Bivi Bags and Hooped Bivi Bags. A Comparison of what I Use for Backpacking and Wild Camping.

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  • Опубликовано: 24 авг 2024
  • In this video, part two in a mini series on sleep systems, I will be going through the bivvy/bivy/bivi bags I use for camping, bushcraft, canoe tripping and backpacking. Bivy bags make a great, low profile, low impact, minimalist shelter for trips where weight matters or if you wish to go undetected. They come in many different styles with greatly varying features to suit every budget. The few I will show you in the video are just a few that I use. Using a bevy bag is not to everybody’s taste as they are very small, offer almost no storage space and often require a bit on wriggling to get inside them, but, by taking a few steps to set yourself up, comfort can be greatly improved!
    I have listed links to the items shown in the video below where I am able to - items no longer in production or available have the closest equivalent item linked.
    Episode three will cover pillows, sleeping pads/mats and other items linked to sleeping.
    I hope you enjoy the video and thanks for watching!
    Links
    British Army Goretex Sleeping Bag Cover
    www.ebay.co.uk...
    Mil-Tec MSS Clone Sleeping Bag Cover
    www.amazon.co....
    Rab Ascent Bivi
    rab.equipment/...
    Terra Nova Jupiter Hooped Bivi (***BACK IN STOCK AGAIN***)
    www.terra-nova...
    Dutch Army Hooped Bivi
    forcesuniforma...
    Terra Nova Competition Tarp 1
    www.terra-nova...
    Merchandise
    Simon, a bloke in the woods - Patch and Sticker
    www.etsy.com/u...
    Contact me at:
    simonablokeinthewoods@gmail.com
    Or by mail at:
    Simon, a bloke in the woods
    PO Box 384
    Diss
    Norfolk
    IP22 9DB
    UK
    Facebook Simon, a bloke in the woods
    www.facebook.c...
    Instagram simon_a_bloke_in_the_woods
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    Music Front Porch Sitter by Audionautix

Комментарии • 1 тыс.

  • @Jezek2202
    @Jezek2202 3 года назад +180

    Because of this video I purchased the Dutch hooped bivvy and I've had 2 camps in it so far. It's cliche but honestly those 2 camps changed my life. I'm now addicted to watching the stars in my bivvy on a random mountain somewhere. Thank you so much.

    • @diligentsun1154
      @diligentsun1154 2 года назад +3

      it's a Championship Bivvy!
      looking for one, NOW!

    • @mrshaneyt43
      @mrshaneyt43 2 года назад

      @Advanced Driving 👍😂🤣

    • @onepalerider
      @onepalerider 2 года назад

      Where did you purchase yours from? I haven’t been able to find any here in the U.S.

    • @Jezek2202
      @Jezek2202 2 года назад +2

      @@onepalerider Hi Jeff, I'm in the UK and got it from Forces Uniform and Kit. They have some in stock but I'm unsure if they deliver to the states. Hope you find one or something similar bud!

    • @onepalerider
      @onepalerider 2 года назад +2

      @@Jezek2202
      Thank you for the reply! They do ship to the U.S. , I will be ordering mine!

  • @athousandtinycobras4349
    @athousandtinycobras4349 4 года назад +80

    When I was in the Canadian infantry, we were issued full Gore-Tex bivi bags - really nice, thick, fully taped, completely waterproof jobs. In your sleeping bag's "valise" (carrying cover), you learned to pack everything in order of necessity, so your bivi bag came out first, then your sleeping bag, and then a change of socks, toiletries, etc. Basically, everything you needed for comfort was in your valise, and the main rucksack was reserved for ammo, water and food. Eventually you could unpack the valise and get set up to sleep in pitch dark without any light. The Gore-Tex bivi bag was a haven; you could sleep comfortably in a muddy rut... literally anywhere, and (combined with a poncho or ground sheet to cover your face and equipment) you'd stay nice and dry and the bugs wouldn't get you.

    • @jihomet7607
      @jihomet7607 4 года назад +2

      Still got mine .and your right about packing .but I had a MKT and ML most of the time

    • @athousandtinycobras4349
      @athousandtinycobras4349 4 года назад +1

      @@jihomet7607 Haha, lucky. ML-o-copter.

    • @marianfrances4959
      @marianfrances4959 4 года назад +1

      Cool!😉🇨🇦

    • @jeddy_bravo
      @jeddy_bravo 3 года назад +1

      Did you use ones with hoops or just bags?

    • @athousandtinycobras4349
      @athousandtinycobras4349 3 года назад +4

      @@jeddy_bravo Just bags. Hoops would be more to carry and fuss with when you usually only have an hour or two to sleep.

  • @ohforfxcksake
    @ohforfxcksake 4 года назад +32

    You can't beat DPM 😁 I lost my Bergen in the woods this year , put it down , got turned around and spent about an hour panicking until I spotted my non DPM crocs hanging off the back of it 😁

  • @GeorgeMcKnight
    @GeorgeMcKnight 3 года назад +46

    It's funny, you might search and look at so many vids, but Simon always offers the most down to earth solution...and properly thinks through his presentation...cheers mate!

