I live in Norway and use windsacks/bothies all the time. Great to throw over you for a coffee break. I stopped using ones with windows because the plastic on the windows becomes brittle and cracks in sub zero temperatures. I ended up replacing the windows with material. The light weight one works a treat
My wife came across a guy who had slipped on ice and broke his leg in February quite a few years ago. Her dogs kept the man warm until the mountain rescue arrived. They had a similar emergency shelter - and we've carried them since.
I was on my own on a hill last year , on my bike . Windy and raining I slipped and dislocated my shoulder . Its amazing how difficult it is to do everything with literally one hand all of a sudden esp when its raining! I'm going to pack my bag with more consideration next time :). Going through ones own pockets , going through the rucksack for phones , food , pen and paper etc, putting on xtra layers of clothing all became very difficult and very time consuming with only one arm. At the time I briefly considered putting my tent up for shelter but realised with the poles and pegs was not gonna happen , I had an emergency bivy bag which I also considered . I realised if I had a bothy bag with me, I have one at home :) that would have been ideal , would have been able to be in shelter in less than 5 mins while coming up with a plan . It all worked out well in the end , but next time I think I will take the bothy over the bivy bag as allows me to do stuff in shelter to attend to myself and or wait for help , and maybe a quick food , map drink stop if exposed:) 👍
I haven't heard of people in the US carrying these for day hikes. A lot of people carry SOL products - but those are mostly emergency blankets. I was on a guided backpacking trip once where a few of us had to stand around for an hour, waiting for a thunderstorm to pass before we crossed an open field. I started to get really chilled. There wasn't really room in the woods to set up a tent where we were. Our guide was carrying a tarp, so 5 of us all stood under it, and it worked great to heat us up. We didn't tie it up or anything, so it clung to us - so maybe not the best for eating under, but definitely helpful for warming us up.
Thanks for showing both, Mary. I prefer the light weight one because of the smaller packed size and, well, weight is everything on the trail. It's also nice now the stuff sack remains attached to the shelter so you won't loose it.
I never go anywhere without one of my Terranova bothys (same deal as one of these). Really important for safety, and just nice to warm up in, perhaps add a layer.
Good to see you and Mr. Fox on the trail. Those shelters would be great for the less experienced hikers I met carrying a water bottle and a snack bar in their hands. When I'm checking their wilderness permits we talk about Leave No Trace and I'll concentrate their attention in the plan and prepare principle, which these shelters would make easier.
Spent many hours in one of these lightweight shelters on Pen-y-fan in Wales over the years. Not the most comfortable places, but dry and surprisingly warm, even in a blizzard. It wasn't an emergency situation, just keeping warm training recruits.
I'm in Colorado, USA. Bothys are practically unknown here. I've had a Rab 2 person for years and always carry it for winter, early spring and fall outings in the Rockies. So far I've used it only to shelter from snow and wind on meal and rest breaks but I can see their value for true emergencies and will continue to pack it. Oddly, when I've used it with a companion, they always think it's a great idea but never buy one for themselves. Good vids, you have a fan here in "the states".😁
luvly video .. simple as i am 😀. i ordered one straight away 😂😂😂. got lightweight tents but this is fast ..great for a quock brew and rest . thank you , hope nobody gets breezy inside ! and can use poles to hold the end up if your solo 😊😊
Definitely higher Tech then the big plastic bag I always carry. They are the heavy duty ones used by the traffic Department's to bag up trash by the freeway. I don't recall using one myself but they've been used for other people. They make a very nice Bivy Sack / Wind Breaker / Raincoat for some one in need. If you cut a face hole in one edge near the corner it will make you very nice rain Hood and holes for your hands or arms will provide enough ventilation. They are watertight and will capture moisture and then you get wet so ventilate. On the other hand I really like the two people and your packs inside together. If your worried being alone in a plastic bag can be hard, especially if you happen to be a kid.
These actually seem to be very usable emergency shelters. Not like the A frame things that have 2 gaping holes at each end. Thank you Mary's Outdoor Adventures!!
