Gina Johnson
Sleeping bags are essential for camping and hiking trips, but they can be bulky and awkward to pack. In this article, we will explore the best ways to pack a sleeping bag as a carry-on item, including choosing the right bag, utilising compression sacks, and protecting your gear from the elements. We will also discuss different packing techniques and provide tips on how to efficiently use the space in your carry-on luggage. By the end of this article, you should be able to confidently pack your sleeping bag as a carry-on item and make the most of your travel adventures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag type | Down bags are warmer but bulkier and heavier. Synthetic bags are cheaper and more lightweight. |
| Sleeping bag liner | Silk liners are lightweight and luxurious. |
| Sleeping bag sack | Using a stuff sack can help compress the sleeping bag to a smaller size. |
| Backpack size | A 40L backpack should be sufficient for carrying a sleeping bag. A 50L backpack will provide more room but may be unnecessary. |
| Backpack weight | The backpack should not weigh more than 8kg, including the sleeping bag. |
| Backpack protection | Use a waterproof backpack or line the interior with a trash compactor bag or dry bag to protect the sleeping bag from getting wet. |
| Backpack straps | Ensure that the backpack has adjustable straps to secure the sleeping bag and balance the weight. |
| Backpack storage | If possible, store the sleeping bag inside the backpack to protect it from damage and moisture. |
| Backpack attachment | If attaching the sleeping bag to the outside of the backpack, use gear loops or compression buckles to secure it. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a liner
Sleeping bag liners are thin fabric layers that go inside your sleeping bag to add extra warmth on cold nights. They are also useful in hot climates, where you can use a liner by itself, without a sleeping bag. Liners are also helpful in keeping your sleeping bag free of dirt, sweat, body oils, sunscreen, and grime. This helps to keep your sleeping bag clean, which in turn makes it last longer. Liners are also much easier to launder than sleeping bags.
Liners are made from silk, fleece, or cotton. Silk liners are lightweight and ideal for most hikes. Fleece liners are warmer than silk liners but may be too warm for thru-hikes. Cotton liners are moisture-wicking and breathable, making them ideal for humid conditions. They also offer some stretch, which is great for restless sleepers.
Liners pack up small, about the size of a water bottle, but are very insulative. They can be used as blankets or draped over yourself for a two-layer blanket. Liners are also useful on sleeper trains, in hostels, or in places with questionable cleanliness or possible bedbugs.
Some liners, like the Sea to Summit Reactor Sleeping Bag Liner, offer different warmth levels, from 14 degrees F to 32 degrees F. The Reactor Extreme Liner is a good option for when the plane AC is too cold. For warmer destinations, the Big Agnes liner, made with wool, is a good option as wool helps regulate body temperature in both cold and hot weather.
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Compress the bag
Compressing a sleeping bag is a great way to save space and make your trip more manageable. Here is a detailed guide on how to compress your sleeping bag effectively:
Prepare the Sleeping Bag
Lay the sleeping bag flat and ensure it is fully zipped up. Open any vents to allow air to escape more easily. For mummy sleeping bags, it is recommended to fold it in half lengthwise first, as this will help manage bulk and make it easier to roll and fit into the compression sack later.
Remove Air
Starting from the bottom (or the foot end for mummy bags), gently roll or fold the sleeping bag towards the top, pressing down to expel air as you go. The foot end of a mummy bag is narrower, so starting from there helps push air out more efficiently. For non-mummy bags, you can also try folding it width-wise first so it becomes half as wide and twice as thick when rolled up.
Use a Compression Sack
Once the sleeping bag is rolled or folded tightly, place it inside a compression sack. Pull the compression straps evenly to ensure the bag compresses evenly. A compression sack will further reduce the packed size of your sleeping bag. It is recommended to invest in a lightweight and durable compression sack that can withstand the rigors of backpacking.
Additional Tips
- When packing the sleeping bag into the compression sack, do not fold or roll it. Simply grab one end and start stuffing it into the sack until it's all in. This will help maintain even insulation distribution and prevent lumps in the stuffing.
- If your sleeping bag did not come with a compression sack, you can purchase one separately. It is recommended to get one specifically designed for your sleeping bag for optimal results.
- Always dry your sleeping bag thoroughly before storing it, and store it in a cool, dry place. Leaving a sleeping bag in a compressed state for too long can cause it to lose its resiliency and lofting ability, impacting its warmth.
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Attach to the backpack's exterior
Attaching your sleeping bag to the exterior of your backpack can be a great way to save space inside your pack. However, it is important to remember that this method can expose your sleeping bag to the elements, potentially causing it to get wet or dirty. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions to protect your sleeping bag when attaching it to the outside of your backpack. Here are some detailed instructions on how to securely attach your sleeping bag to the exterior of your backpack:
Use the Lid: If your backpack has a lid, you can place your sleeping bag underneath it and then fasten the lid securely over the bag to hold it in place. This method helps protect your sleeping bag from the elements and keeps it snug against your pack.
