Colin Snow
When it comes to sleeping outdoors in a hammock, staying warm is crucial for a good night's rest. Sleeping bags are essential gear for hammock camping, especially in cold weather, but determining the appropriate cold rating for your sleeping bag can be challenging. Various factors, such as insulation, weather conditions, and individual preferences, come into play when selecting a sleeping bag that will provide sufficient warmth throughout your hammock camping experience. Understanding the temperature ratings on sleeping bags and the options available, such as underquilts and top quilts, is essential to making an informed decision and ensuring a comfortable night's sleep.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag temperature ratings | Lab-tested temperature ratings (indicated by "EN" or "ISO") are useful for comparing sleeping bags from different brands. |
| Comfort rating | Indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. This is the rating typically used for women's bags. |
| Lower limit rating | Indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable. This is the rating typically used for men's bags. |
| Mummy-style sleeping bags | Mummy-style bags are more efficient in cold temperatures than standard models, as they only expose the mouth and nose when fully zipped up. |
| Underquilts | Hung beneath a hammock, underquilts provide insulation for your back and sides. They are lightweight, easy to compress, and provide excellent protection from cold and wind. |
| Top quilts | Top quilts are lightweight and compact, and can be used as an alternative to sleeping bags to provide extra warmth. |
| Clothing | Bring extra clothes to double up if needed. Protecting your clothing from the cold will ensure they are warm when you need them. |
| Location | Avoid setting up camp in areas where cold air can collect, such as basins or low-lying areas. Natural wind barriers like large boulders or dense forests can provide protection from the wind. |
| Tarps | A tarp can trap heat and protect you from wind and rain when hammocking in the winter. |
| Sleeping pads | Foam and inflatable sleeping pads can be placed in your hammock to provide insulation and keep cool air at bay. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
The comfort rating, which is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, is typically used for women's bags. This rating takes into account physiological differences between traditional genders, as data shows that the "average woman" tends to feel colder than the "average man" in the same bag. To achieve the same comfort rating as a man's bag, a woman's bag usually requires more insulation, making it heavier.
The lower limit rating, which is always lower than the comfort rating, is the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable. This rating is typically used for men's bags. It's important to remember that temperature ratings are just estimates, and individual factors, such as clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and food intake, can affect your comfort level.
When it comes to hammock camping, keeping warm can be a challenge due to the compression of the insulation in the sleeping bag. Underquilts are often recommended to address this issue, as they provide excellent protection from the cold and wind while allowing you to enjoy the soft feel of the hammock fabric. Hammock campers also suggest bringing an extra sleeping bag to surround the entire hammock, creating a cocoon-like setup that provides additional warmth.
Additionally, insulating the bottom of your hammock is crucial for cold-weather hammocking. Sleeping pads made of foam or inflatable materials can help keep the cool air out. CCF pads, which are cheap, durable, and lightweight, can also be placed inside the hammock to provide insulation. Combining these insulating strategies with multiple layers of clothing can help regulate your body temperature and ensure a comfortable night's sleep.
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Using an underquilt
When it comes to hammocking in cold weather, an underquilt is a great option to keep you warm. An underquilt is an insulated quilt designed to hang underneath your hammock, preventing heat loss from the bottom. This is a better option than a sleeping bag, as the bag compresses under your body weight, reducing its insulating ability.
Underquilts are a good choice for anyone using an end-gathered style hammock, and they can be used in conjunction with a sleeping bag or a pad for extra warmth. If you plan to use a pad with your underquilt, a torso-length pad works well, and you can also use a full-length pad, though it may be difficult to get it positioned correctly. If you're using a Moskito hammock with a ridgeline, you can attach the underquilt's tensioning cords to the top of the ridgeline.
To attach an underquilt to your hammock, first lay the quilt inside the hammock, then attach the ends and adjust it so that it doesn't touch the ground. Minimise the air space between your body and the top of the quilt, but be careful not to compress the insulation with your body weight. You can also attach the fastening cord to the hammock's suspension ropes, rather than a tree.
If you're looking to save money, you can use a sleeping bag as a DIY underquilt. Simply cocoon the hammock in the sleeping bag, zipping it all the way around, and adjust it so that the insulating layer isn't crushed. A light square or modified mummy bag works best, as a full mummy bag won't accommodate the extra width of the hammock.
When choosing an underquilt, look for one with a high-loft fill, as these provide superior warmth. Closed-cell foam pads can also be used with underquilts for added warmth, and you can cut these to your exact specifications.
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Insulating the bottom of your hammock
When it comes to insulating the bottom of your hammock, there are several options to consider. One popular method is to use an underquilt, which is designed to provide excellent protection from the cold and wind while allowing you to enjoy the soft feel of the hammock fabric. Underquilts are lightweight, easy to set up, and adjustable to accommodate your weight. They are also easy to compress and fluff, making them convenient for storage and transport.
