A bivvy tent is an essential piece of kit for trekking. After a long day on the trail, it provides a place to rest as well as protection from the elements. With many models available, a few key criteria will help you choose the right bivvy tent.
Essential criteria for choosing a bivvy tent
Weight and packability
Choosing a bivvy tent depends on how you use it. You can opt for a freestanding tent, a tunnel tent, or even a tarp for a tentless bivvy.
Ultra-lightweight tents (under 1.5 kg) are ideal for trekking, but are narrow and fragile. Lightweight tents (between 1.5 and 2.5 kg) offer a good compromise between comfort and packability. Finally, standard tents (over 2.5 kg) are robust and spacious, but heavier. Make sure your tent is compressible — it should fit in or on your hiking pack without taking up too much space.
Size and comfort
On a bivvy, tent size depends on the number of people. One-person models give just enough room to lie down. Two-person tents are ideal for one person who wants space, or for two people. Three-person tents or larger offer greater comfort overall, but are heavier.
Ideally, the tent should allow you to sit up at the very least. A porch for storing your pack, shoes and wet gear also provides valuable extra space.
Ventilation and waterproofing
Ventilation is important in a hiking tent. Low and high openings create natural air circulation. A double wall also helps moisture to escape effectively.
Waterproofing is measured in millimetres of Schmerber. When the value exceeds 1,500 mm, the fabric is waterproof. Above 3,000 mm, it can withstand prolonged downpours. The tent floor must be more waterproof than the outer wall, ideally between 4,000 and 8,000 mm, as it is subjected to greater pressure.
Choosing a 3- or 4-season trekking tent
The 3-season tent
3-season bivvy tents are the most popular. They are designed to handle relatively moderate conditions in spring, summer and autumn.
They are lightweight and compact, and also easy to pitch. They typically feature large mesh panels to promote airflow. They therefore represent a good compromise between ventilation, comfort and weight.
3-season tents are however less resistant to strong winds or snow. Their fabric is thin, making them poorly insulating, their poles less robust, and they are poorly suited to high altitudes.
The 4-season tent
4-season bivvy tents are primarily designed for mountaineers. They are ideal for tackling inhospitable conditions. Their dome shape helps eliminate areas where snow can accumulate, and their rain fly, which extends down to the ground, reduces wind resistance.
On top of these advantages, their structure is reinforced with strong, numerous poles. Their thick fabric also provides better thermal insulation.
4-season tents are heavier and more complex to pitch. They are less well-ventilated, which increases the risk of condensation, bulkier when packed down and more expensive.
Practical tips for using and maintaining a tent
Pitching and packing down
To pitch a hiking tent correctly, a few guidelines should be followed. Find a flat, dry and open spot. Avoid areas exposed to wind or in a hollow where water could collect in the event of rain.
Use a groundsheet to protect the underside of the tent and improve insulation. When pitching, avoid letting the inner fabric touch the outer fabric to reduce condensation. Also stake the pegs at 45 degrees for better hold.
When packing down, gently shake the tent to remove dust. Remove and clean the pegs, then fold the fabric. If it is wet, store it outside the bag and dry it as soon as possible.
Post-use maintenance
After every trek, clean the tent with lukewarm water using a soft sponge. Then leave it to dry in the open air, away from direct sunlight. Also check the seams, eyelets and zips.
Once clean and dry, you can store the tent away from light, in a dry place. Opt for storage in a fabric bag or cover to prevent premature wear.
You now know everything you need to choose the right bivvy tent. All that remains is to pick a model suited to your style of trekking and your habits in the field. You'll enjoy comfortable, peaceful nights out in the wild.
