Colin Snow
Sleeping bags are often the bulkiest item a backpacker carries, and it can be frustrating trying to fit them into your backpack. The best place for your sleeping bag is inside your backpack, as this protects it from the weather and keeps the weight closer to your body, making it easier to carry. If your sleeping bag doesn't fit in your backpack, there are a few things to consider: the size of your backpack, the packability of your sleeping bag, and your packing technique. If your sleeping bag is too big, you can try compressing it with a compression sack or switching to a down sleeping bag, which compresses smaller than synthetic ones. Alternatively, you can attach your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack, ensuring it is wrapped in something waterproof.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag type | Synthetic bags are bulkier than down bags |
| Sleeping bag quality | Premium bags compress to a smaller size |
| Sleeping bag temperature rating | Warmer bags are bulkier |
| Sleeping bag sack | Using a compression sack can reduce bag volume |
| Backpack size | A larger backpack will be easier to fit the sleeping bag |
| Backpack compartmentalisation | A backpack with a dedicated sleeping bag compartment is preferable |
| Backpack material | Waterproof backpacks protect the sleeping bag |
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What You'll Learn
Try a down sleeping bag instead of synthetic
If you're struggling to fit your sleeping bag into your backpack, it might be worth considering a down sleeping bag instead of a synthetic one. Down sleeping bags are much more compressible than synthetic bags, so they'll take up less space in your backpack. They're also much lighter, which is ideal if you're going on a lightweight adventure.
Down sleeping bags are an excellent choice for winter as they have an unbeatable warmth-to-weight ratio. It takes much less down than synthetic material to fill the same area because it lofts more. This means that down bags are lighter and provide better insulation. The higher the loft, the better the insulation. However, it's worth noting that down sleeping bags are quite pricey, and the price will vary depending on the fill power, quality, and weight.
While down sleeping bags are a great option, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest drawbacks is that down loses its insulating ability once it gets wet. The air pockets between the down provide its insulation, and these diminish when they get wet, leading to a decline in insulation power. However, some manufacturers now use Durable Water Repellent (DWR) down, also known as hydrophobic down, which is treated with a water-resistant coating to repel water and prevent clumping.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, synthetic sleeping bags are a good choice for those starting out with car camping or backpacking. Synthetic insulation is typically made from polyester fibres matted together to create sheets of fill. Synthetic bags are also perfect for warm weather when you don't need as much thickness and insulation. They're also a good option if you're unsure whether you'll like car camping or backpacking, as you may not want to spend a lot of money on a down bag.
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Use a compression sack
If your sleeping bag is too big to fit horizontally into your backpack, a compression sack can help. Compression sacks are designed to compress gear to a much smaller size, making it easier to pack. They come in various sizes, styles, weights, and brands, so you can choose one that suits your needs. Some sleeping bags even come with a compression sack when purchased, but they often need to be bought separately.
When choosing a compression sack, opt for one with a looser fit. While stuff sacks usually have a fit guide, you may need to test different options to find the right one for your sleeping bag. It's important to note that you shouldn't store your sleeping bag in a compressed state as it can break down the insulation.
To use a compression sack effectively, start by folding your sleeping bag and pushing the air out. Repeat this process a few times to remove as much air as possible. Once the sleeping bag is rolled up, tuck it under your arm and slide it into the compression sack. Use your body weight, not just the straps, to compress the bag further and get it to the bottom of the sack. Then, cinch the cord to close it. If your compression sack has compression straps, you can use them to compress the bag even more.
After your sleeping bag is compressed inside the sack, it's ready to be placed into your backpack. If your backpack has a dedicated sleeping bag compartment, you can place the compressed sack there. Otherwise, you can put it at the bottom of your backpack. If your backpack has loops and your compression sack has straps, you can also attach the sack to the outside of your backpack. Just remember to attach it at the top to keep it clean and dry.
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Pack the bag into the sleeping bag compartment
If your sleeping bag doesn't fit into your backpack, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, check if your backpack is big enough for your trip. If you're heading into the wilderness, you'll need a backpack with considerable capacity to fit your sleeping bag, tent, sleeping pad, pillow, stove, utensils, food, drink, and other hiking essentials.
