Going to ground - shelter talk.

During Covid times there's not much happening in overnight stops for me - but there's plenty of time for browsing and thinking around gear choices. What works and what could be done differently?

Right now my thoughts are on shelters....

My basic configuration right now is a Hilleberg Tarp 5 and an Enlightened Equipment Recon bivy - that gives rain coverage, bug protection and splash protection - plus an enclosed space to give a little extra warmth.  Combo weight: 520g + pegs and any extra guys. 

I really like the Hilleberg tarp.  It feels robust and the novel five sided shape gives plenty of flexibility for different set ups - especially in the woods.

The Recon bivy gives a good package. It's not had a lot of use but so far so good.  The only downside is the lack of headroom.  It's a bivy. Once you are in you are in. So I like it, but I want to keep it in shape for longer trips.  For shorter trips then I could add a groundsheet to lower the risk of puncturing the floor,  or take something cheaper I don't mind getting trashed.

For warm weather, and short trips where the forecast is known there are definitely simpler options - the simplest (apart from cowboy camping) being a poncho/tarp plus a groundsheet - plus a mesh layer for the buggy times of year.

Right now my poncho/tarp options are a Sea to Summit Nano or an old Fjällräven Gömsle. The Fjällräven is a bit more coverage (though narrower) at circa 500g. The S2S poncho tarp is 265 x 145 and a miserly 190g (somewhat under the 230g spec). Using it as raingear as well basically gives me a weightless shelter - albeit with less coverage. The Fjällräven is heavier than the Hilleberg tarp but weightwise is about the same if I don't need a rain jacket.

Bugs is another question.  The only alternative I have right now is a headnet which is OK for sitting around but for sleeping out that doesn't seem enough. Mesh tent options are a bit limited to be honest if it's going to be lighter than the EE bivy.

On my list are:

Lixada Ultralight Mesh tent - Mesh tent with built in groundsheet @ 250g for just £21.  It is a tad heavier than my EE but reviews complain it is short and narrow.  (200x65cm)

Zag mesh tent - mesh with no floor - 200g for £15.  Roomier at 220 x 120 with 110 headroom.

S2S nano mesh tent. 82g for around £30 and a spacious 220 x 170.

Groundsheet

Survival emergency bivy -  Foil bivy in camo.  125g for £10