Brand: REI

    Category: Running Emergency & Survival Gear

    Recommended by Mercedes Siegle-Gaither, Professional Trail and Ultra Runner — San Juans, CO

    Highlights: warm

    The Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord is an essential survival tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Compact and lightweight, it ensures you stay protected and prepared in unexpected situations. 1. Weighs only 3.8 oz., making it easy to carry in any backpack or emergency kit. 2. Folds down to a size smaller than a 12 oz. soda can for convenient storage. 3. Constructed from durable, weather-resistant material to shield against the elements. 4. Includes a rescue whistle for signaling help in emergencies. 5. Comes with a tinder cord, providing an easy way to start a fire when needed. 6. Bright orange color enhances visibility in survival situations. 7. Designed for one person, offering adequate space for emergency shelter. This Emergency Bivvy is ideal for hikers, campers, and outdoor adventurers who may encounter unexpected weather changes or emergencies. It performs best in rugged environments where quick shelter is necessary, such as during sudden storms or when lost in the wilderness. Suitable for all skill levels, it is a must-have for anyone venturing into the great outdoors, especially during the unpredictable seasons of spring and fall.

    Price: $25.5

    Who it's for
    Hikers and fast-and-light adventurers who want a minimal-weight safety net for unexpected nights out or sudden bad weather. It suits lower-risk outings where a full sleep system isn't carried but some emergency protection is warranted.
    What people are saying
    Hosts consistently recommend it as a must-carry emergency item, praising its tiny packed size (smaller than a soda can) and low weight (3.8 oz). It is framed as a weather shield and warmth supplement rather than a standalone sleep system — layering with insulated clothing or a sleeping bag is advised.
    Worth noting
    Notes position this as an emergency backup, not a primary shelter, so expectations should be set accordingly. One host flags it specifically for "low risk" outings, suggesting it may not be sufficient for high-exposure or high-consequence situations.

    Mercedes Siegle-Gaither's review

    Required bivys mean business.

    Recommended by Mercedes Siegle-Gaither, Professional Trail and Ultra Runner

    Frequently asked questions

    Who is the Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord for?

    Hikers and fast-and-light adventurers who want a minimal-weight safety net for unexpected nights out or sudden bad weather. It suits lower-risk outings where a full sleep system isn't carried but some emergency protection is warranted.

    What do experts say about the Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord?

    Hosts consistently recommend it as a must-carry emergency item, praising its tiny packed size (smaller than a soda can) and low weight (3.8 oz). It is framed as a weather shield and warmth supplement rather than a standalone sleep system — layering with insulated clothing or a sleeping bag is advised.

    What should you know before buying the Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord?

    Notes position this as an emergency backup, not a primary shelter, so expectations should be set accordingly. One host flags it specifically for "low risk" outings, suggesting it may not be sufficient for high-exposure or high-consequence situations.

    What does Mercedes Siegle-Gaither say about the Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord?

    Required bivys mean business.

    Why does Mercedes Siegle-Gaither recommend REI?

    Mercedes Siegle-Gaither recommends the REI Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord for running emergency & survival gear. Required bivys mean business.

    Is the Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord a good running emergency & survival gear?

    Yes — Mercedes Siegle-Gaither recommends the Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord by REI as their running emergency & survival gear pick. Required bivys mean business.

    More from Mercedes Siegle-Gaither's Mandatory + Crewing Gear

    View Mercedes Siegle-Gaither's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu

    What other hosts are saying

    5 experts recommend the REI Emergency Bivvy with Rescue Whistle and Tinder Cord.

    Cora Hanson, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

    If there's ever the chance you might be stuck in the elements during inclement weather, I always recommend bringing along an emergency bivvy just in case. This bivvy packs down to smaller than a soda can and only weighs 3.8 oz, which is completely worth the pack space in my opinion.

    Recommended in Saftey and Communication

    Clara Maynard, AMGA Apprentice Rock/Alpine Guide & Wilderness Medicine Instructor

    Good for some assurance on low risk light and fast adventures

    Recommended in First Aid & Emergency Equipment

    Hunter Macy, Founder @ Rendezvu

    Gotta have it!

    Recommended in Canyons 100

    Jarrod Blundy, Founder/Guide at Onward Mountain Guides

    Paired with puffy pants and coat, or a sleeping bag, this will protect you from the weather and help keep you warm on an unexpected night out.

    Recommended in Winter Hiking Kit