Gina Johnson
Sleeping bag compression sacks are a handy way to save space when packing for an adventure. They are stuff sacks with straps that can compress a sleeping bag to half its size or even less. This process is simple: grab the end of the sleeping bag, push and stuff it into the compression sack, and then pull the straps to tighten it. It is important to note that sleeping bags should not be stored in a compressed state as it can damage the insulation. When storing, it is best to keep the sleeping bag in a large breathable cotton or mesh sack in a cool, dry place.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Compressing sleeping bags to save space |
| Benefits | Makes hauling gear easier, saves space, can be used for other soft items like jackets |
| Storage | Should not be stored in a compressed state, store in a cool, dry place in a large mesh or cotton sack |
| Cleaning | Wash periodically, dry on a low heat setting, avoid direct sunlight |
| Compression Technique | Grab the end of the sleeping bag and push it in, stuff instead of fold, use straps to compress |
| Weight Distribution | Place heavy gear in the middle of the pack so the weight goes to the hips |
| Size | Choose a size larger than the volume of the sleeping bag, or add 5 litres to the compressed volume of the bag |
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right size compression sack
Choosing the right size compression sack for your sleeping bag is essential to ensure it remains compact, protected, and adventure-ready. Here are some tips to help you select the correct size:
Check the Sleeping Bag's Volume:
Firstly, determine the volume of your sleeping bag. Manufacturers often provide the compressed and uncompressed volume of their sleeping bags, which can be used as a guide. If this information is unavailable, you can calculate the volume by measuring and performing some simple arithmetic. Measure the radius of the circular base and the height of the stuff sack in inches. Multiply 3.2 by the square of the radius and then by the height. Finally, divide the result by 61 to obtain the volume in liters.
Consider the Type of Insulation:
The type of insulation in your sleeping bag also plays a role in determining the right compression sack size. Down sleeping bags compress more than synthetic ones. Therefore, you might need a smaller sack for down bags. As a general guideline, small (6L to 10L) compression sacks are suitable for ultralight down summer bags, medium (10L to 20L) for most 3-season down sleeping bags, and large (20L to 30L) for synthetic or winter-grade down sleeping bags.
Account for Extreme Conditions:
If you intend to use your compression sack in very cold weather or for external mounting, it is advisable to choose a size larger. This extra space can accommodate the additional gear or clothing necessary for such conditions.
Rule of Thumb:
As a quick rule of thumb, take the compressed volume of your sleeping bag and add 5 liters. This simple calculation will give you a good estimate of the minimum size of the compression sack required.
Remember, selecting the right size compression sack depends on understanding both the uncompressed size of your sleeping bag and the level of compression desired. By choosing wisely, you can maximize space efficiency and ensure adequate protection for your sleeping bag during your adventures.
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Stuff, don't fold, your sleeping bag
When packing a sleeping bag, it is important to stuff it into the compression sack rather than folding it. This is because folding can create creases in the material, which can then become cold spots and cause the installation to degrade faster.
To stuff your sleeping bag into a compression sack, first, grab the end of the sleeping bag and push it in as far as you can. Keep stuffing it in one handful at a time. It is important to stuff the bag in haphazardly, rather than rolling or folding, as this ensures the insulation remains evenly distributed.
Once the bag is fully stuffed, pull the loose straps evenly over the ends. It is recommended to put the sack on the ground and press your knee into it as you pull the straps. Hold on until all the straps are evenly tight.
In addition to your sleeping bag, you can add pillows, pyjamas, or extra clothes inside the compression sack to save even more space.
It is important to note that you should never store your sleeping bag in a compressed state for long periods of time, as this will break down the insulation. Always make sure to dry your sleeping bag thoroughly before storing it in a cool, dry place.
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Protect your bag from mould and mildew
To protect your sleeping bag from mould and mildew, it's important to properly store and dry it. Always dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting, and check it frequently to prevent damage from heat or twisting. Even if you don't have a mould or mildew problem, it is recommended to wash your bag periodically to remove body oils, sweat, and dirt that can affect its performance. If you're an avid backpacker, wash your sleeping bag once a season.
