Emergency Shelters: Comparing Bivvy Bags, Tents, and Tarps for Mountain Use
When venturing into the mountains, even a day hike can turn into an unexpected overnight stay. Being prepared with an emergency shelter is crucial for survival and comfort. This article compares three common types of emergency shelters: bivvy bags, emergency tents, and tarps, examining their advantages and disadvantages to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Bivvy Bags: Pros and Cons
A bivvy bag, short for bivouac sack, is a lightweight, waterproof, and windproof bag designed to slip over your sleeping bag. It offers a minimalist approach to emergency shelter.
Pros:
Ultra-lightweight and Compact: Bivvy bags are significantly lighter and more packable than tents, making them ideal for situations where weight and space are critical considerations. This is especially important when our services might be required to reach you.
Minimal Setup: Deployment is incredibly fast and simple; just unfurl the bag and slide your sleeping bag inside.
Increased Warmth: A bivvy bag can add several degrees of warmth to your sleeping bag, providing crucial insulation in cold conditions.
Weather Protection: Offers excellent protection from wind, rain, and snow.
Cons:
Condensation: Breathability can be an issue, leading to condensation buildup inside the bag. Some models feature breathable fabrics to mitigate this, but they are often more expensive.
Claustrophobia: Some people find the enclosed feeling of a bivvy bag uncomfortable.
Limited Space: Bivvy bags offer very little space for movement or gear storage. You're essentially confined to your sleeping bag.
Not Suitable for Extended Stays: Bivvy bags are best suited for short-term emergency shelter, not for comfortable multi-day trips.
Emergency Tents: Pros and Cons
Emergency tents, often tube tents or bothy bags, are lightweight, temporary shelters designed for quick deployment in unexpected situations. They offer more space and comfort than bivvy bags but are generally heavier and bulkier.
Pros:
More Space: Provides more room to move around and store gear compared to a bivvy bag.
Better Ventilation: Typically offer better ventilation than bivvy bags, reducing condensation.
Group Shelter: Some emergency tents are designed to accommodate multiple people, making them suitable for group outings.
Psychological Comfort: The enclosed space can provide a greater sense of security and psychological comfort than a bivvy bag or tarp.
Cons:
Heavier and Bulkier: Emergency tents are generally heavier and bulkier than bivvy bags, although still relatively lightweight compared to regular camping tents.
More Complex Setup: Setup usually requires stringing the tent between trees or using trekking poles for support, which can be challenging in adverse conditions.
Durability: Emergency tents are typically made from lightweight materials and may not be as durable as regular camping tents.
Wind Resistance: Some designs may be less stable in strong winds compared to a well-pitched tarp or a streamlined bivvy bag.
Tarps: Pros and Cons
A tarp is a versatile sheet of waterproof material that can be configured in various ways to create a shelter. It offers flexibility and adaptability but requires more skill and knowledge to use effectively.
Pros:
Versatility: Can be pitched in numerous configurations to adapt to different terrain and weather conditions. You can find frequently asked questions about tarp configurations online.
Lightweight: Tarps can be very lightweight, especially those made from silnylon or Dyneema composite fabrics.
Openness: Offers a more open and airy shelter compared to a bivvy bag or tent, reducing condensation and claustrophobia.
Cost-Effective: Tarps are often more affordable than emergency tents or high-end bivvy bags.
Cons:
Setup Complexity: Requires more skill and experience to pitch effectively, especially in windy or challenging conditions. You need to know knots and have suitable anchor points.
Exposure: Offers less protection from wind and insects compared to a fully enclosed shelter.
Requires Additional Gear: You'll need cordage (rope or guy lines) and potentially trekking poles or trees for support.
Learning Curve: Mastering tarp shelters takes practice and knowledge of different pitching techniques.
Weight and Packability Comparison
Weight and packability are crucial factors when choosing an emergency shelter, especially for activities like hiking and climbing where every gram counts.
Bivvy Bag: Typically weighs between 200-500 grams and packs down to the size of a water bottle.
Emergency Tent: Weighs between 500-1000 grams and packs down to the size of a small sleeping bag.
Tarp: Weight varies depending on size and material, but a lightweight tarp can weigh as little as 300 grams. However, you also need to factor in the weight of cordage and potentially trekking poles.
Generally, bivvy bags offer the best weight-to-protection ratio, followed by tarps (when factoring in cordage), and then emergency tents. Consider the type of activity you'll be doing and the importance of weight savings when making your decision. Learn more about Mountainrescue and how we prioritize lightweight gear in our operations.
Ease of Setup and Use
In an emergency situation, quick and easy setup is paramount. Fumbling with complicated instructions or intricate knots can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Bivvy Bag: The easiest to set up. Simply unfurl and slide your sleeping bag inside. No poles, stakes, or cordage required.
Emergency Tent: Requires more effort than a bivvy bag. Typically involves stringing the tent between trees or using trekking poles for support. Can be challenging in windy conditions.
Tarp: The most complex to set up. Requires knowledge of different pitching techniques and secure knot-tying skills. Finding suitable anchor points can also be a challenge.
For beginners or those prioritising speed and simplicity, a bivvy bag is the clear winner. Experienced outdoorspeople who are comfortable with tarp shelters may prefer the versatility of a tarp. Emergency tents offer a middle ground, providing more space and comfort with a slightly more involved setup.
Protection from the Elements
The primary purpose of an emergency shelter is to provide protection from the elements, including wind, rain, snow, and cold temperatures.
Bivvy Bag: Offers excellent protection from wind and rain. Can significantly increase warmth by trapping body heat. However, condensation can be an issue.
Emergency Tent: Provides good protection from wind and rain, depending on the design. Offers better ventilation than a bivvy bag, reducing condensation. Some models may not be as wind-resistant as a bivvy bag or a well-pitched tarp.
- Tarp: Protection depends heavily on the pitching configuration. A well-pitched tarp can provide excellent protection from rain and wind, but it offers less protection from insects and ground moisture compared to a fully enclosed shelter. Requires careful site selection to maximise protection.
Ultimately, the best emergency shelter for you depends on your individual needs, experience level, and the type of activities you'll be undertaking. Consider the pros and cons of each option carefully before making your decision. Remember to practice setting up your chosen shelter in a safe environment before relying on it in an emergency.