Colin Snow
A good sleeping bag is essential for camping, and there are many options available depending on your needs. Sleeping bags are designed to keep you warm and comfortable, and factors such as temperature ratings, insulation type, and bag shape should be considered when choosing one. Synthetic fills are usually cheaper, while down fills tend to be lighter and more insulating. Mummy-style bags are better at retaining heat, but rectangular bags offer more room to move around. Some popular options include the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide, the NEMO Jazz 30, the Trailmade 20, and the Alps Outdoorz Redwood, which was praised for its warmth, comfort, and stylish design.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Warmth | The bag should be able to keep you warm. Bags with low-limit temperature ratings of between 0 °F and 30 °F are good for most camping environments. |
| Insulation | Synthetic insulation retains insulating power when wet, is easier to clean, tends to be less expensive, and is less allergenic. Down insulation is more expensive, lighter, compresses well, lasts longer, and is extremely insulating for its weight. |
| Shape | Rectangular bags give more room to maneuver, while mummy-style bags are more efficient at retaining heat. |
| Packed size | A smaller packed size is more convenient for storage and transportation. |
| Comfort | A good sleeping bag should be comfortable. Features like a soft material, a smooth zipper, and a spacious design can enhance comfort. |
| Durability | The bag should be durable and able to withstand washing and camping conditions. |
| Weight | A lightweight bag is easier to carry and better suited for backpacking. |
| Price | Sleeping bags vary in price, with some options being more budget-friendly. |
| Temperature rating | The temperature rating indicates the lowest survivable temperature, not a comfortable temperature. For comfort, add around 20 °F to the rating. |
| R-value | The R-value of the sleeping pad used with the bag is important, as EN ratings are based on a sleeping pad with an R-value of 5. |
| Loft | For a 20-degree bag, 2.5" of loft is sufficient if sleeping in warm base layers. 2.75" is recommended for nude sleeping. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag warmth
Sleeping bags are assigned temperature ratings based on standardised testing. The ISO test, overseen by the International Standards Organisation, is the current standard, although the older EN (European Norm) test is also used. The ISO test involves placing an electronic mannequin, dressed in long underwear, inside the sleeping bag, which is placed on a foam sleeping pad. The surrounding air temperature is then lowered, and the amount of electrical energy required to maintain the mannequin's temperature is measured. The more energy required, the less warm the bag is considered to be.
The ISO test provides three temperature thresholds: comfort rating, limit rating, and extreme rating. The comfort rating is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable; this is the rating used for women's bags. The limit rating is the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable; this is the rating used for men's bags. The extreme rating is the temperature at which there is a serious risk of death from hypothermia within a matter of hours.
It is important to note that the temperature ratings are estimates and that real-world comfort may differ from the lab-tested ratings. This is because the lab tests cannot account for all variables, such as differences in clothing and gear, body types, weather conditions, and individual preferences. Therefore, when choosing a sleeping bag, it is recommended to consider a bag with a rating lower than the expected nighttime temperatures to ensure adequate warmth.
Some factors that can affect the warmth of a sleeping bag include the shape and materials used. For example, the mummy-style bag is more efficient at retaining heat compared to rectangular bags due to its rounded footbox and lack of corners, which eliminates potential cold spots. The quality and type of fabric can also impact warmth, with some materials providing better insulation than others.
When shopping for a sleeping bag, it is essential to consider the temperature ratings, the shape of the bag, the materials used, and personal preferences for comfort and warmth. Additionally, paying attention to the R-value of the sleeping pad used in conjunction with the bag can also impact the overall warmth of the sleeping system.
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Sleeping bag comfort
Temperature Ratings
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you warm. However, it is important to note that temperature ratings do not always reflect a comfortable temperature. For a comfortable night's sleep, it is recommended to choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating around 20 °F higher than the expected camping conditions. For example, if you plan to camp in 20°F weather, consider selecting a 0°F sleeping bag. Additionally, pay attention to the R-value of your sleeping pad, as the temperature ratings are based on a specific R-value. Using a sleeping pad with a lower R-value than what the rating is based on may result in a less comfortable experience.
