Rugged and compact, a bedroll makes for the perfect portable camp bed setup for hiking, biking, and all kinds of travel means and outdoor excursions. But what is a bedroll exactly? Well, hold your horses as we unfurl the facts.

In this quick guide, we list features that make up this bedroll-style camp bed, break down its advantages and benefits, and even dive into the bedroll’s history, from old frontier days to modern bushcraft. Plus, a closer look at modern canvas bedroll systems suitable for campers, motorcyclists, and more.

What Is a Bedroll?

When you break it down, a bedroll is essentially a durable exterior layer that slips either around or under a sleeping bag. Unlike typical camp bed setups that are made of two separate components – the sleeping bag set on top of a camp pad – a bedroll packs down into one contained unit. Then, you can strap it down wherever you need, ready to hit the road or trail.

Think of bedrolls as a minimalist camp bed system, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who like to travel light. Hikers strap lightweight bedrolls onto their backpacks, __ onto the saddles of pack horses, and bikers behind the seats of their motorcycles or trail bikes.

Now, that’s not to say car campers with tents can’t use bedrolls too, but bedrolls are traditionally used without tents (except tarp shelters), using their rugged features like the canvas exterior to protect against the ground and the elements.

It’s these main features that make a bedroll what it is, but let’s take a look at their other special features and how each offers advantages.

Bedroll Features and Their Benefits

Bedrolls offer a large range of features, each one lending an advantage to their compact and rugged nature. Here are some of the bedroll features you’ll find and the benefits they provide a camper.

Durable Weather-Resistant Materials

Weather-resistant materials like traditional canvas and modern heavy-duty nylon offer a hardy shell that withstands the usual wear and tear and the elements of the outdoors.

Below, the outer shell acts as light padding against rocks and rough terrain. Above, it becomes a windbreaker too, creating a barrier against the wind (especially when doubling as a tarp).

All around, it blocks moisture and cold temperatures and makes long-lasting bedding for avid campers and hikers.

Built-In Insulation and Padding

Many bedrolls offer built-in insulation and ventilation and a bit of padding to add warmth, which can keep them comfortable on colder nights. Some insulative linings are so thick they could replace sleeping bags while keeping the cold from drawing out body heat.

On the other hand, some bedrolls keep it simple for more customization, allowing you to select and swap out your own sleeping bag to fit the season or climate in which you plan to camp.

Clasps and Straps for Compact Designs

A bedroll’s compact design makes it very easy to roll up and transport. Additional touches like integrated clasps, straps, and buckles help too, which allow you to tighten the bedroll itself and securely fasten it to your ride or backpack.

It’s this compact design that makes it easy to transport, making it a favorite among cyclists and hikers who require a two-in-one bedding alternative.

Extra Grommets and Zippers

Bedrolls often feature zippers to make it easy to slip in and out of your bed. However, some bedrolls may also feature reinforced grommets, which make a handy addition.

Why would you need grommets built into a bedroll? Great question! In the event of rain or heavy winds, grommets allow you to transform your water-resistant canvas bedroll into a temporary shelter to keep you warm and dry.

The History of Bedrolls

Bedrolls are steeped in history, dating back to the American West frontier days and the Civil War and World War I up into the more modern resurgence of bushcraft. So let’s unfurl their past!

The Original Cowboy Bedrolls

While one could argue that bedrolls have existed since the ice age, bedrolls as we know them had their start on the frontier. Cowboys and ranchers of the American West – and Australia too, where they call them “swags” – were commonly used on cattle drives and long journeys.

Portable and durable, bedrolls gave frontiersmen much-needed protection against the elements, a place to sleep, and also doubled as luggage where they could keep clothes and bridles. All they had to do was hit the hay and roll out at first light.

The Civil War and World War I

The practical nature of cowboy bedrolls soon found their way into military operations, especially during the Civil War and World War I.

Similar in design to cowboy bedrolls, these military-style bedrolls often featured a lightweight design that let soldiers carry their gear, sans horse or bike, and extra touches like straps and buckles to stay secure and take personal items.

The Modern Bedroll

If you haven’t noticed, bedrolls have seen a resurgence lately. Although, now, they come with more modern features such as water-resistance coatings and insulative padded styles.

Outdoor enthusiasts have always appreciated them, but with modern Western dramas like Yellowstone, along with survivalists teaching traditional bushcraft – not to mention the increase in camping itself – bedrolls are making a name for themselves.

Today, their rugged aesthetic and minimalist nature appeal to a wider audience seeking both that old American spirit and the real feel of adventure.

The EENA Canvas Bedroll

Looking for a bedroll? Allow us to steer (as in cattle, get it?) you in the right direction. We highly recommend the versatile EENA Canvas Bedroll Tarp by Beckel – perfect for those who seek a more customizable setup with their existing sleeping bags (or for those who want the flexibility).

Designed with a water-repellent 10 oz. cotton canvas shell, the bedroll tarp cover will protect you from the elements. It acts as a waterproof groundsheet and coating to protect you from light rain and dew. Not to mention the handy built-in canvas hood.

Have a partner? Create a double-size bedroll by zipping together two.

One great feature of the EENA Canvas Bedroll cover is the reinforced grommets. Situated along the outer perimeter, the grommets allow you to strap down your bedroll or string it up between trees for a tarp shelter to resist wind and rain.

Plus, nonslip buckles and adjustable straps make it easy to carry and tie down to other camp gear.

Check out our sleeping bags and Beckel’s EENA Canvas Bedroll and create the bushcraft, old frontier day experience.