Gina Johnson
When going on outdoor adventures, it is important to pack efficiently and maximise space. Compression sacks are designed to reduce the volume of sleeping bags, making them more compact and freeing up valuable space in your backpack. The compressed volume of a sleeping bag is the amount of space it takes up when stored in a compression sack. This is important because it determines the size of the compression sack you will need. The compressed volume of a sleeping bag can depend on various factors, such as the type of insulation, the shell and liner fabrics used, and the uncompressed size of the bag. Different types of insulation, such as down or synthetic fillings, can affect the compressibility of the sleeping bag, with down sleeping bags generally being more compressible than synthetic ones.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To compress a sleeping bag to the smallest possible size without damaging it, thus saving space in a backpack |
| Volume | Depends on the sleeping bag's uncompressed volume and level of compression needed; can be calculated in inches or litres |
| Compression sack material | Should be durable, waterproof, and lightweight |
| Closure system | Should have a reliable closure system, e.g. roll-top with buckles, to protect against moisture |
| Sleeping bag material | Down sleeping bags are more compressible than synthetic ones and require smaller compression sacks |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag compression sacks
Compression sacks are a great way to save space and make hauling gear around much easier. They are particularly useful for compressing bulky items such as sleeping bags and down jackets, reducing their volume by up to a third. This frees up space in your backpack for other essentials.
Sleeping bags vary in their packed volume, depending on the type of insulation and the shell and liner fabrics used. Down sleeping bags are more compressible than synthetic-filled ones and hence require lesser volume stuff sacks. If you have a Sea to Summit sleeping bag, you can look up the volume on their product pages. For other brands, you may be able to find the volume on the manufacturer's website or the product specifications page on sites like rei.com.
To determine the volume of your sleeping bag, you can use a simple formula. First, place your sleeping bag in a cardboard box larger than the bag. Press the bag down firmly until the upper surface is roughly level with the box (the bag is now mildly compressed). Measure the average depth of the compressed bag in inches. Multiply the length, width, and depth to get the volume in cubic inches. To convert this to liters, divide the cubic inches by 61.
With the volume of your sleeping bag determined, you can now choose a compression sack. Compression sacks come in a range of sizes, from small 3-liter bags for personal items to larger 35-liter options suitable for sleeping bags. It is recommended to separate your gear into multiple smaller bags for better organization rather than using a single large sack. For sleeping bags, it is also advised to choose a size larger, especially if you intend to use the bag in cold weather.
There are various compression sack options available, such as the lightweight and durable Sea to Summit "Ultra-Sil" compression sacks, which come in a range of sizes. Granite Gear's Round Rock Solid compression sacks are another sturdy option, featuring a drawstring closure and four buckled straps for compression. Hyperlite also offers compressible stuff sacks made with waterproof DCF Dyneema fabrics.
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Synthetic vs down sleeping bags
When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag, one of the most important decisions is the type of insulation. Sleeping bags with synthetic insulation are typically made of polyester and offer advantages such as being quick-drying, insulating even when wet, durable, hypoallergenic, and less expensive than their down counterparts. They are also more water-resistant than down. However, they are generally heavier and less compressible than down sleeping bags, requiring larger compression stuff sacks.
Down sleeping bags, on the other hand, are filled with the soft, fluffy, wispy filaments found underneath the exterior feathers of waterfowl such as ducks and geese. They offer a higher warmth-to-weight ratio than synthetic insulation and require less down to fill space and achieve a certain temperature rating. This makes them lighter than synthetic bags. However, down insulation tends to clump up and lose loft when it gets wet, compromising its insulation properties. While proprietary treatments have been developed to make down more water-resistant, it is still susceptible to heavy rain or submersion in water.
Some manufacturers offer hybrid sleeping bags that combine water-resistant down and synthetic insulation to provide the benefits of both materials while limiting their respective imperfections. These hybrid bags may blend the insulations throughout or use different types of insulation in specific locations, such as durable synthetic on the bottom and lofty down on top.
Ultimately, the decision between synthetic and down sleeping bags depends on various factors, including budget, weight considerations, expected weather conditions, and personal preferences. Synthetic bags are generally more affordable and durable, while down bags offer superior warmth-to-weight ratios and compressibility but are more susceptible to moisture.
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Calculating sleeping bag volume
The volume of a sleeping bag can be calculated in a few different ways. Firstly, it is important to note that sleeping bags vary in their packed volume, depending on the type of insulation and the shell and liner fabrics used. Therefore, the volume of a sleeping bag is not solely dependent on its temperature rating.