  • @RichyRacoon
    @RichyRacoon 4 года назад +24

    I also have the Dutch Bivi Bag. Mine is from Carinthia. I've never had a problem with it. It is one of the best outdoor gear I have ever bought. Even if you get caught in the rain, a dry sleeping setup is ready in 30 seconds! And it dries even if it is not very warm because it is airing out.
    As I said, one of the best things I have ever bought!

  • @stevorobo7455
    @stevorobo7455 2 года назад +5

    This made smile. It's been years since I left the Army (British) The amount of nights on training exercises sleeping inside a bivi, staring at the stars, somewhere in the Scottish Highlands 💙 I can assure you, you can fit a fair amount of kit as well as a soldier in the British one 😉

    • @moorshound3243
      @moorshound3243 2 года назад

      Yep my mate even managed to fit a small woman in his with him as well?
      The giggling kept me awake most of the night, I don't recommend it. Ha.

  • @nseight
    @nseight 4 года назад +14

    Simon,a bloke in the woods.Your reviews never fail to to make me happy :-) You cover any topic so clearly,thoroughly & with passion & honesty.Loved the "windsock effect "bivi at the end. So appreciate all time & huge efforts to share with us

  • @Marcin79W
    @Marcin79W 2 года назад +9

    Dutch bivvy - I really liked to put all the backpack and shoes where legs are, since it would rise it a bit and made kind of a tent shape creating additional air gap over the sleeping bag. An amazing review, thanks for sharing!

  • @vanderavortdebije
    @vanderavortdebije 4 года назад +21

    I have the Dutch hooped bivi for a few years now.. It is brilliant!

  • @danconlin3456
    @danconlin3456 4 года назад +12

    Nicely edited and well paced. You showed me everything I needed to know without the usual RUclips digressions. Thanks!

  • @astrofeeder777
    @astrofeeder777 4 года назад +10

    i love coming across this kind of content when im looking to make a well informed decision. excellent video. straight to the point and professional.

  • @13thBear
    @13thBear 4 года назад +128

    As a younger man, I enjoyed camping. As an older man, I enjoy Holiday Inns.

    • @MrBluoct
      @MrBluoct 4 года назад +1

      13thBear H Inns. General downgraded to current Filthy accommodations

    • @10ft5x3
      @10ft5x3 4 года назад +9

      I did the same thing when young, sleeping in a damp sleeping bag on the ground and eating trail mix, then moving to a proper camp when a little older with tent, cot, tables and chairs, the works, then moving to a motorhome in my forties, and finally to a bed & breakfast in the nearby town of the area I'm in now in my sixtties.

    • @tedspang1945
      @tedspang1945 4 года назад +13

      Have you seen what's covering the average hotel/motel bed? Looks like I found another use for a bivy bag. It'll provide a layer separation from the crusty bed sheets.

    • @murkatable
      @murkatable 4 года назад +2

      I'm 70. In central Europe, little hotels and penzions are often reasonably priced. In America, motels are really overpriced, no matter how much breakfast you can wolf down in the morning. I've saved trillions sleeping in front of Waffle Houses, relative security in the nighttime and a great quick order breakfast anytime at all

    • @13thBear
      @13thBear 4 года назад +1

      Sorry you guys found such deplorable conditions. I've only had one bad experience in the last 20-some years. I left shortly after I checked in because the room smelled of cat piss. I got no argument from the hostess who cancelled my room charge.

  • @peterscott7140
    @peterscott7140 4 года назад +6

    Your roll mat under the bivi-bag, rather than inside, will still provide insulation but will have the added benefit of protecting the floor of your bivibag from thorns and so forth. I do the same with my one-man tent, which I bought to replace my hooped bivi because it is much easier and drier when you need a wee in the middle of the night in a thunderstorm!

  • @johntreebktn7008
    @johntreebktn7008 4 года назад +7

    One night I had to sleep like this, I had no choice. At the end it was one of the best nights of that week. Be kind to nature 🌳🌲🙂

  • @Natezoinks
    @Natezoinks 4 года назад +37

    Thank you for getting in and out of each one. Seeing that helps make decisions. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

  • @oddmanout98
    @oddmanout98 4 года назад +6

    It’s been said already but ‘I only have five of them’ that did make me chuckle! Thanks for the video Simon. Great stuff!

  • @D__Lee
    @D__Lee 4 года назад +5

    I purchased a used gore-tex hooped bivy bag about 30 years and I still use it. The best feature is that it uses two poles which allows for more headroom and ventilation. There is nothing nicer than sleeping under the stars and breathing fresh air. The closest bivy bag in design and currently available is the Snugpak Stratosphere Bivvi Shelter.

  • @CCCSamuelsson
    @CCCSamuelsson 4 года назад +6

    I only just subbed a month ago. I’m a big fan of the channel already :) I went ahead and got a dutch camo bivvy based on your review. I’ve used it a few times already in both forests and city parks, and so far I think it’s great. Stealthy and well designed.

