Colin Snow
Mylar bivvy bags are thin, lightweight sleeping bags that can be used as an emergency shelter to protect you from the elements. They are known to trap body moisture, which can lead to a cold and clammy feeling. While some people use them inside their sleeping bags to prevent moisture accumulation, others find that this setup does not make sense due to the lack of breathability and potential for condensation issues. Some alternatives to using a mylar bivy with a sleeping bag include using a synthetic quilt over your sleeping bag, a good down sleeping bag, or a super lightweight two-man tent with a decent bag.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Warmth | Mylar bivvies can be used to increase the temperature rating of a sleeping bag by 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| Breathability | Mylar bivvies are generally not breathable, which can lead to condensation and a clammy feeling. |
| Moisture Protection | Mylar bivvies can help protect sleeping bags from external moisture, but they may trap body moisture inside, leading to a damp feeling. |
| Durability | Some users report issues with the mylar material wearing away quickly, affecting its effectiveness in retaining heat. |
| Intended Use | Mylar bivvies are typically designed for emergency use and may not be suitable for long-term or frequent use. |
| Comfort | The lack of breathability and moisture build-up can make for an uncomfortable sleeping experience. |
| Weight | Mylar bivvies are thin and lightweight, making them attractive for backpacking and ultralight camping. |
| Cost | Mylar bivvies can be a more affordable option compared to higher-end sleeping bags. |
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What You'll Learn
- Mylar bivvies can be used with a sleeping bag to increase warmth
- They can also be used to protect your sleeping bag from the elements
- Mylar bivvies are not breathable, which can cause condensation and clamminess
- They are a cheap option, but may not be durable
- They can be used in an emergency, but are not recommended for regular use
Mylar bivvies can be used with a sleeping bag to increase warmth
Some users have reported that mylar bivvies, when used with a sleeping bag, can help increase warmth by 5 degrees Fahrenheit. However, others have found that the mylar bivvy traps body moisture inside, leading to a clammy feeling and even hypothermia in extremely cold conditions. The lack of breathability is a common issue with mylar bivvies, causing condensation and sweat accumulation.
To mitigate these issues, some users recommend using a warmer sleeping bag, venting when necessary, and layering up with clothing. Others suggest using the mylar bivvy as an outer layer for the sleeping bag or placing it inside the bag to prevent moisture accumulation in insulation. Additionally, a synthetic quilt can be placed over the sleeping bag to redirect condensation build-up.
While mylar bivvies can provide some extra warmth, it is important to prioritize safety and comfort. A good down sleeping bag can often provide sufficient warmth without the need for a mylar bivvy, especially when paired with a tent or other shelter. For extremely cold conditions, it is advisable to invest in a high-quality sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures.
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They can also be used to protect your sleeping bag from the elements
Mylar bivvies can be used to protect your sleeping bag from the elements, but they have their limitations. Mylar bivvies are thin, lightweight sleeping bags that can provide emergency shelter and protection from rain, wind, and snow. They are designed to reflect body heat and can be used as an outer layer for your sleeping bag, adding an extra 10 to 15 degrees of temperature rating.
However, mylar bivvies are not breathable, which can lead to condensation and a clammy feeling. Some users have reported that the mylar wore away quickly, rendering it ineffective at keeping them warm. Additionally, mylar bivvies can trap moisture inside, leading to a cold and uncomfortable night's sleep.
To mitigate these issues, some people use a mylar bivy inside their sleeping bag to prevent moisture accumulation in their insulation. Others use it as an outer layer for their sleeping bag, but only in particularly wet conditions where their sweat accumulation would be less than the rain. It's important to note that a mylar bivy is not a substitute for a good sleeping bag, and it should be used in conjunction with other gear to ensure a comfortable and safe night's sleep.
If you're considering using a mylar bivy with your sleeping bag, it's recommended to test it out first and ensure that you have the right combination of gear to stay warm and dry in the expected conditions. It may be more effective to invest in a high-quality sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you anticipate encountering.
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Mylar bivvies are not breathable, which can cause condensation and clamminess
One user reported that their mylar bivy "didn't breathe at all and there was a ton of condensation on [their] bag in the morning." Another user described their experience as "clammy, but not wet. Better than being cold." The user also noted that the trick is to avoid getting too warm, so as to prevent excessive sweating.
The lack of breathability in mylar bivvies can cause moisture to become trapped inside, leading to a damp and clammy feeling. One user described the mylar bivy as a "sweat lodge," indicating the high levels of moisture that can build up. This can be mitigated by using the mylar bivy inside the sleeping bag, which can prevent moisture accumulation in the insulation. However, this may not always be effective, and users may still wake up feeling clammy and sweaty.
