ashenEver though about alternatives for tents while camping? Don’t want to burden yourself with tents while traveling? Bivy bags is what you are looking for. These are also spelled as bivvi bag or bivvy bag. In this post we will stick with Bivy. So what are they? and why do they dominate tents? and why lightweight bivy bags?
First of all a bivy bag is a sort of a hybrid between tents and ultra large rain jackets. These bivy bags will cover you in your sleeping bag from head to toe and let you experience a good nights sleep paired with the glorious environment regardless of the weather outside. Why is it better than a tent? Well once you close the tent you are pretty much excluded from the outside . But with the bivy bag you are more exposed to the wild. The stars are crystal clear, the weather outside is felt within you.
While some people might not savor the idea whole heartedly, it is still worth an experience if you adore the outdoor life and want to try something new. However there are a few points to look out in bivy bags pre purchase.
Things to consider before buying lightweight bivy bags
Material and Build quality
Most durable models are made out of nylon or polyester fabric with a polyurethane coating. Additionally Silicone is also used for coating ensuring highest quality and been expensive. All these materials are waterproof and breathable.
Weight
Well of course we have the word lightweight in the title. Therefore its quite needless to say to be on the lookout for lightweight as possible. After all we are looking for lighter alternatives tents. Try to choose one that is preferably under a pound. Because some bivy bags use membranes and the more functionality they offer the heavier your bivy bag is going to be. The same has to be said for extra zippers, more space and other minor gadgets.
Safety
This is a primary concern since you are spending the night out in the wild. Protection should not be taken lightly when choosing camping equipment. Most bivy bags will have a waterproof top and bottom and an extra hoop for optimum ventilation. If the base material comes with a hydrostatic head it is better. Because the pressure exerted when sitting or lying can lead to eventual degradation and let the moisture slip in.
Addons
When it comes to features remember that we are choosing this to be as minimalist as possible. Nevertheless there are a couple of things that you might prefer having in a bivy bag. These include internal pockets for storage, antifungal flooring and maybe a bug net so that you can leave the outer flap open for breathing and enjoy the night sky view.
With these criteria in mind, lets see what the best lightweight bivy bags are for 2024…
Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy
This is the top choice for cold weather camping as it is a complete package. It features 3-layer GORE-TEX fabric, which is both weatherproof and breathable. It also has a hooped pole for added comfort, mosquito netting, and interior pockets. However, it is on the heavier side (weight: 32 oz) and might be too warm for milder conditions. The reason we included this despite of the weight is because of the user feedback based on the unmatched performance for some. Users frequently praise its robust construction, which holds up well in harsh conditions.
Many have used it in snowstorms and heavy rain without issues, highlighting its ability to keep them dry and comfortable. The bivy’s spacious interior, compared to other options, is also frequently mentioned as a positive. Some users have noted that it can be challenging to ventilate in warmer weather, leading to potential overheating or condensation. Additionally, the weight and bulkiness are occasional points of criticism, particularly for those focused on ultralight travel. However, you know what you are getting into prior to any purchase.
Alpkit Hunka bivy bag
Another top recommendation among the lightweight bivi bags is the Alphit Hunka bivy bag and yes you guessed it right, this isn’t a budget travelers choice although been top notch. As we mentioned earlier the features of the bivy bags decide the price tag. And it fluctuates with the number of hoops, internal pockets, fabric quality, zipper count etc. The Alpkit Hunka weighs about 330g and dimensionally 15cm x 13cm.
Taped seams, ripstop nylon material with a 10,000mm hydrostatic head and the availability in three different colors(green, red and blue) this lightweight bivy bag can be practically stashed anywhere and you won’t feel it at all. There aren’t any additional zippers and the hood of the bag is well positioned like a cover around the sleeping bag hood. The standard version fits in well for anyone who are 6 feet or under.
With the XL version however you still have some space left to store your valuables. The bag shapes well around your feet and coverage is optimal. However the downside is the absence of a hoop for star gazing and stuff. An integration of one of these would be really awesome. On the plus side its is affordable, packs easily, waterproof ability and good for emergencies. Its definitely a good choice for summer night camping with the feeling of fresh air swiping around your face, while been minimalist.
Outdoor Research Interstellar- the hooped lightweight bivy bag
It is a bit heavier than the Alphit Hunka weighing at 596g. Dimensionally its 82” x 26” x 17”. The coolest thing and ironically could be the hottest things as well, is that you can wear this bivy bag like an astronauts uniform. Whilst carrying out all the tasks like cooking, organizing and cleaning the camping place, you can also protect your body and face from bugs and insects.
The upper part is made out of AscentShell, which is a breathable waterproof fabric. The bottom is made out of nylon coated TPU which as we mentioned earlier is great for water and abrasion resistance. Its the AscentShell+ Derlin single-pole system that provides enough headspace for you to carry out the activities without a struggle. You can enter sideways in this bivy and once you are upright, a sombrero is created by the single pole that works like a hat if it rains and even shades against the sun.
The headspace material is well manufactured(20D ripstop, 3-layer fabric) and it ensures optimum comfort for you while you sleep and if you toss and turn about the breathability won’t be affected by any means. The floorspace as we mentioned earlier is also of equal great quality(40D nylon ripstop with TPU) and extremely dynamic. It suits any ground type, extreme weather conditions and any other potential harmful factors.