  • @william8019
    @william8019 2 года назад +1

    The first Bivi is just like the one I used in the Canadian Army. They are awesome. And your right!! You can sleep with your rifle and I have! Awesome video brother. Thanks for another great one!

  • @miketaylor6700
    @miketaylor6700 2 года назад +1

    The suggestion to bring a tarp is something I always do as well. This gives you a place to cook your food and relax out of the rain (as well as a cover for the bivi entry).

  • @lawrencemartin6041
    @lawrencemartin6041 4 года назад +3

    Excellent as ever Simon, many thanks. I have the British Army version which, whilst basic is excellent at just protecting my sleeping bag when out and about with various shelters. I also have a very tiny one man tent which uses two very light weight alli poles and which is a cross over between a 'proper' one man tent and a hooped bivvy. It just makes a bit of difference in comfort level and gives extra gear space. It can also pop in under a very low tarp if needs be for any extra covered space for cooking etc.

  • @markweisbeck3344
    @markweisbeck3344 4 года назад +6

    Hello from the Hudson Valley, NY. Great job Simon de-mystifying bivi bags for us and sharing your expert tips!

  • @lymskiUK
    @lymskiUK 2 месяца назад

    Just looking at bivvi bags, so did a quick RUclips search…great to see one of my favourite channels has me covered for advice!😊

  • @backpackingireland8624
    @backpackingireland8624 Год назад +1

    Excellent demo . Like everything outdoors, pros and cons with absolutely everything. Greetings from Ireland 🇮🇪

  • @eturnerx
    @eturnerx 4 года назад +4

    I have the MOD bivvy in DPM and an MSS. One great thing about the MSS bag/bivvy combo is I can use it like a quilt with a foot box when the claustrophobia gets bad.

  • @grimwulf8547
    @grimwulf8547 4 года назад +21

    Forgot to mention bivi bags are good to use in a tent as well. Not only does it keep your sleeping bag dry but if your tent fails and you are out in the middle of nowhere you still have a shelter for the night! always have a back up plan!

  • @graceygrumble
    @graceygrumble 4 года назад +1

    I love that the adverts are about exfoliating skin care, followed by flowers. It's so comforting that the target market is so on point.
    On a serious note, for all those on a tight budget, the British army issue bivvy is excellent. Tried and tested by yours truly for... 28 years. Yes, I'm an old witch.
    Backpacking, hiking and camping brings such pleasure in my life - sadly, interrupted by the 'work' thing - and I just want people to know that if they're interested in buggering off into the woods, or over the fells it's do-able. 'Gucci' gear is not required.
    Mind, once you get the bug you'll have a plethora of 'I didn't really need this', 'What did I buy this for?', 'it's not as good as I thought' rubbish!
    Anyhoo, loved the assessment, Simon. My loft's still got room; how's yours? ;)

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад +1

      Hahaha - a fellow gear junkie then!! My loft is chockablock! Can’t beat the British army one for value and simplicity! 👍

    • @graceygrumble
      @graceygrumble 4 года назад

      @@simonablokeinthewoods I have learned to resist acquiring any more gear... ish.

  • @mitchhannah9930
    @mitchhannah9930 4 года назад +3

    If you could combine the Terra Nova with the Dutch Army that would be really nice. I like the amount of mosquito netting space of the Terra Nova as I'm somewhat claustrophobic, and I like the entry method of the Dutch Army for much the same reason. If my claustrophobia flairs up I just have to get out of whatever I'm in quickly, and it seems the Dutch Army would provide the quickest escape. A tarp over the the whole outside is a great idea also. Going from dry into either a downpour or a snowstorm is never a pleasant experience. Great video Simon. Thanks for taking the time to show your gear. amb

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад +2

      Thank you! There are other designs about with features that match what you’ve described - try the MacPac Bush cocoon 👍

  • @Tom_Bee_
    @Tom_Bee_ 4 года назад +4

    I bought a Highland bivi bag years ago bc it was the only one with a detachable bug net I could afford at the time. Not very small or light, but very breathable and waterproof even now. Been meaning to upgrade for ages, since I lost the bug net, but... I just haven't.

  • @susied.3376
    @susied.3376 3 года назад +1

    Wow. I am so glad to see this video. I have a bivy but never really knew it's use.
    I am clostrophobic and love the hoop,mesh and easy in.
    Love the comfort of a liner for me. Thank you.

  • @michaeltownshend4503
    @michaeltownshend4503 6 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you very much. I've learned more in this video than in 20 years reading manuals and such

  • @johnmccarthy2179
    @johnmccarthy2179 4 года назад +3

    I love bivves but at seventy three I have swung over more to using them in the winter with a tarp and a tarp and net in the summer

  • @muskett4108
    @muskett4108 4 года назад +3

    Best used with a tarp or poncho.
    The over head cover, tarp or something, keeps the rain off so the bivi can breath, and gives an admin area. Without it bivi bags are more short term survival bag or a fair weather system.
    I've used bivi bags plenty but now find tents more comfortable.

