Gina Johnson
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the temperature rating, fill type, and shape. The temperature rating is the key factor, as it indicates the lowest temperature the bag is designed for. It's recommended to pick a bag with a lower temperature rating than you expect to encounter while camping. For example, a 20°F bag will get you through most of the year, and you can always unzip the bag if it gets too warm. The fill type and shape of the bag also affect its warmth and comfort. Down insulation typically has a better weight-to-warmth ratio and is more packable, while synthetic insulation is often more affordable and suitable for wet conditions. The shape of the bag can range from rectangular, which offers more room, to mummy, which is more snug and better for retaining warmth. Other factors to consider include weight, packability, and comfort, depending on the specific activity you need the bag for, such as camping or backpacking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Camping, backpacking, mountaineering, packrafting, etc. |
| Temperature rating | 32°F and up (summer), 20°F-32°F (3-season), 15°F and lower (winter) |
| Shape | Rectangular, semirectangular/modified mummy/barrel, mummy, double |
| Weight | Depends on purpose; car camping bags can be heavier, backpacking bags lighter |
| Compressibility | Depends on purpose; car camping bags can be bulkier, backpacking bags more compressible |
| Fill type | Down, synthetic |
| Ethical concerns | Down fill should be RDS or TDS certified |
| Shell | Polyester or nylon with DWR finish |
| Accessories | Sleeping pad, liner |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
Sleeping bags are typically categorized by temperature range, with ratings indicating how warm they are. The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is important as it can help you choose a bag that will keep you warm in the coldest conditions you expect to encounter. However, it can be a complicated subject, as there are many factors that can affect how warm a sleeping bag will keep you.
Firstly, it's worth noting that temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper". In reality, factors such as your sleeping pad, clothing, metabolism, and the weather conditions can all impact how warm you feel. Additionally, temperature ratings are estimates, and lab testing may not always account for real-world variations. For example, the clothing and gear used by different individuals can vary significantly, and this can affect how warm they feel in the same sleeping bag.
There are a few different rating categories to be aware of. The first is international standards from EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization). These ratings are based on lab tests that use a heated mannequin wearing light clothing and a well-insulated pad. The tests determine the upper limit, comfort, and lower-limit temperatures for a sleeper. The upper limit is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep without excessive perspiration, with the hood and zippers open. The comfort rating is the temperature at which a standard female can expect to sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. The lower limit is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep for eight hours in a curled position without waking.
It's important to note that not all sleeping bags have an ISO or EN rating. Some manufacturers set their own temperature ratings, which can make it difficult to compare products from different brands. Additionally, some bags designed for extreme cold or for children do not have these ratings.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's generally recommended to select one with a rating that is lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. This will help ensure that you stay warm enough. For example, if you're expecting temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit, consider a bag with a comfort rating of 15 or 20 degrees. If you tend to sleep cold, opt for an even warmer bag. It's also worth considering the age of your sleeping bag, as older bags may lose some of their insulating properties over time and may not perform as well as newer ones.
Finally, it's worth mentioning that the fit of the sleeping bag and individual differences in sleeping habits can also impact how warm you feel. Some people may prefer a bag that allows them to move around more, while others may prioritize a snug fit that retains heat better.
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Sleeping bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed description of the most common sleeping bag shapes:
Rectangular
Rectangular sleeping bags are the most common type, offering ample room for both legs and arms to stretch out. They are ideal for campers who prioritise comfort over warmth. Rectangular bags are usually bulkier and less efficient at retaining heat due to their larger size. However, they can be unzipped and used as a comforter in warmer weather.
Semi-Rectangular
Also known as a "modified mummy" or "barrel" shape, semi-rectangular sleeping bags offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They come in a variety of shapes, generally more slender than rectangular bags, with a rounded top and a slight taper at the bottom. This shape is well-suited for cool-weather camping when conditions are chilly but not extremely cold.
Mummy
Mummy sleeping bags are designed to boost warmth and reduce weight. They have a slim cut and a contoured hood that can be cinched tight for added warmth. The overall fit is snug, and you typically roll over with the bag rather than inside it. This shape is popular among backpackers as it is lighter and more compact, making it easier to carry.
Double
Double sleeping bags are ideal for couples who want to sleep together while camping. They are typically rectangular but double the width of a standard sleeping bag. Some double sleeping bags also come in barrel and mummy shapes. Alternatively, some rectangular single bags can be zipped together to create a double-sized sleeping bag, but they need to be the same model and brand.
Kid-Sized
Kid-sized sleeping bags are shorter and smaller variations of adult sleeping bags, making them more affordable. They come in various shapes, including mummy, rectangular, and semi-rectangular, and often feature fun prints, patterns, and colours.
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Sleeping bag insulation
The insulation of a sleeping bag is key to keeping you warm. The bag traps air and keeps it from circulating, preventing heat loss. The type of insulation used in sleeping bags varies, from bargain basement synthetics to natural down. Synthetic insulation is made from fibres, which can dry quickly and continue to provide some warmth when wet. However, they are heavier and bulkier than down. Down is a natural insulator found under the feathers of geese or ducks. It is an excellent insulator as long as it stays dry, but it does not insulate well when wet and takes a long time to dry.
