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Is a tent neccessary?
Hi
My route will be France,Italy,Austria,Hungary,Romania,Bulgaria,Turk ey then the usual route of Iran ,Pakistan,India and onwards.I intend to get to Turkey fairly quickly (as I have toured all over Europe)and once there I know that accomodation is cheap and gets cheaper the further East you go.Is it worth lugging a tent ,bag and mat around with all the weight and space it all takes up ?Or is there something I dont know!Opinions appreciated. |
I know weight is important but personally I wouldn't go that distance without the back-up of a tent and bag...You never know when your likely to get caught out. The tent would also come in handy if you found yourself broken down somewhere in the wilderness towards night time. Depending on when you go, there is probably no need to buy an expensive 4 season tent, a good 3 season one should be okay in summer/autumn.
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I'd say you won't need camping equipment if you do not intend to camp.
Accomodation is available anywhere along your route and even in case you get caught up, somebody will most probably invite you for a night or so. I'd take an inner linen though, some beds will be dirty. Depending on season maybe a sleeping bag, too. And maybe a pillow case. Lars |
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You could consider:- Take a bivvy bag in place of a tent, as an emergency overnight stop facility + a light weight sleeping bag that folds up really small - for rough camping you just climb into that bag, wearing all of the clothing that you are carrying in any case. Post it home when you decide that you don't want it any longer! |
I'd second the bivi bag option, I've used them for years, I started with a cheap green one, and then bought a Goretex which I've had for so long I can't find it on the net now, but it's similar to THIS.
http://www.fieldandtrek.com//images/...ts/32193_l.jpg I went for one with the single hoop at the opening, as it's much easier to get into in the rain, you've got a bit of room to get in and out of clothes without mooning at everyone, and I personally hated the "body-bag" feel of those without. It also comes in handy if you really can't face laying on that dubious sheet in that dodgy hotel and for a siesta in either the pouring rain or the boiling sun. I usually leave my sleeping bag inside it and roll the whole lot up together unless it's too damp. The only thing I'd do to improve it (and I've never seen it done) would be to have an inflatable mattress built in, so I had a true modern version of my dad's aussie bed roll. One thing though, choose your colour wisely. Green is great if you want to stick it behind a hedge in a farmer's field and not be noticed, red is better if you're on a camp site and don't want to come back from the showers to find some clod in a campervan's driven straight over the top without noticing (and that's a thought that does stick in your head a bit as you bed down for the night, so park your bike close). |
If you decide to go with the Bivy bag option I know a great place to get a British Army one from - British Military Surplus
Or this one - British Military Surplus I have bought 4 water containers from them and got them 2 days later. |
bag it!
Take a bag for sure, smaller, lighter and I found sleeping in a tent on my own next to my bike very disconcerting indeed, especially when your'e in somewhere the FCO told you not to go etc. If you hear a noise or similar you cant see, in a bag you just open your eyes, you can get up quickly and defend yourself/bike if necessary. Thank god this has only happened to me once, and once I stood up the would-be bike thieves (just opportunists who had seen the bike from somewhere I think) buggered off....
Bags are cheaper too,have used two old plastic sand bags before - admittedly the rain they kept off was matched by the sweat they kept in.... |
I always travel with my SnugPak [Travelpak Xtreme] bag, which can be compressed all the way down to no more than the size of a large['ish] coffee tin. This, together with my self-inflating Thermarest [Prolite 3 Compact] mattress is all I need if I find myself in jam and can't get a motel or B&B room for the night. In addition, acquaintances are often more likely to take you in once they learn that you don't need their bed linen, etc. The combo is good for theirs, or anyone else's floor too! .. AND also if you end-up finding yourself in a campsite wood cabin* or a rented tent* (both are very cheap overnight options).
Lars suggestion of a pillowcase is a good one, as often the rented cabin/tent* options come with a grubby pillow but no outer case. A pillowcase could also double-up for stowage purposes from time-to-time. I like this idea - and I don't why I haven't taken a pillowcase with me in the past[?] - I will from now on though .. :thumbup1: |
The bivouac sac is a good backup if you dont find cheap hotels, or simply want to sleep out in a beautiful area.
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I would not want stuff a dirty pillow into my (reasonably) clean pillowcase and put my head really close to dirt of others - I just put my fleece in to a small pillowcase (30x30xm). Great pillow. And at least it's my dirt I'm smelling :)
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Bivi Bags.. The way forward, the truth, and the light!
I've logged nights somewhere in the hundreds in a bivi bag. In many situations; From tactical ones (several years in the NZ Army), hiking, hunting, hitchhiking, Mountaineering. And of course traveling.