I've been interested in seeing more of this shelter since you mentioned it in your "what's in my pack" video and I think I'll definitely get one as well :) Wonderfully informative and enjoyable to watch as always! Thank you :)
Easy tiger. You may want to view The Outdoor Gear Review's analysis of a similar product. There, Luke showed these 'bothy bags' are potentially very dangerous.
Like the idea overall except that there is no bottom. If and when the decision is made to use the shelter, odds are it has already been raining for a while so the ground will be wet. When they make one with a full bottom to stop the wind and water from penetrating the shelter, then I'll get one.
Thanks for your comment Henri rt! You are right, they are not fully waterproof in the bottom middle which might not be for everyone, but they are where you sit. Personally I like the weight saving it provides, as well as easy accessibility and being able to tighten it at the bottom if it's windy as it is only designed for awaiting emergency assistance anyway.
Always a pleasure to see a new video! I don't quite understand how the first shelter keeps its shape unless you sit there with your arms raised in the air. Are they staked to the ground?... whats keeping it from blowing away like a sheet in the wind? " stay golden " beautiful.
Thanks so much Christopher! They only keep their shape by using the top of your head - much easier when there are two of you. There are no stakes but what you do is sit on the seating panel at the bottom and if there is only one of you - at the otherside you would put your bag or your feet to keep it on the ground and to prevent the wind blowing it off.
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures Thanks for your reply. I was just wondering that, because when you said you get inside and wait to be rescued, but if noone comes to your aid then you could be stuck there for a long time. I suppose you could shout for help when people pass by. I know it also acts as an emergency shelter which is great if you suddenly have to shelter from the elements. Stay safe and keep making fabulous videos 😊
Excellent information. Everyone who hikes should be carrying one of these if they are not carrying a UL tent. I carry a small emergency bivy in my car backpack but a tent in my hiking backpack. Question about the PCT: That one guy you hiked with for quite a while and then he had to go; What was his trail name? Have you kept in touch with him via Email? He seemed like a really nice genuine person. John from MI
Thanks so much John. His trail name was Keebler and yes I keep in touch with a lot of my tramily members usually by messenger or WhatsApp - just not as often as we are all in different time zones!
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures I'm glad to hear that. Many times I feel closer to my TH-cam "friends" than my nearby friends because we connect on the same level about our interests. John
Hi Mary, thanks for the video, I found it very informative. As I was searching online for this one, there seemed to be some thought that the Vango 400 was better. Do you have any comments? Have you only ever used the Lifesystems brand? I was in some horrific weather in Glen Co one time and the Mountain Leader pulled something like this out of her pack - it easily fit 5 of us. Was more of a ball shape with a slit on the bottom so you sat on one complete edge and your feet anchored the other side. We also used our poles to hold the top up. I loved the idea but was wasn't interested in carrying that weight or bulk on a routine hike.
Thanks so much Julie. I did look at that model but it weighed more, plus it wasn't as waterproof. The difference with the Vango 400 shelter you mentioned is that only had a 3000mm HH and weighed 700g (but it is for up to 4 people). There is a storm shelter 200 Vango do that is more comparable to the standard Lifesystems Shelter 2 (also a 2 person one), but again that only had a HH of 3000mm and weighed 105g more at 440g which is why I preferred the Lifesystems. The Vango did have two vents, but my priority was something more waterproof and lighter to carry. I'm sure it is still a great shelter but this is just what I preferred.
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures Mary thank you very much for the reply. I am going to mention to Santa that the LS shelter would make a very nice stocking stuffer :). And congratulations.
L o L..... I'd have watched this just to see the 2 of you getting in 😅😂🍿🎥 Even funer is it actually started rain !!!!! How about the cons if u have used it enuf to have any ??? Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families and remember,, keep on rocking The Free 🌎 world ☺️
I'm glad we amuse you 🤣🤣 I haven't noticed any con's yet - although I do like the window which I don't get in the ultralight version. Happy Thanksgiving to you too - I think its on Thursday for you this year isn't it? 😊
Thanks so much David. I'm looking forward to going a little further afield as soon as we get the go ahead, but been busy exploring more local trails recently to prevent going stir crazy! Hope you are keeping well too!
