Ashwin Lewis
A crossover sleeping bag is a bag that can be used for both car camping and backpacking. Car camping sleeping bags are usually roomier and heavier, while backpacking sleeping bags are lighter and more compact. A crossover sleeping bag, therefore, has the warmth and space of a car camping bag, but is also light and compact enough to be used for backpacking. Examples of crossover sleeping bags include the NEMO Disco 30, the Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20, and the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Camping, backpacking, or both |
| Shape | Rectangular or mummy-style |
| Size | Regular or long |
| Temperature Rating | Based on "average sleeper"; varies by bag |
| Warmth | Depends on the type of insulation and fill |
| Weight | Lightweight for backpacking, heavier for camping |
| Compressibility | Smaller for backpacking, bulkier for camping |
| Additional Features | Zippers, vents, stash pockets, hoods, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag types: camping vs backpacking
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the type of trip you're planning. Will you be camping near your car, or will you be backpacking and carrying your gear? Sleeping bags for camping and backpacking serve different purposes, and it's essential to select the right one for a comfortable night's sleep.
Camping sleeping bags are designed to offer ample room for campers to stretch out and roll over. They often feature a simple rectangular design, providing plenty of space to move around. These bags usually prioritise comfort and cost savings over weight and packed size. For example, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood, a favourite among car campers, stands out for its warmth, ruggedness, and comfortable flannel interior. However, it is too heavy for backpacking. The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is another excellent option for car camping, offering a roomy, recycled-poly-fill construction that is warm, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean and pack away.
On the other hand, backpacking sleeping bags tend to be more lightweight and snug. They focus on minimising weight and bulk without compromising warmth. When choosing a backpacking sleeping bag, opt for the lightest, most packable option within your budget. The Western Mountaineering MegaLite and Western Mountaineering AlpinLite are excellent lightweight and comfortable options for backpackers. The Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 and the Marmot Women's Teton 15° Sleeping Bag are also highly recommended for backpacking.
Sleeping bag designs vary, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Sleeping bags come in different shapes, such as rectangular, semirectangular or "modified mummy," and mummy styles, each offering varying levels of warmth and roominess. Rectangular bags provide the most space, while mummy bags are snug to retain heat and reduce weight. Semirectangular bags offer a compromise between the two. Additionally, temperature ratings, insulation type, and extra features like stash pockets and hoods are important considerations when selecting a sleeping bag.
If you plan to camp near your vehicle and also venture into the backcountry, a backpacking sleeping bag is a more versatile choice. It can be easily carried on overnight backcountry trips and used near your car without any issues. However, a bulky camping sleeping bag will be challenging to carry for long distances.
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Temperature ratings
Sleeping bag temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper" and allow for comparisons between different bags and brands. The EN (European Norm) standard was initially adopted by the sleeping bag industry, and now the ISO (International Standards Organization) oversees bag testing, using a nearly identical method. These standardized laboratory tests produce a rating range for each sleeping bag, with two specific temperature ratings: the comfort rating and the lower limit rating. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, and it is typically used for women's bags due to physiological differences. The lower limit rating is for warmer sleepers and is often used for men's bags.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's essential to consider the coldest conditions you anticipate and select a bag with an appropriate temperature rating. For example, the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag has a temperature rating of 20 °F, making it suitable for most three-season camping conditions. On the other hand, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood has a -10° F rating, making it ideal for camping in higher elevations or cooler climates. The Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL is another example of a bag with a 40°F temperature rating, suitable for thru-hikers or serious backpackers.
It's worth noting that some sleeping bags, like the Redcamp Cotton Flannel Sleeping Bag, may have multiple layers that zip on and off, allowing for adjustable temperature ratings. Additionally, features like a snug-fitting hood, multiple zippers, and vents can also impact the warmth of a sleeping bag. For instance, the Marmot Women’s Teton 15° Sleeping Bag is rated to 15 °F and is suitable for narrower-bodied people who sleep cold.
In conclusion, temperature ratings are an essential consideration when choosing a sleeping bag. They provide a standardized way to compare different bags and brands, but it's also important to consider other factors that can affect your warmth and comfort when using the bag in outdoor conditions.
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Sleep systems
A good sleep system is essential for a comfortable night's rest during camping or backpacking. The system typically consists of three components: the sleeping bag, the sleeping pad, and the sleeper's clothing.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the type of activity you'll be doing. Backpacking bags tend to be more lightweight, pack down smaller, and provide more warmth for their weight. On the other hand, camping bags usually offer more room to move around in. If you're car camping, you can opt for a roomier and warmer bag, such as the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20, without worrying about bulk or weight. For backpacking, the Western Mountaineering MegaLite and AlpinLite are excellent lightweight and warm options. The NEMO Disco 30 is another versatile bag, offering a spacious interior and impressive temperature control, making it suitable for both car camping and backpacking.
