How to Breathe in a Bivy Sack

The bivy sack is a minimalist camping shelter that uses a simple shell without a frame. The shelter is valued because it is lightweight and easy to carry in a small backpack. Although the bivy has numerous camping advantages, the space is restricted and uncomfortable for many people. Camping in a bivy sack requires the camper to acclimate by using the shelter for short periods of time before using it for a full night of sleep.

Things You'll Need

  • Sleeping pad
  • Sleeping bag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your sleeping pad and sleeping bag inside the bivy sack. Enter the sleeping bag feet first until you are comfortable and your feet are at the bottom of the bag.

    • 2

      Adjust the bivy sack to ensure that it covers your entire body up to the shoulders. Place the hood around your head and pull the drawstrings to cinch the hood. Leave a small opening around your mouth and nose for breathing.

    • 3

      Prop an umbrella or tarp over a bivy sac with no drawstring. Keep your head outside the bivy sack for breathing while you sleep.

    • 4

      Cover your entire body with the bivy sack while you sleep. Do not zip or draw the sack completely closed and keep your nose and mouth close to the opening. Breathe toward the opening for a constant supply of fresh air.