As someone who’s spent over a decade exploring the backcountry of the American West, I’ve always been fascinated by the ingenuity of the mountain men. Their ability to live comfortably and efficiently off the land was remarkable, and a key component of that was the mountain man bedroll. It wasn’t just a sleeping bag; it was a complete sleep system, designed for durability, versatility, and packability. Today, the appeal of a well-made bedroll sleeping bag is resurfacing, offering a compelling alternative to modern camping gear. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what is a bedroll to learning how to make a bedroll, including variations like the classic cowboy bedroll tarp.
The traditional mountain man bedroll was far more than just a blanket. It was a carefully constructed system designed to provide warmth, protection from the elements, and a comfortable place to sleep, often directly on the ground. Think of it as a precursor to the modern sleeping bag, but with a focus on adaptability and repairability. Historically, these were built from readily available materials like wool blankets, canvas, and animal hides. Today, we have access to more modern, lightweight options, but the core principles remain the same. A bedroll typically consists of a ground cloth, a sleeping blanket (or blankets), and a protective outer layer – often a canvas or tarp.
Modern sleeping bags excel in warmth-to-weight ratio and often feature advanced insulation technologies. However, they can be expensive and prone to damage. A sleeping bag bedroll, on the other hand, offers several advantages:
However, bedrolls generally weigh more and take up more space than comparable sleeping bags. The choice depends on your priorities and the type of adventures you undertake. For extended backcountry trips, historical reenactments, or simply a more rugged experience, a bedroll is an excellent choice.
Let’s get down to the practicalities. Here’s a breakdown of how to make a bedroll, covering both traditional and modern approaches. I’ll focus on a versatile design suitable for three-season use.
There are several variations on the basic bedroll design. Here are a couple of popular ones:
The how to make a cowboy bedroll focuses on simplicity and minimal weight. It typically consists of a single heavy blanket (often a wool serape) wrapped in a canvas or tarp. The key difference is the lack of a separate ground cloth – the outer wrap serves both purposes. This is a great option for warmer climates or shorter trips. The cowboy bedroll tarp is often left open at the head end for ventilation.
While a backpack with bedroll isn’t a standard feature of most packs, it’s entirely possible to carry a bedroll comfortably. The key is to choose a pack with a large capacity and external attachment points. Secure the bedroll to the outside of the pack using straps, ensuring it’s balanced and doesn’t interfere with your movement. Alternatively, you can pack the rolled bedroll inside the pack, but this will significantly reduce the available space for other gear. Consider a longer pack to accommodate the length of the bedroll.
While the principles of a natural life bed roll remain constant, the materials have evolved. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Material | Traditional | Modern |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Cloth | Canvas | Polyethylene Tarp, Silnylon Tarp |
| Blankets | Wool | Wool, Synthetic Fleece, Down (inside a protective shell) |
| Outer Wrap | Canvas | Canvas, Heavy-Duty Tarp |
Modern materials offer advantages in weight, water resistance, and drying time. However, traditional materials like wool retain their warmth even when wet, making them a reliable choice in challenging conditions. The born outdoor bedroll often utilizes a blend of both, leveraging the strengths of each.
Proper care will extend the life of your bedroll. Here are a few tips:
As responsible outdoor enthusiasts, it’s crucial to minimize our impact on the environment. When using a bedroll, adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace (leavenotrace.org). This includes:
The mountain man bedroll represents a connection to a simpler, more self-reliant way of life. By understanding its principles and learning how to make a roll up tarp and a functional bedroll, you can enhance your backcountry experience and embrace the spirit of adventure. Resources like the National Park Service (nps.gov) and the USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov) offer valuable information on responsible backcountry travel. And for expert advice on gear and techniques, check out REI Expert Advice.