A bivi bag is the ultimate minimalist shelter. Lightweight, waterproof and packable, bivvy bags allow you to bed down under the stars safely and comfortably, without lugging extensive gear along with you. For many outdoor enthusiasts, it’s the closest thing to sleeping truly in the wild. It’s just you, your kit and the wild. At Taunton Leisure, we know from experience how utterly crucial your gear is. That’s why we only stock bivi tents that we’d use ourselves. They’re tested in UK conditions and carefully chosen for their build quality.
Key Benefits of Bivi Bags & Bivvy Tents
Bivi bags are exactly what you need when travelling light. Here’s why they’re a favourite among our staff and customers alike:
- Ultralight & Packable: Far smaller than even the most compact tents, a good bivi bag can disappear into your backpack until needed. Perfect for mountaineers, solo trekkers or as an emergency back-up shelter.
- Quick Setup: With no poles or complicated structure to wrestle with, most bivvy bags are good to go in seconds. Unroll, climb in and sleep. For harsher conditions or slightly more headroom, a bivvy tent provides extra structure.
- Weatherproof Protection: A quality bivi bag shields you from the elements. Most are built with waterproof, breathable materials that stand up to rain and wind.
- Perfect for Solo Use: If you’re out on your own, there’s no need to carry a tent built for two. A bivi bag offers all the sleeping space you need.
- Stealth Camping Ready: With muted colours and low-profile design, bivvy tents and bags lend themselves well to discreet wild camping.
For many experienced outdoor lovers, adding a bivi bag to their sleep system makes sense. It’s a way to move through the landscape more freely, with less to carry and more places to rest.
Shop Trusted Outdoor Brands
At Taunton Leisure, we’re proud to stock bivvy bags from some of the most trusted names in outdoor gear. We only stock gear we’d happily use ourselves, so you can rest assured that you’re getting the best quality possible.
Rab, known for their mountaineering expertise, offers a range of bivi bags and shelters designed for real-world use, from ultralight options to stormproof survival shelters.
And
Lifesystems has the best in emergency protection and expedition-ready design. We’ve tested many of these models ourselves. We know what works and what’s worth the weight in your pack.
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FAQs About Bivi Bags & Bivvy Tents
What’s the difference between a bivi bag and a bivvy tent?
A bivi bag is a minimalist waterproof shell designed to encase your sleeping bag and pad, offering direct protection from wind and rain without any frame or pole system. It’s lightweight, packable, and perfect for simple overnight stops or emergency shelter. A bivvy tent, on the other hand, usually includes a small pole structure to give you extra headroom and protection, which is ideal if you’re out for more than one night or expecting mixed conditions.
Are bivi bags waterproof?
Most quality bivi bags are built using fully waterproof fabrics, often breathable, to keep rain and condensation out while still allowing some moisture to escape from inside. Performance does vary depending on the design and intended use. Some bivvy bags are better suited for fair-weather trips or under a tarp, while others are made to withstand full exposure on open ground. Seams, zips, and closure systems all affect waterproofness, so it’s worth checking the specs or asking in-store if you’re unsure.
Do I need a sleeping bag with a bivvy?
Yes, a bivi bag is designed to work alongside your sleeping bag, not replace it. Think of the bivi bag as the outer protective shell, while your sleeping bag provides insulation and comfort. You’ll also want to use a sleeping mat underneath for insulation from the cold ground. The great thing about a bivi tent or bag setup is how modular it is. On mild summer nights, you might opt for a lighter
sleeping bag, while in colder conditions, you’ll layer up with something more substantial.