Originally Posted by
Dheorl
So do I really need anything apart from a tarp to keep the rain off and a bivi bag to keep the moisture out (as well as the obvious down sleeping bag inside to keep the warmth in
) or is that about it? Oh and maybe a few short lightweight poles just incase there is nothing to attach the tarp to.
Bivy sacks are not much fun to spend time in and you'll end up putting a lot of moisture into your down bag unless the temps are very cold. A lightweight tent is much more comfortable and doesn't have to weigh a whole lot more than your bivy sack.
If you just want to use a tarp - get a big enough one so you get full coverage and then you don't need the bivy sack at all. Your setup will be much lighter and more comfortable.
You'll have your bike to attach the tarp to at one end if you use a kickstand/centre stand and you'll be able to come up with something at the other end with a bit of ingenuity you don't need any poles at all.