Colin Snow
When it comes to sleeping bags, there are a variety of options available, spanning different materials, weights, warmth ratings, and applications. While the best sleeping bag for you depends on your specific needs, here is an introduction to some of the best cheap sleeping bags available. Down insulation, made from goose or duck plumage, is often lighter and more packable, offering better warmth for its weight compared to synthetic insulation. However, synthetic insulation is generally cheaper and more water-resistant, making it a popular choice for those in moist climates. For those seeking a cheap sleeping bag for backpacking, the Naturehike 1.26lbs Ultralight Sleeping Bag is a good option, while the Coleman Brazos is a solid choice for casual trips. The Trailmade sleeping bag is another affordable and sustainable option, although it is bulkier than other lightweight options. For car camping, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a highly recommended, comfortable, and rugged option, while the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide is ideal for two people.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Insulation | Down insulation (made from goose or duck plumage) is lighter and more packable, offering the best warmth-to-weight ratio. Synthetic insulation (like polyester) retains more warmth when wet, making it popular for moist climates. |
| Price | Cheaper synthetic materials are often used to keep costs down, but this may come at the expense of environmental friendliness. |
| Temperature Rating | Sleeping bags with higher temperature ratings tend to be bulkier and less portable. |
| Size and Weight | Larger and heavier sleeping bags are recommended for camping close to your car, while lightweight and compact bags are better for backpacking and hiking. |
| Durability | Synthetic insulation is generally more durable and less prone to allergies than down. |
| Brand | Notable brands offering cheap sleeping bags include Coleman, Teton Sports, Trailmade, Alps OutdoorZ, and Kelty. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag materials
When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get a good night's sleep outdoors. Sleeping bags come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, and the right one for you will depend on factors such as your budget, the weather conditions, and whether you plan to go backpacking or car camping.
Sleeping Bag Shapes
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, semirectangular, and mummy. Rectangular bags are the cheapest and offer plenty of room for your arms and legs to stretch out, but they are not suitable for mountain conditions. Semirectangular bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. Mummy bags are designed to boost warmth and cut weight, so they have a snug fit—you roll over with your bag rather than inside it. Mummy-shaped bags are also more efficient in terms of material usage, making them lighter and less bulky for the same overall size. Pod-shaped sleeping bags are a newer option that allows you to curl up inside and sleep in a variety of positions.
Sleeping Bag Sizes
Adult sleeping bags usually come in regular and long sizes. The smaller ones are typically designed for women or teenagers, while the long ones are meant for men. However, sizes can vary between brands, so it's essential to check the specifications before purchasing.
There are two main types of insulation used in sleeping bags: synthetic and down. Synthetic insulation is made from polyester fibres designed to mimic the properties of down. It provides warmth, durability, and moisture resistance, and it is generally more affordable than high-quality down insulation. Popular synthetic insulation brands include PrimaLoft, Climashield, and Polarguard. Synthetic bags are also machine washable and easier to maintain. However, they can be heavier and less compressible than down bags.
Down insulation, derived from the soft undercoating of ducks and geese, is lightweight, durable, and packs down well. It is also more expensive, and it loses its insulating properties when wet. Dry down is a recent innovation that coats the filaments of the feathers in a hydrophobic coating to prevent the bag from getting damp. Additionally, there are ethical concerns with down insulation due to the inhumane treatment of ducks and geese.
The shell material of a sleeping bag is crucial in protecting against the elements. Nylon is a popular choice for its balance of weight and durability, and it is often treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. Polyester is generally heavier but more affordable, and it can also be treated to improve water repellency. Ripstop fabric, a type of nylon or polyester with a grid pattern, enhances tear resistance and is commonly found in higher-end sleeping bags. Waterproof/breathable fabrics like Pertex or Gore-Tex allow moisture vapour to escape while preventing water from entering, making them ideal for wet conditions, but they can be heavier.
Temperature Ratings
Temperature ratings provide a guide to the warmth of a sleeping bag, but other factors also come into play, such as the sleeping mat and shelter. Sleeping bags are assigned two temperature ratings: limit and comfort ratings. The lower-limit rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep a warm sleeper comfortable and is typically used for men's or unisex bags. The comfort temperature is the temperature at which someone would sleep comfortably. The upper limit is the highest temperature at which someone can sleep in the bag with the zip open.
Budget Options
If you're looking for a budget-friendly sleeping bag, there are several options available for under $100. The REI Co-op Trailmade 20 sleeping bag is an excellent choice for backpackers, featuring eco-friendly materials, including 98% recycled synthetic insulation and recycled polyester on the outer shell. The Coleman Kompact 30 Rectangle Sleeping Bag is another affordable option for car camping. The Winner Outfitters Mummy Sleeping Bag is the cheapest option on the Well Traveled Mile list.
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Sleeping bag shapes and sizes
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider its shape and size. Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, semi-rectangular (or "modified mummy"), and mummy. Rectangular bags are non-tapered, allowing ample room for both legs and arms to stretch out. They are ideal for car camping in warm weather as they provide freedom of movement but are less efficient at heating. Some rectangular bags can be completely unzipped and used like a comforter.
Semi-rectangular bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They are a good choice for fair-weather campers who want extra room for comfort but still need warmth.
Mummy bags have a snug fit that tapers toward the feet, making them the warmest and most lightweight option. This shape is ideal for backpacking as it packs easily and cuts down on bulk. However, the mummy bag can be restrictive compared to the other shapes, as it has less room for leg and arm movement.