Yes Chris I understand it does sound a lot of money compared to cheaper tents. However, what you are paying for is the convenience of it being so compact and not needing any poles/stakes to set it up, plus the technology in the material to keep it waterproof and lightweight.
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures like I've seen this product done by a few companies. I know Andies have just done one at it's like 30 but I suppose quality will vary from company to company. Always a good thing to carry though. I always make sure I have an emergancy shelter with me as well as a tent. Yes the no pole would make it quicker and the little window is a nice touch.
My concern would be the partially open bottom that exposes the possibly-wet or snowy ground to the inside. If it gets as warm as you say, that could make for a bit of condensation. A velcro-closure bottom might do the trick.
That's the reason this is a emergency shelter. it's supposed to be used only in emergencies while you are waiting for mountain rescue or help. the big open bottom allows you to get inside easily even if you are injured. there is the vent which will help with condensation
@@recumbenttriker6218 Gosh, thanks. I couldn't tell by the title. 🙄 Depending on where you are, you could be stuck in that shelter for longer than planned. And in that case, if you are already wet and cold, the build-up of additional moisture inside your shelter could be a risk. As could being exposed to uncovered ground.
You're correct that the ground exposure needs coverage, probably addressed by a simple lawn and leaf bag. The condensation will happen, but these are quick deploy emergency shelters not meant for long term use. Most experienced hikers have a backup plan, I carry my poncho/tent, a 14oz (400g) Gatewood Cape, for this purpose. These emergency shelters are great for the typical hikers who carry nothing, such as most of the 150+ day hikers caught out overnight by the 2017 Eagle Creek in the Columbia Gorge, some dressed only in bathing suits and flip flops.
If anything you proved you cannot get your backpacks in with you. Its too small, and as the people in China are small, that makes me think.... was it made in China?
I love her positive attitude
Thanks you 😊
I live in Norway and use windsacks/bothies all the time. Great to throw over you for a coffee break. I stopped using ones with windows because the plastic on the windows becomes brittle and cracks in sub zero temperatures. I ended up replacing the windows with material. The light weight one works a treat
My wife came across a guy who had slipped on ice and broke his leg in February quite a few years ago. Her dogs kept the man warm until the mountain rescue arrived. They had a similar emergency shelter - and we've carried them since.
I was on my own on a hill last year , on my bike . Windy and raining I slipped and dislocated my shoulder . Its amazing how difficult it is to do everything with literally one hand all of a sudden esp when its raining! I'm going to pack my bag with more consideration next time :). Going through ones own pockets , going through the rucksack for phones , food , pen and paper etc, putting on xtra layers of clothing all became very difficult and very time consuming with only one arm. At the time I briefly considered putting my tent up for shelter but realised with the poles and pegs was not gonna happen , I had an emergency bivy bag which I also considered . I realised if I had a bothy bag with me, I have one at home :) that would have been ideal , would have been able to be in shelter in less than 5 mins while coming up with a plan . It all worked out well in the end , but next time I think I will take the bothy over the bivy bag as allows me to do stuff in shelter to attend to myself and or wait for help , and maybe a quick food , map drink stop if exposed:) 👍
I haven't heard of people in the US carrying these for day hikes. A lot of people carry SOL products - but those are mostly emergency blankets. I was on a guided backpacking trip once where a few of us had to stand around for an hour, waiting for a thunderstorm to pass before we crossed an open field. I started to get really chilled. There wasn't really room in the woods to set up a tent where we were. Our guide was carrying a tarp, so 5 of us all stood under it, and it worked great to heat us up. We didn't tie it up or anything, so it clung to us - so maybe not the best for eating under, but definitely helpful for warming us up.
Good one Mary. I love the way it sounds like laughter is always bubbling just below your surface.
Thanks Michael 😆
This is a super helpful video in that it shows you can use it solo and how easy it is to get set up.
Thanks for showing both, Mary. I prefer the light weight one because of the smaller packed size and, well, weight is everything on the trail. It's also nice now the stuff sack remains attached to the shelter so you won't loose it.
That’s why I like it too Tom 😊
I never go anywhere without one of my Terranova bothys (same deal as one of these). Really important for safety, and just nice to warm up in, perhaps add a layer.