You can choose to sleep with the outside zipper fully closed during rainy conditions or keep it open if the weather is too warm with just the mosquito net for protection. A couple of points are provided for the bivy to be pegged or guyed, but they aren’t provided. Overall the interstellar is a great premium level bivy bag and in spite of the heavy price tag, it grants a lot of functionality and features to the user allowing to enjoy the camping life to the fullest.
Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy Bag
Our next choice in the list is the Backcountry bivy bag by Sierra. Weighing at 0.41 Kilograms and measuring out at 11 x 6 x 4 inches the sierra bivy bag is a worthy choice to replace tents and be your backpacking buddy. The materials utilized are 20D Nylon Ripstop DWR and 30D Nylon Ripstop DWR and fully tapped (PVC Free) seams. The bivy bag is designed to fit Sierra’s own Backcountry Bed and sleeping pad.
The top fabric is good quality waterproof and breathable material. The Backcountry Bivy integrates a secondary mesh panel that opens up to increase airflow given favorable weather. There is a point just below the secondary opening allowing you to lift the bivy up off of your face, increasing space inside and allowing for increased airflow. The U-shaped zipper is there to get in and out of the bivy.
It is built to adapt to any weather and environmental condition allowing you to have a peaceful night and the mesh panel offering protection from all the insects and bugs. The price tag isn’t too bad for the value offered and you can definitely count this bivy bag to be durable. Because Sierra Designs has created outdoor equipment and apparel driven by function & designed to keep customers satisfied since 1965.
Outdoor Research Helium Bivy Bag
The list would not be complete if the Helium bivy by outdoor research is left out. The reason for this particular bag been so popular is that it is well balanced in price to value ratio. The material been Pertex® Shield 2.5L, 100% nylon, 30D ripstop upper Lower – 100% nylon, 40D with TPU lamination floor. Dimensionally its 26″x19″x82″ and weighing at 476g with the pole.
It is lightweight and fits in easily and suits a three season use. It has one guy line loop, delrin single-pole system, two stake loops and a clamshell opening. The headroom is plenty and you can zip it shut during rainy days and keep on calm evenings. This bivy bag is even capable of handling winter for a certain extent. If you are looking for a perfect combination of weather resistance, lightweight, reasonable price and most importantly durability, then look no further than the outdoor research helium.
Aqua Quest Pharaoh
If you want to immense yourself in the outdoor life and truly feel that you are stranded out in the wild then bear with us on the Aqua Quest Pharaoh lightweight bivy bag. Fabric of 70D ripstop nylon body with 70D nylon base and dual-coated PU/DWR. Weighing at 1.1 lb and standing out 13.39 x 6.65 x 2.95 inches dimensionally. It has a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm and a breathability rating of 10,000 gr/m2/day.
These waterproof and breathability techniques have been re-engineered from the previous models to enhance user comfort. This bivy bags packs in easily. The packed size been 15 x 5 x 3 inch. while compressed at 6.5 x 4 x 3 inch. Also been extremely versatile, this bag can fit anyone up to 6’6” and has zippers both on the left and right side. To top it all of AquaQuest provides a Lifetime Warranty. This highly functional, versatile, portable and durable bivy bag is tagged at just $100.
Rab Storm Bivi
The Rab Storm bivi is a single person, highly functional and versatile bivy bag. Made out of 70D Hyperlite Storm fabric it is well breathable and fully waterproof. Weighing at 664g and packed size at 25cm x 13cm it is a bit heavy which is a bit of downfall here. It has a small mesh panel vent zip rand and end zip entrance. The ample space inside isn’t just limited to the headroom. There is plenty of legroom allowing you to even store some essentials at the bottom of your feet.
Good ventilation is provided by the mesh panel and reduces condensation. Another minor issue one might possible face is the struggle in closing the velcro straps once inside the bivy, but it isn’t a big issue. And of course the price is a bit heavy. However it is very well organized and durable bivy bag for anyone longing to replace tents in camping.
SOL Escape Bivvy
Best suited for emergencies, this bivy is lightweight and packable, making it a great addition to any survival kit. It’s designed to keep you warm with its reflective material, though it’s less durable and not as spacious. Made from proprietary fabric that reflects up to 90% of body heat, breathable to prevent moisture build up and waterproof. The reason behind its popularity is the 8.5 oz weight, making it easy to carry in a backpack or emergency kit. Some users have mentioned that the bivy can tear if not handled carefully, suggesting that while it’s great for emergency use, it may not be the best choice for regular or extended use. Additionally, a few users have found it to be a bit tight, especially if trying to use it with bulky clothing or gear inside.
Summary
Those are our top recommendations for the best lightweight bivy bags in 2024. Presently most people are prone to switch to lightweight bivy bags from tents for many good reasons. Lightweight been the dominant among them, because who doesn’t like their backpack to be light as possible while covering ground on foot. Next is the packed size been so small it only requires minimal space in your backpacks. This leaves more space for other essentials.
The setup is much easier than a tent. No fidgeting around with poles and stiff most of the time. Only the face lifter requires stakes to hold in the required position. Although we have these pros there are a few cons that we must be aware about. Breathability for instance, but with a good bivy bag this issue is taken care of. Condensation can be an issue with some bags. Space is another problem with some bags. You aren’t free as the same as you are when using a sleeping pad inside a tent. However you are aware of all of these when you choose to replace the tent with bivy bags.
