Colin Snow
Sleeping bags are an essential item for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike. They can be a literal lifesaver in emergency situations, providing compact insulation and preventing a sudden decline in body temperature. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. Down sleeping bags, for example, are lightweight and provide excellent insulation, but they are useless when wet and can be challenging to dry. Synthetic bags, on the other hand, may be bulkier, but they retain their insulating properties even when damp. So, is the survival sleeping bag a scam, or are there legitimate options out there?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Survival, emergency, camping, hiking, mountaineering, river exploration, etc. |
| Material | Down, synthetic, wool, cotton, nylon, mylar, silk, etc. |
| Shape | Mummy, rectangular, semi-rectangular, full-cut |
| Temperature Ratings | 59°F and above, 30°F or below, 21.6°F, 20°F, 28°F, 32°F, -6°F, -15°F, etc. |
| Weight | 1.5 pounds, 2 lbs 6 oz, 2 lbs, 4 lbs, etc. |
| Portability | Ultra-lightweight, compact, bulky, etc. |
| Colours | Orange, black, green, blue, etc. |
| Features | Waterproof, vapor barrier liner, reflective properties, compression bag, storage bag, etc. |
| Brands | Stealth Angel, Marmot, Sea to Summit, Snugpak, Mountain Hardwear, Blizzard Survival, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Survival sleeping bag features and considerations
When choosing a survival sleeping bag, there are several features and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to consider the climate and environmental factors you will be using the bag in. Determine the historical temperatures of the area and find a bag with a suitable temperature rating. For emergency preparedness, choose a sleeping bag with a rating of 0°F or lower, which will provide adequate insulation in most disaster scenarios. Synthetic sleeping bags are recommended for long-term survival as they retain their insulating properties even after prolonged use, whereas down bags can absorb moisture and become less effective over time.
The design and shape of the sleeping bag are also important considerations. Mummy bags tend to be lighter and warmer than rectangular bags, making them a good choice for survival situations. When layering two bags for added warmth, opt for a larger outer bag to accommodate the inner bag comfortably. Additionally, consider the materials used in the sleeping bag's construction. The outer material should be durable, lightweight, and synthetic, typically made from polyester.
Portability is another key factor. Look for a compact and lightweight sleeping bag that is easy to store and transport as part of your survival kit. The bag should also have a strong compression sack to protect it during travel and when not in use. Other useful features to look out for include a bright colour for visibility, a hood with a drawstring, and a zipper opening for ventilation control.
To enhance the insulation of your sleeping bag, consider using a sleeping bag liner. Silk liners are lightweight and provide additional warmth. A vapor barrier liner will also improve the efficiency of the bag's insulation but may result in sleeping in a sack full of condensed sweat, which some may find uncomfortable. Finally, remember that proper storage is crucial. Avoid storing your sleeping bag in the stuff sack as it can crush the insulation and reduce its effectiveness. Instead, store it in a cool, dry place to prolong its lifespan.
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Survival sleeping bag insulation types
Sleeping bags are designed to provide warmth and comfort during outdoor adventures such as camping, backpacking, and survival expeditions. When choosing a sleeping bag, one of the most important considerations is the type of insulation it offers. The two primary types of insulation for sleeping bags are natural insulation, such as goose down or duck down, and synthetic insulation made from various materials. Each type has unique characteristics that influence its performance, durability, and suitability for different environments and activities.
Goose down insulation, derived from the under plumage of geese, is known for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. Down sleeping bags are highly effective insulators due to their ability to trap insulating air within the light and fluffy filaments. The quality of down is measured by loft, or "fluffiness," with higher-quality down exhibiting higher fill power (FP). Down sleeping bags are generally lighter, more compressible, and longer-lasting than their synthetic counterparts. However, they tend to be more expensive, and they lose their insulating properties when wet. Down bags are also challenging to clean and dry, making them less suitable for certain conditions.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, offers several advantages. Synthetic sleeping bags retain their insulating capabilities even when wet, making them ideal for damp and cold environments. They are generally easier to clean, less allergenic, and more affordable than down bags. Synthetic insulation is also more resistant to long-term degradation, as down tends to lose its loft over extended periods of use, especially when exposed to body moisture. Synthetic bags are bulkier and may not provide the same level of warmth-to-weight ratio as down. However, advancements in technology have led to improvements in synthetic insulation, narrowing the performance gap between the two types.
