Emergency 2-Person Bivy Shelter with Accessories

When it comes to outdoor survival gear, few items are as critical as a reliable emergency shelter. The Go Time Gear Life Tent is a popular choice among hikers, campers, preppers, and emergency planners—and for good reason. In this in-depth review, we explore everything you need to know about this ultralight, mylar tube tent, including its features, pros and cons, real-world performance, and frequently asked questions.

🔍 Overview: What Is the Go Time Gear Life Tent?

The Go Time Gear Life Tent is a 2-person emergency shelter made from tear-resistant PET mylar. It’s designed for survival scenarios where warmth and protection from the elements are essential. This tent reflects up to 90% of body heat, and its lightweight design makes it ideal for inclusion in bug-out bags, glove compartments, or hiking packs.

🔧 Key Specifications:

• Dimensions (open): 8 ft x 5 ft

• Weight: 8.7 oz

• Material: 26μm thick PET mylar

• Includes: 20 ft of paracord, 120-decibel emergency whistle, and carry sack

• Color: Bright orange for visibility

• Capacity: Up to 2 adults (tight fit)

✅ Key Advantages of the Go Time Gear Life Tent

1. Ultra-Portable and Lightweight

At under 9 ounces and smaller than a soda can when packed, the Life Tent is designed with portability in mind. It fits easily into most backpacks or glove boxes and takes up minimal space in emergency kits.

This compactness makes it perfect for:

• Day hikers

• Urban emergency kits

• Bug-out bags

• Motorcycle camping setups

2. Exceptional Heat Retention

Made from NASA-designed mylar, the Life Tent reflects 90% of body heat, making it highly effective at preventing hypothermia in cold environments. Whether you’re caught in a storm or unexpectedly spending the night outdoors, it helps retain critical body warmth.

3. Quick Setup in Emergencies

The tent is a tube design, so you only need to run the included paracord between two anchor points (trees, poles, or sticks). Setup takes under 5 minutes, even in challenging conditions.

Pro tip: Use trekking poles if trees aren’t available.

4. Weather and Wind Resistant

While the Life Tent is not a luxury shelter, its durable mylar construction offers decent resistance to wind and rain. The sealed ends provide extra protection from the elements, and the material holds up well under rough conditions.

5. Multi-Function Accessories

Included with the tent are:

• A 120-decibel survival whistle, which can be heard from over a mile away—crucial for signaling rescuers.

• 20 feet of durable nylon paracord, useful for shelter setup, gear repairs, fishing lines, or fire starting.

❌ Limitations of the Life Tent

1. Tight Fit for Two Adults

While marketed as a two-person tent, it’s a snug fit. Two adults lying down shoulder to shoulder will find it cramped. If you’re tall or have gear with you, consider it a solo shelter with room for gear.

2. Condensation Issues

Because mylar is non-breathable, condensation build-up is inevitable, especially in humid environments. While this isn’t a dealbreaker for short-term use, it can be uncomfortable overnight.

3. Single-Wall Design Limits Comfort

This is a true emergency-only shelter—not meant for comfort or long-term use. There’s no ventilation or insulation beyond the mylar’s heat retention, and it can feel claustrophobic.

🎒 Real-World Usage: How Does It Perform?

Many users report that the Go Time Gear Life Tent holds up well in real-life survival scenarios. It's commonly used by:

• Hikers who stray off-trail and need a quick overnight option

• People stuck in vehicles during winter emergencies

• Campers facing sudden weather changes

• Urban dwellers assembling emergency kits

In wind and rain, it performs admirably when secured properly with paracord and weighted at the corners. Users have also improvised ground insulation using pine boughs, clothing, or emergency blankets.

🧠 Common Questions About the Go Time Gear Life Tent

❓ Is this shelter reusable?

Yes! With careful use, the Life Tent can be folded and reused multiple times. It’s not designed for prolonged repeated exposure to the elements, but it’ll last for several uses if handled gently.

❓ Can it handle rain or snow?

It offers solid water resistance, but it’s not fully waterproof like a traditional tent. It will keep you dry in light to moderate rain or snow. In heavy precipitation, try to angle the tent for runoff and use a tarp underneath if available.

❓ How do you set it up if there are no trees?

Use hiking poles, sticks, or other vertical structures to anchor the paracord. In some cases, rocks or vehicle doors can act as makeshift supports. Be creative—just ensure the ridge line is taut.

❓ Is it fire-resistant?

No. Keep it well away from open flames and sparks. Mylar can melt or ignite at relatively low temperatures.

❓ Is it suitable for kids or pets?

Yes, but due to limited space, children or pets may fare better with an individual shelter or paired with a smaller adult. Always supervise use with young children to prevent overheating or suffocation risks.

🔄 Comparison: Go Time Gear Life Tent vs. Other Emergency Shelters

💬 User Testimonials

“I bought this for my emergency car kit, and it saved me during a whiteout in Colorado. Absolutely worth the $20.”
— Ashley M., Verified Amazon Buyer

“Lightweight, simple to set up, and very warm for a foil tent. I’d suggest buying one for each family member.”
— Daryl T., Outdoor Enthusiast

“A bit tight for two people, but great peace of mind on solo hikes. Packs down tiny!”
— Monica L., Solo Hiker

🛍️ Where to Buy

You can find the Go Time Gear Life Tent on:

• Amazon

• Go Time Gear’s Official Website

• Outdoor survival gear retailers

Expect to pay around $19.95–$24.95 USD, depending on shipping and bundles.

🏁 Final Verdict: Is the Go Time Gear Life Tent Worth It?

Absolutely—especially if you're building a reliable survival kit or planning off-grid adventures. While it's not designed for extended camping trips, its lightweight form, heat retention, and emergency features make it an essential item for anyone who spends time outdoors.

✅ Ideal for:

• Hikers and campers

• Emergency preparedness kits

• Winter vehicle safety gear

• Backpackers and survivalists

❌ Not for:

• Long-term camping

• Comfort-focused overnights

Rating: 4.7 / 5 🌟