Our recommendations for safe bivouacking

Spending a night in the wilderness is truly a unique and rejuvenating experience, hard to describe. But to make the most of it, it’s important to be well prepared. Here’s a detailed guide to accompany you on your adventure.

1. Plan your bivouac

Choose the right place

Check local regulations: some protected areas do not allow bivouacs (e.g. Cantal).
Choose a safe location: choose a relatively flat spot sheltered from the wind, avoid mountainsides, cliff edges and valley bottoms likely to fill with water in the event of rain.
Minimize your impact: set up in areas that are already frequented, so as not to further damage the vegetation, and of course, leave no trace of your passage.

Prepare for the weather

Check the forecast, and don’t set off in the event of thunderstorms or strong winds.
Take along clothing suited to the conditions (rain, cold, wind).

Draw up an itinerary

Calculate the time needed to reach your location before nightfall.
Let someone know your itinerary and estimated time of return, and give your location live if possible.

2. Prepare your equipment

For sleeping

Tent: a light, compact tent.
Sleeping bag: choose a model suited to the season, checking the comfort temperature.
Sack sheet (optional): as a “second skin” to keep your body warm in the sleeping bag.
Insulating mattress: to protect you from the cold and enhance your comfort.
Compact pillow (optional): for added comfort.

Cooking and eating

Stove: opt for a portable stove with suitable fuel (a hot meal is always appreciated in a bivouac).
Popote and cutlery: a small saucepan or bowl and light utensils.
Water: take a flask and filters or tablets to purify water if necessary.
Food: easy-to-prepare meals, such as freeze-dried dishes.

For your comfort and safety

Headlamp: with batteries / spare battery.
Appropriate clothing: several layers (thermal underwear, fleece, windbreaker).
First-aid kit: essential for treating minor injuries.
Multi-purpose knife: handy for any situation.
External battery: to recharge your phone when you need it.
Map, compass or GPS: so you don’t get lost if you run out of battery or power.

Other useful accessories

Garbage bag: to carry all your garbage.
Rope: useful for stretching out gear or securing your equipment.
Survival blanket: for extreme conditions (cold, heat, wind).

3. Adopt good practices

The bivouac rule is to leave no trace of your passage. Make sure you collect all your garbage, don’t disturb the animals, and avoid all wild fires, except in dedicated areas if authorized.

Bivouacking is an opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with what’s essential. Sleeping under the stars, listening to the sounds of nature, waking up to the sunrise – these are unique moments to savor.

So pack your bag and embark on this wonderful adventure, while respecting the nature that welcomes you.