Bivouacking is a temporary camp without a tent in nature, and it was used mainly by soldiers during various missions. Today it is also fondly practiced by enthusiastic hikers and nature lovers. If you would like to try it too, read 5 tips on how to do it.
An introduction to bivouacking
If you are fully familiar with the origin of bivouacking, continue on to the next part of the article. If it interests you, we will briefly tell you a bit more about bivouacking. It is a way of camping in nature that was named in the 18th century after the military term Beiwacht, meaning auxiliary guards. In the modern sense, it means sleeping under the stars without a tent or other shelter.
Recently, many hikers and nature lovers have come to love it, because it is a simple way to enjoy a stay in nature without needing a tent, and you can also go on longer hikes this way.
1. Find out where you can bivouac
Before you head out somewhere for a night full of adventure, look up where you are allowed to bivouac without penalty. On the territory of the Slovak Republic, you may bivouac only in the 1st and 2nd protection zones. In other zones, you risk a fine. Besides that, you can also look for places specifically designated for this purpose, such as campsites.
If you are planning to bivouac somewhere in the High Tatras, for example, we will tell you right away not to do it. You would certainly have a beautiful experience from it, but it is definitely not worth a fine or a reprimand. As for bivouacking abroad, you need to check the legislation of the country you are heading to. Every state has different rules, and what is forbidden in Slovakia may be allowed abroad.
2. Rather start in summer
The most daring and extreme lovers of sleeping under the stars are not even afraid of temperatures well below freezing. But if you are a beginner and are not yet familiar with bivouacking, definitely avoid the winter months. Without the proper gear, training, and habit, you could end up hypothermic, or with frostbite.
Instead, choose summer and bivouac during nights when the temperature does not drop below 15°C and you are in a place you know well. This way, you will more easily get used to what may await you if you want to bivouac in colder and more extreme conditions as well.
3. Prepare thoroughly for bivouacking
Proper gear is essential. To fully enjoy bivouacking, an ordinary sleeping bag is not enough. Sure, you don't need a tent, which relieves you of quite a large burden, but there are still a few things you should definitely bring with you:
- a sleeping bag suitable for bivouacking - first of all, it depends on the time of year you plan to bivouac in. If it's during summer, a sleeping bag for mild conditions is enough. For example, the MIL-TEC Yellowstone ultra light, which is suitable for nights ranging from -6°C to +11°C. If, on the other hand, you are already experienced and are looking rather for bivouacking in winter and in more extreme conditions, be sure to reach for the Husky Apollo sleeping bag, which is made to withstand temperatures down to -20°C
- a sufficiently large backpack - get at least one with 30 liters, so that everything you need fits comfortably inside
- self-inflating sleeping mat - not only is it compact and practical, but as the name suggests, it is also self-inflating. Simply unroll it and it creates insulation between you and the ground, and as a bonus, you won't sleep on a hard surface
- a headlamp - a flashlight might be enough, but a headlamp is much more practical. You don't have to hold it in your hand and handling it is very easy. Just put it on your head, turn it on, and you have free hands for setting up camp or anything else
- suitable clothing - don't underestimate proper clothing even when bivouacking in summer. Temperatures can drop suddenly, especially in the mountains, and it's better to have an extra layer of clothing than to shiver in the cold. Pack thick socks, underwear, t-shirts, and sweaters. Also in case you get caught in the rain or get wet unintentionally
- first aid kit - always be prepared, even if nothing happens to you on hikes and trips. Caution is never excessive, and a small hand first aid kit won't take up much space in your backpack
- food and water - a classic that must not be missing on a hike, at a campsite, or while bivouacking. Food gives you the energy you need, without which you won't enjoy any physical activity.
4. Follow the laws and local rules
Knowing only where you can and cannot bivouac is not enough. Always study the laws and regulations in the area you are planning to visit. What is the situation with open fires, what protection zone you are in, whether you might accidentally be bivouacking on private land, and whether it is nesting season in nature. At that time, you need to pay special attention to your behavior so as not to scare wild animals, because it always applies that you are visiting them.
5. Leave nature untouched behind you
Related to the previous point, without a doubt, is also the way you behave in nature. The rule is that what you bring with you, you also take back with you. No litter, empty bottles, napkins. Do not destroy the surrounding vegetation and do not scare animals that may be nearby. Do not use wood from the forest to start a fire, do not pick flowers, do not destroy bushes. It's very simple, and the reward for respectful behavior towards nature will be a good feeling and a clear conscience after returning home.
