Colin Snow
A good sleeping bag is essential for a good night's sleep outdoors. The right one for you will depend on your sleep habits, temperature preferences, and outdoor activity. The three main criteria to consider when selecting a sleeping bag are temperature rating, fill type, and shape. Other factors to consider include insulation type, weight, and extra features such as pockets and zipper coupling. If you're camping, you might prioritise roominess and warmth; if you're backpacking, you'll want to consider the weight and packability of your bag.
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
There are three main types of temperature ratings: comfort, limit, and extreme. The comfort rating is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. This is the rating used for women's bags. The lower limit rating is always lower than the comfort rating and indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable. This is the rating used for men's bags. The extreme rating is a survival rating, indicating that the sleeper will not die of exposure at this temperature. It is important to note that these ratings are based on lab testing, which may not account for all variations in real-world use, such as clothing, gear, body type, and weather conditions.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is recommended to go for a warmer rating if you tend to sleep cold. Synthetic bags are a good option if you want to stay warm in wet conditions, as they can be more affordable, while down bags have a better weight-to-warmth ratio and are more packable. Mummy-shaped bags will also provide a warmer sleep due to their form-hugging design. If you're using one bag for camping and backpacking, go for a lightweight backpacking style.
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Insulation types
When selecting a sleeping bag, the insulation type is an important consideration. The two main types of sleeping bag insulation are down and synthetic. Down insulation is made from the fluffy layer of natural insulation found beneath a goose's exterior feathers. It is light, durable, breathable, and compressible, making it ideal for cold, dry conditions. Down sleeping bags have the best warmth-to-weight ratio and are the most compressible, making them a popular choice for backpacking or bikepacking. They are also more expensive and require more careful cleaning. To identify a bag from a manufacturer that monitors the treatment of ducks and geese, look for the RDS (Responsible Down Standard) or TDS (global Traceable Down Standard) label.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is made from fine-denier man-made fibres that mimic the properties of organic down. Synthetic sleeping bags are more affordable, water-resistant, and dry faster than down bags. They are also easier to wash and care for, making them suitable for repeated heavy use. Synthetic insulation is heavier, bulkier, and less durable than down, and the loft degrades over time with repeated compression. Synthetic bags are a good choice for damp climates or float camping, as they retain their insulating properties when wet.
The type of insulation will impact the size of a sleeping bag when it is compressed in its stuff sack, with down bags generally being more compact. The distribution of insulation between the bag's liner and outer shell also varies between down and synthetic bags. Down bags typically use baffled constructions, while synthetics use quilted or shingled constructions, both designed to achieve an even distribution of insulation and avoid cold spots.
Temperature ratings are another crucial factor in selecting a sleeping bag. Sleeping bags rated from 5°F to 29°F are considered three-season bags and offer the widest selection across brands. For summertime adventures at lower elevations, a rating in the range of 30°F to 50°F is suitable. If you plan to use your bag in colder months or for winter camping, consider bags rated from -40°F to 4°F, which offer serious insulation and features to keep you warm in single-digit or negative temperatures. It is important to note that temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper" and do not account for individual factors such as metabolism, clothing, or ground conditions.
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Bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes, each with its own set of pros and cons. The most common shapes are rectangular, semi-rectangular, and mummy.
Rectangular sleeping bags are the most popular choice for camping due to their spacious and comfortable design. They allow campers to stretch out and move around freely, making them ideal for those who tend to toss and turn during sleep. These bags can also be completely unzipped and used as blankets during warmer nights. However, their drawback is that they are heavier and bulkier due to the extra material used, making them less efficient at retaining heat.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags, also known as "modified mummies" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They provide more space to move around than mummy bags, but they are more form-fitting than rectangular bags, helping to preserve warmth.
Mummy sleeping bags have a slim cut and a contoured hood that can be cinched tight to maximise warmth. They are designed to minimise bulk and weight, making them ideal for backpacking, bike packing, mountaineering, and winter camping. However, the snug fit may be uncomfortable for those who move around a lot in their sleep.
