Let’s Dive into Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815
The Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 is a compact, lightweight shelter designed for emergency situations. Coghlans, a trusted name in outdoor gear, aims to provide a simple yet effective barrier against the elements with this product. It’s essentially a large plastic bag, but in a survival scenario, it can be a lifesaver, offering crucial protection against wind and rain and helping to retain body heat.
I was preparing for a solo backcountry hike in the Adirondacks and wanted a super lightweight emergency shelter as a backup. Space and weight were at a premium, and I needed something that wouldn’t add significant bulk to my pack. The Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 seemed like the perfect minimalist solution.
Upon unboxing (or rather, unwrapping – it comes in a simple plastic sleeve), my initial thought was, “Wow, this is compact!” The bag is incredibly lightweight and packs down to a very small size. The material felt like a heavy-duty plastic, certainly not luxurious, but seemingly robust enough for its intended purpose.
Compared to a bivy sack or even an emergency blanket, the Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 offers a fully enclosed shelter. While an emergency blanket only provides radiant heat reflection and a bivy sack is often more expensive and heavier, this bag seemed like a good middle ground for minimalist emergency protection. I also considered a SOL Emergency Bivy, but the full enclosure of the Coghlans bag swayed me, hoping for better wind protection.
Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. I knew it wasn’t a luxury item, but I hoped it would provide a basic level of protection in a pinch. My biggest concern was its durability – would it tear easily?
Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 during a simulated emergency scenario on a weekend camping trip in the Cascade Mountains. The weather was relatively mild, but I wanted to experience deploying it in a realistic setting. I spent one night inside the bag, pitched in a sheltered location.
The bag performed adequately in preventing wind chill, and it noticeably retained body heat. There wasn’t any rain during the test, so I couldn’t fully evaluate its waterproofness. However, condensation built up inside the bag overnight.
Getting into the bag was simple enough, though the opening felt a little tight. Once inside, I noticed the limited space; it’s definitely designed for one person. My biggest concern was the noise – the plastic crinkled with every movement, which would be a significant drawback in a stealth survival situation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 as part of my emergency kit for several months, including several shorter day hikes, I haven’t had to use it in a true emergency. I’ve inspected it periodically for wear and tear.
So far, the bag has held up reasonably well, considering its intended purpose. There are no rips or tears, but there are some creases and abrasions from being packed and unpacked. I’ve been careful to store it away from sharp objects.
The bag is extremely easy to clean; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to carrying a heavier bivy sack, the Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 continues to be a worthwhile trade-off for its lightweight and compact size.
Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Coghlans
- Application: Emergency, Survival
- Dimensions: 84 inches x 36 inches (213 cm x 91 cm)
- This size is large enough to accommodate most adults, but taller individuals might find it a bit snug.
- Material: Heavy-duty plastic (Polyethylene)
- The material is designed to be water-resistant and windproof, offering basic protection from the elements.
- Weight: Approximately 4 ounces (113 grams)
- This ultra-lightweight design makes it easy to carry without adding significant weight to your pack.
- Color: Typically bright orange (for visibility)
- The bright color enhances visibility in emergency situations, making it easier for rescuers to spot you.
These specifications highlight the Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815’s primary purpose: providing a lightweight, packable emergency shelter. The material, while not the most durable, offers a reasonable degree of protection in a survival situation. The size is a compromise between packability and usability.
Performance & Functionality
The Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 performs its job adequately as a temporary shelter. It effectively blocks wind and helps retain body heat, crucial for preventing hypothermia.
The main weakness is its limited durability and breathability. The plastic material can tear if snagged on sharp objects, and it doesn’t allow moisture to escape, leading to condensation buildup inside. It meets basic expectations for a low-cost emergency shelter, but don’t expect luxury.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple: a large rectangular bag with a sealed bottom and an opening at the top. Build quality is adequate, considering the price point.
The bag is easy to use, requiring no setup other than unfolding it. There’s no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability is a concern, as the plastic material is prone to tearing if punctured or stressed. With careful use and storage, it should last for several uses.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it clean and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available, given its simple design. It is, however, compatible with any standard sleeping bag liner, which can add warmth and improve comfort.
Pros and Cons of Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and compact for easy packing. Its minimal weight and small packed size make it an ideal addition to any emergency kit.
- Affordable and readily available. The low cost makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.
- Provides basic protection from wind and rain. Offers essential shelter against the elements, crucial for survival.
- Retains body heat to help prevent hypothermia. Helps maintain a safe body temperature in cold conditions.
- Bright color enhances visibility in emergency situations. Increases the chances of being spotted by rescuers.
Cons
- Prone to tearing if punctured or stressed, limiting its lifespan.
- Non-breathable material leads to condensation buildup inside.
Who Should Buy Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815?
The Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 is perfect for hikers, backpackers, campers, and anyone who wants a lightweight and affordable emergency shelter in their kit. It is also suitable for survivalists seeking a minimalist backup shelter.
Those who need a more durable and comfortable shelter, or those expecting to spend extended periods in harsh conditions, should skip this product and opt for a higher-quality bivy sack or tent.
A must-have accessory would be a lightweight sleeping bag liner to add warmth and absorb moisture.
Conclusion on Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815
The Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 is a simple, affordable, and lightweight emergency shelter that provides basic protection from the elements. It’s not the most durable or comfortable option, but its packability and low cost make it a worthwhile addition to any emergency kit.
The price is definitely justified for the peace of mind it provides.
I would recommend the Coghlans All-Weather Emergency Bag 9815 to anyone looking for a minimalist, low-cost emergency shelter solution. Don’t leave home without it!