Evie Summers
If you're planning an outdoor adventure, you might be considering renting a sleeping bag. It can be expensive to buy, maintain and store outdoor gear, especially if you're not going to use it regularly. Renting a sleeping bag is a great option for those who want to try something new without committing to a purchase. There are a few things to keep in mind when renting a sleeping bag: the temperature range you expect at night, whether you'll be backpacking or car-camping, and whether you need an additional mattress or air pad for extra comfort. You can rent sleeping bags online or in-store, and they can be shipped directly to your home or travel destination.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature range | 0-degree, 10-20-degree, 20-25-degree, 30-degree, 15-degree, 20-degree |
| Sleeping style | Backpacking, car-camping |
| Material | Synthetic, down |
| Shipping | Nationwide, shipped to your destination or house |
| Additional items | Mattress pad, ultralight bag liner, air pad |
| Cleaning | Cleaned and disinfected after each rental |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
There are a few standard temperature rating systems for sleeping bags, including the EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Standards Organization) ratings. These lab-tested ratings provide a range of temperatures within which the sleeping bag is intended to be used. The EN and ISO tests include using a heated mannequin wearing light clothing and a well-insulated pad to simulate how the bag will be used in the field.
The EN and ISO standards include three temperature ratings: Upper Limit, Comfort, and Lower Limit. The Upper Limit rating indicates the temperature at which a standard male can sleep without excessive perspiration, with the hood and zippers open and arms outside the bag. The Comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a standard female can expect to sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. The Lower Limit rating indicates the temperature at which a standard male can sleep for eight hours in a curled position without waking.
It's important to note that sleeping bag temperature ratings are estimates and may vary depending on individual factors such as body type, clothing, and sleeping pad used. As a rule of thumb, it's recommended to choose a sleeping bag with a comfort rating that is slightly lower than the lowest expected temperature to ensure a warm and comfortable night's sleep.
- 0-degree sleeping bags are ideal for winter adventures and high-altitude trips.
- 10-20-degree sleeping bags are recommended for cooler nights and summer nights at higher altitudes.
- 20-25-degree sleeping bags are suitable for coastal thru-hikes, summer trips to the Rocky Mountains, and lower altitudes.
- 30-degree sleeping bags are ideal for warmer climates.
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Sleeping bag materials
Sleeping bags are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is an overview of the most common materials used in sleeping bag construction:
Down
Down sleeping bags are filled with the fluffy plumes found on geese and ducks. Down is an excellent insulator, providing superior warmth with minimal weight. It is also highly compressible, making down sleeping bags easy to pack and carry. However, down loses its insulating properties when wet and can be more expensive than other options.
Synthetic
Synthetic sleeping bags are made from a variety of man-made materials, such as polyester or nylon. Synthetic bags are typically more affordable than down bags and continue to insulate even when wet. They are also easier to care for and dry more quickly than down. On the downside, synthetic bags can be heavier and bulkier than down, and may not last as long with frequent use.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural, breathable fabric that is soft and comfortable against the skin. Cotton sleeping bags are often chosen for their comfort and warmth. They are durable and suitable for a range of outdoor activities, including camping and backpacking. However, cotton can be heavy and may not be the best choice for activities where weight and packability are a priority.
Canvas
Canvas is another durable and breathable fabric used in sleeping bag construction. Canvas sleeping bags, like cotton bags, are comfortable and warm. They are made with heavier-weight material, providing excellent insulation, especially in cold weather. Canvas is also very durable and can withstand wear and tear, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, due to their weight, canvas sleeping bags may not be the best choice for backpacking.
Nylon and Polyester
Nylon and polyester are often used as the outer shell material for sleeping bags due to their durability and moisture-resistant properties. They are lightweight and strong, and many ripstop varieties are treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish to further enhance their water resistance.
Other Materials
Other specialized materials used in sleeping bag construction include microfibers and waterproof/breathable fabrics such as Dryloft, Pertex, and MemBrain. Silk is also sometimes used, which is extremely soft, breathable, and effective at dispersing heat, but it is more expensive and prone to tearing.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the intended use and environment. For example, if you plan to go backpacking, a lightweight and compact synthetic bag might be a better choice than a heavier cotton or canvas bag. On the other hand, if you're car camping and don't need to worry about weight or packability, a roomier cotton or canvas bag could provide a more comfortable and durable option.
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Sleeping bag sizes
Sleeping bags come in a variety of sizes, and the right size for you will depend on your height, your body shape, and your personal preference for space.
Most sleeping bags come in regular and long sizes, with some also offering a short option. Generally, the smaller the bag, the warmer it will be, as there is less empty space to fill with warmth. If you are close to the upper limit of a size range, it is recommended that you try both that size and the next one up to see which you prefer. If you are on the taller side (for example, 6' or above), you may want to size up for comfort, especially if you are using the bag in cold weather and need to store temperature-sensitive items. However, if you are looking to keep the weight of your bag down, you may prefer to size down.