When it comes to size, sleeping bags are generally sized by their length, which should correspond to your height. For example, a 6-foot-tall person should choose a sleeping bag that is roughly 6 feet 8 inches long, providing some extra room for a comfortable fit. Most sleeping bag models offer different sizes, including small (5 ft. 6 in.), regular (6 ft.), and long (6 ft. 6 in.). It's important to choose a size with an appropriate length to minimize excess space, as extra space requires more energy to heat. Additionally, a bag that is too big will waste heat, while a bag that is too small will compress the insulation, reducing its effectiveness.
It's worth noting that the shape and size of your sleeping bag should also reflect the style of camping you plan to do. If you're car camping, you can prioritize comfort and warmth over weight and bulk. However, if you're backpacking, you'll want to choose a lightweight and packable bag that won't take up too much space in your pack.
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Sleeping bag temperature ratings
When choosing a sleeping bag, the key factor to consider is its temperature rating. Sleeping bag temperature ratings can be a complicated subject, and it's important to understand how these ratings are determined and what they mean in practice.
Firstly, it's worth noting that the bag industry has standardised the way sleeping bags are tested. Most brands now send their bags to independent labs for testing, which assign temperature ratings using standardised methods. The original standard adopted by the industry was the EN (European Norm) rating. Today, the ISO (International Standards Organization) oversees bag testing, using a method that is almost identical to the EN test. These lab-tested temperature ratings, indicated by "EN" or "ISO", allow consumers to make direct comparisons between bags from different brands.
There are three main temperature rating categories within the EN/ISO standards: 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, which is typically used for women's bags, indicates the temperature at which a standard female can expect to sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. The Lower Limit rating, usually used for men's bags, 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 these ratings are estimates and may not account for individual variations in clothing, gear, body type, and other factors.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's generally recommended to select a bag with a rating slightly lower than the coldest temperature you anticipate experiencing. This will ensure that you stay warm and comfortable during your outdoor adventures. Additionally, consider investing in a good-quality sleeping pad with an appropriate R-value, as this can significantly impact the overall warmth and comfort of your sleeping setup.
Some popular options for cheap sleeping bags with various temperature ratings include the Teton Sports Tracker 5 for extra warmth, the Coleman Brazos for casual trips, and the Kompact 30F for ample room and cushion during car camping trips.
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Sleeping bag weight and packed size
Sleeping bags are one of the heaviest and bulkiest items in your backpack, so it's important to consider weight and packed size when choosing one. The weight and size of your sleeping bag are determined by its insulation, shape, and temperature rating.
The type of insulation is the primary factor in the packed size of a sleeping bag. Advanced synthetics and high-fill-power downs deliver greater warmth for less weight than less efficient fills. The weight of the insulation itself is also important, as more fill generally means a warmer bag. However, the overall bag weight is what matters when carrying it in your backpack.
The shape of the sleeping bag also affects its weight and packed size. Mummy bags, for example, are wider at the top and taper off at the feet, making them more form-fitting and thus lighter and more compact than rectangular bags. The length and width of the bag also affect its weight and packed size, with longer and wider bags being heavier and bulkier.
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag indicates the lowest temperature at which it will keep a sleeper comfortable. Bags with lower temperature ratings will have more insulation and therefore weigh more. However, it's important to note that the warmth of a sleeping bag also depends on other variables, such as the R-value of your sleeping pad and the type of shelter you're using.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the trade-off between warmth and weight. Warmer bags tend to be heavier and bigger, while lightweight bags are crucial for minimising pack weight and space. The intended activity also matters: lightweight and compressible sleeping bags are ideal for backpacking, trekking, and hiking, while weight and size are less important for car camping or month-long expeditions.
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Sleeping bag insulation
Down insulation is made from the plumage of geese or ducks. It is lightweight, highly packable, and offers excellent warmth-to-weight ratios. Down is also very durable and can last for years of use. However, down is generally more expensive than synthetic insulation and is not inherently water-resistant. Most down insulation is now treated to make it hydrophobic, and it dries faster than synthetic insulation. When choosing a down sleeping bag, it is important to consider the ethical practices of the company, as the welfare of the animals used for down collection is a concern.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is typically made from polyester. It is often more affordable than down and retains its loft, or thickness, when wet, making it a popular choice for those who camp in moist climates. Synthetic insulation also dries faster than down, making it more resistant to mildew and rot. Synthetic sleeping bags are also less likely to aggravate allergies. The performance of synthetic insulation depends on its construction; basic synthetic bags use flat layers of insulation, while higher-quality bags use layers sewn diagonally, known as shingles. The construction method affects how well the bag can loft up and trap air.
When choosing between down and synthetic insulation, it is important to consider the intended use of the sleeping bag. For challenging conditions and subzero temperatures, a performance down sleeping bag with more chambers, or baffles, will be necessary. Synthetic bags with shingle construction or unique constructions, such as WaveLoft™, can also provide excellent insulation in challenging conditions. If you expect wet weather, synthetic insulation may be a better choice, as it performs better than down when damp. Additionally, if packability is a concern, down insulation is generally more compressible and packs down smaller than synthetic insulation.
Overall, both down and synthetic insulation have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
The REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag is a good option for backpackers as it comes in three different lengths and two widths. It is made from 98% recycled synthetic insulation and is bluesign certified. Another option is the Naturehike 1.26lbs Ultralight Sleeping Bag, which is compact and suitable for temperatures ranging from 32-43°F.
The Coleman Kompact 30 Rectangle Sleeping Bag is a good budget option for car camping. It is rectangular in shape, providing ample room to move around. The Coleman Brazos is another warm and durable option for those who only go camping a few times a year.
The Alps Outdoorz Redwood is a massive rectangular sleeping bag with a vintage design. It is constructed from high-quality materials designed to keep you warm and comfortable. The Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide is another good option for cold weather as it comes with built-in blankets, allowing sleepers to customize their warmth preferences.