  • @daveys
    @daveys Год назад +1

    I have one of the Dutch army bivvies and two of the British army Gore-Tex bags. I use the Gore-Tex bags loads, they’re great for adding a bit of extra warmth to any camping trip and they stop your sleeping bag getting wet/damp if the tent leaks.

  • @dhession64
    @dhession64 4 года назад +1

    "Pads, pillow, and other paraphernalia". You're quite the wordsmith, Simon. Keep up the good work. I'm still taken with your Baker tent video. That's an impressive shelter, if I may say. I appreciate your first hand knowledge on camping gear choice.

  • @martinfoy5167
    @martinfoy5167 4 года назад +3

    This is a brilliant series simon , thankyou for taking the time out to create these series 👌👍

  • @edwindude9893
    @edwindude9893 4 года назад +31

    The zips always go wrong on those Dutch bags. Mine still lasted 12 years and 6 op’s. Got a YKK zip fitted by the unit kit repairer.

    • @SCCIT-jq6jh
      @SCCIT-jq6jh 4 года назад +3

      You cannot beat ykk zippers mate.🤠🇦🇺

  • @jamesellsworth9673
    @jamesellsworth9673 4 года назад +2

    My bivi bag is a Winterial model with head and foot half-hoops for suspension. That keeps the covering material up and away from my body, providing better ventilation and roominess. The inner system has full mesh covering and a clip on, stake out fly provides very good weather protection.

  • @radar2116
    @radar2116 3 года назад

    I'm a motorcyclist, and I hate setting up a tent, plus their huge!
    My brothers old military bivy was just the ticket, but I couldn't use it because I was huge, now I've lost over 50 lbs and I fit. The condensation is an issue, your video has put me on the proper path to what I now want.
    Thanks!

  • @bereantrb
    @bereantrb 4 года назад +4

    The last couple of years I’ve become a big fan of ultralight bivvies like those from Borah Gear here in the US. While not totally waterproof on their own, they are brilliant paired with a tarp. Lightweight and very reasonably priced.

  • @KentSurvival
    @KentSurvival 4 года назад +74

    Hats off for the title alone mate 😂

  • @TimothyBushell
    @TimothyBushell Год назад

    Excellent video; short; no wasted waffle; shows everything I needed to know. You a nice job.

  • @lilcwa
    @lilcwa 4 года назад +1

    Thanks for this thoughtful, thorough, informative video. This was the best primer I could find on RUclips that outlined the practical pros and cons for a hiker considering trying this style of shelter system. Keep up the fine work.

  • @ridingismymedicine941
    @ridingismymedicine941 3 года назад +3

    I was looking into the Dutch Army Hooped Bivi, I can choose between the Spanish manufactured one and the Carinthia one! (I'm Dutch myself, maybe that makes things easier)
    It's 60% more expensive but I'm sure it's well worth the money!

    • @Tstinzy
      @Tstinzy 2 года назад +1

      I have a Carinthia bivy and I would swear by it. Never used a sleeping mat, kept me dry, never ripped, breathable, and super lightweight

  • @nntimberwolf2197
    @nntimberwolf2197 4 года назад +6

    I’m liking this series. Thanks for sharing!

  • @marshall9c
    @marshall9c 4 года назад +1

    I loved my issued bivi bag. A bit of a pain to get in but great. I used to just slide further down and then pull the hood flap over my head. Spent a few nights in the rain like that with no problem even when i didnt use a tarp.

  • @benyyz
    @benyyz 4 года назад +1

    The netting on that Dutch bivy is awesomely placed. I wish my Rab Unishelter was like that!

  • @sebbe4717
    @sebbe4717 4 года назад +39

    "these are my bivy bags, I only have FIVE of them" heck, I only have ZERO of them!

  • @melminimalist8853
    @melminimalist8853 4 года назад +82

    “I only have five” 😂

  • @SomeRandoInternetPoster
    @SomeRandoInternetPoster 4 года назад +1

    Great tips. Agree with the tarp, I always use one despite extra weight. Good for storing gear if wet, good for getting changed if wet, good for cooking under if wet, let’s you open the bivy for ventilation.
    If you want a no 6, I can highly recommend the macpac bush cocoon, a cross between the terra nova and Dutch army bivy. With a tarp you can leave the side door open with just the mossy net for excellent ventilation.

  • @myrtle6179
    @myrtle6179 4 года назад +1

    Cool video 👍👍 very educational regarding the Bivi bags.

  • @ritamilford3129
    @ritamilford3129 4 года назад +9

    I love the Storm Cecil, better than Clara. You’re such a teacher Simon.Preparation is all. Fantastic precise video, all you need to know. Well done again.

    • @lauriebloggs8391
      @lauriebloggs8391 4 года назад +1

      exactly!

    • @Jason_Reynolds
      @Jason_Reynolds 4 года назад

      Yes. Us Irish and our silly names!

