bivouac msr


As a preamble, we feel it's important to differentiate between camping and bivouac, and then develop the equipment you need for bivouac and the tips you can use to prepare for it!


BIVOUAC OR CAMPING: WHAT'S THE REAL DIFFERENCE?

Before going into detail about the equipment you need to spend a night bivouacking, it's important to clarify the distinction between bivouacking and camping, two practices often confused. So, how does bivouac really differ from a more conventional camping trip? The answer can be summed up in one word: lightness.

Camping is all about comfort. You'll generally find larger, heavier equipment: a spacious tent, thick inflatable mattresses, sometimes even furniture such as chairs or a folding table, not to mention a more elaborate lighting system. This type of equipment, transported by car, allows you to set up camp on a permanent site.

Bivouacs, on the other hand, are set up in the wilderness, often as part of a hike or trek. You reach your sleeping area on foot, with all your gear on your back. The aim is to keep weight and bulk to a minimum. Every gram counts, and the choice of equipment is made with autonomy, compactness and efficiency in mind.

Beyond this material difference, bivouacs are also distinguished by their wilder, more temporary aspect. It's part of an approach that respects the environment and local rules. In France, bivouacs are subject to strict regulations. You can't pitch your tent just anywhere, or just anyhow. Always find out about the rules in force in nature parks or protected areas before setting up camp.

Bivouacs are an authentic and free way to spend the night in the wilderness. Whether you're in the mountains, in the forest or by a lake, this total immersion in the environment provides a feeling of disconnection and peace that's hard to match. But to ensure that this adventure remains enjoyable and safe, good preparation is essential. Here are the key elements you need to know for a successful overnight bivouac.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT BIVOUAC SHELTER FOR YOUR NEEDS

One of the first things to consider is shelter. Depending on your preferences and experience, you can opt for a lightweight trekking tent, a tarp or a bivy bag. The trekking tent remains the most comfortable and protective solution, ideal in windy or rainy conditions. Set up each evening and folded each morning, it must be both lightweight and easy to set up. There's no need to turn the end of each day into a headache: opt for a tent that's easy to handle, as it will accompany you throughout your hike, hanging on your back. The lightness of the material is therefore an essential criterion for your walking comfort.

We recommend that you choose a freestanding tent, capable of standing on its own without the need for guy wires, making last-minute pitch changes easier. In terms of resistance, choose a tent with a ground impermeability of at least 1,500 Schmerber, so you can face sudden downpours or night-time thunderstorms with peace of mind.

The tarp is more minimalist and appeals to experienced hikers in search of lightness. Unlike a tent, it has no poles or integrated floor, making it a particularly compact and ultra-light solution. However, this weight saving requires a good sense of installation and a choice adapted to your needs. To choose the right tarp, it's essential to consider the surface area it covers, its weight, water resistance and ease of assembly. A model measuring around 2.5 x 3 meters offers adequate protection for one person with a backpack, or even two in a tight configuration. Check that the fabric is waterproof (at least 2,000 Schmerber) and that it has sufficient anchoring points to allow for different configurations, depending on wind or rain. A tarp is ideally combined with a mosquito net or bivy bag to protect against insects and ground humidity. In short, the tarp is an ideal solution for those who want to travel light, provided you master a few basic assembly techniques and adapt your choice to the bivouac conditions you expect to encounter. Tarps are becoming increasingly popular with light bivouac enthusiasts and seasoned hikers alike.

The bivy bag, on the other hand, is an ultra-compact solution, often used by solo adventurers, and particularly popular with hikers in search of lightness and discretion. This minimalist shelter system slips directly over the sleeping bag, offering protection against moisture, wind and, depending on the model, even insects. To choose the right bivy bag, start by defining the purpose for which it will be used: some simple models serve only as an overbag to improve insulation and moisture resistance, while others are truly waterproof shelters, with a hood and integrated mosquito net. Pay close attention to the breathability of the fabric, an essential criterion to avoid condensation inside, especially in cold or damp conditions. A good bivy bag should also offer sufficient waterproofing (at least 10,000 Schmerber for real protection) while remaining light enough not to weigh your bag down. Finally, check the dimensions: a model that's too narrow can be uncomfortable, especially if you sleep with your backpack. The bivy bag is ideal for solo adventurers, autonomous treks or outings in rugged conditions where every gram counts.