Temperature ratings are crucial when selecting a sleeping bag. The rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag is designed to keep a sleeper warm. It's recommended to choose a bag with a rating slightly lower than the anticipated low temperatures. However, it's important to remember that temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper," and real-world warmth can vary due to factors like humidity, wind, clothing, and personal preferences. The R-value of your sleeping pad also plays a significant role in your overall comfort.
The type of insulation is another key consideration. Down insulation provides superior warmth and is often more lightweight, but it can be more expensive and requires careful handling. Synthetic insulation is generally more affordable, easier to care for, and quicker to dry, but it may not offer the same level of warmth as down.
Other features to look for in a sleeping bag include multiple zipper sliders for easy ventilation adjustment, stash pockets for small items, and a draft tube to prevent cold air from entering through the zipper. Additionally, a snug-fitting hood can make your bag warmer, especially in colder conditions.
Lastly, don't forget to consider the shape of the sleeping bag. Rectangular bags provide ample room for legs and arms to stretch out and can sometimes be fully unzipped to use as a comforter. Mummy-style bags are more snug, eliminating dead space to conserve warmth, but may not be as comfortable for those who prefer more room.
By carefully selecting a sleeping bag that suits your specific needs, you can ensure a restful night's sleep during your outdoor adventures.
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Insulation types
Sleeping bags come with different types of insulation, and the right choice depends on factors such as the climate, your budget, and the type of camping you plan to do.
Down insulation is made from the natural insulation, or under plumage, of waterfowl found beneath their feathers. Goose down is the most common type of down used in sleeping bags. Down insulation is highly sought after because it is lightweight, compressible, and durable. It also has a high "fill rating", which means it can provide more warmth. However, down insulation is generally more expensive than synthetic insulation.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is a lab-created alternative to down. Synthetic insulation is made from various materials, with most synthetics composed of polyester. Synthetic insulation is a popular choice for damp climates as it continues to insulate when wet. Synthetic insulation is also available under a variety of branded names. However, there is no widely adopted "fill power" spec to evaluate the performance of synthetic fills.
Some sleeping bags also feature a down/synthetic blend, with synthetic insulation on the bottom to reduce compression and down on top for better loft.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the temperature rating, which indicates how warm the bag is likely to be. However, temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper" and may not reflect your personal experience, which can be influenced by factors such as humidity, wind, and your metabolism. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a bag with a temperature rating slightly lower than the typical low temperatures you anticipate.
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Weight and packability
When it comes to weight, down insulation is the lightest option. Down-filled sleeping bags are more expensive, but they provide superior warmth for their weight. Synthetic bags are a more affordable alternative, but they are heavier and don't pack down as small. The amount of down fill also matters; bags with premium down (800-fill and above) insulate better at a given weight.
Some sleeping bags are designed to be extremely lightweight, making them ideal for long-distance hikes. For example, the Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 and the Egret YF 20 Women's models are ultralight options that provide superior warmth retention and comfort without the bulk. The Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF is another impressive bag that offers exceptional warmth and comfort in a lightweight package.
The packability of a sleeping bag refers to how easily it can be compressed and stored. Sleeping bags with a lower temperature rating tend to be snugger and more compact. A stuff sack is often used to store a sleeping bag in a compact and manageable form, making it easier to transport and store. Some sleeping bags, like the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood, are too bulky and heavy for backpacking, weighing 11.7 pounds. Lighter options, such as the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15, are more suitable for backpacking trips.
The design of a sleeping bag also affects its packability. Mummy bags, for instance, are designed to be more form-fitting and may have a hood, which reduces weight and packed size. Rectangular bags, on the other hand, offer more room to move around but may be bulkier. The Zpacks Classic Sleeping Bag combines the best of both worlds, offering the warmth of a sleeping bag and the packability of a quilt. It has a unique design with an opening at the back and a 3/4 length zipper, allowing it to be used as a quilt on warm nights.
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Frequently asked questions
A crossover sleeping bag is a bag that can be used for both car camping and backpacking. These bags are spacious and warm, but also lightweight and pack down small.
The NEMO Disco 30, the Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20, and the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag are all examples of crossover sleeping bags.
When looking for a crossover sleeping bag, consider the temperature rating, weight, packability, and warmth-to-weight ratio. Additionally, features such as stash pockets, draft collars, and ergonomic footboxes can enhance your comfort and convenience.
A crossover sleeping bag offers versatility, allowing you to use it for both car camping and backpacking trips. This can be advantageous if you plan to engage in both types of activities, as you won't need to purchase separate bags.
Crossover sleeping bags aim to balance the features of car camping and backpacking bags, but they may not excel in either category. Dedicated car camping bags can offer more space and plushness, while specialized backpacking bags can be even more lightweight and compact.
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