The design and construction of a sleeping bag also affect its insulating performance. The loft, or thickness, of a sleeping bag is important, with puffier bags generally providing more warmth. The way the insulation is distributed and retained around the sleeper is also key, especially in the hood and foot box areas. A sleeping bag with a narrow cut may suggest greater warmth due to less "dead air", but in practice, the insulation can become flattened by the sleeper's hips and knees, creating cold spots. A bag with a more complex construction can provide better insulation without added bulk. For example, bags with multiple layers can keep the fill evenly distributed, reducing cold spots, and extra insulation can be added around the shoulders, head, and zippers to prevent heat loss at vulnerable ventilation points.
To enhance the insulating performance of your sleeping bag, you can use a liner. A liner can add several degrees of warmth to your bag and keep it clean by wicking away moisture. It is also important to choose a bag with the appropriate temperature rating for the conditions you will be sleeping in. Most quality sleeping bags are laboratory tested to determine their temperature rating, which provides a guideline for the expected performance of the bag.
Additionally, there are several tricks to help you stay warm when using a sleeping bag. These include wearing dry clothing, such as a hat and socks, and avoiding excessive layering that can isolate your core from your extremities. Using an insulated sleeping pad can also help prevent heat loss to the ground, and choosing a tent site with a natural windbreak can provide protection from windchill. Eating a high-calorie or high-carb snack before bed can help fuel your body's furnace, and doing light exercise can generate heat.
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Sleeping bag accessories
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the temperature rating and the shape of the bag. The former depends on the conditions in which you'll be camping, while the latter affects the warmth and roominess of the bag. Mummy-shaped bags, for instance, are snugger and better for retaining warmth, whereas rectangular bags offer more room for your arms and legs.
In addition to the bag itself, you might want to consider the following accessories:
- Sleeping mats or pads: These provide extra cushioning and insulation from the ground. They can be self-inflating, inflatable, or made of foam or folding material.
- Pillows: For added comfort, you can bring a regular pillow from home or purchase a specialised camping pillow.
- Liners: Sleeping bag liners can add extra warmth and protect your bag from dirt and oils.
- Bivouac bags: These are waterproof covers for your sleeping bag that can add extra warmth and protect from the elements.
- Quick-dry towels: Useful for drying off after a shower or a swim, or for wiping down your gear.
- Camping furniture: This includes items like camping tables and chairs, which can make your campsite more comfortable and convenient.
- Cookware and dishes: If you plan on cooking at your campsite, don't forget to bring pots, pans, plates, and utensils.
Remember, the temperature ratings on sleeping bags are just a guide, and everyone's experience will vary depending on factors like metabolism, circulation, and sleep clothing. It's always a good idea to test your gear beforehand if possible, and bring extra layers just in case.
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Sleeping bag weight and packability
The weight and packability of a sleeping bag are crucial factors when choosing the right one for your needs. If you're going to be backpacking, you'll want to minimise weight and bulk, so it's best to go for the lightest, most packable bag within your budget. On the other hand, if you're car camping, weight and size are less important, and you can opt for a warmer, roomier bag.
The weight of a sleeping bag is influenced by its insulation and shape. Advanced synthetics and high-fill-power downs provide more warmth for their weight than less efficient fills. Down insulation is the lightest option, which is why it's commonly used in lower-weight bags. It's also more expensive, more durable, and more compressible than synthetic fills. However, synthetic fills insulate better when wet.
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag also impacts its weight. Warmer bags have more insulation, making them heavier. Therefore, it's essential to consider the expected temperatures of your trip. Choose a bag with a rating slightly lower than the typical low temperatures you anticipate. Additionally, keep in mind that the age of your sleeping bag can affect its warmth; older bags may lose some of their insulating properties over time.
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, each offering a different balance of warmth and roominess. Rectangular bags provide ample room to move around but are bulkier. Mummy bags have a snug fit to boost warmth and reduce weight. Semi-rectangular bags, or "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess.
When comparing sleeping bag weights, ensure you're comparing bags with the same temperature rating and insulation type. Also, consider the compressed volume specs to understand size differences when the bag is in its stuff sack.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, semirectangular, and mummy. Rectangular bags allow plenty of room for your arms and legs to stretch out, and some can be completely unzipped and used like a comforter. Semirectangular bags are also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offering a compromise between warmth and roominess. Mummy bags are snug to boost warmth and cut weight—you roll over with the bag rather than inside it.
The first thing you need to decide is what activity you need a sleeping bag for. Are you camping in the front country, backpacking, mountaineering, or packrafting? The weight, shape, and features of sleeping bags are often best suited to specific end-uses, so it's important to choose one based on what you'll be using it for most. If you'll be using one bag for multiple activities, choose a backpacking style because you'll need it to be lightweight if you're going to carry it in a pack.
A sleeping bag's temperature rating indicates how warm the bag will keep you. Bags with lower temperature ratings will keep you warmer. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are determined by lab testing, which simulates how a sleeping bag is used. A sleeping pad is placed under the bag, and a test dummy inside the bag is dressed in base layers. The key factor when choosing a sleeping bag is its temperature rating. To choose the right temperature rating, look at the lowest projected temperatures you can expect to encounter, then pick a bag that's designed for colder.
There are two types of insulation for sleeping bags: down and synthetic. Down has a better weight-to-warmth ratio, is highly compressible, and keeps lofting after being stuffed into a compression sack. If you want the lightest, most durable sleeping bag possible, choose a down bag. Synthetic insulation is often more affordable, can keep you warmer in wet conditions, and dries quickly. If you're car camping or spending nights in damp environments, synthetic sleeping bags are a good choice.
