Ashwin Lewis
Knowing how to pack a sleeping bag is an essential skill for any camper or backpacker. While there are many shapes and storage options, the general advice is to avoid folding or rolling the bag, as this can cause repeated stress on the same parts, creating lumps in the stuffing or tears in the fabric. Instead, the recommended method is to stuff the bag into its sack, starting with the foot end, to ensure the insulation stays evenly distributed. This is especially important for down-filled bags, which can be compressed further than synthetic sleeping bags. However, it is critical to avoid storing a sleeping bag in a compressed state for long periods, as this can permanently affect its performance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to stuff a sleeping bag | Take one end and start stuffing it into the bag until it's all in, usually starting with the foot end. |
| How to store a sleeping bag | Store in a cool, dry place. Use a large mesh or fabric storage sack to protect the bag without compressing it. |
| How to dry a sleeping bag | Hang the bag in a covered outdoor space for 6-8 hours. Avoid direct sunlight. Alternatively, use a large commercial dryer on low heat. |
| How to transport a sleeping bag | Use a compression stuff sack to reduce the packed size. Place other soft gear inside to save space. |
| How to roll a sleeping bag | Lay the zipped bag flat, fold it in half lengthwise, and roll it up from the foot. Secure with attached straps or store in a bag. |
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What You'll Learn
Start with the foot end
When packing a sleeping bag, it is important to start with the foot end. This will make it easier to get all the air out and prevent the bag from getting twisted or wrapped tightly around itself, which could lead to tears when you pull it out of the sack. The footbox section of many sleeping bags contains added insulation to keep your feet warm while you sleep, which means more air gets trapped in this section compared to the rest of the bag. Therefore, starting with the foot end will help to reduce the overall volume of the bag when packed.
To begin, lay your zipped sleeping bag out flat in front of you and fold it in half lengthwise. Then, starting with the foot end, roll it up firmly towards the top of the bag. If your sleeping bag has attached straps, use them to secure the roll. If you are using a stuff sack, open it up and start pushing the sleeping bag inside, foot end first. Work the edges of the stuff sack around the sleeping bag and gently push it all the way in. You can use your hands to hold the sack and push the sleeping bag in with your foot.
If you are backpacking, it is recommended to use a compression stuff sack to reduce the packed size of your sleeping bag. These sacks have straps that help to compact the bag without requiring any physical effort on your part. They are heavier than regular stuff sacks but can be worth it for the reduction in volume and the added protection they provide against tears. However, if you don't have a stuff sack, you can simply stuff the bag into your backpack and let it fill up the empty spaces.
It is important to note that you should never store your sleeping bag in a compressed state for long periods of time as it can damage the insulation and reduce its effectiveness in trapping hot air to keep you warm. Always extract your sleeping bag from its stuff sack when you return from your trip and let it rest in a large breathable cotton or mesh sack in a cool, dry place. Additionally, make sure to brush out any dirt, twigs, or leaves and let the bag dry completely before storing it to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
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Compress with a sack
Compressing a sleeping bag into a sack is a convenient way to save space when you're on the move. However, it's important to note that storing a sleeping bag in a compressed state for long periods can permanently compress the material, reducing its ability to keep you warm. Therefore, it's best to use compression sacks for short trips only.
If your sleeping bag came with a dedicated storage sack, use that. If not, any large sack made of breathable fabric will work. You can also use a compression stuff sack, which uses straps to compact your sleeping bag without any effort on your part. With a compression sack, you can also place other soft gear, like a backpacking pillow or extra layers of clothing, inside the sack and compress everything together to save even more space.
To compress your sleeping bag into a sack, start by laying the bag out flat and zipped. Then, fold it in half lengthwise and roll it up firmly from the foot end. This will help to evenly distribute the insulation inside the bag. Once it's rolled up, you can either secure it with the attached straps or stuff it into the sack. If you don't have a stuff sack, you can use a belt or a piece of string or rope to keep the bag rolled up.
When you're ready to store your sleeping bag at home, it's best to remove it from the stuff sack and store it loosely in a large, breathable cotton or mesh sack. This will help maintain the loft of the insulation, which is critical to keeping you warm.
