The tarp sleeping bag is a makeshift solution for one person—it’s similar to a coffin in how it’s used. But it can also be a fun experience for several people (children) since the sleeping bag can be extended as needed.
Materials Required
To make a one-person tarp sleeping bag, you will need the following materials:
To make a bivouac sleeping bag for 2–3 people, you’ll need the following materials:
- 2–3 military tarps ( each with 2 included ropes)
- 2 tent bags (tent set; you’ll need 4 tent poles and 4 tent stakes)
Tying Tarps
For one person
- Fold the tarp lengthwise along the cord, then tie it in double rows on the sides and at the bottom.
For 2–3 people
- As described above, two tarps are tied together back-to-back.
- For a bivouac sleeping bag with a roof, the third tarp is tied to the top of the opening where the two tarps meet, folded in the middle, supported by the poles, and used as a roof.
Expansion
- For more people, the sleeping bag can be expanded as needed by simply tying whole tarps in between. The two outermost tarps are each folded.
Setup
For the bivouac sleeping bag with a roof, the pleated section of the roof is secured to the ground with tent stakes. The front section is lifted using two poles and tensioned downward with the cords.
For safety, the entire bivouac sleeping bag can also be secured to the ground with tent stakes to prevent it from shifting unintentionally during the night.
Otherwise, the only crucial factor during setup is the location of the bivouac sleeping bag, because it is not a tent and those inside are therefore particularly exposed to the elements. For additional considerations, see the article on setting up a bivouac.
Applications
The bivouac sleeping bag is suitable for emergency overnight stays for individuals. But for children in particular, it’s an adventure to spend the night completely outdoors while still having some protection from the tarps. The bivouac sleeping bag is not particularly suitable for overnight stays in the rain.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Tarpaulin floor
- Low material costs
- Easy to transport
- 1,000-star view
Disadvantages
- Tarps lie directly on top of people’s sleeping bags
- You may end up lying on some seams
- Your head isn’t 100% protected, even with a roof
Special Notes
To protect against wind and cold, backpacks can be placed on the left and right sides.
You should always sleep in a regular sleeping bag inside the bivouac sleeping bag (for warmth).
In addition, a sleeping bag liner can be used to protect the sleeping bag.
Photo Credit
- Cover photo: Courtesy of theSchinznach Youth Group/ Manuel Meier
