Bivy Sack Vs Hammock | Which One To Choose For Outdoors?

As camping enthusiasts, you understand how important a good night’s sleep is for a successful outing in the wilderness, and this is especially true for backpacking trips where you’re exposed to a variety of elements.

From wind and rain to bugs and critters, a good night’s sleep is vital for your safety and well-being. But choosing the right sleeping arrangement can be tricky.

A bivy and a hammock are two such prime options for a camping setup, but which one should you choose for your next trip?

If you enjoy minimalist camping, a bivy is an excellent choice because it provides all-around protection from the elements and is extremely simple to set up, however it is not very comfortable due to its movement restrictions. A hammock, on the other hand, takes time to set up and offers no protection from precipitation (on its own), but it does provide a very comfortable sleeping experience.

I did some additional research on this and compiled a more detailed guide below.

What Is A Bivy Bag?

As I previously mentioned, a bivouac sack, also known as a bivvy sack, is a lightweight piece of equipment that is compact and very easy to use.

They are made of highly water-resistant (if not completely waterproof) fabrics that keep moisture from the outside out while also allowing water vapor to pass through to prevent condensation buildup inside.

That said, this is highly dependent on the materials used, for example, bivies made of Gore-Tex allow for high air exchange while also preventing any external water from getting in, whereas SilNylon completely blocks off the water and water vapor from passing through, accelerating condensation to build up inside.

These sacks act as a raincoat for your sleeping system (sleeping bag, sleeping pad), protecting it from the elements while also providing some extra insulation on the inside.

Despite the fact that these are intended to be used as ground shelters, and even with their durability, you should avoid placing one on the uneven ground since friction can do damage to its ground layer.

One easy solution would be to use a tarp underneath that will extend the lifespan of your bivy while also keeping it clean.

Also further reading: Do You Need A Groundsheet For A Bivy?

Pros Of Bivy Sacks

A bivy sack is like a giant sleeping bag that is designed to be used in conjunction with a sleeping pad. They are perfect for backpackers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who want to avoid getting sweaty and wet while sleeping.

Here are some of the pros of using a bivy sack:

1. Weather Protection

A bivy sack is made of highly water-resistant (if not waterproof) materials, making it ideal for use in inclement weather or when camping in wet conditions.

And, depending on the materials used in its construction, the bag will either be completely impervious to the elements or will only protect you from minor splashes during heavy precipitation.

If you want to have an inexpensive yet functional camping setup, why not use a tarp in conjunction with the bivy?

The tarp will shield you from the rain, while the inexpensive bivy will safeguard you from the random splattering of droplets.

Further reading: Do You Need A Tarp With A Bivy?

2. Insulation

A bivy, while not designed for insulation, does add about 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-12.2 degrees Celcius) to your overall sleeping system. And, depending on the weather, this can be either a good thing or a bad thing.

For example, if you’re camping in cold weather, this extra insulation will come in handy and help you sleep more comfortably.

However, for summer camping, would this be much fun? Since you want to make your livable space as cool as you can.

3. Bug Protection

A bug bivy, or simply a bivy equipped with a bug net, is an excellent way to enjoy nature without being bothered by pests.

The mesh layer promotes active air transfer, making it ideal for summer camping while also preventing condensation buildup caused by breathing.

4. Lightweight

As mentioned earlier, a bivy sack is a compact gear that can easily be stuffed into a backpack or other storage device. This makes them ideal for long hikes or camping trips.

5. Easy To Setup

When hiking in the backcountry, a bivy sack is probably the most basic easy-to-set-up shelter that a camper/hiker can have.

Simply roll the shelter (bivy sack) over hard ground, place your ground pad (sleeping pad) either inside or outside the bivy, and you’re done.

Cons Of Bivy Sack

There is no such thing as perfect camping gear, and a bivy is no exception. Here are a few drawbacks of a bivy:

1. Condensation

Bivies made of Gore-Tex or Sympatex are probably the most breathable bivies available, but they are not completely breathable and condensation will build up over time.

You can reduce this buildup by opening the bivy’s hood or zipping a mesh layer instead of the water-resistant flap.

2. Uncomfortable

Bivy camping, as opposed to tent camping, severely restricts your movement both vertically and horizontally, which can be extremely uncomfortable for people who suffer from claustrophobia.

What Is Hammock Camping?

Hammock camping is the practice of sleeping in a hammock as part of a backpacking trip or simply for fun.

