Evie Summers
The size of the bag needed to fit a sleeping bag depends on several factors, including the type of sleeping bag, the level of compression desired, and the intended use. For example, synthetic sleeping bags generally require larger bags than goose down bags due to their lower compressibility. Additionally, activities such as backpacking may require smaller bags to conserve space, whereas car camping allows for larger bags. It is recommended to test the stuffing process and aim for a bag that can comfortably accommodate the sleeping bag, with extra space for other items. While specific liter size recommendations vary, a range of 10 to 30 liters is generally suggested for sleeping bag storage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ideal bag volume | Depends on the sleeping bag's size, shape, and fill |
| Down sleeping bags are more compressible and require smaller volume bags | |
| Synthetic sleeping bags require larger volume bags | |
| For down models, the bag volume should be between 1.5 and 2 times the sleeping bag volume | |
| For synthetic models, more volume is needed for initial stuffing before compression | |
| Bag volume for backpacking | Should be as small as possible to save space in the backpack |
| Bag volume for car camping | Compressing the bag is unnecessary |
| Storage at home | Use a large canvas, cotton, or nylon bag to allow the sleeping bag to breathe |
| Bag volume for men's sleeping bags | Men's sleeping bags are longer and wider, requiring larger bags |
| Bag volume for women's sleeping bags | Women's sleeping bags are shorter and narrower, requiring smaller bags |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag type and fill
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the type of filling used also varies. The filling, or insulation, is one of the most important factors when choosing a sleeping bag, as it determines the degree of insulation and warmth. There are two main types of insulation: down and synthetic. Down is sourced from the underbellies of ducks and geese, and it is a natural insulation layer that sits under their protective outer feathers. Down sleeping bags have a better warmth-to-weight ratio and are more compressible, making them ideal for backpacking and extremely cold environments. They are also more durable, lasting up to 10 years if properly cared for. However, down is generally more expensive, and when it gets wet, it loses its insulating properties.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is an artificial imitation of natural down, usually made from polyester fibres. Synthetic sleeping bags are better suited for damp conditions and repeated heavy use, as they continue to insulate when wet and are easier to wash and care for. They are also generally more affordable. However, they are less insulating and heavier than down bags, and they may not last as long, with a lifespan of around 3 to 4 years.
The fill weight, or amount of insulation in the bag, is another important factor. More filling generally means better insulation and warmth, but it also increases the weight of the bag. The quality of the filling also matters—high-fill power down, for example, has a better warmth-to-weight ratio and is more compressible. The fill weight is often included in the product name of sleeping bags, such as "PipeDream 400". Additionally, hydrophobic down treatments can improve water resistance, helping the bag dry quicker and repel moisture.
The shape of a sleeping bag also affects its weight and warmth. Mummy bags, for instance, have a slim cut and a contoured hood to boost warmth and reduce weight. They provide a snug fit, with the user rolling over with the bag rather than inside it. Semi-rectangular bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. The hood of a sleeping bag is an important feature, as it adds warmth by trapping heat that would otherwise escape from the head. A properly fitting hood should wrap comfortably and naturally around the head, allowing for side-to-side movement.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the length, shoulder girth, and hip girth to ensure a proper fit. The basic idea is to minimise the amount of air space around the body, as this reduces the amount of air that needs to be heated and kept warm. However, there is a trade-off between warmth and comfort, as roomier bags provide more space to move around and may be preferable for restless sleepers or those who feel claustrophobic in tighter spaces.
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Bag compression
The volume of the bag you need to fit a sleeping bag depends on the size and shape of the sleeping bag, as well as its fill. Sleeping bags filled with down are more compressible than synthetic-filled ones and require smaller volume bags.
If you are backpacking, you will want to compress your sleeping bag as much as possible to save space in your backpack. Compression sacks are ideal for this, as they can compress sleeping bags into very small volumes. They usually come with cinch straps to further compress the bag after packing. Down sleeping bags, in particular, can be compressed to a very small size. However, synthetic bags do not compress as well as down bags and may require a larger bag.
If you are car camping, compressing your sleeping bag to a very small size is unnecessary. In this case, a stuff sack or a large canvas, cotton, or nylon bag is sufficient. You can also simply stuff the bag into your backpack without using a separate sack.
When storing your sleeping bag, it is recommended to leave it uncompressed to prevent permanent compression of the material. A large, breathable storage bag made from cotton or nylon is ideal for this.
To pack a sleeping bag into a compression sack, simply stuff the bag into the sack without folding or rolling it. Start with the foot end to make it easier to get all the air out. This method helps evenly distribute the insulation and prevents lumps in the stuffing or tears in the fabric.
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Bag volume
The volume of the bag you need to carry a sleeping bag depends on several factors, including the type of sleeping bag, the temperature rating, and the level of compression.
Down sleeping bags are more compressible than synthetic-filled ones and hence require lesser volume bags. A 10-liter bag should be enough for a down sleeping bag, with some room to spare for other items such as spare socks, a fleece, or a rain jacket. However, a synthetic sleeping bag would require a larger bag, with a volume of 15 liters or more.