    • @maxnoerenberg6370
      @maxnoerenberg6370 4 года назад

      but Cecil would've been a mild storm, if a storm at all..........because women are fierce thats why loads of severe weather will have female names ha ha

  • @hugostieglitz238
    @hugostieglitz238 4 года назад +7

    Who gives this guy a thumbs down? Tossers do!!!

  • @williamwood6795
    @williamwood6795 4 года назад +1

    I have an old Bibler Bivy. Very nice. Nice video. I thought nobody cared about bivy camping.

  • @stevecookson3201
    @stevecookson3201 4 года назад

    I'm a US Military sleep system guy. Love it. For all the notations about very InClement weather. I keep a 5x7 nylon tarp like Simon near the end of the vid. Works perfect... in good weather makes a great shade spot for cooking/hanging out under as well.

  • @brian1674
    @brian1674 Год назад +2

    The Corinthian Survival One is top of sleeping bag bucket list! Food for thought….the USMC Gen II gortex bivy that combos the MSS system is awesome! The snugpak bivy is pretty great as well…along w the Snugpak jungle bag that has built in big mesh

  • @joetaylor486
    @joetaylor486 10 месяцев назад +2

    They are the worst of nights. They are the best of nights.

  • @ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors
    @ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors 4 года назад +3

    As a hammock guy, I absolutely HATE sleeping on the ground. However I do have 2 options for when trees are out of the picture : a Snugpak Stratosphere bivy and a Snugpak Ionosphere 1 man tent bivy. They are both built amazingly well and have kept me dry in some pretty nasty storms. My hammocks are always my first choice, but I think it's always smart to have a plan B. I usually carry the smaller Stratosphere with me on the bottom of my Helikon-Tex H harness for when I'm out doing solo trail maintenance, and have the Ionosphere in my truck kit as part of my emergency shelter and gear. Cool vid, sub'd.

    • @Globetrotter-1
      @Globetrotter-1 2 года назад +1

      I absolutely hate hammocks and find sleeping on terra firma far more comfortable, especially when I prefer sleeping on my stomach or side.

    • @ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors
      @ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors 2 года назад

      Have you looked into a bridge hammock? Its far more comfortable for sleeping like you do. Look at the Banyon bridge from Dutchware, the Bear Mountain Bridge from Jacks r Better or the Ridgerunner from Warbonnet. You get a virtually flat lay w/o they pressure points ground sleeping gives. Could be something to check out if you're interested in trying it ever again. Although, some people just don't like it either way, so HYOH right? As long as YOU are comfortable, that's all that matters honestly.....

    • @Globetrotter-1
      @Globetrotter-1 2 года назад

      @@ChesapeakeHammockandOutdoors no mate, I think the Banyon type hammocks are also crap. I either sleep in my X5 or on a Bedchair inside a bivvy or under the stars on an air mat. Either way, I enjoy a very comfortable sleep during all seasons.

  • @shot2death876
    @shot2death876 4 года назад +1

    I have the latest, so I was told, British Army bivy. It's Gore Tex and very large. I have only tried it out once in light rain so cannot yet say it's brilliant in heavy torrential rain, I can say I had no condensation problems when I woke up in the morning.

  • @imeldakennington1047
    @imeldakennington1047 3 года назад

    i love the remark "they are close to the ground" then put a tarp over it.

  • @housil
    @housil 4 года назад +6

    Also have the Mil-Tec bag. In German Milt-Tec is called "Müll-Tec", means "trash-tec". After my first night with it, my sleeping bag was soaked wet from the moist inside. Obviously the membrane does not work (proper).

  • @Cactinaes
    @Cactinaes 4 года назад +25

    Store boots, store Maggie! Yeah, lots of room in the Dutch Army hoop bivy.

  • @theslowwalker
    @theslowwalker 2 года назад +2

    Thanks for the great video. I've only used a bivvy when tarp camping (head and gear slept under the tarp) and never really considered a hooped bivvy. Your video gave some good reasons to consider one. Also, great idea having a small ground cloth to use as a stepping pad (welcome mat) when getting in and out of the bivvy. Probably good to put my stove on as well while cooking.

    • @vulture3874
      @vulture3874 Год назад

      I was about to ask a similar question, thank you. With your head under the tarp the bivvy hood could stay open.

  • @charlesknight3204
    @charlesknight3204 Год назад

    Simon … Excellent review and comparison of bivi bags. Learned some things. Thanks!!! Chuck Knight from Buffalo, Texas, USA. 👨‍🌾✝️🙏🐩

  • @turtlewolfpack6061
    @turtlewolfpack6061 4 года назад +3

    I love my bivys. I did once own the Mil-tec one and I can mirror the comments on it being complete garbage. It did not breath at all and was gotten rid of within a few months of getting it. My advice for anyone looking at it, do not bother! It is trash.

