Emergency shelters for day hikes: bothy, bivvy or tarp?

An emergency shelter is for the moment your walk stops unexpectedly. Choose something the whole group can use, and practise before it has to work in wind and rain.

Know what each option does

• Tent: enclosed shelter, but heavier and needs pitching space.
• Tarp or tent fly: a waterproof roof requiring suitable anchors and setup skill.
• Bivvy bag: a close-fitting weatherproof cover for a person and sleeping system. Check ventilation and intended use.
• Bothy or group shelter: quick protection for people sitting together. Check capacity and how occupants hold it in place.

A foil blanket has a different job

Mountain Safety Council distinguishes thermal bags and blankets from proper emergency shelters. They help conserve warmth but do not replace durable weather protection. A pack liner protects equipment; it is not a group shelter.

Read capacity, weight and features together

For example, Rab specifies its Group Shelter 4–6 for four to six people at 620 g. That is seated emergency space, not sleeping places. It includes waterproof seats, ventilation windows and roof recesses for walking poles to brace it. Compare those details with your group before choosing a size.

Check a used shelter fully opened

I would unpack it, find the model instructions and inspect the fabric, seams, vents and fittings. Look for holes, peeling coating, missing parts and repairs. Ask to see the whole shelter set up as intended, not just its stuff sack.

Make it part of the plan

Practise setup together first. Agree who carries it and keep it accessible. Carry warmth, food and a way to call for help alongside it. Keep ventilation open and follow the maker’s instructions. Never run a stove inside an enclosed shelter.

See our camping stove safety guide for cooking setup.

Sources and photo credits

Sources checked 30 September 2026.

• Mountain Safety Council: emergency shelters
• Rab: Group Shelter 4–6 specifications
• WorkSafe: camping appliance safety

Photo: Shelter.jpg — Ak70g2 at English Wikipedia. Public domain. Resized for display.