Miya Pearson
There are several ways to pack a sleeping bag, and the best method depends on the type of sleeping bag, backpack, and trip. The first step is to flatten the sleeping bag to remove excess air, and then fold it in half lengthwise. Next, you can either roll up the sleeping bag or stuff it into a sack. If you're using a compression sack, you can compress the sleeping bag further by tightening the cinch straps. If your sleeping bag is synthetic, it may not compress well, so you may need to use a bigger backpack or a smaller sleeping bag. The sleeping bag should be placed at the bottom of the backpack, unless it needs to be lashed to the outside of the pack, in which case it should be centered and cinched tightly to the top of the pack.
Characteristics of the best way to pack a sleeping bag
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Position in the backpack | At the bottom of the backpack |
| Use of compression sacks | Compression sacks can be used to reduce volume, but are not always necessary |
| Waterproofing | Use a waterproof bag inside the backpack to keep the sleeping bag dry |
| Stuffing technique | Flatten the sleeping bag to remove excess air, then stuff it into the sack without folding or rolling |
| Order of packing | Pack the sleeping bag first, then the sleeping pad, and finally other gear on top |
| Weight distribution | Bulky and heavy items should be kept close to the back for balance |
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Use a compression sack
Using a compression sack is a great way to save space when packing your sleeping bag. While some long-distance hikers prefer to simply stuff their sleeping bags into their backpacks, a compression sack can be useful if you want to keep your sleeping bag contained and protected from tears.
To use a compression sack, start by folding your sleeping bag in half lengthwise. Then, roll it up, starting from the foot end, and stuff it into the sack. Pull the cord tight to secure the sleeping bag inside. Unlike rolling, stuffing your sleeping bag into a compression sack will help remove more air, allowing for a smaller packed size.
If you're looking to save even more space, you can place other soft gear, like a backpacking pillow or extra layers of clothing, inside the compression sack along with your sleeping bag. Compressing everything together will help you save additional space in your pack.
However, keep in mind that compression sacks are typically not waterproof. If you're hiking in wet conditions, consider using a dry bag or a waterproof pack liner to keep your sleeping bag dry. Alternatively, you can use a trash compactor bag to line your entire pack, keeping all your gear dry and allowing you to use the space efficiently.
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Pack at the bottom
When packing a sleeping bag, it is generally recommended to place it at the bottom of your backpack. This is because you won't need it during the day and it serves as a solid base for other items.
To pack your sleeping bag at the bottom, start by flattening it to remove excess air. You can do this by spreading the bag out and firmly sweeping your arms across it. Then, fold it in half lengthwise. Next, you have a few options. You can either roll up the sleeping bag or stuff it into a stuff sack. Rolling it up is a simple method, but it may not reduce the volume of the bag as much as using a stuff sack. If you choose to roll it, start from the foot end and roll it up tightly.
If you opt for a stuff sack, there are a few types to choose from. A simple option is to use a regular trash bag. Line your backpack with the trash bag, then stuff your sleeping bag into it, pushing out as much air as possible. Fold the top of the trash bag down and continue to compress the sleeping bag. When it's small enough, twist the top of the trash bag closed and tuck it down the side of the backpack.
Alternatively, you can use a compression stuff sack, which has cinch straps to further compress the sleeping bag. This method can save space, but the sack might be heavier. When using a compression stuff sack, start with the foot end of the sleeping bag and stuff it into the sack without folding or rolling. This will ensure that the insulation stays evenly distributed. Then, pull the cord tight to secure the sleeping bag inside.
Once your sleeping bag is packed at the bottom of your backpack, you can fill the rest of the bag using the brick-and-mortar method. Treat your gear like you're laying the foundation for a cabin, with larger, bulkier items acting as the bricks and stuffable items as the mortar. This could include extra clothes, layers, or your tent. By filling all the available space, you'll achieve a balanced and condensed pack.
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Keep gear dry
Keeping your gear dry while backpacking is important for both comfort and safety. While there is no guaranteed way to keep your gear completely dry, there are several measures you can take to protect it from moisture. Firstly, consider the anticipated weather conditions and duration of your hike when selecting your gear. If rain or deep water crossings are expected, take extra precautions to keep your gear dry.
One option is to use a water-resistant pack. Packs made with Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) are ultralight, ultra-durable, and waterproof. However, even "waterproof" packs have failure points such as seams, zippers, and roll-tops, so seam-taping is essential for weather resistance. Additionally, DCF against your back can be sweaty, so consider a model with suspension if you tend to sweat a lot.
Another option is to use a pack liner, which can be paired with stuff sacks to provide extra protection. Pack liners come in various materials and help keep the contents of your pack dry. Robic Nylon or similar materials can offer adequate protection in light rain, but for moderate-to-wet hikes, consider using a pack liner.