Great video and love the positive vibe you bring 🙌🏻
Good to see you and Mr. Fox on the trail. Those shelters would be great for the less experienced hikers I met carrying a water bottle and a snack bar in their hands. When I'm checking their wilderness permits we talk about Leave No Trace and I'll concentrate their attention in the plan and prepare principle, which these shelters would make easier.
Thanks so much! Sounds like you do great work - it is worrying to see some inexperienced hikers out there without provisions!
So nice of you to do the rainy bit and let Derek be the shelter stuffing! Thanks Tink!
🤣
Nice to see Derek involved in the quest
He's a great sport 😁
Fabulous video sweetheart and I’m glad I was already in the shelter when it stated raining 🤣🤣😘
Funny how that was timed 🤔 🤣🤣
Spent many hours in one of these lightweight shelters on Pen-y-fan in Wales over the years. Not the most comfortable places, but dry and surprisingly warm, even in a blizzard.
It wasn't an emergency situation, just keeping warm training recruits.
I'm in Colorado, USA. Bothys are practically unknown here.
I've had a Rab 2 person for years and always carry it for winter, early spring and fall outings in the Rockies. So far I've used it only to shelter from snow and wind on meal and rest breaks but I can see their value for true emergencies and will continue to pack it. Oddly, when I've used it with a companion, they always think it's a great idea but never buy one for themselves.
Good vids, you have a fan here in "the states".😁
Thanks so much Jeri Atrix! 😊
luvly video .. simple as i am 😀. i ordered one straight away 😂😂😂. got lightweight tents but this is fast ..great for a quock brew and rest . thank you , hope nobody gets breezy inside ! and can use poles to hold the end up if your solo 😊😊
Thanks Joe - hope you enjoy using it! I was having lunch in mine just last week 😆
Definitely higher Tech then the big plastic bag I always carry. They are the heavy duty ones used by the traffic Department's to bag up trash by the freeway. I don't recall using one myself but they've been used for other people. They make a very nice Bivy Sack / Wind Breaker / Raincoat for some one in need. If you cut a face hole in one edge near the corner it will make you very nice rain Hood and holes for your hands or arms will provide enough ventilation. They are watertight and will capture moisture and then you get wet so ventilate.
On the other hand I really like the two people and your packs inside together. If your worried being alone in a plastic bag can be hard, especially if you happen to be a kid.
Super helpful and lovely presentation. Thank You!
Thanks so much!
Your smile is contagious :) Don't stop smiling!!
Thank you 😁
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures Hmm? Mansfield? any relationship to Jane? Lol Happy New Year BTW!!
Nice to know these emergency shelters exist. (And Derek is so cute. ☺️)
I think they often get overlooked. Yes Derek certainly is cute - he is a good sport that's for sure!
Great review, as I'm in the market for a lightweight shelter for day hikes.
Always love your great videos. Thank you.
Thank you Betty 😊
Your gear videos are so good Mary!
These actually seem to be very usable emergency shelters. Not like the A frame things that have 2 gaping holes at each end. Thank you Mary's Outdoor Adventures!!
Thanks Chelsea, I still carry mine out on any longer hikes - so nice to have that security (plus somewhere to have lunch if it's raining 😆).
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures I hear that no one wants a sopping lunch. I just wish I could find the in the US.
@@chelseab5467 I bought a snugpack patrol poncho after finding out about bothy bags. it works perfect. 😊
Very well presented 👏 thank you😊 Subscribed !
Thanks so much yatra time! 😊
Very nice video and information. Good Luck, Rick
Thanks so much Rick!
Thanks... appreciate the information and your enthusiasm !!!
My pleasure!
THANKS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We have an emergency shelter but ours is a LOMO one, we have it especially for our girls. They are a great piece of kit.
thank you for your smile
😀
I've been interested in seeing more of this shelter since you mentioned it in your "what's in my pack" video and I think I'll definitely get one as well :) Wonderfully informative and enjoyable to watch as always! Thank you :)
Thank you so much! So glad it was helpful. I think they have a discount at the moment on their site!
Easy tiger. You may want to view The Outdoor Gear Review's analysis of a similar product. There, Luke showed these 'bothy bags' are potentially very dangerous.
