Colin Snow
Sleeping bags are a personal, portable bedding option for those sleeping outdoors or in situations where a traditional bed is not available. They are designed to provide warmth and thermal insulation, especially in cold weather conditions. The choice of a sleeping bag depends on various factors, including temperature ratings, insulation type, bag shape, and additional features such as stash pockets and draft collars. Sleeping bags can be categorised into camping bags, which offer more room, and backpacking bags, which are lighter and more compact. The market offers a wide range of sleeping bags, from inexpensive, lightly insulated options to well-insulated, lightweight bags for serious hikers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To provide warmth and thermal insulation for a person sleeping outdoors or in situations where they do not have a bed. |
| Design | A lightweight, portable quilt that can be closed with a zipper to form a tube. |
| Types | Mummy bags, camping bags, backpacking bags, car camping bags, double bags, indoor sleeping bags (slumber bags). |
| Material | Synthetic or down insulation. Synthetic fill is preferred for its water-resistant properties, while down fill is softer and provides more warmth. |
| Features | Stash pockets, stuff sacks, storage sacks, sleeping bag liners, hoods, draft-blocking features (draft tubes, draft collars), anti-snag zippers. |
| Temperature Rating | Based on an "average sleeper" wearing long underwear, socks, and a hat, and sleeping on an insulated pad. Lower temperature ratings indicate colder weather use. |
| Weight | Backpacking bags are more lightweight and pack down smaller than camping bags. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
There are three main rating categories: international standards (EN or ISO), trustworthy homebrew ratings (often from smaller companies), and ratings from untrustworthy companies that may manipulate the system. EN and ISO ratings are based on standardised tests that include a heated mannequin wearing light clothing and an insulated pad. The tests determine the upper limit, comfort rating, and lower limit temperatures. The upper limit is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep without sweating excessively, with the bag's hood and zippers open. The comfort rating is the temperature at which a standard female can sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. The lower limit is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep for eight hours without waking up, in a curled-up position inside the bag.
The comfort rating is used for women's bags, as data shows that the average woman will feel colder than the average man in the same bag. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. The lower limit rating, which is always lower than the comfort rating, is used for men's bags and indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is generally recommended to pick one with a lower temperature rating than the lowest expected nighttime temperature. This is because you can always unzip a bag if it gets too warm. Additionally, consider factors such as the fit of the bag, your sleeping pad, your metabolism, and whether you tend to sleep hot or cold.
Some popular sleeping bags with temperature ratings include the Marmot Women's Teton 15° Sleeping Bag, the Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1, and the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood, which is a classic rectangular bag.
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Sleeping bag insulation types
When choosing a sleeping bag, one of the most important decisions you'll have to make is the type of insulation. The insulation type directly affects the warmth, weight, water resistance, compressibility, and price of sleeping bags. The two most common types of insulation are down and synthetic.
Down insulation is made from the soft, fluffy, wispy filaments found underneath the exterior feathers on waterfowl such as ducks and geese. Down bags typically use a variety of baffled constructions, which are chambers that prevent the down from shifting and keep it distributed evenly. Higher-fill-power down requires less down to fill space and achieve a certain temperature rating, resulting in a lighter product. However, a common criticism of down insulation is its tendency to clump and lose loft when it gets wet, causing it to lose its insulation properties. Down insulation is also generally more expensive than synthetic insulation.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is typically made of polyester. Synthetic bags usually have quilted, offset quilted, or shingled constructions. Synthetic insulation has the advantage of continuing to insulate when wet, making it a better choice for damp climates. Synthetic bags are also generally less expensive and more durable than down bags, retaining warmth for longer periods. However, they are bulkier and heavier than down bags.
Some manufacturers offer hybrid sleeping bags that combine water-resistant down and synthetic insulation, providing the benefits of both materials. These hybrid bags may have the two types of insulation blended together or placed in different locations, such as durable synthetic on the bottom and lofty down on top.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider factors such as temperature rating, weight, features, and sleep system, which includes the sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and clothing. It's recommended to choose a bag rated slightly lower than the typical low temperatures you anticipate encountering. Additionally, it's crucial to test out the bag in the store before purchasing it to ensure that it fits your body comfortably and allows you to move around without compressing the insulation.
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Sleeping bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most common shapes are rectangular, semi-rectangular, and mummy. Double sleeping bags, designed for two people, are also available and typically come in a rectangular shape but with double the width of a standard bag.
Rectangular sleeping bags are the most traditional and well-known shape. They offer ample room for legs and arms to stretch out, making them a popular choice for campers who prioritise comfort over warmth. Rectangular bags are larger than other types, so they don't retain as much heat, making them ideal for warm-weather camping. They can often be unzipped and used as a comforter if the weather gets too hot.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They are generally more slender than rectangular bags, with a rounded top and slight tapering at the bottom, providing extra shoulder room. This shape is well-suited for cool-weather camping when conditions are chilly but not extremely cold.
Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are designed to boost warmth and reduce weight, with a slim cut and a contoured hood that can be cinched tight for added warmth. The overall fit is snug, and you typically roll over with the bag rather than inside it. Mummy bags are ideal for backpackers as they are lightweight and provide maximum heat retention, making them suitable for cold conditions.
Double sleeping bags are designed for couples and typically come in a rectangular shape but with double the width of a standard bag. Some double sleeping bags feature zippers on both sides for easy entry and temperature adjustment. It is also possible to create a DIY double sleeping bag by zipping together two single-sized rectangular bags of the same brand and model.
In addition to these basic shapes, sleeping bags for children are also available and are simply shorter and smaller versions of adult bags. They come in various shapes, such as mummy, rectangular, or semi-rectangular, and often feature fun prints, patterns, and colours.
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Sleeping bag features
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with different features to suit different needs. Here are some key considerations when choosing a sleeping bag:
Temperature Rating
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is crucial, as it indicates the range of temperatures the bag is designed for. Bags with lower temperature ratings will keep you warmer in colder conditions, while those with higher ratings are suitable for milder climates. If you plan to camp in cold weather, select a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest expected temperature. Bags with high-quality down clusters will provide excellent warmth-to-weight ratios. Additionally, some bags have a built-in hood, which is essential if you sleep in cold conditions.
Insulation
Sleeping bags use either down or synthetic insulation. Down-filled bags are known for their superior warmth-to-weight ratios and are often shaped to accommodate extra clothing layers. Synthetic insulation can also provide adequate warmth, and some bags even offer a combination of both types of insulation.
Shape and Size
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, including rectangular, mummy-style, and double bags for two people. Rectangular bags offer ample room to stretch out and roll over, making them popular for camping. Mummy-style bags are more snug and may have a contoured footbox to reduce empty space and keep your feet warm. Double bags provide more space and often feature various zippers and vents, allowing each occupant to adjust their temperature without disturbing the other.
Additional Features
Sleeping bags may include stash pockets for storing small items, and some even have dedicated pockets for electronics. Pillow pockets or integrated pillows can enhance comfort, especially when combined with a sleeping mat. For added convenience, look for bags with a stuff sack for compact storage and a storage sack for long-term storage.
When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the intended use, temperature ratings, insulation type, and personal preferences for comfort and features.
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Sleeping bag storage
Properly storing your sleeping bag is simple and important. Sleeping bags should be stored in a dry, cool place, like a closet, and not in damp basements, unheated spaces, or car trunks.
Before storing your sleeping bag, it should be thoroughly dried. If you don't have a mould or mildew problem, it is still recommended to wash your bag periodically, as body oils, sweat, and dirt in the insulation can compromise performance. When drying your sleeping bag, always use a low heat setting and check it frequently to avoid damage from heat or twisting. Tossing in a few clean tennis balls can help fluff up the fill and ensure that everything dries uniformly.
Sleeping bags should be stored in a large breathable cotton or mesh sack, which allows the bag to breathe and stay dry without compressing the fibres. Most sleeping bags are sold with a jumbo cotton storage bag, but if yours didn't come with one, you can use a king-size pillowcase or a large laundry bag.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping bags are insulated coverings for a person, essentially lightweight quilts that can be closed with a zipper to form a tube. They are used for warmth and thermal insulation when sleeping outdoors or when an individual does not have a bed.
Sleeping bags vary in their temperature ratings, insulation type, bag shape, and extra features. They can be differentiated based on their intended use, such as camping or backpacking. Camping bags are usually roomier, while backpacking bags are more lightweight and snug. Mummy bags are a subcategory of cold-weather sleeping bags, featuring an insulated hood.
When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the temperature rating, insulation type, and bag shape. Select a bag with a temperature rating suitable for the expected weather conditions and your sleep habits (warm or cold sleeper). Consider the insulation type, either down or synthetic, and choose a bag shape that offers comfort and ease of movement.
Sleeping bags can be considered personal items as they cater to individual preferences and needs. Factors such as body shape, sleep habits, and desired features can vary from person to person. Additionally, sleeping bags are designed to provide personalised comfort and warmth to the user in various outdoor or indoor sleeping scenarios.
When considering additional features, look for stash pockets, stuff sacks, storage sacks, and sleeping bag liners. Stash pockets provide storage for small items, while stuff sacks and storage sacks facilitate compact storage and long-term storage, respectively. Sleeping bag liners add extra warmth and help keep the bag clean. Other features to consider include hoods for added warmth, draft-blocking features to prevent warm air escape, and anti-snag zippers for convenience and durability.