The temperature rating of the sleeping bag also affects the required bag volume. A bag designed for temperatures as low as −20 degrees Celsius, for instance, would necessitate a larger bag, perhaps in the range of 14 to 20 liters.
The level of compression also plays a role in determining the required bag volume. If you're backpacking, you'll want to compress your sleeping bag as much as possible to save space in your backpack. In this case, a compression sack or stuff sack can help reduce the volume of your sleeping bag. The recommended approach is to get the smallest size possible that fits your sleeping bag.
Additionally, the length, shoulder girth, and hip girth of the sleeping bag influence the required bag volume. Men's sleeping bags typically come in regular and long sizes, catering to heights up to 6 feet and 6 feet 6 inches, respectively. Women's bags also offer regular and long options, usually accommodating heights up to 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 10 inches. The hood of the sleeping bag, which traps heat, also contributes to the overall volume required.
When choosing a bag to fit your sleeping bag, it's essential to consider the trade-off between warmth and comfort. A snugger fit will retain heat better, but a roomier bag allows for more freedom of movement and may be more comfortable for restless sleepers or those who feel claustrophobic in tighter spaces.
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Bag shape
The shape of a sleeping bag is an important factor to consider when choosing one to purchase. The shape of your sleeping bag should reflect the style of camping you plan on doing and your personal preferences.
There are three basic shapes of sleeping bags: Mummy, Rectangular, and Semi-Rectangular. Mummy bags are the most popular shape and have a snug fit that tapers toward the feet, making them the warmest option. This shape allows for the least amount of air between you and the insulating wall of the bag, meaning there is less air to heat. Mummy bags are lightweight and pack easily, making them ideal for backpacking or technical adventures that require packability and warmth. However, they can be restrictive compared to other shapes.
Rectangular sleeping bags are non-tapered designs, which are less efficient at heating but offer more freedom of movement. They are commonly chosen by warm-weather car campers who prioritise comfort over warmth.
Semi-rectangular bags are a hybrid between mummy and rectangular shapes, offering a balance between warmth and comfort. They are suitable for fair-weather trips and shorter backpacking adventures.
In addition to the bag's shape, it is important to consider the length, shoulder girth, and hip girth when choosing a sleeping bag that fits you well. The correct length for your bag should correlate with your height, with extra room allowed for a comfortable fit. For example, a 6-foot sleeping bag will measure roughly 6 feet 8 inches long, providing a 6-foot person with the necessary space to stretch out. Shoulder girth refers to the circumference of the sleeping bag across the shoulders, with men's bags typically ranging from 60 to 64 inches, and women's bags ranging from 56 to 60 inches. Hip girth is the third key measurement to consider, though specific information on this dimension was not readily available.
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Bag size
The size of the bag you need to fit a sleeping bag depends on several factors, including the type of sleeping bag, the compression it can withstand, and the amount of space available in your backpack.
Sleeping bag dimensions are typically described in terms of length, shoulder girth, and hip girth, with length being the most important factor. Men's sleeping bags usually come in regular (up to 6 feet) and long (up to 6 feet 6 inches) sizes, while women's bags are typically available in regular (up to 5 feet 4 inches) and long (up to 5 feet 10 inches) sizes.
Shoulder girth, or the circumference of the bag across the shoulders, is the second most important factor. Most men's sleeping bags have a shoulder girth ranging from 60 to 64 inches, while women's bags typically measure between 56 and 60 inches.
When choosing a bag to fit your sleeping bag, it's important to consider the type of filling. Down-filled sleeping bags are more compressible than synthetic-filled ones and require smaller volume stuff sacks. If you're backpacking, you'll want to compress your sleeping bag as much as possible to save space in your backpack. In this case, a compression sack is recommended, with the smallest size that fits your bag being the best option. For a down-filled sleeping bag, a regular dry sack may suffice, except in winter when a compression sack is needed to reduce volume.
The liter capacity of the bag you need will depend on the size and compressibility of your sleeping bag. A 10-liter bag may be sufficient for a highly compressible sleeping bag, while a larger bag, such as 20 liters or more, may be necessary for a less compressible synthetic bag.
Additionally, consider the shape and condition of your sleeping bag when choosing a bag. The bag should easily fit your sleeping bag, with some extra volume for other items. It's important to note that storing your sleeping bag in a highly compressed state for extended periods can affect its loft and performance. Therefore, it's recommended to store your sleeping bag in a larger container when not in use.
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Frequently asked questions
The size of the stuff sack depends on the size and shape of the sleeping bag, as well as its fill. Sleeping bags filled with down are more compressible and require smaller stuff sacks than synthetic-filled sleeping bags.
You can calculate the volume of your sleeping bag by stuffing it into a bucket and then measuring the volume of the used part of the bucket.
You can store your sleeping bag at home in a large canvas, cotton, or nylon net bag. This allows the bag to breathe, which is particularly important for goose down sleeping bags.
If you're using a backpack, you may not need a separate stuff sack. However, if you're concerned about moisture, you can use a trash compactor plastic bag inside the stuff sack.
A 10L compression sack should be a good fit for a 20-degree sleeping bag.
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