Whatever your choice, the shelter must be quick to assemble and capable of protecting you from the elements. Visit all our ultra-light tents.

-> Find out more: How to choose the right tent for camping and bivouac?



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SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS FOR A GREAT NIGHT'S SLEEP

A sleeping bag is also essential. It needs to match the temperatures expected during the night, especially the comfort temperature, which is more realistic than the extreme temperature often displayed. In fact, as a key element in guaranteeing a good night's sleep in the wilderness, the sleeping bag deserves special attention at the time of purchase. It's not a matter of choosing at random: the conditions of your bivouac - whether at altitude or in a tropical climate - impose very different requirements. The first criterion to consider is the bag's comfort temperature. This must correspond to the night-time temperatures expected on your itinerary. In general, a comfort temperature of between 0°C and 5°C offers a good compromise between warmth, weight and compressibility, and is suitable for most three-season outings. Beware, however: an incorrect temperature estimate can have real consequences for your recovery, and even your health. An ill-adapted bag can expose you to the risk of hypothermia or uncomfortable nights.

Then there's the question of insulation: natural down or synthetic fibers? Down offers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and is easy to compress, but loses effectiveness when wet and requires a minimum of maintenance. Synthetic, on the other hand, performs well even when wet, dries quickly and is often more affordable, although bulkier and sometimes a little heavier. However, recent technical advances have narrowed the gap between the two technologies: you can now find hydrophobic-treated comforters or ultralight synthetics. Your choice will therefore depend on your priorities, your budget and the type of environment in which you plan to bivouac. It's up to you to decide according to your needs... and your desire for adventure!

In addition, a quality ground mattress is essential to insulate you from the cold and uneven ground. If comfort is important to you during your bivouac nights, a self-inflating mattress is an excellent choice. Combining a good level of softness with a reasonable size, it's a popular compromise for hikers. The more basic foam mattress, on the other hand, is more robust and reliable. No matter what the ground or weather conditions, it resists shock, moisture and wear, and is ready for use in the blink of an eye.

Beyond comfort, thermal insulation is a decisive criterion, especially on cool nights. The mattress acts as a barrier between your body and the ground, limiting heat loss. This insulating capacity is measured by the R-value (or R-Value), an indicator that helps you choose a model suited to the seasons:
  • R < 1: summer use only
  • R between 1 and 2: suitable for spring and autumn use
  • R between 2 and 3: good for three seasons (spring, summer, autumn)
  • R > 3: usable all year round, even in winter
In addition to R-Value, thickness also influences overall comfort. The thicker the mattress, the better it cushions uneven ground. Self-inflating models often offer the best balance between thickness, comfort and weight. It's up to you to find the one that will give you a restful night's sleep, whatever the conditions of your bivouac.

-> Find out more: How to choose a sleeping bag?


THE HIKING BACKPACK: YOUR ADVENTURE COMPANION

The hiking backpack must be spacious enough to hold all your gear, but also well designed to distribute the load. The backpack is undoubtedly the most essential part of your bivouac gear, as it will carry everything else. Choosing the right model means ensuring both comfort on the trail and practicality at camp. The first thing to consider is volume. For a one- or two-night bivouac, a 40 to 50-liter bag is generally sufficient. Beyond that, for longer treks or complete autonomy, a volume of 50 to 70 liters may be necessary. Choose a pack that fits you well, with a good carrying system: padded shoulder straps, an effective waist belt and a ventilated back are essential to reduce fatigue and aches and pains. Accessibility of contents is also an important criterion: side pockets, separate compartments or a front opening can make organization much easier. Finally, consider the bag's empty weight: a model that's too heavy from the outset can quickly become a burden. In short, the right bivouac backpack is one that combines ergonomics, lightness, adequate capacity and sturdiness - so that carrying your gear remains a pleasure, even after several hours' walking. It's important to organize your belongings intelligently, keeping the essentials close at hand.

