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A 20-degree sleeping bag is a three-season sleeping bag that can be used in spring, summer, and fall. It is suitable for temperatures ranging from 20 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit and is ideal for summer and shoulder-season backpacking, especially in high-mountain regions where temperatures can drop below freezing during the summer months. The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is an important factor in choosing one, as it indicates the level of warmth and comfort it provides. Lab-tested temperature ratings, such as the EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Standards Organization) ratings, help consumers compare products from different brands. The comfort rating, which indicates the temperature for colder sleepers, is typically used for women's bags, while the lower limit rating is more relevant for warmer sleepers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | 20 degrees Fahrenheit or 20F/-6 degrees Celsius |
| Ideal for | Three seasons, backpacking, mountaineering in wet weather, summer and shoulder-season backpacking |
| Features | Water-resistant, quick-drying, lightweight, hollow fibres, toe warmer pocket, removable straps, zoned insulation |
| Brands | Feathered Friends, Western Mountaineering, Kelty, Cumulus, Therm-a-Rest |
| Price | $21.99 to $87.79 |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
In the past, sleeping bag temperature ratings were challenging to compare across different brands because each company used its own unique testing methods. Today, most brands send their sleeping bags to independent labs for testing, following standardized procedures such as the EN (European Norm) or the newer ISO (International Standards Organization) methods. These labs assign temperature ratings to sleeping bags, providing a comfort rating and a lower limit rating. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper, typically a woman, would feel comfortable. The lower limit rating is for warmer sleepers, usually men, who would feel comfortable at a slightly lower temperature.
It's worth noting that not all sleeping bags have an ISO or EN rating. These standards do not apply to bags designed for extreme cold or children's bags. Additionally, the numbers on bag names may not always match their exact temperature ratings. For simplicity, brands may round up or down to the nearest 0 or 5 when naming their bags.
When shopping for a sleeping bag, it's essential to consider the categories grouped by temperature ranges. Summer bags, with ratings of 32 degrees Fahrenheit and above, are suitable for warmer conditions or lower elevations. For the heart of the three-season range, a rating of 20 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended, providing extra warmth for summer and shoulder-season backpacking. For winter camping and mountaineering, a true winter bag with a rating below 20 degrees Fahrenheit is necessary, with expedition bags offering ratings as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some notable brands that stand out for the warmth of their non-EN/ISO-rated bags include Feathered Friends and Western Mountaineering, which are popular among serious backpackers and alpinists. Their ratings tend to be quite generous, providing impressive warmth for their specified temperature ranges. However, mid-range and budget brands may vary in quality, and it's always a good idea to give yourself a buffer when choosing a bag without EN/ISO ratings.
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Sleeping bag brands
A 20-degree sleeping bag is suitable for most three-season camping conditions. Sleeping bags are now tested in the same way, which means that a 20-degree bag from one brand should be just as warm as a 20-degree bag from another brand. However, temperature ratings are estimates, and there are many factors that can affect how warm a sleeping bag feels to an individual.
REI Co-op
The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a top pick for car camping. It has a classic rectangular shape, a capacious "pillow barn", and a smooth polyester shell and lining that are moisture-resistant and easy to clean. It comes in two sizes: regular and long.
Kelty
The Kelty TruComfort Doublewide 20 is a queen-size sleeping bag that's ideal for car campers who prefer to share. It's roomy and has an easy-to-clean, smooth polyester shell and lining. Kelty also offers the Kelty Cosmic 20, which is a cheaper down bag option.
Feathered Friends
The Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20 is a warm bag that has kept one tester comfortable into the 20s. It is priced at $629 for the regular size. Feathered Friends is a smaller company that does not submit its bags for EN/ISO testing, but it takes pride in offering realistic temperature ratings.
Therm-a-Rest
The Therm-a-Rest Parsec 20 is a solid all-rounder.
Western Mountaineering
The Western Mountaineering UltraLite is a 20-degree bag that is a 3-season backpacking favourite.
Patagonia
The Patagonia Fitz Roy is a trusted brand offering, which also comes in a 20-degree version for $500.
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Sleeping bag sizes
When choosing a sleeping bag, the most important factor is its temperature rating. The temperature rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag is designed to keep an "average sleeper" warm. It is important to select a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is slightly lower than the coldest temperatures you expect to encounter. For example, if you are looking for a sleeping bag for temperatures of around 20 degrees, you should opt for a bag with a 20- to 39-degree temperature rating.