Like the idea overall except that there is no bottom. If and when the decision is made to use the shelter, odds are it has already been raining for a while so the ground will be wet. When they make one with a full bottom to stop the wind and water from penetrating the shelter, then I'll get one.
Thanks for your comment Henri rt! You are right, they are not fully waterproof in the bottom middle which might not be for everyone, but they are where you sit. Personally I like the weight saving it provides, as well as easy accessibility and being able to tighten it at the bottom if it's windy as it is only designed for awaiting emergency assistance anyway.
If you have roll mat or foil blankets you should also carry those then there's your floor
Also DD tarps do super light ground sheets in 2 sizes with end straps. So they can be your waterproof ground sheet and also configured for shelter
Great video thank you 🙏 I ordered the one with the window 🤗
Good choice!
Great video! I’ll seriously consider a lifesystem tent for my hiking.
Thanks so much!
Your video, is just a unique piece of positivity, smile, happiness and warmth.
Keep doing It. I really love it and will buy it ASAP. 🏕️
So glad you liked it, thanks so much!
Great video Mary x
Thanks so much 😊
Survival Viking 1.4 million views in two weeks Mary may be on to something here 😁
I've not heard of that is it a TH-cam channel?
I think I will go with the ultralight version. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Always a pleasure to see a new video! I don't quite understand how the first shelter keeps its shape unless you sit there with your arms raised in the air. Are they staked to the ground?... whats keeping it from blowing away like a sheet in the wind? " stay golden " beautiful.
Thanks so much Christopher! They only keep their shape by using the top of your head - much easier when there are two of you. There are no stakes but what you do is sit on the seating panel at the bottom and if there is only one of you - at the otherside you would put your bag or your feet to keep it on the ground and to prevent the wind blowing it off.
Good video. Good channel. When you use the survival shelter for a break and a bite to eat, will people approach you thinking you need to be rescued
Thanks so much The Lone Ranger! I've not been approached yet but I have had some funny looks 🤣
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures Thanks for your reply. I was just wondering that, because when you said you get inside and wait to be rescued, but if noone comes to your aid then you could be stuck there for a long time. I suppose you could shout for help when people pass by. I know it also acts as an emergency shelter which is great if you suddenly have to shelter from the elements. Stay safe and keep making fabulous videos 😊
Beautiful adventure👌👍
Excellent information. Everyone who hikes should be carrying one of these if they are not carrying a UL tent. I carry a small emergency bivy in my car backpack but a tent in my hiking backpack. Question about the PCT: That one guy you hiked with for quite a while and then he had to go; What was his trail name? Have you kept in touch with him via Email? He seemed like a really nice genuine person. John from MI
Thanks so much John. His trail name was Keebler and yes I keep in touch with a lot of my tramily members usually by messenger or WhatsApp - just not as often as we are all in different time zones!
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures I'm glad to hear that. Many times I feel closer to my TH-cam "friends" than my nearby friends because we connect on the same level about our interests. John
Nice video. How does it prop up. Does it stay on top of your head?
Yes it does!
You are absolutely adorable!
You are so kind thank you!
My apologies for even bringing this up, but I would imagine the shelter would be quite handy for emergency loo privacy?
Yes it certainly would!
Hi Mary!!
Hi Mike! 😁
Can I use life system indoors when electric goes off?
Hi Mary, thanks for the video, I found it very informative. As I was searching online for this one, there seemed to be some thought that the Vango 400 was better. Do you have any comments? Have you only ever used the Lifesystems brand? I was in some horrific weather in Glen Co one time and the Mountain Leader pulled something like this out of her pack - it easily fit 5 of us. Was more of a ball shape with a slit on the bottom so you sat on one complete edge and your feet anchored the other side. We also used our poles to hold the top up. I loved the idea but was wasn't interested in carrying that weight or bulk on a routine hike.
Thanks so much Julie. I did look at that model but it weighed more, plus it wasn't as waterproof. The difference with the Vango 400 shelter you mentioned is that only had a 3000mm HH and weighed 700g (but it is for up to 4 people). There is a storm shelter 200 Vango do that is more comparable to the standard Lifesystems Shelter 2 (also a 2 person one), but again that only had a HH of 3000mm and weighed 105g more at 440g which is why I preferred the Lifesystems. The Vango did have two vents, but my priority was something more waterproof and lighter to carry. I'm sure it is still a great shelter but this is just what I preferred.
