Thread: Swag alternative

We currently use 2 double swags for SWMBO, the 3 and 5 yo kids and myself (dynamic combination - whoever lays down where!) and sleeping bags.

When we're all camping, we use them in the JetTent, and they're ok, but when on my own I don't want to bother with the tent.

However, they take up heaps of room, and need 2 people to roll them up effectively to allow them to fit in the camping canopy. On top of this, they're not waterproof (well, I wouldn't use them in the rain without a cover), and you can't really get dressed or eat in them.

Ultimately, I think swags are overrated. They served there purpose for years when there was no real alternative, but I suspect they've now been superseded by a decent mattress, sleeping bag an small tent.

So, I'm looking at swapping them for something we can lay out in the JetTent as a family, or I can use on my own without needing to get out the JetTent.

I'm thinking of going back to self-inflatable mattresses (the proper hiking style - not the fat, foam mattress imposters currently kicking around, that still take up heaps of room). This would greatly reduce the volume they take up in the canopy. Maybe I'll also invest in of them gimmicky looking instant pop-up tents that I can use when on my own.

So, unless anyone can think of a better option, I'm open to recommendations for sleeping mats and small tents.

Anyone?

Originally Posted by MacMan

Hi Ranga.

The Synmats are EXCELLENT gear. I bought one to try and immediately bought another for the Girlie since she has a bad back. Previous lightweight motorcycle touring trips were difficult for her until she was sleeping on one of those.

As far as I know Exped only make single Synmats and Downmats, and they're not wide things at the best of times. I've never seen double bivvys but I think if you're looking for "together time" another tent is probably the best bet.

THIS is what I have. I bought it for an event where early starts are a must and last year I either wasted time evening and morning with the tent setup and packing, or slept completely uncovered in my sleeping bag. Most of the crew on the event used swags, but since I had to fly with most of my kit on top of 20kg of camera gear I really didn't want the additional bulk. Quality is excellent and at 6'6" it was certainly long enough. They specify it at 200cm long, but it's bigger than that, has mozzie mesh and a pole to keep the top off your face. I'm a beanpole so didn't find it too cramped. If you're a lumberjack type or otherwise "width advantaged" it might get a little too cozy.

I'll check out the the Synmats, but think a small hiking tent would be more practical than a bivvy bag. I've actually got a small Kathmandu hiking tent that was great until the waterproofing came away in flakes. Bloody expensive until I bought it half price (should have been the normal price!).