Emergency blankets and bivvies

Emergency blankets and bivies for protection in a pinch

When you’re caught outside longer than you planned or a weather emergency leaves you stranded, warmth and shelter are just a couple of the most important things you’ll need to find. Both of them become a little easier when you’ve got the right survival gear in your pack. Emergency blankets and bivies might not see much use on the average day, but if you do end up in a situation where you need one, you’ll be grateful it’s there.

Emergency blankets are designed to pack down small and be ultralight in your bag. When you unfold them, you can wrap them around your body for a huge amount of heat retention in cold conditions. They reflect your own body heat back at you, helping you stay warm even when the world around you isn’t. Some offer great versatility around your campsite, too.

Emergency bivies are similar to emergency blankets, but they function as a makeshift shelter, as well. If you end up spending the night outside when you weren’t planning to, an emergency bivy will keep you warm and dry throughout.

Check out other emergency and survival gear to make sure you’re as prepared as you can be when you head out. For some guidance on what to pack, take a look at our article on the 10 essentials for hiking and camping.