Bag, mat, emergency kit What you need to practice bivouac and sleep outdoors in the middle of nature

The freest way to touch the sky has its risks. Linking climbs or walks sleeping in the open, that is, the bivouac, sounds like delight, but it is an experience that requires a minimum to be met, which is essential. Without a bag-cover for bivouac and an insulating mat for guarantees, the first night can be an ordeal. And without a light material, the body can explode with fatigue very quickly, far from the record-breaking routes that we usually pursue in this modality.

In this BAZAAR we have selected the essential minimum to bivouac with guarantees, the most autonomous form of relationship with nature, Walden-style sport.

"Camp, especially military, provisionally installed to spend the night in the open," says the RAE in the first meaning of bivouac. And it can be considered good, beyond the military. In the second meaning, the academics, however, skate: "Camping in the open air. Making bivouac". It is not entirely precise, the nuance matters, since it is the essence of the bivouac.

Bivouacing is not linked to camping -"stopping and staying in the wilderness..."- but the minimum necessary to "sleep or rest overnight in the open or in the open, using or not wearing warm items, such as a sleeping bag or bivouac or the means provided by the environment without altering it". That is the bivouac, according to the definition of the regulations of Protected Natural Areas in Spain, of obligatory consultation.

Quality boots, clothing and backpack; devices to make the water drinkable, to stay on course or to receive help in case of shock... All of this is basic -and the lighter the better-, but first you have to decide where we will bivouac. In Spain, free camping is prohibited, but there are exceptions to this holder determined by national, regional and municipal legislation. As a summary: spending the night is possible in the high mountains.

WHERE IS IT ALLOWED TO BIVE IN SPAIN

From 1,500 meters, for example, it is already possible in the Pyrenees area. In the Picos de Europa the height rises to 1,600 meters, "tents can be set up one hour before sunset and they must be picked up one hour after sunrise" -this bracket is repeated in many other areas-.

If you practice it in the Sierra Nevada, you have to notify the national park management in writing; If you go bivouacing in the Sierra de Guadarrama, depending on the area, you can do it from 1,700 meters or 2,100 meters. And so on to infinity: the regulations establish conditions in each place, also on the maximum number of nights in each sector. A nuisance? Simply, proof of the privilege of being able to autonomously transit exclusive places, where nature rules.

Fastpacking, trekking, mountaineering, alpinism, high mountain routes or, on two wheels, bikepacking. Different formulas that often include bivouac -bivac in French, where it comes from-, without predetermined places to spend the night or established aid stations or tents. Free, with some commandments, noted by the Spanish Federation of Mountain and Climbing Sports: "Leave the best possible trace of our passage, be respectful of local people, attend to possible restrictions, be in adequate physical condition and material in good condition. utilization". That's where we go.

Once the terms and regulations have been clarified, all that remains is to get the right equipment to be able to practice bivouac safely and comfortably, to forget about the pitfalls of the road and to be able to enjoy the experience to the fullest and be prepared in case of inconveniences.

HOT SLEEPING BAG UP TO -23.4 DEGREES

The slogan of the mountain says: "Acceptable challenges, acceptable risks". This unmissable guide to walking between summits begins by equipping yourself well for the night. This four-season winter bag, that is, for temperatures from 0 to -23.4 degrees, is a good guarantee for spending the night outdoors, as the bivouac demands.

Made of polyester and with microfiber interior, compact for transport, with self-closing zipper, extra wide for greater comfort after beating, with additional insulation, reinforced shoulders to increase color retention... Also available in four colors , although, obviously, it is not the most important thing.

You can buy it here for 64.99 euros

FOOTMUFF FOR WARM SEASONS

It stands out for its isolation from the ground - stopping the transfer of moisture is key - and an envelope design that gives space to the lower extremities. But the key is resistance to low temperatures. This bag is one of the so-called 3 seasons, it protects up to -3 degrees, that is, it covers the hot seasons, since a pleasant temperature in the valley can be very cold on the slopes.

Compact, with a two-way zipper, velcro closure and a very high rating, it is a good purchase for those who are not thinking only of the bivouac but of a more conventional use.

You can buy it here from 29.99 euros

INFLATABLE MAT

The sleeping bag will occupy what it has to occupy -they are all already very light-, but from then on, we will skim every gram. Without neglecting a crucial piece of luggage, the mat. Good surface protection is many degrees more inside the bag.

This inflatable model, made of thermoplastic polyurethane, has a regular wave design that favors optimal rest in naturally contrary conditions. Its internal TPU material improves shock absorption, which makes this mat ideal for outdoors.

You can buy it here for 39.99 euros

UNIPERSONAL STORE

The bivouac philosophy refers to spending the night in the open. But sometimes, windy or rainy conditions make extra protection advisable. Safety must prevail over heroism.

Depending on the conditions expected in your trekking area, it is advisable to add this one-person tent, which will only carry 0.7 kg for your adventure. Waterproof, but with mesh doors to favor ventilation, it is very easy to (dis)assemble.

You can buy it here for 59.99 euros

SURVIVAL KIT

It may seem like too many 18 accessories, but none are superfluous when one goes on an adventure without provisions, supplies or planned shelters. For the bivouac fan, what less than this survival kit.

