Don’t Die in The Woods Tear-Resistant Compact Bivy
Last updated: February 9, 2023
Our Review Process
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We looked at the top Bivys and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Bivy you should buy.
Overall Take
If you're looking for a bivy that won't tear or absorb water, this model is an excellent choice. It's super lightweight and comes with a carry bag with a drawstring for easy storage. The blanket works great for camping trips or as part of an emergency pack for long hikes.
In our analysis of 12 expert reviews, the Don’t Die in The Woods Tear-Resistant Compact Bivy placed 5th when we looked at the top 9 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.From The Manufacturer
TOUGHEST MYLAR SLEEPING BAG ON EARTH: Our tear-resistant, extra-thick HeatFlex mylar is stronger and more flexible than ordinary space blanket mylar. We’ve added a hood section to protect your head and reinforced tape seams to create a durable, reusable survival bivy you can use alone or to enhance your existing sleeping bag. ENHANCE YOUR EXISTING SLEEPING BAG: Worried about unexpected cold or wet weather? The DDITW Emergency Sleeping Bag reflects up to 90% of body heat to boost the heat retention of your sleeping bag, and the waterproof material protects your sleeping bag from outside condensation. BUILT-IN HEAD PROTECTION: Studies show you lose up to 10% of body heat through your head. Our innovative hood design helps you retain this body heat for total body protection. This exclusive feature is only available from Don’t Die In The Woods. ULTRALIGHT, WATERPROOF, & SUPER COMPACT: Hate carrying extra weight? It’s so small and light, you’ll forget it’s even there. We’ve designed the DDITW Emergency Sleeping Bag with the perfect balance of durability & weight at only 7 ounces (the weight of a small apple). Stash them in each of your cars and backpacks and always be prepared.
Overview
Originally developed as a one-person shelter to protect mountaineers and climbers from rain and snow during multi-day ascents, the bivouac sack — or bivy sack — now has a wider range of uses. A traditional bivy sack, made from a waterproof, tear-resistant fabric, performs two basic functions: to increase the user’s body temperate and keep them dry.
Bivies — reminiscent of an ultra-lightweight sleeping bag or extra-large rain jacket shell — have all have a built-in head opening and come with features like drawstrings around the head opening to seal out moisture, full-length zippers and factory-sealed seams for extra warmth. The outer shell of the sacks is available in many different colors, including bright, attention-grabbing hues like red and yellow to improve the user’s visibility to rescue crews.
The products, which are stored in a compact bag, are ideal for emergency preparedness, backcountry excursions, long-distance biking trips, train running and winter camping. The primitive shelters are ideal for sleeping in technical terrain, where ledges are too cramped for a tent, but can also be used as a poncho, blanket, sleeping bag liner, ground cover and more. Some bivy sacks are also equipped with a whistle and a nylon core drawstring that can be used to secure or repair gear, making those options great for emergency situations. Because bivies can be reused, easily stored and often weigh just a few ounces, they’re convenient for travel and outdoor adventure.
What’s the difference between a bivy sack and a bivy shelter? The latter is a low-rise tent that includes mesh panels attached to the head opening or hoops to keep the fabric off your face (think: a fancy bivy sack).
Buying Advice
- Depending on the product, bivy sacks are designed to help users retain up to 90% of their body heat.
- If you’re a tent camper who wants to downsize to a no-fuss shelter, a bivy sack could be the answer; since they require no setup, pitching or breakdown, they’re great for adventurers who want to maximize their time with a fast overnight.
- Bivies are great alternatives to tents in warmer temperatures (for example, above 50).
- If you plan to use your bivy sack for camping, increase your comfort by placing a bottle filled with hot water in the core zone (your crotch or armpit area) for extra warmth, use a sleeping pad underneath for extra cushion and pull the drawstring around the opening snugly around your head to avoid breathing into the bivy and to seal out moisture.