In addition to these standard shapes, sleeping bags also come in double and kids' sizes. Double sleeping bags are designed for couples, offering a roomy and snug option for two people. Kids' sleeping bags are shorter, narrower, and more affordable than adult sleeping bags, often using less technical fabrics and insulation.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider your sleeping habits, the temperature conditions, and your planned outdoor activities. If you prioritise comfort and space to move around, a rectangular bag might be best. If you're looking for a warm and lightweight option for backpacking or camping in cold weather, a mummy bag could be ideal. Trying out different bags in a store can also help you determine which shape and brand dimensions feel most comfortable for you.
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Sleeping bag liners
Liners can be made from a range of materials, including silk, fleece, microfiber, wool, Tencel, silk blend, thermal boost, or moisture management fabric. They can be purchased at a range of price points, with some options starting under $50 and higher-end models costing over $100.
Liners can improve the quality of your sleep by wicking moisture, adding warmth, and keeping your sleeping bag clean. They can also help to extend the life of your sleeping bag by reducing the number of times it needs to be washed. Liners are also easy to care for, with many being machine washable, and they don't require any special storage considerations beyond ensuring they are dry before storing.
When choosing a liner, consider the climate you'll be using it in and the features that are most important to you. For example, if you tend to sleep cold, a thermal liner might be a good option, while a moisture-wicking liner could be beneficial in warm and humid conditions.
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Sleeping bag accessories
When selecting a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the accessories that can enhance your comfort and the durability of the bag. Here are some essential sleeping bag accessories to consider:
- Sleeping bag liner: A sleeping bag liner is a great accessory that serves multiple purposes. It helps to keep your sleeping bag clean by acting as a barrier between your body and the bag, reducing the need for frequent washing of the bag itself. Additionally, a liner can provide extra warmth on colder nights. Liners are available in various materials, from soft and cosy fabrics for comfort to lightweight polyester options that pack down small and enhance warmth significantly. On warmer nights, you can even sleep directly in the liner without the bag.
- Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad is an essential accessory for added comfort and insulation from the ground. It provides a layer of cushioning, ensuring a more comfortable night's sleep. Sleeping pads come in different thicknesses and materials, so choose one that suits your preferences and the conditions you'll be camping in. Some pads are self-inflating, while others need to be inflated manually. They can also vary in shape to match your sleeping bag, ensuring a snug fit.
- Storage sack and compression straps: To maintain the longevity of your sleeping bag, it's important to store it properly when not in use. A storage sack, typically made of breathable cotton or mesh, provides a spacious place to keep your bag. This helps retain its loft and insulation properties. Compression straps or bags are also useful for reducing the packed size of your sleeping bag when space is limited during travel.
- Repair kit: A repair kit is a valuable accessory to have on hand in case of any tears or damage to your sleeping bag. Most repair kits include patches, adhesive, and possibly a small sewing kit to fix rips or holes promptly. This helps to extend the life of your sleeping bag and ensure it remains functional and warm.
- Waterproof stuff sack: When venturing outdoors, it's always a good idea to have a waterproof stuff sack to keep your sleeping bag and other essential items dry. These sacks are designed to protect your gear from moisture, ensuring that you have a warm and dry sleeping bag even in damp conditions.
Remember, when selecting sleeping bag accessories, consider your specific needs, the climate you'll be camping in, and the features that will enhance your overall comfort and the durability of your sleeping bag.
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Frequently asked questions
The three main criteria to consider are temperature rating, fill type, and shape.
Temperature ratings are designed to help you compare one bag to another. An "average sleeper" should choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that's lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. For example, summer season sleeping bags have a rating of 30°F and higher, 3-season bags are between 15°F and 30°F, and winter camping bags have a rating of 15°F and lower.
The three main shapes are rectangular, semi-rectangular, and mummy. Rectangular bags are perfect for camping in the summer if you move a lot in your sleep, while mummy bags will provide a warmer sleep due to their form-hugging design.