-> To find out more: Buying guide: how to choose the right backpack for a multi-day hike? Our top 5 trekking backpacks



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LIST OF EQUIPMENT TO HAVE IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR A BIVOUAC TRIP

For bivouac meals

After a day's walking, even a simple hot meal is a real comfort, which is why we strongly recommend that you choose the right stove.

The choice of your stove depends above all on your destination and the conditions in which you'll be cooking. A number of criteria need to be taken into account: the type of fuel used, transport constraints, outside temperature, altitude, stove power and average boiling time. For a bivouac in the French mountains between spring and autumn, a classic gas stove will do the trick. Simple to use, relatively light and efficient, it generally works with a cartridge containing a mixture of butane and propane, making it an excellent compromise for most outings.

If you're going into more extreme or very cold environments, you're better off with a multi-fuel stove. Running on gasoline, this type of stove has the advantage of remaining efficient even at sub-zero temperatures, unlike butane, which can freeze. Another advantage is that gasoline is available almost everywhere in the world, making it a particularly suitable solution for long expeditions or trips abroad, especially when gas transport restrictions come into play. Every adventure has its own ideal stove: it's up to you to choose the model that best suits your needs, depending on the terrain. You'll also find all our gourmet freeze-dried meals, which don't take up much room in your pack.

Another essential element for bivouac meals is the and camping crockery. When bivouacking, every gram counts, and bulky equipment can quickly become a hindrance. Camping crockery, if not well chosen, can take up precious space in your bag. Fortunately, today there are ingenious solutions for lightening your equipment without sacrificing practicality. Many specialist brands, such as Sea To Summitoffer multi-purpose utensils: multi-purpose knives, sporks (combined spoon-fork), or folding bowls and cups that fit easily into an already well-laden bag. These compact, lightweight items are perfect for adventurers looking for simplicity and efficiency. The choice is vast, so it's up to you to put together the kit that best suits your use and bivouac style.

Hydration during a bivouac

While it's essential to eat well when bivouacking, staying properly hydrated is just as vital. Having access to a source of drinking water is not always guaranteed in the wilderness, so a water purification system is an essential part of your equipment. Even apparently clear water can contain pathogens - bacteria, viruses or parasites - that can compromise your health and, with it, the rest of your adventure. To avoid such problems, there are two main options: water filters and purifying tablets.

Water filters allow you to consume water almost instantly, which is a definite advantage when you're on the move. Pastilles, on the other hand, require a waiting time ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the product, but can be used alone or in conjunction with a filter, for double safety. If you opt for a filter, you'll have a choice of different formats: pump filters, gravity filters, filter straws, water bottles with integrated filter or UV purifiers. Each has its own advantages, depending on duration, number of people and type of terrain. The key is to choose a system that's adapted to your needs and sufficiently reliable to ensure that your water remains an ally, not a source of trouble. Katadyn and LifeStraw are well-known brands of water filter bottles.

Lighting up your bivouacs

Headlamps are another essential accessory. Whether you're setting out on a pre-dawn hike, preparing a meal at the bivouac or simply finding your stuff in the tent after dark, a headlamp is an essential accessory. Practical and lightweight, it guarantees total autonomy of movement while ensuring good visibility. For classic bivouac use, a wattage of between 100 and 150 lumens is generally sufficient. If you're planning to hike at night, opt for a model offering between 200 and 300 lumens for better lighting performance. But power isn't everything: autonomy is also an essential criterion. For the same light intensity, it's best to opt for a lamp with a longer battery life, to avoid unpleasant surprises in the wilderness.