Another option is to use a sleeping pad, which can be placed inside the hammock. However, sleeping pads have some drawbacks. They can be bulky and may not provide adequate insulation, especially if they
If you already have a suitable sleeping bag, you can use it as a "top quilt" or "overquilt" in conjunction with an underquilt or pad. This can provide extra insulation and help you stay warm. Some people have found success in using a sleeping bag as a cocoon around the entire hammock, eliminating compression issues. However, a full mummy bag may not work due to its shape and size constraints when hung at an angle.
For those seeking a more creative solution, you can try a DIY approach by using bungees to rig an extra sleeping bag to function as an underquilt. This method allows for adjustability and can be a cost-effective way to add insulation to your hammock setup.
Finally, if you're looking for a more comprehensive sleeping bag system, consider a modular system that consists of multiple layers of insulated bags inside a waterproof bivy shell. This provides the flexibility to use all the bags or just some of them, depending on the temperature conditions.
When it comes to specific temperature ratings, it's important to remember that everyone's tolerance for cold is different. It's recommended to have a reasonable idea of the coldest conditions you anticipate and choose a sleeping bag or insulation system that will keep you warm in those temperatures. You can refer to lab-tested temperature ratings (indicated by "EN" or "ISO") for guidance, but keep in mind that these ratings have limitations and may not account for individual variations in clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and other factors.
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Mummy-style sleeping bags
When it comes to hammocking in cold weather, there are a few factors to consider for a comfortable experience. Firstly, understand the temperature ratings of sleeping bags. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, and this is the rating typically used for women's bags. The lower limit rating, which is lower than the comfort rating, is the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable, and this is used for men's bags. It's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates, and actual comfort levels can vary based on factors like clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and more.
Now, for mummy-style sleeping bags, these are designed to be form-fitting, providing a snug fit for the user. While they can be effective in retaining body heat due to their shape, they may not be ideal for those who move around a lot during sleep. Some people find them restrictive, especially if they are side sleepers or active sleepers. However, there are some mummy bags designed specifically for side sleepers, like the Big Agnes Sidewinder, which is shaped like a person in the fetal position, even featuring a hood that points to the side.
If you're considering a mummy bag for hammocking, it's important to think about your sleeping style and preferences. Mummy bags can work well for hammocks as they don't require a lot of space. However, a full mummy bag might not be the best option, as the hanger sleeps at an angle, and a traditional mummy bag may not accommodate this position comfortably. A modified mummy bag, which is slightly larger, may be a better choice. Additionally, consider the temperature rating of the bag based on your gender and whether you're generally a warm or cold sleeper.
Some popular options for mummy-style sleeping bags include the Thermarest Questar, which straps to the sleeping pad and offers more space for side sleepers, and the MontBell Bags, which feature a stretch system that accommodates larger individuals and those who toss and turn. The Feathered Friends Flicker is another option for active sleepers, as it offers the flexibility of a bag or quilt without a restrictive hood. If you're looking for a budget option, the Kelty Tuck is an oversized mummy bag that provides ample space, even for taller individuals, and is reasonably priced.
In conclusion, when choosing a mummy-style sleeping bag for hammocking, consider your sleeping style, the temperature ratings, and the specific features of the bag to ensure a comfortable and warm experience. Remember that a creative solution, such as using an old sleeping bag as a DIY underquilt, can also enhance your warmth in cold weather hammocking.
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Staying dry
Hammocking in cold weather requires some preparation to ensure you stay dry and warm. Firstly, let's look at staying dry.
The most important piece of equipment to keep you dry is a tarp. A large, rectangular tarp is ideal, and it should be staked closer to the ground to prevent rainwater from dripping down the suspension lines. A four-season tarp with doors is a good option, as it provides protection from all types of weather. Alternatively, a rain fly can be used to shelter you from rain, snow, and wind. It is important to ensure that your rain fly is compatible with your hammock. Understanding the direction of the wind and setting up your tarp appropriately is crucial to staying dry.
In addition to a tarp or rain fly, the clothes you wear play a significant role in keeping you dry. It is recommended to wear several layers of warm, breathable, and waterproof clothing. Your base layer should wick away moisture from your skin; avoid cotton, and opt for materials like polyester and spandex. A wind layer can provide extra protection from wind and moderate rain. Before getting into your hammock, ensure that your clothes are dry to prevent discomfort or freezing.
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Frequently asked questions
The ideal temperature rating for a sleeping bag depends on the coldest conditions you expect to encounter. Mummy-style sleeping bags are more efficient in cold temperatures than standard models, and you can also use a sleeping bag as an underquilt to insulate your hammock from below.
An underquilt is hung beneath a hammock to insulate your back and sides. It moves with the weight of the user and doesn't compress the insulation like a sleeping bag does.
Lab-tested temperature ratings are indicated by "EN" or "ISO" and are useful for comparing sleeping bags from different brands. However, these ratings are based on simulated lab conditions and may not account for all variables, so your experience may differ.
Yes, you can use a sleeping pad or mat inside your hammock to insulate yourself from the cold air or wind. Foam and inflatable pads are popular options, but you can also use a closed-cell foam (CCF) pad, which is cheaper and lighter.
Yes, you can bring extra layers of clothing, pack a top quilt, use a tarp to trap heat, or bring a hot water bottle to place near your core for extra warmth.
