When I go on my cycle touring trips, I usually take a tent. When I go backpacking, I generally take my hammock. It is difficult to find places to hang a hammock when cycling across the country. Carrying tents takes up a lot of space in my panniers, and sleeping on the ground is hard for me.

Solution, I got a really nice ultralite cot and a small, lightweight, bright orange waterpoof tarp. I also got a 3/4 inch PVC pipe, pipe connnector, 5 stakes, and five 3 foot pieces of reflective cordage. Put it altogether, and I created an ultralite shelter system that all fits into one smallish bag. Not including my bivy-sac and sleeping bag.

The cot is very comfortable and better than an airmat. It is also easier for me to get up from or down on to since it sits a few iches off the ground. It’s not as nice as a hammock but can set up most anywhere. Add the waterproof tarp and bivy-sac, and it is perfect for cycle touring. I only need to set the tarp up if it is going to rain hard. It is quick and easy to set up and take down as well.

I use the trike’s gear rack to tie off one end of the tarp. The PVC pipe for the other end. Then, I just stake out the four corners starting on the pipe end. I can set up the tarp first or last or not at all. This means I can more easily keep my gear dry, unlike a tent where you have the rain fly go on last.

All I need to do now is actually try it out. I am planning a cycling tour soon across the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and intend to use this system. Hopefully, it all works out.

Hope you enjoyed my blog and maybe gave you some ideas of your own.