Terra Nova Bivy Bags

A versatile addition to any minimalist backpacker’s arsenal, the bivy is a waterproof, breathable sleeping bag cover that can be used on its own, as an emergency shelter, or in conjunction with a tarp. This pair of bivy bags from Terra Nova delivers on all fronts: Lightweight with a simple drawcord closure, each packs down small into an included stuff sack. The Survival model is a great entry-level bivy, weighing in at 12 ounces. If you’re looking for a lighter, more feature-rich version that packs down even smaller, opt for the Moonlite model. Equipped with a bug net and a zippered hood, it weighs just 7 ounces.

Founded in Derbyshire, England in 1993, Terra Nova started out making mountaineering tents, and has since expanded its product line to include ultralight tents, tarps, backpacks, trekking poles, apparel, sleeping bags, and cookware. Along the way, the company launched the first tent under 1 kilogram, and even has a Guinness World Record to show for the achievement.

The Moonlite bivy is made from lighter laminated fabric with a high breathability of around 15,000g/sqm/24hrs. The Survival bivy, on the other hand, uses a heavier fabric with standard coating and a breathability that’s about 50 percent less than that of the Moonlite. Both models have a water resistance of more than 10,000mm.