Best Bothy Bag


Posted BY Ian under best-tents

I said a little about the bothy bag in my article on emergency shelters. This article will go into a little more depth and choose the best bothy bag for each size of group.

More about bothy bags

Generally, manufacturers have concentrated on sizes for 2, 4 and 8 occupants. I will use the same classification but with the following clarification:
  • These sizes assume adults and are quite generous. You can often squeeze in one more adult
  • If you are taking children then, obviously, the head count can go up even higher
  • You can normally put bags and other equipment in the middle and all sit around the inside perimeter. If necessary, leave the bags outside to make more room.
  • Buy a bothy bag that is suitable for your regular group. Don't worry too much about it being too big or too small. It will still be better than nothing and you'll find that you can always find a solution if the need is there.
Bothy bags are meant to be simple and so there cannot be many features to consider. Weight and packed size are always an important consideration for hikers/trekkers but the addition of windows and ventilation are only luxuries in terms of a real emergency. Price is obviously a consideration.

Choosing a suitable bothy bag

A well made bothy bag will (or should) last you years. You only need keep it away from sharp edges and spikes to avoid damage, and to ensure that it gets properly dried and aired between uses. The price you are willing to pay should therefore depend upon the amount of use you expect to put it to. If you regularly walk with your family or other groups, and like the idea of a shelter that is quick and easy to use to make stops more pleasant (less unpleasant?!), then it would be worth investing in one of the top models with all the luxuries. If you intend only carrying the bothy bag as an emergency item then you really only need a robust but cheap option.

The contenders

Terra Nova offer quality models for all three categories, with a lightweight version in the smallest size: Vango offer cheaper alternatives: (Knock off two zeros to get the capacity!) All three models are available at Outdoor Megastore . Just enter Vango storm shelter as your search term to go straight to prices. Lifesystems offer the two most popular sizes of bothy bag: Outdoor Designs

A Bothy Bag is a useful piece of kit

Once you own a Bothy Bag make sure you get good use out of it. Do take it on all your hikes; you'll be surprised what a difference one can make when the weather is awful. They give shelter and a feeling of togertherness which is always pleasant, and can be invaluable in an emergency.