Bivouac : How to pack your backpack for a bivouac ?

What are the essentials to bring on a bivouac without forgetting anything? Discover the complete checklist of indispensable gear for bivouacking in the mountains !

Essential gear

Tent
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Pillow
Headlamp
Trekking poles
Water bottle (classic or flitered)

Clothing

T-shirts
Shorts or Pants
Fleece jacket
Down jacket
Cap
Beanie
Underwear
Windbreaker
Sunglasses

Health & Hygiene

First aid kit (and survival blanket)
Sunscreen
Biodegradable soap
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Microfiber towel (lighter and more compact

Food

Stove (optionnal)
Sandwiches or dried meals
Energy bars
Cookware

Others

Trash bag
External battery
Charger
Toilet Paper
IGN Map

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

How to properly pack your backpack for a successful bivouac:

Where can you bivouac in the mountains in France ?

Bivouacking is allowed in many mountain areas but is subject to strict rules, especially in National Parks (e.g., Vanoise, Écrins...).

Generally, you can bivouac between 7 PM and 8 AM, away from trails and at least 200 meters from any water source.

Camping (daytime or prolonged setups) is mostly forbidden.

What backpack volume is recommended for a 1 to 3-day bivouac?
We recommend a backpack between 45 and 60 liters for 1-3 days of self-sufficient trekking. This is ideal for carrying all necessary gear without overloading your

What to eat during a bivouac?
Bring lightweight food such as freeze-dried meals, energy bars, sandwiches, dried fruit, hard cheese, instant soup, etc.

How to purify water during a bivouac?
The simplest solution is a filtered water bottle.
It allows you to drink directly from rivers, springs, or lakes by removing bacteria and impurities.
You can also use purification tablets.

How much should my backpack weigh for a bivouac?
Ideally, it should not exceed 15 to 20% of your body weight.
Example: For a 70 kg person, the pack should weigh no more than 14 to 17 kg loaded.
Try to lighten every item: lightweight gear, multifunctional clothes, dry food, etc.

Comment bien régler son sac à dos de bivouac ?
Good adjustment means less fatigue and more comfort!

Adjust the back height to fit your body shape
Tighten the shoulder straps, then the hip belt (which should carry 70% of the load)
Adjust the load lifters (straps above the shoulders)
Avoid overloading side pockets: distribute weight in the center, close to your back

How to distribute the weight in your backpack?

Place heavy items close to your back or in the middle of the pack
At the bottom: bulky but light items
In external pockets or at the top: things you’ll need during the day (map, windbreaker, water bottle, etc.)
Keep lateral symmetry to avoid imbalances

Do I need a rain cover or just waterproof bags?

Rain cover or waterproof sack should be easily accessible or stored in an external pocket!
Internal protection via compressible dry bags or Ziploc bags for clothes and sleeping bag.