If you have the right size backpack, the issue might be with the packability of your sleeping bag. Older sleeping bags might provide good insulation, but they may not pack down small, so consider investing in a lightweight option. Down sleeping bags are much more compressible than synthetic bags, so you could switch to a down bag if you haven't already. You could also try layering your sleeping gear by using two lighter bags that fit smaller than one big one.
If you've determined that your backpack and sleeping bag are the right type, the problem might be with your packing technique. Try folding your sleeping bag and pushing the air out of it. Once it's rolled up, grab your compression bag and slide the sleeping bag inside, using your body weight to compress it down, not the straps. If your bag doesn't come with a compression bag, you can purchase one separately. You can also try attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack using the tie points at the bottom of the pack. Just make sure to wrap your sleeping bag in something waterproof, like a trash bag or rain cover, to protect it from the elements.
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Attach the bag to the backpack's exterior
If your sleeping bag doesn't fit inside your backpack, you can attach it to the outside. However, it's worth noting that the best place for your sleeping bag is typically inside your backpack. This is because it protects the bag from the weather and snagging on branches or other obstacles, and it also keeps the weight closer to your body, making it easier to carry.
If you do decide to attach your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack, it's important to wrap your sleeping bag in something waterproof, like a trash bag or rain cover. This will protect your sleeping bag from the elements. Make sure your sleeping bag is tightly secured and snug against your backpack. You can use the tie points at the bottom of your backpack to attach the sleeping bag. If your backpack has loops on its back and your sleeping bag has straps, you can pull the straps through the loops and tighten them. If your backpack has straps at the top and bottom, it's best to attach the sleeping bag at the top, to avoid it getting dirty and wet.
If you're attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack, it's a good idea to consider how you pack the rest of your gear. Try to minimise the amount of space your food takes up, as it is the biggest variable weight and volume item in your pack. You can also pack your clothing loose in your backpack, cramming it into any unused spaces between other packed items.
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Use a waterproof pack liner
If you're struggling to fit your sleeping bag into your backpack horizontally, consider using a waterproof pack liner. This is a useful solution, especially if you're hiking in a rainy climate or anticipate encountering rain on your trip.
Waterproof pack liners are available in various materials and sizes. Trash compactor bags, for instance, are tougher than regular trash bags and can be used as pack liners. They can also double as pack covers if you're using a sleeping system that doesn't accommodate one. If you're looking for something more durable, consider a waterproof compression sack made from materials like cuben fiber or silnylon. These sacks can be compressed to reduce bulk and are less susceptible to punctures and tears.
Some popular options for waterproof stuff sacks include the ZPacks cuben fiber stuff sack and the Sea to Summit Evac Dry Sack, which features an Event panel that allows for compression to reduce bulk. The Sea to Summit brand also offers an ultra-sil water-resistant sack and a roll-top dry sack, both of which are popular among hikers.
When using a waterproof pack liner, it's important to ensure that your sleeping bag is properly compressed before placing it inside. This can be done by folding the sleeping bag, pushing out the air, and then rolling it up. You can then slide the compressed bag into the liner and place it inside your backpack.
By utilising a waterproof pack liner, you can effectively address the issue of a sleeping bag not fitting horizontally into your backpack while also ensuring that your gear stays dry during your outdoor adventures.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few things you can try to compress your sleeping bag to fit into your backpack. Firstly, try using a compression sack to compress the bag. Secondly, if your backpack has loops on its back and your stuff sack has straps, you can attach the bag to the outside of your backpack. Lastly, consider switching to a down sleeping bag as they are more compressible than synthetic bags.
Start by folding your sleeping bag and pushing the air out of it. Then, grab your compression bag and slide the sleeping bag into it. Once the bag is inside, use your body weight to compress it further.
If your backpack has loops on its back and your stuff sack has straps, you can pull the straps through the loops and tighten them up to secure the sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack.