One method to calculate the volume of a sleeping bag is to use the formula: volume (in cubic inches) = length x width x depth. This can be done by placing the sleeping bag in a cardboard box larger than the bag and pressing it down firmly until the upper surface is roughly level with the box. The average depth of the bag in the box can then be measured in inches and multiplied by the length and width to obtain the volume in cubic inches. This can then be converted to litres by dividing by 61 or by using an online conversion tool.
Another formula that can be used to calculate the volume of a sleeping bag in litres is: volume = 3.2 x radius x radius x height / 61. This involves measuring the radius of the circular base and the height of the stuff sack in inches.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the size of the compression sack required for a sleeping bag depends on the type of sleeping bag. Down sleeping bags, for example, are more compressible than synthetic-filled bags and hence require smaller volume stuff sacks.
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Waterproof compression sacks
When going on outdoor adventures such as backpacking, bikepacking, or kayaking, it is essential to maximise the space in your backpack or travel bag. Compression sacks are perfect for this as they can compress sleeping bags, insulated clothing, and puffy jackets into the smallest of spaces.
When choosing a compression sack, it is important to consider the compressibility of the insulation and the lightness of the fabric. For example, a summer down bag typically requires a 10L compression sack, while a 4-season synthetic bag requires a 30L sack. It is also important to note that compression sacks can be deadly to down bags as they can crush the life out of the down. Therefore, it is recommended to use a stuff sack instead of a compression sack for down bags and only compress them when necessary.
To measure the required volume of a compression sack, you can place your sleeping bag in a cardboard box and press it down firmly until the upper surface is roughly level. Then, measure the average depth in inches and multiply the length, width, and depth to get the volume in cubic inches. Alternatively, you can divide the result in centimetres by 1000 to get the volume in litres.
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Compression sacks and durability
Compression sacks are a great way to reduce the volume of your sleeping bag and other items, making them easier to carry in your backpack. They are particularly useful for camping, backpacking, and travel in general. However, it is important to note that compression sacks can damage certain types of sleeping bags, especially those filled with down. Over-compression can "crush the life out of down", reducing the bag's loft and making it less effective at trapping warm air. Therefore, it is recommended to use a stuff sack for your down sleeping bag, only resorting to compression sacks when necessary.
When choosing a compression sack, durability is an important factor to consider. A durable compression sack will ensure that your items stay protected and compressed throughout your journey. Some of the most durable compression sacks on the market include those made by Granite Gear, such as the Round Rock Solid series. These sacks are made from 210-denier nylon, which is known for its durability and strength. Granite Gear products have a reputation for durability and have been used in some of the harshest environments, including Everest and the North and South Poles.
REI co-op also offers durable compression sacks made from ripstop nylon. While not made with high-end technical fabrics, these sacks are lightweight, sturdy, and tough, withstanding the test of time. Sea to Summit's "Ultra-Sil" compression sacks are another popular option for backpacking, offering a wide range of sizes to choose from.
To ensure the durability of your compression sack, it is important to care for it properly. This includes proper cleaning, storage, and avoiding overfilling the sack beyond its capacity. Additionally, consider the type of items you are compressing and choose a sack that is suitable for your needs. For example, if you are compressing a sleeping bag, ensure that the sack is designed for such items and provides adequate protection from moisture and damage.
In conclusion, compression sacks offer a great way to reduce the volume of your sleeping bag and other items, but it is important to choose a durable and suitable option. By selecting a reputable brand, like Granite Gear or REI, and caring for your sack properly, you can ensure the longevity of your compression sack and protect your items during your adventures. Remember to consider the specific needs of your sleeping bag to maintain its condition over time.
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Frequently asked questions
A compression sack is a specialised bag designed to compress your sleeping bag to a smaller size, making it easier to carry and store.
To calculate the compressed volume of your sleeping bag, first, measure the average depth of your sleeping bag in inches. Then, multiply the length, width, and depth to get the volume in cubic inches. Finally, convert this to litres by dividing the total by 1000.
The compressed volume of a sleeping bag depends on the type of insulation and the shell and liner fabrics used. Down sleeping bags, for example, compress more than synthetic ones.
Knowing the compressed volume of your sleeping bag is crucial for choosing the right compression sack. Selecting an appropriately sized compression sack ensures your sleeping bag fits without being damaged and maximises space efficiency.
To choose the right compression sack, start by checking the compressed volume of your sleeping bag, then select a sack that is slightly larger. Consider the type of insulation and the level of compression you need. Also, look for features like moisture protection and a reliable closure system.
