For over a decade, I’ve been obsessed with simplifying my backcountry sleep system. As someone who spends weeks each year guiding trips in the Rockies and deserts of the Southwest, weight and packability are paramount. That’s led me down the path of the mountain man bedroll – a surprisingly versatile and comfortable option that harkens back to the days of fur trappers and explorers. This isn’t just about nostalgia; a well-made bedroll sleeping bag can be lighter, more durable, and more adaptable than many modern setups. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to make a bedroll, from choosing materials to rolling it up like a pro, and whether a cowboy bedroll tarp is right for you.
What Is a Bedroll, Anyway? A History & Modern Revival
The term bedroll conjures images of cowboys and mountain men, and for good reason. Historically, a bedroll was a simple, all-in-one sleep system consisting of a blanket (or blankets), a pad (often animal hides or straw), and a protective outer layer – usually a canvas tarp. It was designed to be rolled up and carried easily, providing shelter and warmth wherever the trail led. (National Park Service - Mountain Men)
Today, the concept is experiencing a resurgence. Modern materials offer improved warmth-to-weight ratios and durability, while the fundamental principles of simplicity and adaptability remain. A sleeping bag bedroll isn’t necessarily replacing high-tech sleeping bags, but it offers a compelling alternative, especially for those who prioritize durability, versatility, and a connection to outdoor traditions.
Why Choose a Bedroll? The Benefits & Drawbacks
Before diving into how to make a roll up tarp and assemble your own bedroll, let’s weigh the pros and cons:
Advantages of a Mountain Man Bedroll
- Durability: Canvas and wool are incredibly tough materials, far more resistant to tears and abrasions than many synthetic sleeping bag fabrics.
- Versatility: A bedroll can function as a ground cloth, a shelter (with a tarp), and of course, a sleeping system.
- Repairability: Canvas and wool are relatively easy to repair in the field with basic sewing skills.
- Breathability: Natural materials breathe well, reducing condensation buildup inside the bedroll.
- Cost-Effective (potentially): Depending on your material choices, a bedroll can be built for less than a high-end synthetic sleeping bag.
Disadvantages of a Bedroll
- Weight: Traditional materials like wool can be heavier than synthetic fills. However, modern wool blends and lightweight canvas options mitigate this.
- Bulk: A bedroll typically takes up more space than a compressed sleeping bag.
- Dry Time: Wool and canvas take longer to dry than synthetic materials if they get wet.
- Loft: Achieving the same level of loft (insulation) as a high-quality down sleeping bag can be challenging.
Building Your Bedroll: Components & Materials
Let's get practical. Here's a breakdown of the components you'll need to make a bedroll:
1. The Blanket(s)
This is your primary insulation. Options include:
- Wool: The classic choice. Wool retains warmth even when wet, is naturally fire-resistant, and is incredibly durable. Look for Pendleton or similar quality wool blankets.
- Wool Blend: A more affordable and lighter-weight option.
- Cotton: Less warm than wool, but more affordable and readily available. Best suited for warmer climates.
- Synthetic: While less traditional, a high-quality synthetic blanket can add warmth and reduce weight.
2. The Pad
Provides cushioning and insulation from the ground. Consider:
- Closed-Cell Foam Pad: Lightweight, durable, and provides excellent insulation. (REI Expert Advice - Sleeping Pads)
- Wool Pad: Traditional and very warm, but heavier and bulkier.
- Self-Inflating Pad: Offers a good balance of comfort and packability.
3. The Tarp (The Cowboy Bedroll Tarp)
Protects your bedroll from the elements and provides a waterproof barrier. This is where a cowboy bedroll tarp comes in. Key features:
- Material: Waxed canvas, silnylon, or polycryo are all good options. Waxed canvas is the most traditional and durable, but also the heaviest.
- Size: Large enough to completely enclose your bedroll with some overlap. A minimum of 8’ x 10’ is recommended.
- Grommets: For securing the tarp to the ground or creating a makeshift shelter.
4. Straps & Buckles
Essential for securing the bedroll when rolled up. Heavy-duty nylon straps and buckles are recommended.
How to Make a Cowboy Bedroll: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now for the fun part! Here’s how to make a cowboy bedroll:
- Lay out the Tarp: Spread the tarp flat on the ground.
- Layer the Pad: Place the sleeping pad in the center of the tarp.
- Layer the Blanket(s): Lay the blanket(s) on top of the pad. Arrange them so they overlap slightly.
- Roll it Up: Starting from one end, tightly roll up the pad and blanket(s) together. Keep the roll as even as possible.
- Secure with Straps: Wrap the straps around the rolled-up bedroll and buckle them tightly. Use at least two straps, spaced evenly along the length of the roll.
- Enclose in Tarp: Fold the tarp over the rolled-up bedroll, ensuring it’s completely enclosed. Secure the tarp with buckles or tie it off with cord.
Variations & Customization: Backpack with Bedroll & Natural Life Bed Roll
The beauty of the bedroll is its adaptability. Here are a few variations:
The Backpack with Bedroll System
Instead of carrying the bedroll separately, you can integrate it into a larger backpack. Many traditional-style backpacks are designed to accommodate a bedroll strapped to the outside. This is a popular option for longer expeditions. (USDA Forest Service - Backcountry Planning)
The Natural Life Bed Roll (Simplified Version)
For shorter trips or warmer weather, you can create a simplified natural life bed roll using just a blanket and a tarp, omitting the pad. This reduces weight and bulk, but also reduces comfort and insulation.
Born Outdoor Bedroll (Modern Materials)
Companies like Born Outdoor are creating modern interpretations of the bedroll, utilizing lightweight materials like ripstop nylon and synthetic insulation. These offer a good balance of traditional aesthetics and modern performance.
Bedroll Care & Maintenance
Proper care will extend the life of your bedroll sleeping bag:
- Air it Out: After each use, air out your bedroll thoroughly to prevent mildew and odors.
- Repair Tears: Repair any tears or damage promptly.
- Rewax Canvas: If using a waxed canvas tarp, re-wax it periodically to maintain its waterproofness.
- Store Properly: Store your bedroll in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Leave No Trace Principles & Bedrolls
As always, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when using a bedroll. (Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics) Pack out all trash, minimize your impact on the environment, and respect wildlife.
The mountain man bedroll is more than just a sleeping system; it’s a connection to the past and a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, rugged gear. With a little planning and effort, you can build a bedroll that will provide years of comfortable and reliable service on your outdoor adventures.