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Dry before storing
It is important to dry your sleeping bag before storing it, as any moisture residue can lead to a damp smell, down rot, and mildew. To dry your sleeping bag, you can either air dry it or use a dryer.
If you choose to air dry your sleeping bag, lay it flat on a clean surface in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up to dry. Be careful to distribute the weight evenly if you choose to hang it, so as not to put too much stress on the fabric. If you are using a dryer, always dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting, and check it frequently to avoid damage from heat or twisting.
If you are air drying your sleeping bag, it is recommended to let it dry overnight to ensure it is completely dry before storing it. If you are using a dryer, run it for at least an hour, but it may take longer. You can also use tennis balls or thick rolled-up socks in the dryer to help fluff up the fill and speed up the drying process.
Once your sleeping bag is dry, it is important to store it in a cool, dry, and temperature-controlled environment. Avoid storing it in a compressed state for a long time, as this can damage the fill and reduce its insulating power. Instead, store it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack, which will allow for air circulation and help maintain the sleeping bag's shape and integrity.
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Store uncompressed
Storing your sleeping bag uncompressed is the best way to maintain its quality. When a sleeping bag is stored compressed, the insulating fibres can become crushed and broken, which will affect its ability to keep you warm. The compression also causes the outer fabric to deteriorate and tear, and zips can become bent and buckled.
To store your sleeping bag uncompressed, you can either hang it up or lay it flat. Hanging your sleeping bag is a great way to save space. You can hang it by the loop at the foot of the bag, or use a storage rack to keep it off the floor. If you don't have space to hang it, you can lay it flat on a shelf or in a closet. Make sure the space is cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight to avoid damage to the bag.
If you want to use a storage bag, choose a large, breathable cotton bag that will contain the sleeping bag without compressing it. Most sleeping bags come with a jumbo cotton storage bag that is perfect for this. Slowly feed the sleeping bag into the mesh bag and shake it out to allow it maximum loft.
Before storing your sleeping bag, it's important to make sure it is completely dry. Body oils, sweat, and dirt can accumulate on the insulation fibres, compromising performance and resulting in a cold night's sleep. Wash your bag periodically, and always dry it on a low heat setting, checking frequently to avoid damage.
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Protect from water/insects
When packing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider how to protect it from water damage and insects. Here are some tips to help keep your sleeping bag dry and insect-free:
Protecting Your Sleeping Bag from Water Damage:
Firstly, it is crucial to store your sleeping bag properly when not in use. Hang it on a hook in a dry closet or storage room to prevent deformation. If hanging is not an option, keep it in a large mesh bag to protect it from insects and retain its loft. When preparing for a trip, ensure your sleeping bag is stored in a waterproof cover, especially if there is a risk of it falling into water or being exposed to rain. Consider using a lightweight rescue blanket, which can also provide extra warmth.
While some sleeping bags have a degree of Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, this tends to wear off. Applying a DWR spray can aid in water resistance, but it will not make your sleeping bag completely waterproof. For better protection, consider placing the end of your sleeping bag inside a large plastic bag or using a bivvy bag.
Protecting Your Sleeping Bag from Insects:
When travelling in areas known for bed bugs, bring your own tent and sleeping bag. This ensures that you avoid any potential infestations in local accommodations. Silk liners designed for sleeping bags are also recommended in such cases. They act as a protective barrier, reducing or eliminating bites. Additionally, natural bed bug repellents with ingredients like citronella, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil can be applied to the skin as a deterrent.
To prevent bringing bed bugs home, seal your sleeping bag and clothing in a plastic bag or knotted trash can. After a week, wash the items in hot water using a non-toxic bed bug laundry cleaner. Dry your sleeping bag according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the loft.
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Frequently asked questions
Start by laying your zipped sleeping bag out flat. Then, take one end and start stuffing it into the bag until it's all in. It's best to start with the foot end so that it's easier to get all the air out.
Most sleeping bags come with dedicated storage sacks, but any large sack made of breathable fabric will work. A compression stuff sack can also be used to reduce the packed size of your sleeping bag.
It is important to keep your sleeping bag dry and free from water. When storing your sleeping bag, make sure it is thoroughly dried and brushed out. Do not store it in a compressed state for long periods of time as this may damage the insulation.