Hygiene and care

Prepare a bivouac first-aid kit

Just like a wound, an insect bite, a tick bite or a scratch is not something you can plan for. That's why a well-designed first-aid kit is an essential part of your bivouac equipment. It will enable you to react quickly to a minor incident or to wait for help to arrive, should the need arise. To be effective without being too bulky, your kit should contain the essentials: antiseptic, standard and specific dressings (Compeed type for blisters), elastic adhesive strips and sterile compresses. Don't forget tweezers, a mosquito net puller, a few safety pins, a needle, a small pair of scissors and plasters. As for medication, remember to take an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen, an antihistamine for allergic reactions, an antibacterial ointment, and Aspivenin in case of a sting. Ready-made first-aid kits are available. Finally, include in your kit a small manual with first-aid instructions and the emergency numbers to contact, depending on your bivouac location. Prevention is better than cure, especially in the great outdoors!

Prepare a bivouac hygiene kit

Far from the comforts of home, hygiene and health must not be neglected when bivouacking. To keep clean and fit, and avoid minor problems, certain accessories are essential. A compact toiletry bag containing biodegradable travel soap, a toothbrush and a microfiber towel - lightweight, quick-drying and space-saving - is the basic essentials. Don't forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent, especially in summer or in humid areas. For natural necessities, a roll of toilet paper (preferably biodegradable) and a garbage bag to take everything with you are essential, with respect for nature. A clothesline can be useful for drying clothes or towels. In terms of safety, your first-aid kit should include medical essentials, not forgetting a mosquito net and waterproof bags to protect everything from damp. With a minimum of organization, you can ensure comfort, cleanliness and peace of mind, even in the wilderness.

Clothing for bivouacs

When it comes to clothing, opt for technical, breathable and insulating materials. A light down jacket or fleece is recommended for the evening, as is a waterproof windbreaker. Even in summer, nights can be chilly, so pack a hat and a pair of gloves, just in case.

Other personal accessories for bivouacs

Beyond the basics, some personal accessories can greatly enhance your wilderness experience. Bringing along a camera or a pair of binoculars will allow you to appreciate the fauna, flora and landscapes from a different angle, and preserve beautiful memories of your adventures. For orientation, a compass and IGN maps remain reliable allies, especially as a complement to or in the event of GPS failure. A cell phone, although often limited in isolated areas, can always be useful for emergencies, especially if combined with a solar charger or external battery. Last but not least hiking polesoften underestimated, provide real walking comfort, especially on uneven terrain or over long distances with a loaded pack. Choosing these accessories with care means optimizing your autonomy, safety and enjoyment on every outing.


trekking bivouac


TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL NIGHT IN THE WILDERNESS

1. For a successful night in the wilderness, the choice of location is crucial. Avoid damp areas, valley bottoms where the cold accumulates, slopes and cliff edges. Choose a site that is flat, sheltered from the wind and unobtrusive, away from busy footpaths. It's also essential to respect local regulations: in some natural parks, bivouacs are strictly regulated, or even forbidden.

2. We strongly recommend arriving on site before nightfall. This gives you plenty of time to set up camp and enjoy the local atmosphere.

3. The weather should be checked before you set off: a thunderstorm or very low temperatures can turn a night's adventure into a difficult, even dangerous experience. As a precaution, pack your belongings in waterproof bags inside your backpack to avoid any nasty surprises.

4. Finally, bivouac is an activity that must be carried out with absolute respect for nature. Leave no trace of your passage, take all your garbage with you and avoid lighting fires unless explicitly authorized. Use your stove instead. Don't forget that the beauty of a bivouac also lies in its discretion and simplicity.
Spending a night in the wilderness is a rewarding adventure that offers a unique sense of freedom. With the right equipment, a little preparation and a respectful attitude towards the environment, you'll enjoy an unforgettable experience under the stars.

Need inspiration? What are the most beautiful trekking routes in France?


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