There is growing enthusiasm for nature hiking. Indeed, many people are drawn to wild camping and bivvying. Everyone has dreamed at some point of spending a night out in the wild with absolutely no planning. That said, going in completely unprepared isn't really the way to go, and it's better to be aware of the regulations and common-sense rules to make sure everything goes smoothly. So here are a few tips to help you, whether you've chosen to go wild camping or bivvying — and a reminder of the essential kit you should always bring.
What are the differences between wild camping and bivvying?
A bivvy is essentially a temporary camp that can be set up under the stars or beneath a lightweight tent in a spot with little or no facilities. It generally suits people taking part in an outdoor activity, far from civilisation or any infrastructure. A bivvy is therefore set up from sunset to sunrise, spending a single night in the same spot.
Wild camping refers more to the idea of a camp where people stay several nights in the same spot. The two concepts are fairly similar and can sometimes be confused. Hikers and mountaineers will therefore tend to opt for a bivvy. However, many people use the term wild camping to cover the same idea.
What does the regulation say about bivvying and wild camping?
The advantage of bivvying in France over wild camping is that it is generally permitted in most national parks. This is not necessarily the case for camping in the wild.
However, it's worth knowing that the general regulations governing both activities remain very strict. Indeed, many public (and of course private) spaces remain off-limits — such as listed sites, coastal areas, roads and paths of all kinds, and areas near historic monuments.
To set off with peace of mind, don't hesitate to seek information from hiking guides, landowners, local councils or certain websites. That way, you'll have no trouble finding where to pitch your tent in compliance with the rules and in respect of the environment.
If bivvying is prohibited, don't push your luck — look for other solutions. If there's a fee, pay your share, and in any case, if in doubt, ask for permission. Many spots remain open to use, provided it's done in a reasonable and responsible manner.
Choosing a bivvy spot
Beyond the regulations mentioned above, it's also important to use common sense when choosing your spot and to be aware of a few basic rules.
Keep away from roads, trails and paths. Also avoid being close to livestock and watercourses whose flow can change rapidly. As a general rule, stay clear of low-lying areas, rivers and water sources. Gain a little height relative to these features. Your bivvy will be all the more enjoyable for it!
It goes without saying, but keep away from cliffs and anything of that sort! You can favour grassy areas or spots near small trees, but avoid if possible being at the foot of very large trees with heavy branches. Finally, before settling on a suitable spot for your bivvy, do a quick inspection of the surrounding area within a 50-metre radius — it'll save you from all kinds of unpleasant surprises!
The essentials for a successful bivvy
To bivvy or camp off the beaten track in the best possible conditions, you need to travel light, with the right bivvy gear. More and more people are also opting for ultralight bivvying.
Sleeping bag
Always choose a quality sleeping bag with a comfort temperature rating suited to the conditions you'll encounter. If you're torn between two comfort zones, go for the one rated for the colder of the two — it's a very worthwhile precaution.
Sleeping mat
There are now self-inflating hiking sleeping mats available in slim, lightweight and compact designs. They don't guarantee maximum comfort, but they're perfectly adequate for a decent night's sleep if you've chosen a flat, clear surface free of stones and branches.
Thermal base layers
Nights are often chilly, and this is even more true in the early mornings — especially if you're sleeping at altitude. Good thermal base layers, such as those offered by Cimalp, are an absolute must to ensure proper insulation and keep you warm. This will improve your sleep and, above all, your recovery. Pack well-covering base layers such as long johns and long-sleeved, high-neck tops.
Tent
To make your bivvy a success, choose a tent suited to the region, the spot where you plan to sleep and the conditions. At altitude, you should always opt for a low-profile tent to minimise wind resistance. This will improve its stability and prevent you from being too exposed to wind chill. Finally, go for models with a small porch: they're handy for cooking under shelter and for storing shoes and your pack overnight.
Stove
Petrol stoves are the better choice abroad, while in our part of the world (without air travel) gas is fairly practical and easy to use. Multi-fuel options are worth looking into closely based on pricing, to avoid multiple purchases if you're a regular bivvy-goer who travels frequently.
Lighting and head torch
A key safety item, the head torch and lighting are essential accessories for all outdoor night-time activities. A head torch is often the smarter choice, while an additional lamp adds a more pleasant touch and a little extra comfort.