Avoid storing your sleeping bag in damp basements, unheated spaces like garages and attics, or car trunks, as moisture and temperature extremes can damage the bag. Instead, store your bag in a cool, dry place, such as a closet, inside a large breathable cotton or mesh sack. This allows for air circulation and helps prevent mould and mildew growth.
If you've been backpacking in humid conditions or your bag has been exposed to moisture, let it air dry thoroughly in a dry place for several days before storing it. You can also hang your bag outdoors in a covered area for 6 to 8 hours to dry it out, but avoid direct sunlight as UV rays can weaken the fabric.
If your bag has a mildew smell or visible signs of mould, you'll need to wash it using laundry soap, borax, laundry booster, and vinegar. Set your washing machine to a heavy-duty cycle with a maximum rinse option. After washing, dry your bag on a low or gentle heat setting. You can also use products like Pine-Sol or Febreze to eliminate mildew odours.
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Store in a cool, dry place
When storing your sleeping bag, it is important to store it in a cool, dry place. This is because moisture and temperature extremes are hard on your bag. Avoid damp basements and unheated spaces like garages and attics. If you have to store your sleeping bag in an attic, store it close to the attic hatch or eaves, where temperatures are slightly cooler. Basements are also common places to store sleeping bags, but they can be very damp, so mould might start to build up on your sleeping bag if it's not stored properly. If you have no choice but to store your sleeping bag in a basement, store it on a high shelf, as cool air and damp air will fall to the floor.
You should also avoid storing your bag in places where temperatures are likely to fluctuate or in places with high humidity. A dry and well-ventilated cupboard, like a walk-in wardrobe, is ideal. If you don't have a wardrobe, you can place it on top of your wardrobe, provided the room doesn't get too hot. Alternatively, you can store your sleeping bag under your bed, provided you have a high enough bed frame or under-bed storage.
If you're storing your sleeping bag for a long period, it's a good idea to take it out of storage every month or so to fluff it up and air it out. This will help keep your sleeping bag in good condition and prevent any specific area from being folded in one place for too long.
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Add extra items to save space
Compression sacks are a great way to save space when packing for outdoor adventures, especially when you need to pack light for multi-day hikes or camping trips. They are designed to compress bulky items like sleeping bags, jackets, and extra clothing, reducing their volume and freeing up valuable space in your backpack. This allows you to bring along additional essential items such as food, water, and camping equipment without adding extra weight or bulk.
To make the most of your compression sack and maximise space, consider adding extra items to your sleeping bag compression sack. This can include pillows, pyjamas, or extra clothes. By compressing these items together, you can create a more compact bundle and save even more space. Just remember to choose a compression sack that is slightly larger than your sleeping bag to accommodate these additional items.
Another benefit of using a compression sack is its ability to preserve the condition of your gear. Unlike folding or rolling your sleeping bag, which can create creases and wear down the insulation, stuffing it into a compression sack maintains the loft and warmth of the material. This helps extend the lifespan of your sleeping bag, keeping it in top condition for longer.
Additionally, when packing your compression sack, it is recommended to stuff your gear inside rather than folding or rolling it. This prevents creases in the material, ensuring that your sleeping bag stays lofty and warm. Once everything is inside, pull the straps evenly and tightly to compress the items further. By combining your sleeping bag with other soft items and utilising the compression straps, you can optimise your packing space and fit more into your backpack.
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Frequently asked questions
The right size depends on the compressed volume of your sleeping bag. The rule of thumb is to take the compressed volume of your sleeping bag and add 5 litres. For example, if the compressed volume of your sleeping bag is 5.3 litres, you will need a compression sack of at least 10.3 litres. It is also important to consider the materials of your sleeping bag, as different materials compress to different extents.
First, grab the end of the sleeping bag and push it in as far as you can. Keep stuffing it in one handful at a time. Do not fold or roll your sleeping bag, as this can create creases in the material, which will create cold spots and wear out the installation faster. Once everything is inside, hold the drawstring tight and pull the loose straps evenly over the ends.
Always store your sleeping bag in a cool, dry place. Extract it from its stuff sack and dry it thoroughly. Then, loosely stow it inside a large breathable cotton or mesh sack.