In the mounatains if I'm going light it's in the pack long before any tent: other than pack size and weight, it's great in very high winds because of the very low profile. It adds approx half a seasons warmth to your sleeping bag as a extra bonus. One of the strongest points for a bivi is you don't need a survey team to find a suitable spot. If push comes to shove a bit of flat ground the width of your shoulders and head to hip long. thats all you need. I've slept under logs, hugging boulders, out in the open, anywhere! So if you are using it as a stand by, chances are if you break down it won't be a idyllic camping site. a protental problem with a tent but no sweat with a bivi bag. And if the weather is looking good leave it un-zipped for some fresh air and a bit of star gazing. If it starts raining simply pull/ zip the flap up. Sorted. They do have their drawbacks though;
Hooped - They ahve a small flexable pole at head end. Like a small tunnel tent. These are good because they will keep the fabric off your face if you sleep on your back. These are a bit heavier And they usually have an opening at the end so you have to wriggle into it - can be bloody annoying! Body bag - That's exactly what they look like. the better ones will have a "L" shaped zip that goes acroos the top (above your head) and down one side. In theory slight less weather proof but this is the type I use and it's never been a problem ( i even woke up floating in 3 inches of water with my mates sniggering quitely watching me! (great mates eh!?) I was dry as a bone !! And if you use this type with a fly you're sorted!! Also if you have yet to buy a sleeping bag, get one that the zip matches the same side as the bivi bag-- makes it a lot easier getting in/out (any decent manufacturer offer's both left and right zips on a bag) If you have any questions about bivi's bags or any outdoor related kit i'd be happy to give you the no :9898: answer! Sleep well! |
Stevesawol,
Well that says it all: I'm glad that you like typing as well as collecting sleeping bags! Sparky, How can you go without a bivvy bag after the last series of posts and recommendations??! :rolleyes2: |
dont forget the Humble Hammock....
If your stuck for accomodation........ the Hammock is King!
DD Hammocks | Camping Hammocks Travel Hammock Tarp Basha Tent Replacement Lightweight Brilliant! WITH Mozzy net plus can use a tarp for waterproof 'hammocking' also if your in a "hotel' of questionable bed cleanliness ( Bedbugs n the like) a Hammock can usually be strung up dead easy and saves your Ass....Literally! Martyn |
HENNESSY HAMMOCKS: ultra-light line of jungle hammocks, ultra-comfortable camping hammock /chair/ tent combo These are the best people for Hammocks I've travelled for 2 years in SE/Asai with one UNBEATABLE for weight quality and a good nights sleep.
Now here's the BUT... I also bought a Blacks Cygnus 2 person tent after spending time with the misses, a tent cannot be beaten if you plan to stay in places for more then one day at a time, you will need the extra room for your kit and unless your riding a 50cc you really won't notice the difference. It's also a damn sight safer then a bivy bag in any country where large animals are going to be sniffing around in the dark nights hopeing to chew on a leg, the first Bivy bags were actually Body Bags used in Vietnam by the US troops as they were pretty much water proof. Remember people YOUR safety is the No.1 Priority not weight saving. I forgot to add I also own an Outdoor Research Advanced Bivy Bag a bespoke GORE-TEX one that's kept me warm for the last 4 years. |
Ah But....
Hennesy are Great Lee...... But V Pricey, cheapest on ebay 99.99!
yes they are the "BMW1200GS" of hammocks but I like to think of the DD as being the XT600 of Hammocks! Mind you saying that.. I cant even afford a DD! i use a ( wait for it) 10 Euro cotton one I got at Lidl, supposed to only hold 100 kilos ( I weigh 140KG) and it hold me and my Staffie who weighs 20Kg and has lasted 2 years so far.... stays OUTSIDE all year in all weather, the Hammock not the Dog, and just gets taken down for Travel Martyn |
As can be seen by the varied replies, the truth is it depends on each circumstance what is the best solution. Try to have as many options as your carrying capacity will allow. I take a tent, cost me all of E14.99 four years ago. it is waterproof and more importantly , insect proof.
I also have a folding camp bed. and now carry now summerweight sleeping bag. As I haven't yet ventured out of Europe I have not had the pleasure of dirty accommodation. but the camp bed and bag would be a solution. Even erect the tent to give me a mosquito free sleeping space. The entrance has a normal waterproof door with an insect proof inside full sized door, and a large insect proof upper panel under a mini flysheet for ventilation. I ride on a full sized sheepskin, which is great used as a pillow or for extra warmth under my sleeping bag. Usually I carry a very thin light 'fleece' blanket which i can use as a throw over. By jiggling the various combinations I can always sleep at a comfortable temperature. Either in or on the bag, under or over teh fleece or not. The whole lot was probably less than £50. It has all paid for itself long ago, so I do not need to fret over it. I have to add, it would be inadequate for winter or high mountain camping, but I dont do that. |
Outdoor gear is as personal as the bike you'll strap it to.. As oldbmw pointed out. A flick through the Argos catalog or a walk to the army surplus store will have you kitted out with cheap gear that will get the job done. But like anything it will have it's limitations. In bike terms ; a Serow 225 V's a KTM 990 adventure. a CBR 500 V's a Goldwing. All bikes that will get the job done...depending on the job of course. And.. different stroke for different folks! (and budgets!)