Sleeping bags also come in different shapes, the most common being rectangular or 'mummy' bags. Rectangular bags are roomier and can be fully opened and used as blankets, but they are less effective at retaining heat. Mummy bags are more form-fitting, which helps them retain heat more efficiently, but they may not be as comfortable if you tend to toss and turn. Mummy bags are also available in left- and right-handed options, with zips on opposite sides, to make it easier to unzip when you are inside.
In addition to length and width, the shape of the foot box and the shoulders can also vary between sleeping bags. For example, some bags have wider shoulders to allow more space to move around, which may be a consideration if you are broader or plan to store gear in the foot box.
Finally, it is worth noting that sleeping bags designed for women tend to be shorter, narrower at the shoulders, and wider at the hips than unisex or men's bags.
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Sleeping bag styles
Sleeping bags come in a variety of styles, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here is a guide to help you choose the right style for your needs:
Rectangular Sleeping Bags
Rectangular sleeping bags are the most traditional type of sleeping bag. They offer plenty of space to move around, making them ideal for restless sleepers or those who may feel claustrophobic in a more form-fitting bag. Rectangular bags are typically bulkier and less insulating than other styles, but they are a good choice for warm-weather camping as they can be unzipped and used as a comforter if needed.
Semi-Rectangular/Barrel-Shaped Sleeping Bags
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags, also known as barrel-shaped bags, aim to strike a balance between warmth and roominess. They have a slightly tapered shape, with a rounded top and narrower bottom, which helps to reduce the amount of dead air in the bag and improve insulation. These bags are a good option for those who want the comfort of a rectangular bag without sacrificing too much warmth.
Mummy Sleeping Bags
Mummy sleeping bags are designed to keep you warm and cosy by contouring to the shape of your body. They have a highly tapered footbox and leg area, with more width at the hips and shoulders. The top of the bag tapers in above the shoulders and usually includes a fitted hood that can be tightened with a drawcord to retain heat. Mummy bags are typically lighter to carry than rectangular or barrel-shaped bags, but they may be less comfortable for those who like to move around in their sleep.
Double Sleeping Bags
Double sleeping bags are designed to fit two adults comfortably. They are ideal for couples who want to snuggle up together in a sleeping bag. However, the loose fit of some double bags can let in excess cold air, so it's important to consider the trade-off between warmth and insulation when choosing this style.
Big Agnes System Bags
Big Agnes System bags are designed to keep you secure on top of your sleeping pad, preventing you from rolling off. They offer more room than traditional mummy-style bags and reduce friction noise between the bag and the pad. These bags feature no insulation between the sleeping bag and pad, saving weight and bulk, and providing a more comfortable sleeping surface.
Park Series Bags
Park Series bags are extra roomy and luxurious, perfect for bigger and taller sleepers or those who want some extra space. They feature a fully removable upper quilt for versatility and can be used with different pad sizes. The doublewide versions of these bags can fit two people comfortably and include a zip-off comforter that can be converted into a single sleeping bag.
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Sleeping bag rental locations
If you're looking to rent a sleeping bag, there are a few options available to you. Many companies offer sleeping bag rentals as part of a wider camping gear rental service.
Mountain Side Gear Rental
Mountain Side Gear Rental offers a range of sleeping bags for rent, including bags for cold to warm nights and backpacking sleeping bags. They have bags available in synthetic or down materials. Mountain Side Gear Rental has a retail store in Denver, Colorado, and also offers shipping.
Lower Gear
Lower Gear offers sleeping bag rentals, shipped nationwide. They offer a range of bags for different temperature ranges, as well as an ultralight bag liner that can be added to a sleeping bag for extra warmth. They also provide advice and tips on their website to help you choose the right sleeping bag and get a good night's sleep outdoors.
REI Co-op
REI Co-op has expanded its rental offerings across the country and offers a range of outdoor gear for rent, including tents, bikes, and SUPs. While they don't specifically mention sleeping bags, they do offer camping gear, so it's worth contacting your local store to see if they have sleeping bags available for rent.
Cloud of Goods
Cloud of Goods offers a 3-season sleeping bag for rent in Louisville, Kentucky. They also provide other camping gear, such as tents, air mattresses, and portable chairs.
Local outdoor stores
In addition to these online options, you may want to check with local outdoor stores or sporting goods retailers in your area. Many stores offer rental services for various outdoor gear, including sleeping bags.
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Frequently asked questions
You can rent a sleeping bag from a number of outdoor gear rental companies. You can rent in-store or online, with the option to ship your rental bag to your home or another destination.
Sleeping bags are rated according to temperature, with 0-degree bags intended for cold winter nights and 30-degree bags for warmer climates. You should also consider whether you need a bag for backpacking or car camping, as this will affect the size and weight of the bag.
Sleeping bag rentals often do not include air pads, so you may want to rent one separately to ensure a comfortable night's sleep.