Sleeping bags come in a variety of sizes, including short, regular, and long. Some bags also come in wide and extra-long sizes. When choosing a size, it is important to consider your height and body shape. If you are close to the upper end of the size range, you may want to try the next size up to ensure a comfortable fit. However, it is generally warmer and more weight-efficient to choose the smaller of the two sizes.
Women's sleeping bags are typically shorter, narrower at the shoulders, and wider at the hips than unisex or men's bags. They also tend to have a higher temperature rating, as the "average woman" feels colder at the same temperature as the "average man".
Kids' sleeping bags are simply shorter and smaller versions of adult sleeping bags. They are often more affordable and may not have ISO or EN temperature ratings, but brands usually provide an estimated temperature range.
The shape of the sleeping bag also affects its size and warmth retention. Mummy bags are narrower and more form-fitting, providing better heat retention than rectangular bags, which are roomier and more comfortable for those who toss and turn. Rectangular bags can also be fully opened and used as blankets, making them ideal for indoor use or summer camping.
When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking, it is important to consider the warmth-to-weight ratio, as you want a bag that provides sufficient warmth without adding too much weight to your pack. Down sleeping bags are highly effective at retaining warmth and are lighter and more compact than synthetic bags. However, they absorb moisture and lose their insulating properties when wet. Synthetic bags are more suitable for damp conditions and dry faster than down bags.
Sleeping bag liners can also be used to add an extra layer of warmth and improve hygiene, while travel pillows, mats, and air beds can enhance comfort.
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Sleeping bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The three most common shapes are rectangular, semi-rectangular, and mummy.
Rectangular sleeping bags offer ample room for both legs and arms to stretch out. They are ideal for campers who prioritise comfort over warmth. Some rectangular bags can be completely unzipped and used as blankets or comforters. Rectangular sleeping bags are typically bulkier and heavier than other shapes, making them more suitable for car camping rather than backpacking.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags, also known as "modified mummy" or barrel shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They are 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-shaped 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. Mummy bags are ideal for backpackers as they are lightweight and maximise heat retention, making them suitable for bitterly cold conditions.
Other less common sleeping bag shapes include double sleeping bags, which are designed for two people, and kid-sized sleeping bags, which are shorter and smaller variations of adult bags. Some sleeping bag brands also offer women's sleeping bags, which are engineered to closely fit a woman's contours, typically being shorter, narrower at the shoulders, and wider at the hips.
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Sleeping bag accessories
When planning outdoor adventures, choosing the right sleeping bag is essential. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are a helpful guide to consider when purchasing one. A 20-degree sleeping bag is suitable for temperatures ranging from 20 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sleeping Bag Liners: These are great for backpackers or travellers who sleep in hostels. They provide additional warmth and act as a protective layer, keeping your sleeping bag clean. Liners are easy to wash and pack, making them convenient for travel.
Sleeping Pads: A sleeping pad is crucial for comfort and insulation from the ground. It ensures that you don't lose body heat to the cold ground, providing a warmer and more comfortable sleep.
Pillows: Inflatable or compressible pillows designed specifically for camping can significantly enhance your sleep comfort. They are lightweight and pack down small, making them easy to carry.
Storage Sacks: A proper storage sack is essential to maintain the loft and insulation of your sleeping bag. It should be slightly larger than the compressed size of your bag to prevent compression and potential damage to the insulation.
Waterproof Stuff Sacks: When you're on the move, keep your sleeping bag dry and protected from the elements with a waterproof stuff sack. It ensures your bag stays dry when packed away, giving you peace of mind during unexpected rain or damp conditions.
Remember to consider the temperature range you'll be camping in and choose a sleeping bag and accessories that align with your needs.
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Frequently asked questions
A 20-degree sleeping bag is a three-season sleeping bag that is suitable for temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. It is typically warm enough for summer and shoulder-season backpacking, especially in the mountains where temperatures can drop below freezing in the summer.
A 20-degree sleeping bag offers a good balance between warmth and weight. It is also versatile and can be used in various conditions, making it a good choice for those who want a "Swiss Army Knife" of sleeping bags.
Some recommended 20-degree sleeping bags include the Feathered Friends Swallow 20 YF, the Cumulus Panyam 600, and the Saros 20F/-6C Therm-a-Rest.