If you can afford (and want to) buying top end gear will see you very happy with the gear. But it's not necessary. Also what are your priority's? for me weight is very important, and comfort not so much on sorter trips but the longer you will out on the trip the more comfort needs to play a part for moral / enjoyment. Especially when it comes to the likes of a sleeping mat. Walkabout; yeah my previous post was a long one: Such is:bored: the danger of opening the Hubb while in the the boring late shift at work!!! :eek3: And yeah; 14 sleeping bags is a fair amount but if you started getting people handing you helmets to try and test - I doubt I'd here you saying no! No bother! Ride safe! |
Take a tarp some rope and a pole. Run the rope from the bike to the pole, tie a knot around the pole then run the rope to the ground and stake it down or use a big rock. Put the tarp over the rope stake it down or use rocks to hold down the tarp edges.
Not the grates thing to sleep in but dry, cheap and light. |
I think it would be a good idea to bring a tent, even if it is just a small 1 man tent with just enough room for you to fit in at least if you break down (hopefully not) or cant find anywhere to stay you will have a back up.
Sleeping bags and mats are your choice, personally i would bring a mat at least as this will get you off the ground and insulate your body from the cold. You could sleep in your bike stuff or in your cloths instead of having to bring a sleeping bag. It might not be comfy but at least you will be dry and away from the weather and stuff. Most new 1 man tents pack very small and could be strapped to the bike or stuffed into a pannier OR As a few people suggested a hammack and some form of a tarp with mossey net. Very very small, light, and simple to pack. Can be used near anywhere as long as you have a tree or some emoveable object, or you could eve use your bike as a point to tie to. Never slept in a hammack but told it can be uncomfortable untill you get use to how it feels. And the tarp will keep the rain and wind off, and mossey net the mossey at bay. Again it might not be the most comfy but alot better than laying on the ground. |
For a light tent that packs small try the Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1
Sleeping Pads and Sleeping Bags | Big Agnes Inner is mesh and can be used free standing if required. Great for Star Gazing. Weighs 1Kg Pack size 14cm x 40cm = 6.2 Ltrs Can be purchased in the UK from Hike Lite for £189. Or try Integral Bug Shelter 12cm x 26cm (3Ltr) - 630 grams with a Integral Tarp for weather protection 10cm x 20cm (1.5Ltr) - 550 grams Ultralight Outdoor Gear - Product: Integral Designs Silshelter Bug Liner and Ultralight Outdoor Gear - Product: Integral Designs Silshelter Tent/Tarp Shelter Still trying to decide which to take myself. If I take a tent I believe its worth taking one you will use otherwise as you say an emergency shelter would be fine. Keeping the tent light will allow more comforts like a quality sleeping mat, bag and teddy bear. |
Another good website for ultralight kit is www.fastandlight.co.uk. Aimed at adventure racing. Though if you're serious about getting your weight down it's worth a look a the range for some ideas
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Thanks for the link. Great site and found this. The Nemo GoGo.
1 Kg and packs to 3.5 Ltr. In between Bivy and Tent. Has mesh section so can be left open in warm weather. Not cheap at £200. Online Store at Fast & Light - Adventure Racing, Multisport & Alpinism Equipment Full details NEMO: Tents including camping and mountaineering tents from NEMO |
Tent or not...
On my (short) touring trips I alsways considered it very convenient to have either my 1 or 2 person tent with me. The 2 person tent is made by Salewa (a company in Germnay) the 1 person tent by Snowpeak (japanese company??). Both cost me less than $250 - and they are great (Salewa 4 season tent, Snowpeak 3+ season tent). I also got my summer as well as winter sleeping bags (winter bought from Sierra trading post) as well as my sleeping pad, not talking about all the other stuff (cooking etc). It just gives you more options where and when you want to stop and how long you want to stay without looking around for some sleeping/staying space. Pictures can be seen on my homepage.
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I forgot to mention.. one last tip,
always park you bike far enough from your tent so tha if it falls over it does not land on top of you.. ( you wont want a handlebar in your face while you sleep) |
I always travel with a 2-person tent. A good one folds up very small and constructs in a few minutes. Tents are good for storing your stuff when you go off for a walk; keeping your food overnight; providing privacy from the hoardes when you are in places where you just cannot escape; a good place to sit and escape the flies/mosquitoes and other bities when you want to read a book or darn the socks (or just escape the onlookers); and I've found they impress cops more and you are less likely to be moved on. You'll find it much easier to sleep in them in hot places too - when you are more inclined to want to sleep on top of the sleeping bag rather than in it. Considering the negligible space they occupy the extra weight/space is not an issue for me. But we tent users appear to be in the minority here...
cheers Brett |
Nothing wrong with a tent
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In fact, I usually carry both (belt and braces) - but I have gone with one or other (or none!!) - which gives increased flexibility & options in rough camping. On a long trip, you can always post one or other home, as and when. As mentioned earlier, a bivvy bag around the sleeping bag will give an amount of extra insulation with more still air enclosing you - and if the tent does leak, well no worries!! |
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