Waterproof stuff sacks are also essential for keeping your gear dry. They come in different sizes, protection levels, and closure options, allowing for customization based on your needs. Place items that must stay dry, such as phone chargers and battery packs, in small stuff sacks. For your sleeping bag, use a waterproof compression sack to save space in your pack. To stuff a stuff sack efficiently, start with the foot of the sleeping bag, partially close the zipper, and push the foot firmly into the bottom of the sack. This technique releases air out of the top and distributes stress evenly on the stitching. If your bag has a waterproof shell, turn it inside out before stuffing to avoid trapping air.
Additionally, consider using a lightweight dry bag that fits the bottom of your pack without over-compressing the contents. Dry bags can help keep your sleeping bag and clothes dry and can be compressed to save space. Alternatively, you can line your entire backpack or a regular stuff sack with a plastic garbage bag before placing your sleeping bag inside. Make sure to fold the top of the garbage bag over and seal it to prevent water from getting in.
Finally, when storing your sleeping bag at home, ensure it is completely dry before storing it loosely in a cool, dry place. Jumbo cotton storage bags or mesh bags are ideal as they allow for air circulation and prevent compression of the fill. Hanging your sleeping bag in a cupboard is another excellent option for maintaining air circulation and preventing dirt and dust buildup.
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Balance weight
When packing a sleeping bag, balancing weight is a key consideration. A well-balanced pack will rest comfortably on your hips and won't shift or sway as you hike.
Firstly, it's important to note that a sleeping bag is a lightweight item that you won't need until you set up camp. Therefore, it's generally recommended to place the sleeping bag at the bottom of your backpack or pack. This will also reduce strain on your back and knees, as the bag is lighter than most other supplies. If your pack has two compartments, store it at the bottom of the top compartment.
If you're unable to fit all your gear inside the pack, and need to lash larger items like a tent or sleeping bag to the outside, it's generally recommended to strap the sleeping bag to the top of the pack and the tent to the bottom. This is because, when you set the pack down, it's preferable to have the tent in contact with the ground, especially if it's damp or muddy. If you do strap the bag to the bottom of your pack, ensure it's centred and secured tightly to prevent it from swaying and affecting your balance.
To further balance the weight, consider using a compression sack to minimise the sleeping bag's volume. Compression sacks have cinch straps that compress the bag, reducing its size and saving space. They also protect against tears. However, they can add a little extra weight. Alternatively, you can simply stuff the bag into your backpack, allowing it to fill empty spaces. If you're using a compression sack, you can place other soft gear, like a pillow or extra clothing, inside the sack with your sleeping bag to save even more space.
To ensure your pack is well-balanced, make sure the weight is equally distributed on each side. Tighten compression straps to streamline your load and prevent shifting.
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Roll or stuff?
There are various methods for packing a sleeping bag, and the best method for you will depend on factors such as the size of your bag and backpack, and whether you are prioritising convenience, speed, or space-saving.
Some people prefer to roll their sleeping bag, especially if they are using a stuff sack. To do this, fold the sleeping bag in half lengthwise, then roll it up and place it into the sack. Pull the sack's cord tight and place it at the bottom of your backpack. However, some people find it difficult to fit a rolled-up sleeping bag into a stuff sack.
Many people recommend stuffing a sleeping bag into its sack, rather than rolling it, to remove more air and reduce its size. This is especially true for older or cheaper sleeping bags, which may be bulkier and less compressible. To stuff your sleeping bag, simply take one end and push it into the sack until it is all in. Start with the foot end to more easily remove the air. By "stuffing" the bag in this way, you can also ensure that the insulation stays evenly distributed.
If you are not using a stuff sack, you can also stuff your sleeping bag into your backpack. This is a common method used by long-distance hikers, who may simply stuff the bag into their pack and let it fill any empty spaces. Alternatively, you can compress the sleeping bag with a compression sack, which has cinch straps to further compress the bag after packing. This can help to save space, although it will add a small amount of extra weight.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to pack a sleeping bag is to stuff it into a compression sack. Start with the foot end and push it in, removing as much air as possible.
A compression sack reduces the volume of your sleeping bag, allowing it to fit into tighter spaces. It also provides protection against tears.
If you don't have a compression sack, you can fold the bag in half width-wise, then roll it up. This will make the bag more compact and easier to carry.
Yes, if your bag doesn't fit inside your pack, you can strap it to the top. However, it is preferable to keep the bag off the ground when you set your pack down, so you may want to strap a tent to the bottom of your pack instead.
For long-term storage, it's best to keep your sleeping bag uncompressed. Store it in a large mesh or fabric sack in a cool, dry place.