The choice between down and synthetic insulation depends on several factors, including the intended activity, climate, and duration of use. For short-term camping or backpacking, down sleeping bags are an excellent choice due to their lightweight, compressibility, and superior warmth. However, for long-term survival situations, synthetic insulation is generally recommended. Synthetic bags are more practical for extended use because they better retain their insulating properties, are easier to maintain, and are more cost-effective. Additionally, combining a down bag with a synthetic outer bag can provide added warmth and protection in extremely cold conditions.
When selecting a sleeping bag, it is essential to consider the temperature ratings and to be sceptical of manufacturer ratings. The comfort rating is crucial, as it indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will provide adequate warmth. It is also worth noting that a sleeping bag's insulation can be enhanced by using a vapor barrier liner, although this may result in sleeping in a sack full of condensed sweat, which some may find uncomfortable. Overall, the decision between down and synthetic insulation should be informed by practical considerations, balancing performance, durability, and cost to ensure a pleasant and safe outdoor experience.
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Survival sleeping bag temperature ratings
Sleeping bag temperature ratings are a crucial factor in choosing a sleeping bag for survival or camping. The ratings are designed to indicate the comfort range of a particular sleeping bag, providing information on the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep a person warm and comfortable. However, it's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates and not precise indicators of performance. Laboratory testing may not always account for real-world variations, such as differences in individuals' clothing, gear, body types, metabolism, and external factors like wind chill, humidity, and altitude.
When selecting a survival sleeping bag, it's essential to consider the climate and season you'll be using it in. Choose a bag with a temperature rating that closely matches the expected conditions. If you tend to sleep cold or are a cold sleeper, opt for a bag with a lower limit rating than the anticipated temperature. Additionally, consider the insulation type, with options including down and synthetic insulation. Down provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, while synthetic insulation retains heat even when wet. However, down absorbs moisture over time and is challenging to dry in the field, making synthetic insulation a better choice for long-term survival situations.
To enhance the insulation of your sleeping bag, consider accessories like sleeping bag liners and bivy sacks. A vapor barrier liner will improve efficiency, but it may result in sleeping in a sack full of condensed sweat, which some people may find uncomfortable. Mummy-shaped bags are also more thermally efficient than rectangular ones due to their snug fit, which minimises empty space inside the bag.
When interpreting temperature ratings, it's helpful to understand the standardised testing methods. The original standard adopted by the sleeping bag industry was the EN (European Norm) rating. Today, the ISO (International Standards Organization) oversees bag testing, providing three temperature thresholds: Comfort rating, Limit rating, and Extreme rating. The Comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper, typically a woman, might feel comfortable. The Limit rating is based on the temperature at which an average man can maintain thermal equilibrium in a curled-up position without shivering or risking hypothermia. The Extreme rating is the lowest temperature at which the bag can prevent hypothermia but is not suitable for regular camping.
In conclusion, selecting the right survival sleeping bag requires careful consideration of temperature ratings, insulation type, and accessories. By choosing a bag that matches the expected climate and your comfort preferences, you can ensure a warm and comfortable experience during your survival or camping trip. Remember to consider external factors and individual variations that may impact your perception of temperature and comfort.
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Survival sleeping bag liners
Sleeping bag liners are a great addition to your survival gear. They are versatile, lightweight, and can improve your sleep quality by wicking moisture, adding warmth, and keeping your sleeping bag clean.
Firstly, liners can be used in conjunction with a sleeping bag to add warmth. Liners made from materials such as Thermolite® can add up to 25°F of warmth, allowing you to extend the range of your lightweight sleeping bag into colder temperatures. Silk blend liners are also a good option, being lightweight, compact, and comfortable. They can add anywhere from 5° to 15°F of extra warmth, depending on the material.