Compression Straps: Loosen the compression straps on your backpack, slide your sleeping bag underneath them, and then tighten the straps to secure the bag in place. This method works best if your sleeping bag is compact and can be squeezed into a manageable size using compression sacks.
Gear Loops and Carabiners: If your backpack has gear loops, you can utilise them to attach your sleeping bag. Ensure that the straps on your sleeping bag stuff sack are long enough to reach the gear loops. You can also use carabiners or cords to attach the stuff sack to the gear loops. However, this setup might cause the bag to swing around as you move, so consider using additional carabiners or cords to stabilise it.
Bungee Cords: Bungee cords are elasticated cords with hooks on both ends. They can be used to secure your sleeping bag to your backpack, especially if your backpack's straps are not long enough. Crisscross the bungee cord over your backpack and sleeping bag, attaching the hooks to the daisy chain or compression straps. For external-frame backpacks, simply attach the hooks to the frame.
Tie Points: Many backpacks come with tie points at the bottom, which can be used to secure your sleeping bag. If your sleeping bag straps are long enough, you can utilise these tie points for a secure attachment.
Regardless of the method you choose, it is essential to ensure that your sleeping bag is protected from getting wet. Consider using a dry bag, a waterproof pack liner, or a trash bag to keep your sleeping bag dry. Additionally, be mindful of the weight distribution when attaching your sleeping bag to the exterior of your backpack, as it can affect your balance while hiking.
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Protect from water damage
To protect your sleeping bag from water damage, you can use a waterproof stuff sack, which is especially useful if you plan to carry your bag outside your backpack. Alternatively, you can place your sleeping bag inside a regular stuff sack or backpack, which has been lined with a plastic garbage bag.
If you are camping, you can protect your sleeping bag from water damage by using a tent with a waterproof base or by placing a pad on the ground underneath your sleeping bag.
You can also purchase a bivy sack or bag cover to protect your sleeping bag from rain and morning dew. However, it is important to note that you should not use a fully waterproof sleeping bag as this will prevent moisture from escaping, leading to a buildup of sweat. Instead, you can treat your sleeping bag with a waterproofing spray, but this will only aid water repellency to a limited extent.
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Balance the backpack's weight
When packing a backpack, it is important to balance the weight to ensure comfort, convenience and stability. Here are some tips to balance the weight when packing a sleeping bag as carry-on:
Assess your gear
Before you start, it is important to assess your gear and how best to prepare it for attachment. Not all backpacks are designed the same when it comes to carrying additional gear like sleeping bags. Hiking backpacks often come with built-in loops and straps designed for securing extra gear. Travel backpacks may have ample space and compartments, but lack specialized loops. Hybrid backpacks are versatile but may require additional attachments like carabiners or bungee cords.
Pack lightweight items first
When packing your backpack, start by placing lightweight items at the bottom. This includes your sleeping bag, clothing, and other odds and ends. If your sleeping bag is too big, try to compress it using a compression bag or stuff sack. You can also try switching to a smaller stuff sack to further compress your sleeping bag. Remember to use your body weight to compress, not just the straps.
Distribute weight strategically
After packing lightweight items, move on to medium-weight gear such as a water filter, first-aid kit, and stove. These items should be placed in the middle and furthest from your back. Finally, pack the heaviest equipment closest to your back and centred in the pack. This helps to lower your centre of gravity and stabilize you on rough terrain. If you are trail hiking, keep items with the most weight higher, centred between your shoulder blades. This will help to place the weight on your hips, which should carry most of the load.
Utilize compression straps
Compression straps can help to streamline your load and prevent it from shifting as you hike. They can also be used in a pinch to carry bulkier items like your sleeping bag, although you may need longer straps to accommodate it. Attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your pack may expose it to potential damage or water damage, so be sure to attach it carefully and consider storing it in a waterproof bag.
Balance weight distribution
Attaching your sleeping bag in different locations can impact balance and comfort. Always aim for a balance that feels right for your specific hike. If your sleeping bag is attached to the outside of your pack, try to balance out the weight on the other side. You can also use carabiners or cords to attach your sleeping bag to gear loops, but this may cause the bag to swing around as you move.
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Frequently asked questions
If there is no storage space inside your backpack, the simplest way is to pop the sleeping bag under the hood, also known as the 'lid' or 'brain'. This frees up other external storage points and leaves more room inside the backpack. It also helps keep your dry sleeping bag dry if your carrying sack is not fully waterproof.
Waterproof stuff sacks and rucksacks are an option, but they can be expensive and not always reliable. For extra protection, use a quality pack cover and line the interior of your pack with a trash compactor bag, a dry bag, or a plastic bag.
Most people prefer to carry their sleeping bag inside the backpack to avoid damage, dampness, or loss. However, if the sleeping bag has to be carried outside, strap it to the top of the pack and the tent to the bottom. Centre it on the pack and cinch it as tight as possible to prevent it from falling out while hiking.
Lightweight down bags are recommended as they can be compressed to a small size and are warm. Silk sleep sacks with a small down blanket are also a good option as they are compact and luxurious.