Insulation
Sleeping bags typically use either synthetic or down insulation. Down insulation tends to be lighter, more compressible, longer-lasting, and highly insulating for its weight. However, it is more expensive and loses its insulating properties when wet. On the other hand, synthetic insulation retains its insulating power when wet, making it a better choice for damp conditions. Synthetic fills are also generally easier to clean, more affordable, and less likely to cause allergies.
Shape and Spaciousness
The shape of a sleeping bag can impact your comfort. Mummy-style bags are designed to retain heat more efficiently due to their rounded footbox and lack of corners that can create cold spots. However, some people may find them restrictive. Rectangular sleeping bags offer more room to move around and roll over, providing a more bed-like experience. If you are a broad-shouldered or tall camper, spaciousness is an important factor to consider. Some bags may be too narrow or short, impacting your overall comfort.
Softness and Smoothness
The softness and smoothness of the fabric are essential for a comfortable night's sleep. Look for sleeping bags with silky-soft taffeta or flannel liners that feel pleasant against your skin. Soft and smooth fabrics also help reduce noise during nighttime movements, ensuring a more peaceful sleep.
Additional Features
Sleeping bags with external stash pockets can enhance your comfort by providing convenient storage for essential items like phones, headlamps, or chapstick. Smooth zippers that are easy to locate and operate in the dark can also improve comfort by allowing for customized venting and temperature regulation throughout the night. Additionally, features like built-in pillows, draft collars, and hoods can add to your overall comfort by providing extra support and warmth.
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Sleeping bag shape
The shape of a sleeping bag is an important factor to consider when choosing the best sleeping bag for camping. The most common sleeping bag shapes are rectangular, semi-rectangular, and mummy. Each shape has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best shape for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Rectangular sleeping bags are characterized by their wide and non-restrictive shape. They offer ample room to move around, making them a good choice for those who tend to roll over or spread out while sleeping. Examples of rectangular sleeping bags include the Alps Outdoorz Redwood, the Wawona, and the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20. The Wawona, for instance, features a wide rectangular shape that provides a roomy feel, allowing for easy rolling over and stretching out. The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 also features a classic rectangular shape, giving sleepers plenty of room to maneuver.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags offer a balance between the spaciousness of a rectangular bag and the warmth retention of a mummy bag. They tend to have a more tapered design than rectangular bags, providing slightly less room to move around but still allowing for some freedom of movement. An example of a semi-rectangular sleeping bag is the NEMO Riff 30 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag, which is described as spacious despite its semi-rectangular shape.
Mummy sleeping bags are designed with a slim-fitting shape that closely follows the contours of the body. This design is highly efficient at retaining heat, as it minimizes the amount of dead space within the bag, eliminating potential cold spots. Mummy bags are an excellent choice for camping in cold or damp conditions. Popular mummy-style sleeping bags include the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 and the Trailmade Mummy Bag. The Kelty Cosmic Down 20, for instance, is praised for its ability to retain heat due to its slim-fitting mummy bag design.
In addition to these standard shapes, some sleeping bags offer unique designs that cater to specific needs. For example, the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide is a dedicated double-sleeping bag that provides plenty of space for two adults or even multiple children. The Big Agnes Sidewinder SL 20° is designed specifically for side sleepers, featuring a wider middle section that allows for easier changes in sleeping position.
When choosing the best sleeping bag shape, it's important to consider factors such as temperature ratings, comfort, and your personal sleeping habits. Rectangular bags are ideal for those who prioritize space and freedom of movement, while mummy bags excel in heat retention for colder environments. Semi-rectangular bags offer a versatile blend of both characteristics. Ultimately, the best sleeping bag shape is the one that aligns with your individual needs and ensures a comfortable and restful night's sleep during your camping trip.
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Sleeping bag weight
The weight of a sleeping bag is an important factor to consider when camping. Mummy-style sleeping bags are slim-cut designs that boost warmth and reduce weight. The Kelty Galactic 30 and the Trailmade 20 are mummy-style bags that weigh a bit over three pounds, making them good options for backpacking. Mummy bags are less spacious and not ideal for those who like to spread out. The Trailmade 20 is also compatible with other REI Trailmade gear, such as the Mummy Bag Pillow and the REI Trailmade 60 backpack.
