A simple guide to 4×4 bivouacking in a few key points
It’s easy to remember and will make life better for everyone.
So, you’ve found the perfect spot to settle down after a long day on the trails? Great! Now, it’s time to set up, prepare a good meal, and enjoy a night under the stars. However, bivouacking comes with responsibilities and rules.
These rules apply everywhere, not just in France. Just because you’re a traveler doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want, especially in countries with fewer resources. In fact, you have even more responsibility to be respectful and leave no trace in the places that welcome you.
Respect first
This is the golden rule, but some people tend to forget it. Respect others, nature, and the places you visit. If you want to camp in a pasture, ask the owner first—most will say yes if you’re polite. Stay on designated trails, don’t open closed gates (they usually mark private property), and always use common sense, kindness, and good manners.
Stay low-key when bivouacking
Keeping a low profile is important, both for locals who might not appreciate loud music or rowdy campers and for the wildlife around you. You’re not alone in the forests, mountains, or countryside—there are permanent residents: the animals. The quieter you are, the longer our bivouacking traditions can continue without restrictions.
Take your trash (and others’) with you
What seems obvious to most isn’t for everyone. Too often, we arrive at a beautiful spot only to find cans, plastic bags, and other garbage left behind.
✅ Always carry trash bags or a waterproof bag for waste.
✅ Pick up any trash you find, even if it’s not yours.
Yes, cleaning up after others isn’t fun, but leaving a spot cleaner than you found it helps protect the future of bivouacking.
Leave no trace & minimize your impact
This means leaving your spot exactly as you found it—or even better.
❌ Don’t pick plants—some may be rare, and we’re not all botanists!
❌ Don’t collect rocks or minerals.
❌ Burn all wood completely, and don’t leave half-burnt logs.
Whenever possible, camp in already used areas instead of disturbing untouched landscapes.
Campfires: know the rules!
A campfire is a highlight of bivouacking, but it’s also a risk.
- Check local fire regulations—in many areas, fires are banned in summer.
- Always have an extinguisher or water nearby—just in case.
- Don’t build massive bonfires—a small fire is enough.
- Only use fallen wood—never cut live trees!
- Use existing fire pits, and clear the area around your fire.
Before going to sleep, make sure the fire is completely out—a sudden gust of wind can reignite embers!
Dig a hole! (yes, for that!)
When nature calls, don’t just leave your business out in the open.
✅ Dig a small hole (15–20 cm deep).
✅ Bury everything, including toilet paper (or pack it out in a trash bag).
It only takes 30 seconds, and everyone will appreciate a cleaner campsite.
Washing, laundry & dishes in bivouac
This is common sense, but never wash dishes or clothes directly in a stream—someone downstream might be drinking that water.
✅ Use biodegradable soap like Marseille or Aleppo soap—good for washing both clothes and yourself.
✅ Check out my guide on doing laundry while bivouacking for more tips!
Social media & camping apps: be careful
After an amazing night in the wild, it’s tempting to share photos on social media.
🚫 Avoid geotagging your locations—otherwise, your secret spot could quickly become overrun with people and trash.
🚫 I strongly advise against using apps like Park4Night—they tend to ruin good spots by attracting too many campers.
🚫 Remember: If your vehicle’s license plate is visible in a post, authorities can track you down in case of an infraction!
Engage with other travelers
If you come across hikers, horseback riders, or other 4×4 adventurers, start a conversation! Sharing experiences and respecting each other helps keep our community strong.
Happy Bivouacking!
