Adventure Sports

Where can I get a CHEAP bivy sack or a kind of tarp to keep my sleeping bag dry in winter camping in Ontario?

I’m looking for some kind of cheap Bivy sack or tarp that will keep my sleeping bag dry in the snow and to keep dew off. I don’t want to use a tent, and I will be camping in Ontario during the winter if that helps.

Winter camping separates the outdoorsmen from the tourists!

You don’t specify so I’ll give a couple suggestions.

If you are intending to use a snow cave or build an igloo, Use a cheap space blanket and pin it to the floor and wall with tent stakes or small twigs. You will generate some condensation that will then run down the space blanket so either end the bottom in a small trench or elevate your sleeping area with a pad that won’t saturate (love my Big Agnus insulated).

If you are just using a lean-to, or natural shelter, or just plopping down in open country then you will be more comfortable (and ultimately safer) with a true Bivy that will give you some air circulation between the top of the bag and the outside world. Again, condensation is the issue, you will generate at least 1qt (er, sorry, Liter) of water from your body sweat, and up to 2 L from your breath. If this vapor condenses on the bivy sack and it is in contact with the sleeping bag it will get very wet and cold and will likely limit you to a single night in the field.

Likewise, it is important to have the correct sleeping bag for the conditions. Too much loft and the vapor will condense before it escapes the sleeping bag. If it is below freezing, ice will form inside the loft of the bag. Too thin of a bag and you do not have the insulation needed, you are dry, but cold and ice could form on the inside of the bag.

A tarp may work, as long as it is elevated off your sleeping bag by several inches.

I use a snow cave for one or two nights. I have built a couple igloos when I planned on using it as a base camp for more than 3 or 4 days. I struggle with these, they always end up too big and take me 4 or 5 hours. It is also rare the snow conditions are conducive for an Igloo here. I have built a very quick trench shelter, covered with a heavy space blanket, that work well with minimal time needed to construct. If the snow is consolidated, I can build up as I dig down.

And of course, don’t breath into your bag. Draw the sleeping bag close around your face wear a hat and if needed, a face mask. Your breath really pumps the water into your sleeping bag and almost guarantees a cold miserable night.

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