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Bivy Sacks: the Minimalist Approch

Large Selection of Bivy Sacks and Bags available at Campmor
This Slumberjack Taku Bivy Sack is a waterproof, breathable alternative to using a tent - for the ultimate minimalist approach to camping in the wilderness. Available at Campmorfor $49.97

Another tent alternative is a bivy sack. Bivy Sacks are simply a waterproof sack that your sleeping bag goes into. This is a very minimalist approach and is well-suited for those who are out for a short term camping trip who can adapt to minimal comforts. Though very light in weight, they can leave much to be desired.

A bivy sack keeps a camper's sleeping bag dry and adds about 10 degrees of warth to just a sleeping bag. Unfortuantely, the head is constantly exposed to the elements unless the drawstring is pulled very snuggly.

There are two types of bivy sacks: One is simply some type of coated fabric for waterproofness. These are the cheapest, but by far the least desireable. The reason is that they do not breathe and you will end up with a damp sleeping bag from the water vapor your body naturally puts off. A much better type (option two) is one made from a Gortex type fabric. This allows the water vapor to escape during the night, elimatinating the problem of dampenss.

Some bivy sacks allow for armholes (so you can grab some of your gear) as well as room for a sleeping pad (for slightly more comfort and warmth under your body).