My bivvy is leaking, what has happened?

If a customer starts to see a build-up of moisture on all areas of the inside of the bivvy this is NOT the bivvy leaking but is an indication that there is a build-up of condensation within the bivvy during use. This condensation is minimised by the breathability we have built-into our Aquatexx® fabric coating however there are measures which can be taken to further minimise condensation build-up during use.

How do I minimise condensation inside my bivvy during use?

If you have woken up with moisture on the inside of your bivvy, you could be forgiven for thinking it has leaked in the night, but what has probably happened is condensation. condensation occurs in all bivvies and the amount of condensation can vary due to several factors detailed below.

Is my bivvy leaking or is it condensation?

It is highly unlikely your bivvy will be leaking… Trakker bivvies are made using the latest, highly-waterproof fabrics with strong seams, which are then carefully tape sealed to keep the worst of the weather out.

Why does my bivvy condensate?

Condensation is caused by warm air on the inside of the bivvy hitting relatively cool bivvy fabric causing it to turn to moisture. Condensation can show in various forms, such as droplets inside the bivvy to patches generally around the head end or in some cases all over.

What makes condensation worse?

Heavy rainfall can increase condensation, often misleading people to thinking their bivvy is leaking. This is because rainwater on the outside of a tent or rainwater evaporating from fabric rapidly cools it and causes condensation as the warm air inside hits it.

How can I reduce condensation?

1. Use a wrap, skull cap or inner capsule (where available)

These bivvy accessories are designed to create an air cavity between the inner and outer fabrics which reduces condensation significantly. They still may not eliminate it completely in the most severe of conditions however, in the majority of situations they help enormously.

2. Increase ventilation

A single person can produce more than one litre of perspiration in a night, so an effective way of reducing condensation is by leaving your door and/or vents open (weather permitting).

3. Use a groundsheet

A huge amount of moisture comes up through the ground… using a groundsheet prevents it from entering your bivvy.

4. Never cook or use heaters inside your bivvy

The key point here is safety, it is very dangerous to use heating devices inside your bivvy. Cooking releases large amounts of moisture in to your bivvy, that’s why we use extractor fans in our kitchens at home. Rather than heating your bivvy, use the right clothing and sleeping bags.

5. Keep off the bivvy fabric

It is sometimes hard to avoid, but your bed chairs, bags or other items should not be touching bivvy fabric, as this can increase the effects of condensation.

6. Store wet items outside

You should not be drying damp stuff inside your bivvy, such as clothing, towels, boots etc. as this can make the effects of condensation much more severe.

7. Avoid being too sheltered

A natural breeze can help with ventilation, whereas an area which is too sheltered can promote condensation.

8. Have a dry towel available

If the conditions are very severe, particularly in humid conditions where you have followed the guidelines and you are still getting a condensation build up, simply use a dry, clean towel to wipe the condensation away

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