Additionally, the condensation and clamminess caused by the lack of breathability can also affect the warmth of the mylar bivy. One user reported that their mylar bivy "didn't keep me warm" due to the moisture buildup. This is a significant concern, as staying warm is crucial for outdoor sleeping, especially in colder conditions.
Overall, the lack of breathability in mylar bivvies can lead to condensation, clamminess, and reduced warmth. While there are strategies to mitigate these issues, such as using the mylar bivy inside the sleeping bag or regulating body temperature, it is essential to carefully consider the potential drawbacks before relying on a mylar bivy for a comfortable night's sleep in the outdoors.
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They are a cheap option, but may not be durable
Mylar bivvies are a cheap option for those who want to save money on camping gear. However, they may not be the best option for those looking for durability. Some users have reported that their mylar bivy wore away quickly, with one user stating that the mylar on their bivy quickly wore away, rendering it ineffective at keeping them warm. Another user also reported that their mylar bag did not last long. This may be due to the fact that mylar is not known for its durability, as one user pointed out that they have never heard of mylar being used in anything meant to last.
While mylar bivvies can be a cheap option, their lack of durability means that users may need to replace them frequently, which could end up costing more in the long run. Additionally, a worn-out mylar bivy may not provide adequate protection from the elements, which could compromise safety during camping or hiking trips. Therefore, it is important for users to consider the trade-off between cost and durability when deciding whether to purchase a mylar bivy.
There are some ways to mitigate the durability issues with mylar bivvies. One user suggested using a synthetic quilt over the sleeping bag to prevent condensation build-up inside the bag. Another user recommended using a balaclava to keep the neck and head warm, allowing the body to be cooler and reducing the amount of perspiration that can lead to condensation. These strategies may help extend the life of a mylar bivy by reducing the amount of moisture it is exposed to.
It is worth noting that mylar bivvies are typically marketed as emergency gear rather than regular sleeping gear. This means that they are designed for short-term use and may not be expected to last long-term. As such, users who are looking for a durable sleeping bag may be better off investing in a higher-quality option, such as a down sleeping bag, which can provide better insulation and durability.
Overall, while mylar bivvies are a cheap option for those looking to save money on camping gear, they may not be the most durable choice. Users should carefully consider their needs and expectations before purchasing a mylar bivy and be prepared to deal with potential issues such as condensation and wear and tear. For those seeking long-term durability, investing in a higher-quality sleeping bag may be a more suitable option.
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They can be used in an emergency, but are not recommended for regular use
Mylar bivvies are thin, lightweight sleeping bags designed to provide emergency shelter and protect you from the elements. They can reflect body heat and shield you from rain, wind, and snow. However, they are not recommended for regular use due to several limitations.
Firstly, mylar bivvies are known for their lack of breathability, which can lead to condensation and a clammy feeling. This can result in an uncomfortable sleeping experience, as your body's moisture becomes trapped inside. Even with a sleeping bag, you may still experience cold temperatures, especially if the bag is not rated for the conditions you're in.
Additionally, the durability of mylar bivvies is questionable. Some users have reported that the mylar material wore away quickly, reducing its effectiveness in retaining heat. This suggests that mylar bivvies may not be suitable for long-term or frequent use.
While mylar bivvies can be useful in emergencies or unexpected weather changes, they should not be relied upon as a regular component of your sleep system. Investing in a good sleeping bag suitable for the expected temperatures and conditions is a more reliable and comfortable option.
If you're looking for an affordable option, consider purchasing a used military 3-bag sleep system or a budget-friendly sleeping bag from a retailer like Walmart or Marmot. These options will provide better insulation and comfort without breaking the bank. Remember, when it comes to spending extended periods outdoors, it's essential to prioritize your safety and well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Mylar bivvies are not breathable, which can lead to condensation and a clammy feeling. They can be used inside a sleeping bag to prevent moisture accumulation in your insulation or outside your sleeping bag if you are sweating a lot. However, they are not a substitute for a good sleeping bag, which is essential to staying warm.
A bivy, short for "bivouac", is a thin, lightweight sleeping bag that provides emergency shelter and protection from the elements.
A good down sleeping bag can help fix warmth issues without adding a lot of weight or taking up space. Used military 3-bag sleep systems can be purchased at reasonable prices on eBay, Amazon, or Craigslist.
Mylar bivvies are lightweight and can be used in conjunction with a sleeping bag to increase warmth. They can also be used as an emergency shelter or to signal your location.
Mylar bivvies can be uncomfortable due to their lack of breathability, leading to condensation and a clammy feeling. They may also not be durable, with some users reporting that the mylar wore away quickly.
