A bivy sack, or bivouac shelter, is a popular method of compact encampment for a range of outdoor situations. Consisting of a sleeping bag-sized water-repellent sack with a vent for air exchange, a bivy sack keeps you safe from the elements without adding much bulk to your camping setup.
Common Uses for Bivy Sacks
Whether you carry a bivy sack in the trunk of your car for emergencies, pack one for music festivals to enjoy a more secure and comfortable sleep, or take one along on backpacking trips in lieu of a tent, bivy sacks are popular solutions for solo travelers and campers.
1. Compact Emergency Shelters
Trail conditions can change quickly at high elevations. That's why many experienced mountain hikers and climbers bring a bivy sack with them on day hikes. If you get stuck on the trail, you can stay warm and get some rest while you wait for rescue or for the chance to hike back out.
Because bivy sacks are so compact, you can easily pack one at the bottom of your day pack and have an emergency plan without adding extra weight.
2. Backpacking Shelters for Streamlined Adventures
If you prefer to sleep outdoors but want a bit more security and protection from the elements than what a sleeping bag provides, consider picking up a waterproof bivi. You can sleep under the stars without compromising your comfort.
3. Single Tent Camping for Road Trips and Festivals
Tents take up a lot of space and are often complicated to set up. Tent-style bivy sacks offer the best of both worlds. A bivy sack with a spacious clamshell opening gives you extra room around your head and neck so you don’t feel cramped or claustrophobic.
4. Summertime Encampment With a Bug Net Bivy Sack
In the summertime, a full bivy sack can feel hot and stuffy. Rather than sleeping in the open with mosquitos, noseeums, and other biting pests, invest in a breathable bug net bivy sack! Tentless camping just got a lot more comfortable.
Best Brands for Bivy Sacks
Noted outdoor brands like Black Diamond, MSR, Outdoor Research, Sierra Designs, and Slumberjack maintain their stellar reputation for designing and developing reliable gear that makes spending time outdoors more enjoyable. These brands design bivy sacks with superior waterproofing, high-quality materials that stand up to regular use, and safety-focused design features.