For a step up in roominess, rectangular bags are the way to go, but they will add a considerable amount of weight. Rectangular bags are more popular for car camping than backpacking due to their larger size. The Alps Outdoorz Redwood is a massive rectangular bag that is warm, plush, super comfortable, rugged, and stylish. The North Face Wawona Bed 20 is another rectangular bag that offers more space and higher quality than the Brazos bag. The Wawona is roomy, comfortable, and easy to zip open and close, making it a great option for warm-weather camping.
Ultralight sleeping bags use thin fabrics to reduce weight, but this can compromise durability. The Sea to Summit Spark is an example of an ultralight bag that uses a thin 10-denier shell. It is important to consider the weight of a sleeping bag in relation to other gear, such as a sleeping pad and tent, especially when backpacking. Sleeping bags with a higher R-value provide more warmth for the weight, making them ideal for backpacking.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the temperature rating, type of insulation, and additional features such as stash pockets and pillow pockets. The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is a slim-fitting mummy bag that comes in 0°, 20°, and 40°F options, making it a great choice for camping in various conditions. The type of insulation, whether down or synthetic, will also affect the weight of the sleeping bag.
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Sleeping bag cost
The cost of a sleeping bag can vary depending on its features, materials, and brand. Here are some examples of sleeping bag costs based on different factors:
Temperature Rating:
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag can impact its cost. Sleeping bags with lower temperature ratings, suitable for colder climates, tend to be more expensive due to the use of insulating materials and technologies. For example, the NEMO Riff 30 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag, suitable for temperatures down to 30°F, is priced at $149.95. On the other hand, the NEMO Jazz 30 Sleeping Bag, designed for temperatures above 30°F, carries a higher price tag of $300.
Materials and Fill:
The choice of materials and fill type can also affect the cost of a sleeping bag. Down sleeping bags, such as the Feathered Friends Swallow UL 30, tend to be more expensive due to the superior insulating properties and lightweight nature of down. Down sleeping bags are often marketed as premium products, with prices to match. Synthetic sleeping bags, like the Coleman Brazos, are usually more affordable. While they may not perform as well in all conditions, they are easier to clean, less allergenic, and retain insulating power when wet.
Brand and Reputation:
Well-known brands in the outdoor industry, such as Kelty, The North Face, and NEMO, tend to charge higher prices for their sleeping bags. For example, the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide, a dedicated double sleeping bag, is priced competitively despite being a premium product. The North Face Wawona Bed 20 is another option that, while more expensive than some entry-level bags, still offers good value for money.
Special Features:
Sleeping bags with additional features may also come at a higher cost. For example, the Trailmade 20 sleeping bag has a smooth zipper, an external stash pocket, and is optimized to fit in the REI Trailmade 60 backpack. These added features cater to specific needs but can increase the overall price.
Size and Portability:
The size and portability of a sleeping bag can also impact its cost. Larger sleeping bags, such as the Alps Outdoorz Redwood, tend to be more expensive due to the increased amount of material used. Sleeping bags that pack down into a small size, like the Big Agnes Sidewinder SL 20°, often come at a premium price because of their convenience for backpacking and storage.
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Frequently asked questions
The best sleeping bag for camping depends on your specific needs. Here are some top-rated bags to consider:
- REI Hunkerdown 20 ($200)
- Kelty Cosmic Down 20 ($170 for men, $190 for women)
- Alps Outdoorz Redwood (price unavailable)
- Coleman Brazos (price unavailable)
- The North Face One Bag ($350)
There are several factors to consider when choosing a sleeping bag for camping:
- Temperature ratings: Consider the temperature range you will be camping in.
- Shape: Sleeping bags come in rectangular, semi-rectangular or "modified mummy", and mummy shapes. Rectangular bags offer more room to move around, while mummy bags are more snug and better for retaining warmth.
- Features: Look for features such as zippered stash pockets, ergonomic footboxes, and hoods, which can add warmth.
- Water resistance: If you plan to camp in damp environments, look for a bag with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish or hydrophobic down insulation.
- Price: Higher-priced bags generally offer more insulation, features, and comfort due to higher-quality materials and more spacious dimensions.
Yes, some alternatives to traditional sleeping bags include:
- Double sleeping bags: These are wider, two-person systems that can be more cost-effective than buying two single bags.
- Sleeping bag liners: Liners can be used inside your sleeping bag to add extra warmth or on their own when camping in hot weather.
