Could this introduce any new challenges of safety, giving yourself more to do in an already stressful situation? With a vertical spray of a hose pipe to replicate rain I was kept dry inside using the OEX in my garden overnight. The material used for the top section of the bivvy is Rab’s eVent waterproof and breathable technical fabric which is 40 dernier and consists of three layers sandwiched together. living in the UK without a car means i cant go to places like Dartmoor or the lake district, meaning i cant just wild camp wherever.

There is an integrated hood to cover your head for shelter, but it is only sealed up tight using a drawstring rather than a zip.

I am also not clear on the legal restrictions to fastening a hammock to local trees in each of the nine-plus jurisdictions I will be travelling through, how strictly this is enforced, and what the penalties are.

Overall, the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy is a great quality, lightweight bivvy bag which simply does not leak and is extremely breathable. On warm nights you can easily sleep under the mesh on its own, giving superb views of the night sky. The OEX Bush Pro Bivviprovides waterproof, breathable all-round cover,but packsdowninto a small, light package that you can easily take wherever you go. When there's a breeze, you can set it up so there's plenty of venting, or leave the porch side wide open.A mate of mine has the 2 person version of this ("Telemark 2") which I've used and it was fantastic. It uses an excellent grade of waterproof, windproof and breathable top layer material and packs up reasonably small (32cm by 9cm). Be sure to check back soon for our review of 1-2 person all-season tents for similar capability in much improved comfort!

I cycled across the Balkans and Turkey and hiked across the Caucasus using a silnylon MLD Duomid (~500g), which offers far more protection and comfort than any bivvy bag I have used, for the same or less weight. Fully waterproof, light and breathable Compact size for easy carrying Roomy enough for you and your kit Sometimesyou need a weatherproof space for rest and shelter - but youcan only carry the bare essentials. It’s perfect for backpacking as it is both compact and lightweight (<1kg) – this makes it easy to carry and lighter than a tent.Breathable: For extra comfort whilst you rest, the bivvi is breathable to minimize moist building and to help prevent you from getting cold. Putting the bivy tent up for the first time took me about 10 minutes, but I think I could probably half that with a bit of practice. This then lifts the top of the bivi off your head meaning you can easily lie down and read a book, or even tend a stove located outside close by. Let’s be honest though – you do end up paying more for Rab equipment, but you know that it will do the job well.