Two can replace a small tent
I backpacked a lot of National UK trails and to save weight and get more flexible, I tried out using two 58 pattern grade 1 ponchos on the Pennine Way in the 90s as an alternative to my normal 2.5kg 1 man with rucksack inside/2 man squeeze rucksacks outside tent. I slept under one as a basha or lean to when it was fair to fine, wearing one when it was wet But when it was foul weather and strong winds or when I was on a camp site, I combined them by studding together to form a large sheet 108" x 81" (274 cm x 206 cm), which was bigger than a basha. I could then fold and peg it to form a fully enclosed pyramid tent that I could sapport with a walking pole, or suspend from a tree branch, utilising half of the press studs for a door. Being nylon and vinyl here's a lot of unavoidable condensation, but that can be offset by opening one or two of the hoods. If the hood/s are kept open with a stick or attaching by line to a branch, this also allows you to light a stove or other heat source on bare ground and not worry about a flammable sewn in ground sheet, fumes or carbon monoxide build up. If you decide to buy, a squaddies tip:- It will still be waterproof, but a spray of WD 40 will help it's water repelling beading qualities when the original finish starts to wears off.
Pros: Excellent emergency shelter, Doubles as waterproof clothing, Very robust, lasting decades, Lighter than most small tents, More flexible than a tent
Cons: Heavier than other ponchos, Condensation not breathable
Would recommend: Yes
Reviewed by Gordonski in North East Lancashire
Worth the money been looking for one for months
Used them in the army, very good for making a basha and generally keeping you dry.
Pros: Light to carry, Waterproof
Cons: none
Would recommend: Yes
Reviewed by Red in Bristol
Well worth the money
I brought this poncho to put in my bag for when i go walking or get caught in the rain.
It has come in so handy it was a great investment my son even uses it as a basha when he goes away with cadets.
Pros: Compact, Handy, Can be used as a poncho or basha, Easy to use, Easy to put away
Cons: none
Would recommend: Yes
Reviewed by Mary Walker in Scotland
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