Best Bivy Sacks for Backpacking Buying Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWeight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose a product that is lightweight. Bivy sacks are already lightweight because, unlike tents, they don’t include many hard structural components. Look for a bivy that weighs under 2 lbs. and can be packed down extremely small to save on space and make traveling easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waterproof<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose a product that is waterproof. You don’t want to be waking up in the middle of the night freezing cold and wet. Look for waterproof materials like polyurethane-coated nylon. This will protect you from harsh weather throughout the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Structure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose a product that is low to the ground. If a bivy sack features structural components that are too high, they may be affected by strong winds and collapse. The shorter a structure, the less likely it is to be affected by a storm that may head your way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ease of Setup<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose a product that is easy to setup. Backpackers know that bad weather can often hit without much warning at all. Choosing a bivy sack that is simple to setup allows you to have immediate shelter in case of emergencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Durability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose a product that is durable. Looking for materials such as nylon or anything that is resistant to rips will save you money in the long-run and ensure your bivy sack remains warm and dry for years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ventilation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choose a product that is breathable. Make sure that the bivy sack you’re buying is well-ventilated with breathable fabrics. If it isn’t you may find yourself dealing with uncomfortable condensation build-up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Benefits and Advantages of Using a Bivy Sack<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Man](\"https:\/\/takeoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/martin-jernberg-207530-1024x683.jpg\")
Bivy sacks are a great option for backpackers. They are more compact and lightweight than an entire tent but provide far more warmth and protection than a hammock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One great advantage of traveling so lightweight is that you’ll be able to hike a greater distance in a day than you would if you were carrying around an entire tent. Additionally, the small packed down size affords you much more room for other useful gear that you may have otherwise been forced to leave behind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite their size, bivy sacks offer comfort, warmth, and protection from weather that is comparable to and often superior to what’s offered from an entire tent. They are specifically designed to remain dry and wind-proof. The compact size actually helps keep your body heat close to you throughout the night, unlike tents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bivy sacks also have their advantages in warmer weather. Instead of sleeping in a closed-off tent, bivy sacks allow you to sleep right beneath the stars. They can be unzipped if you want more fresh air and give you the full sleeping outdoors experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Application for a Bivy Sack<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Camper](\"https:\/\/takeoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Mod.SleepSystem-1024x686.jpg\")
Like it was mentioned above, bivy sacks are best suited for lightweight and minimalistic backpackers. However, they are also great to have on-hand in emergency situations or as a backup to your tent or other shelter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hikers or campers who are only going to be outdoors for a day or two can probably use a full-size tent without being held back by the shelter’s weight. Bivy sacks are intended for those who have long distances to travel over longer periods of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to Avoid in a Bivy Sack<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Don’t ever buy a bivy sack that isn’t durable and waterproof, unless you plan on using a tarp as a makeshift shelter as well. If water gets into your bivy, it will stop effectively holding in your body heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, an overly wet bivy sack can begin to mildew and smell over time. Keep in mind that a bivy typically lays directly on the ground, so materials like cloth or untreated fabrics may rip on rocky terrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is also a good idea to avoid bivy sacks that don’t feature a sizable zipper. If a bivy cannot be opened partially, then you’ll have a difficult time airing it out between uses. This allows for moisture build-up due to condensation and can render your bivy useless in cold weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n