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Bivy bags

Guide

Bivy bags

A bivy protects the outside of your sleeping bag; plan warmth and ground insulation separately. First decide whether you will sleep in it regularly or carry it as a reserve for an unexpected night.

Key points

For planned nights, prioritise ventilation and room to move.
Mesh keeps insects out; rain needs a weatherproof outer cover.
Pack a sleeping mat and sleeping bag as well.
Keep the breathing opening clear and ventilate to release moisture.

Which shelter suits the night?

Use	Choose	Bear in mind
Planned overnight stop	ChooseBreathable cover with ventilation	Bear in mindAllow room for your sleeping bag and movement; wet fabric should not compress the filling.
More space around your head	ChooseHooped bivy shelter	Bear in mindA hoop holds fabric away from your face but adds packed bulk and needs room when pitched.
Emergency reserve	ChooseCompact emergency bivy	Bear in mindCompare packed size and capacity. Allow for a night with little comfort and extra warm clothing.

What to look for

Question	In brief	Why
How much room?	In briefCompare it with your sleeping bag	WhyA bulky winter bag needs more space than a thin summer one. Check the length and shoulder width before choosing.
Which fabric?	In briefCheck base and upper separately	WhyThe base rests on damp ground. For planned nights, the upper should handle rain while allowing moisture to escape.
Which opening?	In briefOne you can operate lying down	WhyKeep the zip and breathing opening accessible with cold hands. Never seal yourself inside an airtight bag.

Common questions

Does it replace a sleeping bag?

Plan a suitable sleeping bag and insulated mat as well. A thin bivy cover blocks wind and, depending on its construction, rain, but does not provide the filling and ground insulation of a complete sleeping system.

Why is the inside damp?

Moisture also comes from your body and breath. Ventilate around the head, breathe outside and dry the cover after use. Even a breathable upper can collect condensation when conditions prevent moisture from escaping quickly enough.

Can I sleep anywhere in one?

Check the rules for your intended overnight location before the trip. Protected areas and planned overnight stays may have different requirements from a real emergency. Also choose a spot away from rockfall, water channels and other apparent hazards.

Is a mesh bivy enough in rain?

Mesh protects against insects. For rain you need a suitable closed cover or additional weather protection. With a modular shelter, check which parts are supplied and which you need to pack separately before leaving home.

Last updated: November 2026