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures Mary thank you very much for the reply. I am going to mention to Santa that the LS shelter would make a very nice stocking stuffer :). And congratulations.
Brilliant 🤣🎅 and thank you so much 😊
Mary You are super prepared to camp and attack Pico da Bandeira in MG 🎩 Saudações Mineiras
Thank you Dalmo!
If you tried to use that here the wind will take it out of your hands and blow it for miles until a cactus catches it.
😆
💖
L o L.....
I'd have watched this just to see the 2 of you getting in 😅😂🍿🎥
Even funer is it actually started rain !!!!!
How about the cons if u have used it enuf to have any ???
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families and remember,, keep on rocking The Free 🌎 world ☺️
I'm glad we amuse you 🤣🤣 I haven't noticed any con's yet - although I do like the window which I don't get in the ultralight version.
Happy Thanksgiving to you too - I think its on Thursday for you this year isn't it? 😊
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures turkey day is Thursday yes. And thanks for the amusement !! 😅🍿👍🏽👍🏽 Atb.
Always good to see you again my dear, hope you are not going mad on 2nd lockdown (narcissistic rulers)great video n info
Thanks so much David. I'm looking forward to going a little further afield as soon as we get the go ahead, but been busy exploring more local trails recently to prevent going stir crazy! Hope you are keeping well too!
i guess in an emergency situation i smile all the time while freezing.
How is this better than a big bin bag?
It's breathable for a start and very noticeable to search and rescue 😁
64.99 for an emergency tent! That's a bit mad. Get a decent tent with that. Seen one for 11 quid earlier.
Yes Chris I understand it does sound a lot of money compared to cheaper tents. However, what you are paying for is the convenience of it being so compact and not needing any poles/stakes to set it up, plus the technology in the material to keep it waterproof and lightweight.
@@MarysOutdoorAdventures like I've seen this product done by a few companies. I know Andies have just done one at it's like 30 but I suppose quality will vary from company to company. Always a good thing to carry though. I always make sure I have an emergancy shelter with me as well as a tent. Yes the no pole would make it quicker and the little window is a nice touch.
My concern would be the partially open bottom that exposes the possibly-wet or snowy ground to the inside. If it gets as warm as you say, that could make for a bit of condensation. A velcro-closure bottom might do the trick.
it's a survival shelter
That's the reason this is a emergency shelter. it's supposed to be used only in emergencies while you are waiting for mountain rescue or help. the big open bottom allows you to get inside easily even if you are injured. there is the vent which will help with condensation
@@recumbenttriker6218 Gosh, thanks. I couldn't tell by the title. 🙄 Depending on where you are, you could be stuck in that shelter for longer than planned. And in that case, if you are already wet and cold, the build-up of additional moisture inside your shelter could be a risk. As could being exposed to uncovered ground.
@@KimberlyGreen then bring a regular tent with you.
You're correct that the ground exposure needs coverage, probably addressed by a simple lawn and leaf bag. The condensation will happen, but these are quick deploy emergency shelters not meant for long term use. Most experienced hikers have a backup plan, I carry my poncho/tent, a 14oz (400g) Gatewood Cape, for this purpose. These emergency shelters are great for the typical hikers who carry nothing, such as most of the 150+ day hikers caught out overnight by the 2017 Eagle Creek in the Columbia Gorge, some dressed only in bathing suits and flip flops.
Know how confident are you being in that during a tornado...
Does she sound like the good witch from the Wizard of Oz or what.
🤣 I've not heard that before - I think her name was Glenda 😆
your constant smile distracted me so much i didn’t even hear what you where saying
😁 Thanks so much 😆
If anything you proved you cannot get your backpacks in with you. Its too small, and as the people in China are small, that makes me think.... was it made in China?
Always suspicious about people who smile excessively all the time! Why??
I know, it's a terrible character flaw of mine! 😁😁😁😁😁 😉