10 tips for setting up your bivouac efficiently and comfortably.
In this article we will dive into the practical details and essential tips for creating a sturdy and comfortable bivouac.
Whether you're a novice looking to learn the joys of bivouacking or a seasoned camper looking for expert advice , follow our step-by-step guide to maximize your outdoor experience. How to choose your location ? How to protect yourself from insects , manage your night, your sleep , and not forgetting "how to make a fire ": explore with us the secrets of a well-set bivouac and maximize your enjoyment in complete safety.
Prepare to experience memorable nights under the stars.
The preparation 🔨
Make sure you start setting up no later than 1 hour before sunset , pitching a tent in the dark can be dreary, even difficult.
Position yourself well 📍
Avoid low areas Where water could accumulate, favor a flat ground (or if you have no choice, head higher than your feet). A clear and dry environment is the most suitable. Avoid setting up your tent under a lone tree in case of a thunderstorm . Position the tent opening sheltered from strong winds so that you can light a fire or use your stove more easily. If it is hot, face the winds. This will help keep the inside of the tent well ventilated. During the summer, avoid putting your tent in direct sunlight, otherwise in the morning you will be woken very early by the heat.
Stay clean and dry 🫧
If there is a water source nearby, you can wash your clothes using suitable and approved organic soap that is environmentally friendly > it can also be used to wash dishes or your body. Pour this used water onto the grass to avoid directly contaminating the water source. If the weather permits, you can dry your wet clothes on the ropes of your tent.
Protect yourself from insects 🦟
Insects can be a real nuisance at night. Use organic insect repellent and seal your tent tightly. You can also use mosquito caps/hats . Nothing ruins a night of camping like mosquitoes.
Only light a fire in cases of extreme necessity 🔥 As a reminder, article L131-1 of the forestry code prohibits lighting a campfire on land that you do not own or occupy without the owner's consent if you are less than 200 meters from a forest or wood .
It is better to cook on a stove because they are easier and more flexible to use, especially since they do not leave any marks.
If you must light a fire in case of extreme necessity, use stones to isolate the fire area and keep a certain distance from tents and other objects. You will also need to check the terrain (no dry vegetation, etc.). Just common sense... Dig a little earth before lighting, or if possible, cut out a few blocks of earth that you will spread on the embers and cover them the next day. Before sleeping or leaving, make sure that the fire is well extinguished and the embers are cold.
In this article you will find a lot of documentation on the subject: Legislation / Advice on wild camping in France . Contact the town hall or the prefecture to find out the regulations.
Prepare your food 🥄
Pack easy-to-prepare and easy-to-store foods, such as energy bars , dried fruit , freeze-dried meals , and tea bags (to stay hydrated). Don't forget to bring drinking water (or a filter system), eating utensils, a stove, and a lighter/matches.
For better sleep 💤
Try to sleep in clean, dry clothes and wear a hat to keep your head warm if it's cold. Or if it's hot, open the vents in your tent. You can block out the light with a sleep mask. And to muffle the sounds of bears or your snoring friend, don't forget earplugs!
Find out about local rules ⚖️
Find out about local regulations regarding wild camping and follow them. Some municipalities prohibit wild camping or limit the number of permitted sites. French government website - Wild camping section.
Manage your waste ♻️
Take all your waste with you, including food scraps, plastic bags and packaging.
ONE RULE: LEAVE NO TRACE.
Respect the flora and fauna 🍃
Do not disturb local flora and fauna, do not pick wild plants, or collect stones. Leave nature as you found it.
Enjoy!
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