The essentials for going on a Bivouac

You want to go on a bivouac? However, the practice is regulated and may be prohibited, such as in national parks. While camping is forbidden in certain areas, bivouacking may be authorized provided you don't spend several consecutive nights there.

In recent years, the way people spend their vacations has evolved significantly. More generally, bivouacking, whether in conventional camping or wild camping, has seen its popularity grow over the years.

Just like the practice, bivouac equipment continues to evolve with the goal of becoming lighter, more compact and more efficient.

We will cover what is necessary to bring on your trekking and bivouac outings for a duration of 48 hours or more.

Summary: 

• The backpack
• Clothing
• The medical kit
• Food and sleeping
• Hygiene and electronics

The choice of your backpack is very important, it will allow you to store all your equipment and transport your gear. That's why we invite you to read our article "How to choose the volume of your bag?" in order to select the bag most suited to your activity.

The ideal for a 48-hour outing is to choose a bag with a volume of 35 to 50 liters, like the one offered by the Tasmanian Tiger brand. Additionally, to protect its contents, a waterproof bag cover will allow you to keep your belongings dry in case of rain.

Your outfit will be a major aspect of your outing. Unsuitable clothing for the climate, too bulky or too heavy will turn this pleasant moment into a real ordeal. That's why it is essential to equip yourself efficiently. Choose high-top or semi-high-top Gore-tex shoes. For clothing and textiles, we recommend:

• Hiking or military-style pants
• A technical t-shirt in merino wool allowing rapid moisture wicking.
• A sweater or second layer jacket in synthetic material allowing moisture and heat evacuation.
• A waterproof-breathable jacket like the jacket offered by the TOE brand.
• A head covering, your choice of the Helikon cap or the TOE hat
• A pair of Mechanix-style gloves
• A Buff neck gaiter that you can also use as a beanie or as protection against sun and wind.
• Quality sunglasses like those offered by the Wiley X brand.

A utility kit will allow you to act in the face of all types of problems. This kit must be within reach so you can act quickly. It is important that it consists of the following items:

• A multi-function pliers
• Multi-function cutlery
• A paracord roll
• Pen, pencil or marker as well as a notebook like the one offered by the Rite in the Rain brand
• A headlamp like those from the Nite Ize brand
• A roll of tape, a tube of glue, a storm lighter and one or two carabiners.

  

A medical kit will allow you to intervene for first aid care. Be careful, the composition of this depends on each person's knowledge and expertise. As with the utility kit, it is important to keep it accessible. It will contain, as much as possible:

• A basic first aid kit
• A survival blanket
• A Trauma KIT (Tourniquet, Compression bandage, Jesco scissors, Nitrile gloves)
• An In Case of Emergency Card that includes various personal information, such as blood type, name, allergies, emergency contact number, etc.

Additionally, it is advisable to always keep equipment on you. If you were to lose your backpack or in case of any other mishap, this equipment would always be with you:

• A pocket knife
• A whistle
• A lamp
• A waterproof pouch with your wallet
• A map and a compass
• Your mobile phone
• Sunscreen

Once your trekking day comes to an end, you must choose the location where you will set up your bivouac for the night and where you will eat.

Regarding food, we recommend you plan for:

• A water bottle
• A stove along with its gas cartridge
• Freeze-dried meals
• Cereal bars
• Water purification tablets or a filtering straw
• Garbage bags

As for sleeping equipment, this will vary depending on the type of terrain where you will set up your bivouac. As a general rule, it will be necessary to bring:

• A Tarp
• A Hammock or self-inflating mattress
• A tent
• A sleeping bag adapted to the season
• Optional: a sleeping bag cover

To be able to enjoy your excursion with complete peace of mind, remember to bring a power bank or a portable solar panel like those from the Powertraveller brand.

Moreover, even if you find yourself far from your usual comfort, it is essential not to neglect your hygiene. Remember to bring natural soap or concentrated organic soap, a microfiber towel, a toothbrush and tissues.

If you want to extend the pleasure, bring additional equipment with you. Regarding clothing, don't hesitate to bring 1 to 2 pairs of socks, as well as additional t-shirts and underwear. For food, increase your rations according to the number of days. Don't hesitate to bring trekking poles to facilitate your expedition.

You are now ready to go bivouacking for several nights. To ensure you don't forget anything and to make the task easier, don't hesitate to download our free printable checklist specially designed for you!