepacking because of how small it was when packed. I knew starting out how confined it was but forced myself to get used to it. Some people can’t get past that part so they’re definitely not for everyone. Great video!

[@ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors]

Hey Luke, great vid. I recently got the Snugpak Stratosphere bivy and surprisingly it leaked. I got in touch with Snugpak and they wanted to send me a direct replacement, but couldn't due to the fact of them only having one batch left and not wanting to risk sending me another defective one since mine came from that batch. They still wanted to " make it right" so they offered to send me the Ionosphere instead. Unfortunately though, I already have one so I told them I would just wait until they produced more Stratosphere. They replied back and told me they really wanted to compensate me now, and offered to send me the Sasquatch winter parka and Impact fleece jacket right away, and then send me a brand new Strat when they got them from production ! How's that for AMAZING customer service! I still get to keep the original Stratosphere too so I plan on re seam sealing it and giving it away to a friend or a lucky subscriber. I've always been a big fan of Snugpak, but after the way they handled this situation Im a customer for life. Great vid brother, keep em coming and stay safe!!!!! ~ Chesapeake

[@PapajosTraders]

That is awesome customer service! I have their "cave" tent and a few other items of theirs. Great company.

[@ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors]

​@@PapajosTraders I've been eyeing the Cave or the Journey Quad for a while now. Of all the ground shelters I have, I don't have a 4 person tent. I've got the Ionosphere, Stratosphere, OneTigris Backwoods Bungalow 1.0 & 2.0 , different sizes tarps and bug nets, 2 & 3 person dome tents, a huge 3 room tent, etc etc. So when I take the family out ( and we can't hang) I've always gotta bring either one that's way too big, or not but enough. The Cave or Journey Quad would be perfect for us I think.

[@PapajosTraders]

@@ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors the cave is a rugged well made tent. Albeit a tad heavy @ around 11 lbs. Not really an issue though unless you have to backpack it for miles.

[@starlingblack814]

Under a tarp always; in the summer without a sleeping bag. Thanks for an informative video.

[@teenoltae]

There is no escaping the fact that if your sleeping in a Bivy with no added shelter and it rains your in for a bad night ..

[@boxlid214]

I never minded it in the USGI bivy, spent many nights sleeping through some serious downpours and never got wet. I can't speak for the lightweight nylon ones though, I'd say it's pretty certain they'd leak a bit

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

Not true. In the military we would just throw our poncho over our rucksack and crash out in the bivy sack. Wake up everything’s all dry.

[@proffd972]

I will use my bivy in my tent during the winter just to increase my military 3 piece sleep system. It works great to keep me warm or toasty. Sometimes i am too hot. In a tent i don't close it up 100% to keep moisture from building on me. Great segment.

[@juanlobon73]

Luke has explained it very well, there are pros and cons. For me using a bivy it´s just part of my philosophy, the more in contact you are with nature better the experience. That´s all.

[@edwardcnnell2853]

I had the thought of a three layer bivy. The rugged outside layer, a lighter inside layer. The middle layer is a emergency blanked (space blanket) with the heat reflecting side facing inward. Should add better than ten percent to the heat protection. Real nice for winter. The inside layer protects the emergency blanket from damage to extend it's life.

[@TyBraek]

Check your local Goodwill (once they open again) I got one of those gore-tex military ones at mine for $15

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

Ewww, goretex is terrible.

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

@Whiskey Tango Foxtrot 1. Heavy as hell. 2. Military issued bivvies are digital camo and contain non-reflective camouflaged material, making it difficult to find if you need to venture away from camp for any reason (unless you have a battle buddy to watch your stuff for you). 3. Don't breathe well. Military-issued equipment is lowest bidder trash and there are significantly better alternatives on the market that aren't that expensive.

[@valentinocosmabosa6884]

This was extremely helpful and actually prevented me from buying the wrong product.

[@karenstein6112]

Bivys offer protection from weather and bugs, in a low profile form that can also be used in a hostel setting. The downside is that you can't dress inside one. For that you need a tent with at least enough room to sit up within.

[@fradee2830]

You can sit up while inside one... you can even stand. Balancing might be difficult, unless you lean against a tree.

[@michaelsagehorn8873]

@@fradee2830 Why not just stand up and dress?

[@mawmawvee]

Sounds like a sack race sack, as well! :D

[@MarcMallary]

I use a military bivy shell in my tent as my sleeping bag in warm weather, leaving it open. I can add the bag when it's colder, but your right about heavy. They are good for stealth camping also. I wish it had a structure wire and mesh for ventilation and to keep out bugs, etc.

[@tedelder1796]

I saw a advertisement at rei for a bivy bag that has a added screen zip layer over head

[@sheriffatman123]

R u on lockdown? You have the same massive back garden as all the other youtubers

[@TheTWhite]

He owns a bit of land about an hour from his home, I know that much.

[@daveys]

I got a Dutch Army hooped bivvy, used it first time on a hill in the rain and mist. Seemed pretty good, but like you said, it needs a tarp for extra protection. It was a bit windy on the hill, so I just used the bivvy on it’s own between two boulders. Worked fine, especially where there are limited options for putting pegs in or limited space for the pitch.

[@Bonnyladdadventures]

Same excellent with a tarp .

[@claramullen]

The Bivy is not a good thing in Florida to hot and humid all year.

[@taoyeahright]

What is ideal ?

[@danielkutcher5704]

@@taoyeahright Air conditioning! 😁 I would say, bug bivy with tarp, tent with lots of mesh, or hammock with bug net. A separate bug net will prevent mosquitoes from biting through the hammock (and protect against stinging insects and spiders), and, when it's uncomfortably hot, there's no other sleep system that allows air to pass underneath your body. Even a straight, non-insulated air mattress, being air-tight, doesn't allow air flow.

[@danielkutcher5704]

Not in St. Augustine in winter!

[@onionhead5780]

Robert Yeahright A hammock with big netting and tarp. Packs up about the size of two tall boys.

[@taoyeahright]

@@onionhead5780 have a recommendation? thanks for the response BTW!!

[@austenbladenn7266]

I'm beginning to plan for my Te Araroa long distance trail hike, NZ, 2022. I was considering the option of a bivy to keep weight down. This video was insightful and succinct. Thank you very much.

[@creephead762]

I have two of the miltary bivys. My son and I used then this winter when our cheap tent began to leak after heavy rain.

[@azclaimjumper]

@Timothy Mckee RIGHT ON!

[@Tony53177]

I like using bivies because they are the ideal solution for motorcycle camping. I have a Eureka Solitaire and a Fjellduken Extreme that have both served me well.

[@willhughes6205]

Cracking video. I was planning on tarp and biving on my next multi-day bike ride to save weight but since it could be very wet or very hot and everything in between ( UK weather) Im going to proably stick with the tent for comfort and dry kit management. subbed.

[@williamedwards4687]

Excellent video, Luke! I have been wondering about how a bivy works and you answered all my questions. Thank you for the great video.