Military-grade temperature compass, of course, and thermometer, knife, thermal covers, water purifier, emergency whistle, mini-flashlight, carabiner... With stainless steel and lightweight components, in a box that has 16 in its longest profile. centimeters. A lifesaver in the backpack.

You can buy it here for 33.99 euros

WATER FILTER

It is also a fixed element in all emergency kits, but we highlight this model with a filtering capacity for up to two liters of water. This portable mini purifier, which stands out in user reviews, only adds 63.5 grams to the backpack.

Useful for river, stream or lake water, through its rod it connects to a water container so that you can drink healthy water, without contamination, iodine, chlorine or any other chemical product that may have reached the torrent. The accuracy noted by the manufacturer is important: "Removes 99.9999% of bacteria and protozoan parasites to a minimum of 0.01 microns; exceeds EPA drinking water standards for water filters."

You can buy it here for 22.99 euros

AN 'SOS' OF FIRE

If we think about bivouac, the fire starter seems more like an element for emergency than for any other function. Because, we insist, we will develop in vulnerable, wild environments, where lighting a fire will rarely be allowed and will almost always be reckless.

Durable -stainless steel scraper- and effective -even in wet conditions-, this item is a good emergency ally, in case conditions force us to seek shelter, for example. Or to take with you on less adventurous excursions, between camping and picnic areas.

You can buy it here for 9.99 euros

LED FLASHLIGHT AND CHARGING BANK

Outdoor activity. A flashlight will always be useful and this one from LE is close to perfection if we pay attention to the opinions of those who have already tried it. Although the bivouac's luggage is determined by the minimum possible rule, this LED flashlight, which puts out up to 400 lumens with white and red light and 500 with super bright light, does the job: 16 cm. long and 155 grams in weight.

Water resistant, in medium brightness guarantees up to 6 hours of use. In addition to its function as a flashlight, it can be used as a portable power repository to recharge other devices.

You can buy it here for 30.99 euros

COMPACT BACKPACK

With a capacity of 40 liters, this medium size (31x21x54 cm.), compact, fits perfectly to the imperative of the minimum load viva that accompanies the bivouac. With its multiple compartments (front pocket and two mesh pockets, in addition to the central one), it will allow you to store all the basic elements in order: bag, mat, emergency kit, clothes, food...

And it has a special compartment for a water bag, with a capacity of 2.5 liters, which is essential to be able to hydrate while you continue the activity. Its design, with a waist buckle, lumbar padding and padded shoulder straps, will prevent overloading or minimal chafing that can compromise the challenge.

You can buy it here for 42.99 euros

GREAT TREKKING BACKPACK

If the route is long... The bivouacs available to the majority will hardly go beyond three days, due to the legislation on outdoor camping. But if the trip is longer or if we have 'good backs', a somewhat larger backpack may be recommended. This model offers three versions, from 55 to 75 liters of capacity. Under the Amazon brand, this model receives an outstanding rating from Internet users.

Certainly, at a reduced price, it has everything you'd expect: durable polyester, roomy compartments, straps to compact luggage, an extension collar for an extra five liters capacity, ergonomic design for shoulders and lower back... mountain.

You can buy it here for 49.99 euros

MERRELL BOOTS FOR MEN...

Without good soles, goodbye adventure. That's why any budget savings should never start with shoes. Merrell is a top brand and this lightweight men's style is a favourite. Lace closure, synthetic material and wide instep, that is, safety and comfort.

The Moab (mother of all boots) from Merrell are made with durable leather, shock-absorbing insole and Vibram traction, which reinforces stability. In the construction of this shoe, Merrell also has Gore-tex, the reference material in breathability and waterproofing.

You can buy them here from 111.26 euros

...AND FOR WOMEN: COLUMBIA

The key here is the omni-grip, a rash of studs in different directions that give extremely high stability even on ice or muddy terrain. This Columbia model - there is no reason to insist on the implicit quality - for women, combines a waterproof upper part, with synthetic leather overlays, but which keeps the boot always cool, but the feet dry. That omni-tech that is different from this brand.

The offer is completed with a reinforced tongue, a protective toe cap and a Techlite midsole with great cushioning and high flexibility, which makes the footfall more profitable.

You can buy it here from 68.76 euros

HIKING PANTS

Mountain clothing, in addition to being comfortable and resistant, can also have an attractive pattern. This is the case of this Columbia model for women. Amazon offers endless pants, t-shirts, underwear... to complete your bivouac kit. As many qualities as budgets.

It's worth making an effort in pants like this one, fitted but with two-way stretch, zippered security pocket, side compartments for greater comfort, knee pads, waterproof...

You can buy them here from 26.91 euros

CLIMBING POLES

Like a springboard to the top, but, above all, like a safety belt to prevent slipping, which is dangerous in high mountains. This pair of ultralight climbing poles, made of aluminum alloy, are an essential tool on any hiking route and, of course, in bivouac challenges.

Retractable, to facilitate transport, and with a height of 1.35 extended, they are the best ally to maintain the correct position, which your knees, back and shoulders will appreciate after a long run.

You can buy it here for 22.94 euros

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