Camping in a hammock is said to be more comfortable and spacious than sleeping on the ground, and it can also provide a more sheltered environment from the elements provided you use a tarp around you.

A hammock cannot protect you from the elements or provide insulation on its own; it is only there to serve as the framework for your sleeping system.

If interested, you can check this article on Do You Need A Sleeping Bag For Hammock Camping?

For added insulation to your setup, use a top quilt inside the hammock, or if you prefer a hands-free approach, place an underquilt underneath the hammock to provide more comfort and insulation even while winter camping.

A camping hammock, unlike any other type of shelter, must be suspended from a sturdy structure (usually trees), making the setup slightly more complicated than using a bivy while also being subjected to high winds, necessitating some additional shelter.

However, in terms of comfort, a hammock is probably the most comfortable way to sleep, sit, or even lounge around at the campsite. Simply light a campfire, gather your friends, and sit back and relax in the hammock.

Pros Of Hammocks

There are many pros to hammocks that make them a popular choice for people looking for a relaxing getaway. That said, here are some of the pros of using a hammock:

1. Comfort

As I previously mentioned, a hammock setup is probably the most comfortable setup you can have while outdoors.

With plenty of space to move around, a constant supply of fresh air, and an arching design that is comfortable on the back, even for those with back problems, make a hammock truly a relaxing piece of equipment.

2. Lightweight

Similar to that of a bivy, a hammock on its own weighs very little and packs in a small stuff sack.

And because of its compact design, it can be carried on even the longest hikes without causing a great deal of concern on your pack weight.

3. Bug Protection

Just like a bivy, a hammock is equipped with a bug net which effectively keeps bugs and insects out.

Most hammocks include one, but if yours does not, don’t worry; they are relatively inexpensive and easily integrate with a hammock.

4. Off The Ground

As a hammock hangs from trees, it is effectively untouched by the ground, which means even if water puddles below, you won’t even notice it.

Only hammocks have this unique feature, making them ideal for camping in rainy areas.

Cons Of Hammocks

Here are some potential downsides of hammocks that you may want to keep in mind before making the purchase:

1. Not Beginner-Friendly

Setting up a hammock for the first time can be far more intimidating than setting up a tent or bivy due to the sheer number of nuances associated with the knots as well as the angle of the cordage when attaching to the tree.

Not to say that setting up a hammock is difficult, but it does have a higher learning curve than the others.

2. Terrain-Dependent

Since a hammock requires two trees, setting one up in a desert or open terrain devoid of trees can be difficult thereby limiting its use.

You can still use tracking poles to set up a tarp tent with a hammock inside, but it will no longer be hanging, removing its main advantage of providing high comfort.

3. Needs Additional Hammock Gear To Be Properly Functional

Although not essential for clear or warm weather, in rainy weather or cold weather, not having additional gear can actually affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep if any sleep at all.

A tarp/rainfly for when it rains and a top quilt or underquilt for when it is cold outside.

Table Of Differences Between A Bivy Sack And A Hammock

Here’s a table that differentiates between the two:

Function/Features	Bivy Sack	Hammock
Weather Protection	Highly water-resistant (if not waterproof); protects against precipitation	Needs a tarp overhead for weather protection
Insulation	Adds at least 10°F (-12.2°C) to your sleep system	Needs an underquilt/top quilt for insulation
Bug Protection	For most cases, comes equipped with a bug net to protect against insects	For most cases, comes equipped with a bug net to protect against insects
Weight	Very lightweight; usually weighs between 10 ounces (oz) – 3 pounds (lb)	Lightweight; usually weighs between 1-3 pounds (lb)
Condensation	Has issues with condensation build-up inside	No issues with condensation
Set-Up	Very easy	Has a learning curve
Comfort	Claustrophobic; restricts movement inside	Very comfortable, if not the most comfortable option for camping
Waterlogging	Hard to move around when water puddles up around	No issues with waterlogging
Terrain-Dependency	Terrain-independent	Needs at least 2 trees in close proximity
Cost	$-$$$	$-$$$

Final Thoughts

A bivy is for those who prefer to do ultralight hiking with as little weight as possible while also having an easy-to-set-up shelter that provides all-around weather protection but at the cost of comfort.

A hammock, on the other hand, is for those who value comfort above all else and don’t mind a learning curve. Both shelters are lightweight and, when used correctly, serve their purposes very well.

Anyways, as always, stay safe and happy adventuring!