Secondly, liners are useful for keeping your sleeping bag clean. They act as a barrier between you and the sleeping bag, preventing dirt, body oils, and grime from contaminating the bag. This helps to maintain the insulation and longevity of your sleeping bag, reducing the number of times it needs to be washed. Liners are much easier to launder than sleeping bags, and some liners, such as those made from synthetic materials, are machine washable and moisture-wicking, making them ideal for humid conditions.
Thirdly, liners can be used on their own in hot climates. Rectangular liners, also known as travel sheets, can be used independently or inside a rectangular sleeping bag. They are useful for travellers staying in hostels or sleeping in questionable bedding, as they provide a hygienic layer between you and the bed.
When choosing a liner, consider the climate and conditions you will be facing. If you are expecting cold temperatures, a liner that adds warmth is essential. For humid conditions, a synthetic liner with moisture-wicking properties is ideal. If you are expecting bugs, consider a liner with built-in bug protection, such as the Insect Shield® offered by Sea to Summit.
Sleeping bag liners are an affordable option, with prices starting under $50 for basic models and higher-end options costing over $100. They are a versatile and lightweight addition to your survival gear, providing warmth, hygiene, and comfort during your outdoor adventures.
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Survival sleeping bag storage
Properly storing your survival sleeping bag is essential to maintaining its quality and ensuring that you get a comfortable night's sleep when using it. An incorrectly stored sleeping bag can easily become soiled or damaged, and over time, the fragile insulation fibres inside will break down, leading to a cold night's sleep.
Firstly, it is important to avoid storing your sleeping bag in the stuff sack it comes in, as this will crush the insulating material, be it down or synthetic, and reduce its effectiveness. Instead, you should hang your sleeping bag from a hook in a cool, dry room or cupboard, or loosely store it in a large cotton or mesh sack in the top of a cool cupboard. This will help prevent dirt and dust from building up and maintain air circulation. If your bag did not come with a large storage bag, you can use a king-size pillowcase.
Before storing, it is important to give your sleeping bag a thorough cleaning, as natural body oils, sweat, dirt, and grime can build up on the outer fabric and the insulation fibres over time. Most people only need to do this every few years, but if you are an avid backpacker, washing your bag once a season is recommended. Always dry your sleeping bag on a low heat setting and check it frequently to avoid damage from heat or twisting. You can also toss a few clean tennis balls into the dryer to help fluff up the fill and dry everything uniformly.
Once your bag is clean and dry, it is important to air out the insulation material. Unzip your sleeping bag completely and let it hang in a cool, dry place for at least four to six hours. Turn it inside out first to ensure that it dries evenly and thoroughly, but be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the exterior coating and materials.
Finally, remember that the climate where you will be using your bag is an important consideration. A sleeping bag with a comfort rating suitable for winter will be too hot in the summer, and vice versa.
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Frequently asked questions
Survival sleeping bags are designed to keep you warm and safe in extreme conditions. They are usually lightweight, compact, and waterproof. They are often brightly coloured to aid rescuers in quick identification.
Survival sleeping bags are not a scam. They are designed to provide warmth and protection in emergency situations and can be a literal lifesaver in extreme conditions.
Survival sleeping bags can be made of either natural or synthetic materials. Down is a natural insulator and provides the most warmth for the least bulk and weight. However, it is useless when wet and can take a long time to dry. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is better at dealing with moisture and is a better option for long-term survival.
When choosing a survival sleeping bag, consider the climate and conditions you will be using it in. Look for a bag with a temperature rating suitable for the expected low temperatures in your area. Also, consider the size and weight of the bag, especially if you intend to backpack or canoe with it.
Yes, there are alternatives to survival sleeping bags. You can use a bed roll made of a durable mylar blanket and a wool blanket, or a tarp to wrap around your sleeping bag for added warmth. Sleeping bag liners can also be used for additional insulation or even as a sleeping bag in warmer weather.