  • @hippyswift
    @hippyswift 4 года назад +5

    This series is coming along well buddy, I've noticed you are gaining subs fast great job & great info/tips ;) peace

  • @kanatislings9307
    @kanatislings9307 2 года назад

    I purchased a carinthia explorer 2 plus last October after much research. Absolutely no regrets ❤️❤️awesome video!!!😎

  • @bradfry5403
    @bradfry5403 Год назад +1

    I'm hoping to get into stealth camping this year and I think this might be the best, cheapest entry level way to get started.

  • @positiivi_teme
    @positiivi_teme 4 года назад +17

    Just watching you squirming into the bags made me sweaty 😂
    What kind of trips you do where you prefer bivvy over a hammock or a tent?

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад +25

      Hahaha - how do you think I felt doing all the squirming!! 😂
      I use them for lightweight backpacking (the third and fourth models) in the mountains where flat spots for a tent and trees are rare or when I want to camp unnoticed. 👍

  • @CorvusNumber6
    @CorvusNumber6 4 года назад +4

    I checked my Dutch Hooped Bivvy to see where it was made - apparently made by a German company called 'Feuchter Workwear Gmbh' in October 2003. I this a third company? Great video as usual! 👍🏻😎

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад +1

      Ah, it must be! Being German made, I’m certain the quality will be up there with Carinthia. 👍

    • @CorvusNumber6
      @CorvusNumber6 4 года назад +1

      Simon, a bloke in the woods Yes, I must admit, no complaints at all so far! 👍🏻😎

    • @erikvels3606
      @erikvels3606 4 года назад +1

      Feuchter made the bivvybags under licence of Carinthia. It`s exactley the same quality as opposed to the FECSA stuff. I have a Feuchter myself, happy with it!

  • @thecrew777
    @thecrew777 11 месяцев назад

    He SPEAKS! Hi Simon! I've seen you on Kent Survival a lot. Finally came over here. Your description and presentation were very helpful as well as understandable!

  • @papajeff5486
    @papajeff5486 4 года назад

    Simon, you went to a lot of trouble, gathering the bivys bags, the sleeping bags, videoing climbing in and out, sheesh, makes me tired just thinking it. You are an extraordinary teacher! All of it was so well presented. I had a US Army bivy bag when I was in the army. Used it one time in deep wet snow, after days of no sleep. Comfort? I didn’t care. My sleep time was shorter than the time it took to lay it out. It was extraordinarily heavy and awkward winter gear. I hate the memory... Thank you for this lesson. We never got one in the army. Texas

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад

      Thanks mate! After the experience of bivi bags you had, I can understand why youd never entertain the idea again!! 👍

    • @papajeff5486
      @papajeff5486 4 года назад

      Thanks for your reply. I might consider the right bevy. Your lesson was encouraging. I am normally a tarp guy, although I just bought a Z-packs Duplex and a Dyneema tarp. Both make a perfect combo. Have you ever used a small tarp over the door of your tent? It’s wonderful for the rain. Texas

  • @jacksonc.9308
    @jacksonc.9308 4 года назад +10

    I wonder if anybody's ever thought that bivi bags look like soft shell coffins :)

  • @lifeIsWonderful2974
    @lifeIsWonderful2974 4 года назад +8

    I always felt like roasting in my own sweat in these things, that's why I switched back to a tiny tent.

    • @mexcanfun4498
      @mexcanfun4498 4 года назад +1

      Teepee is best.

    • @Yorkshiremadmick
      @Yorkshiremadmick 4 года назад +1

      I bought an XL Dutch Army Hooped Bivi
      Lasted 30minutes in February
      No air and far too hot. Plus my knackered hip was no good getting in and out.
      Hilleberg Akto for me now. Plus Polish Lavvu

  • @zettle2345
    @zettle2345 4 года назад +1

    You never said how the zip has failed, on your Dutch bavy. You know it is just a squeeze away from being fixed if it just does not mesh the two sides together, right? Look it up online, there are lots of videos on how to fix zips. I just use a flat head screw driver and a pair of pliers to make the adjustments on my zips. Don't know if that helps but again, great video Simon. I'm just not into sleeping in a body bag... Maybe if I was a Vampire. haha Thanks for all you do

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад

      Thank you! - it just runs off, if you know what I mean - if I hold the fabric together and zip slowly it’s okay, but otherwise, it zips leaving the opening ‘open’ I’m planning g on replacing the zip, but might try some repairs first like you suggest!! 👍👍👍

    • @zettle2345
      @zettle2345 4 года назад

      @@simonablokeinthewoods It will amaze you, like it did me... Usually it just needs squeezed together a little bit to make it work again. Squeeze the end where the zip comes out "zipped" Like a Y the zip is open at the top, closed at the bottom, squeeze the bottom half, below the part you grab to pull the zip. Don't know how else to explain it. Good luck, and I hope it works to solve the problem. Sorry for being so crude. I hope you have been ok after Dennis, Have heard a lot of flooding is going on. Even heard the river ooze, Ouse??? is flooded and you canoe that, so I was concerned. Hope you and yours, are all safe. Maybe they need to start building walls around the cities and towns, like they use to do in the olde days. Takes less walls to surround the cities, than it does to surround the rivers. Best wishes for all in England.

  • @michaelny7184
    @michaelny7184 Год назад

    Nice work!! Great you covered the rain issue in the tips section... Excellent !!

  • @outdooradventureHungary
    @outdooradventureHungary 4 года назад +62

    i only have 5 of them ,yeah iam sure there are People around they have more :)

    • @tannenherz
      @tannenherz 4 года назад

      High, do you have the Geertop-Bivvy too ? Kindly Fiete

    • @outdooradventureHungary
      @outdooradventureHungary 4 года назад

      @@tannenherz was ischn des?

    • @tannenherz
      @tannenherz 4 года назад

      It is a double-hooped bivvi. Es ist ein Bivvy mit Anhebungen durch kurze gebogene Zeltstangen an beiden Enden. Es ist sehr komfortabel ( #29 und #29-2 ). Freundlichst Fiete

    • @outdooradventureHungary
      @outdooradventureHungary 4 года назад

      @@tannenherz also so etwas wie der Niederländische Militär Biwak Sack eigentlich schon ein Zelt.Habe ich in Ziviler Ausführung würde ich aber nie wieder kaufen ,habe das für den West Highland Way gekauft und vor Platzangst fast durchgedreht :)

    • @tannenherz
      @tannenherz 4 года назад

      @ Outdoor Adventure: Das Modell von Geertop ist, auch durch die Aufstellbügel aus Aluminium, noch etwas geräumiger. Es hat einen Seiteneinstieg und auf der gesamten Breite ein Mückennetzt. Dazu kommt noch an beiden Enden eine gegen Regenwasser geschützte Belüftung mit einem Mückennetz. Vom Komfort her schon fast overdosed ;-) Aber das kannst Du Dir ja bei mir ansehen. Freundlichst Fiete

  • @wrzlgummidge7663
    @wrzlgummidge7663 4 года назад +4

    Nice one Simon.
    "I only have 5 bivi bags".... :) atb

  • @MarcialWills
    @MarcialWills 2 года назад

    I just felt in love with the Terra Nova one. Hey thanks for this great video

  • @Seamus3051
    @Seamus3051 6 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks Simon for another informative & useful video .. Cheers.

  • @richardp.228
    @richardp.228 4 года назад +14

    I don't use "brilliant" enough in my conversations.

  • @StevenSendoff
    @StevenSendoff 4 года назад +3

    What if you gotta pee and it’s raining

  • @viveviveka2651
    @viveviveka2651 4 года назад

    Excellent video - thank you.
    I use a US military surplus goretex bivy. Sometimes I use it for the extra warmth. Also, in high winds it really helps prevent heat loss. Sometimes I use it inside a tent. In really cold conditions, it's two down sleeping bags, one inside the other, plus bivy, plus tent.
    I usually used a closed cell pad underneath an inflatable pad, for the extra insulation in the cold, plus the insurance against ending up on the ground with a slow leak.
    I haven't yet tried an insulated inflatable with a high R value, but the Exped down-filled inflatable has caught my interest.

  • @UK_Outdoors.
    @UK_Outdoors. 4 года назад

    Great video. The note about the 2 manufacturers of the Dutch bivi bags will come in very handy when I buy mine.

  • @TwoPlusTwoEqualsFive32
    @TwoPlusTwoEqualsFive32 4 года назад +3

    The problem I have with bivy bags is they are somehow usually heavier then just using a tarp and ground sheet, but with much less room, comfort and more fussing about.

    • @simonablokeinthewoods
      @simonablokeinthewoods  4 года назад

      True, they are heavier, but add another line of defence against the weather plus warmer in the winter. 👍

    • @TwoPlusTwoEqualsFive32
      @TwoPlusTwoEqualsFive32 4 года назад

      @@simonablokeinthewoods Maybe, I've never gotten wet under a tarp, so long as it's big enough and pitched correctly.
      I have used a Snugpak Stratosphere, it's got plenty of breathability and a fairly large bug mesh for ventilation and I still found myself a bit soaked in the morning from condensation.

  • @ShouldBeWiser
    @ShouldBeWiser 4 года назад +5

    First thing I thought of was how hard they'd be to get out of quickly: bear, wolf, ants, etc. I'd feel trapped, I think.

    • @xPumaFangx
      @xPumaFangx 4 года назад

      I do not think the Ants would get inside. The bear or wolf on the other hand are afraid of fire.

    • @anbu94
      @anbu94 4 года назад

      and wolves don't really bother people.

  • @kayakcobber524
    @kayakcobber524 4 года назад

    After the Dutch hooped bivybi now use for many years the Carinthia observer plus...
    Even now when I walk across America I use it. FB kayak cobber
    Easy in the desert and reliable. A few months more and then back to the lowlands of Holland!!

  • @shackman9566
    @shackman9566 3 года назад

    Thank you for another great video. Ventilation is very important. If you find yourself in a true multi day survival situation keeping your gear dry from day to day will be essential. I like to have one or more synthetic towels in my kit. You can wipe off condensation build up if you notice it even in the middle of the night and place the towel in a water proof bag to keep it from freezing in the winter or place it outside in warmer weather. It actually works best once it is a little damp as the moisture is absorbed by capillary action. So if you're in your bag wipe up the condensation and then stow it in your water proof bag or ring it out side the bag and then stow the damp cloth in the water proof bag. If you can get an original sham wow they work great.

  • @richsmart321
    @richsmart321 4 года назад +23

    "I ONLY have 5 bivvi bags"!!!!

    • @hermit6208
      @hermit6208 4 года назад

      I giggled at that also. I am still waiting for a good deal on a u.s. MSS bivy. I've been waiting all winter! By the time I get one when I won't need one until next winter. 😁😁😁

    • @tannenherz
      @tannenherz 4 года назад

      High R. S., i have one, the Geertop Bivvy ( #29 and #29-2 ). Kindly Fiete

  • @listenfucker6566
    @listenfucker6566 4 года назад +4

    thinking bout releasing from military but i aint returning my bivy bag lmao

  • @kevinklein4748
    @kevinklein4748 Год назад +1

    I use a bug net bivy from lixada for cycling in summer. It weighs a mere 250g. My entire setup weighs less than 1 kilogram, so I'm well happy with it. Mountaineering bivies are also a nice option for rocky mountains and cliffs, where there's simply no space to pitch a tent. I am honestly considering one of these military hoop bivies for stealth camping at some stage though.

  • @STANDUP4SURVIVAL
    @STANDUP4SURVIVAL 4 года назад

    I purchased my mss gortex bivy 6 years ago paid 15$ for used it a couple of times .Last night I tried it out 50° rain a d windy love it super dry ,matched with my therma rest neolite pad and sleeping bag awsome set up .cheers

  • @finger351
    @finger351 4 года назад +3

    Now I'm tempted to buy a bivi bag, it's a conspiracy, Simon is working with kit manufacturers to influence us and make us spend more money...🤣

  • @zilvoxidgod
    @zilvoxidgod 4 года назад +20

    the bear that's about to dine on you: why do humans come with so much more packaging these days :/

    • @_s_9920
      @_s_9920 4 года назад +6

      This is a British channel, we got rid of all our dangerous wild animals centuries ago such as wolves and bears, one of the first countries to do so successfully through bounties and systematic hunting programs - cool history but not great ecologically.

    • @taylorfranks2030
      @taylorfranks2030 4 года назад

      Scar that’s pretty neat, are there any other countries like that?

    • @ottovonnichtort7605
      @ottovonnichtort7605 3 года назад

      @@taylorfranks2030 most of the Netherlands but not all, lots of wolf's in the south.

    • @kalboff1482
      @kalboff1482 3 года назад +1

      @@taylorfranks2030 hm, could only think of NewZealand in this terms, only coupla wild pigs, but nothing serious... .

    • @kalboff1482
      @kalboff1482 3 года назад

      @@ottovonnichtort7605 rly? What u do, when hooking up with one?

  • @jb-lu4vo
    @jb-lu4vo 4 года назад

    Some very good tips for carrying light and camping anywhere available and safe. Thank you very much for this interesting video.

  • @ramu_ilikeajapaneseoutdoor2660
    @ramu_ilikeajapaneseoutdoor2660 4 года назад

    A picture is beautiful!
    Snow Country lives there for me.
    I live in Hokkaido in Japan.
    A season is winter.
    It's also snowy.
    Your animation provides with outdoor useful information!

  • @CarribeanCowboy
    @CarribeanCowboy 3 месяца назад +3

    what Rab bivy is that? i’m searching it up and can’t find it

    • @klaresJain
      @klaresJain Месяц назад

      i think i found it but it is out of production and i couldn't find it anywhere

    • @CarribeanCowboy
      @CarribeanCowboy Месяц назад

      @@klaresJain i wonder why

  • @marieclaudebedard6728
    @marieclaudebedard6728 3 года назад +3

    All snug on one if those, sleeping soudly till, the inevitable (for me):"Got to pee"😩

    • @tonyrichardson2637
      @tonyrichardson2637 3 года назад

      use a bottle to pee in.

    • @marieclaudebedard6728
      @marieclaudebedard6728 3 года назад

      @@tonyrichardson2637 As a girl, peeing in a bottle while zipped in a sleeping bag, spells catastrophe...

    • @tonyrichardson2637
      @tonyrichardson2637 3 года назад

      @@marieclaudebedard6728 my apologies, i go for a pee, before i crash, can help, but i understand your predicament.

  • @antonycrow1657
    @antonycrow1657 4 года назад

    I have just got a British army tarp and basha. I have never used this system before, always had a tent but watching you and Andy I thought I would be a bit more adventurous.

  • @erleclaire
    @erleclaire 3 года назад +4

    Leaving you footwear outside happens only once! Wake up after a snowy night and you have boots full of snow and cold feet all day. Have plastic bag to store boots inside the bivi......