Ashwin Lewis
Choosing the right sleeping bag is essential for a good night's sleep when camping or backpacking. Sleeping bags come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and the right one for you will depend on factors such as the season, your sleeping style, and whether you're camping or backpacking. In general, rectangular sleeping bags are best for warm-weather camping as they provide ample room to move around, while mummy-style bags are better for colder conditions as they are designed to retain heat. Backpacking sleeping bags differ from camping bags in that they are more lightweight, pack down smaller, and are more efficient in terms of warmth-to-weight ratio. When choosing a sleeping bag, it's also important to consider the temperature rating, the type of insulation, and additional features such as pockets and pad compatibility.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Camping, backpacking, car camping, side-sleeping, winter sports, etc. |
| Shape | Rectangular, semi-rectangular, mummy, double, kids |
| Temperature rating | 0 °F to 30 °F, -10° F, 20 °F, 25 °F, etc. |
| Weight | Lightweight for backpacking, heavier for camping |
| Size | Smaller for backpacking, larger for camping |
| Material | Polyester, nylon, cotton, canvas, flannel, down, synthetic fill, etc. |
| Features | Hood, pockets, zippers, pad compatibility, water-repellent finish, etc. |
| Ethical considerations | RDS (Responsible Down Standard), TDS (global Traceable Down Standard) |
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What You'll Learn
- Sleeping bag shapes: rectangular, semi-rectangular, mummy, double, and kid-sized
- Temperature ratings: comfort and limit ratings
- Sleeping bag shells: outer fabric and insulation
- Sleeping bag features: hoods, zippers, pockets, and pad compatibility
- Backpacking vs camping: warmth-to-weight ratio, lightweight, and packability
Sleeping bag shapes: rectangular, semi-rectangular, mummy, double, and kid-sized
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The five most common types of sleeping bags are rectangular, semi-rectangular, mummy, double, and kid-sized. The traditional rectangular sleeping bag is what most people picture when they think of a sleeping bag—something long and rectangular, and even bulky. They offer ample room to stretch out and move around, making them ideal for campers who prioritise comfort over warmth. Rectangular bags can also be unzipped and used as a comforter, making them suitable for warm-weather camping.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags are structurally similar to mummy-shaped bags but do not conform entirely to the shape of the body. They are also called "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes and come in various models, generally more slender than rectangular bags, with a rounded top and tapered bottom. Semi-rectangular bags aim to balance warmth and roominess, making them suitable for cool-weather camping.
Mummy sleeping bags are designed to fit snugly and are ideal for cold-weather camping and mountaineering. Their tapered shape, wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet, helps retain heat efficiently by reducing the amount of empty space. Mummy bags are also lightweight and packable, making them a popular choice for backpackers and hikers concerned about space and weight.
Double sleeping bags are designed for couples, while kid-sized sleeping bags are simply shorter, smaller, and more affordable versions of adult bags, often featuring fun prints, patterns, and colours.
The choice of sleeping bag shape depends on various factors, including the weather conditions, intended activity (camping or backpacking), personal preferences for comfort and roominess, and whether you prioritise warmth or weight.
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Temperature ratings: comfort and limit ratings
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider its temperature rating. This is because the rating identifies the lowest temperature at which the bag was designed to keep a sleeper warm. A sleeping bag's temperature rating is based on an "average sleeper" and allows you to compare bags from different brands. However, it is important to remember that a range of other factors will affect how warm you feel when using the sleeping bag outdoors. These include the R-value of your sleeping pad, the clothing you wear, humidity, wind, your metabolism, and more.
To address these variables, temperature ratings for sleeping bags are assigned two ratings: a comfort rating and a limit rating. The comfort rating is the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep the average "cold sleeper" comfortable. This rating is generally assigned to women's bags. The limit rating, on the other hand, is the lowest temperature at which a "warm sleeper" will be comfortable. This rating is typically assigned to men's or unisex bags.
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. The Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 and the Marmot Women’s Teton 15° Sleeping Bag are also suitable for colder temperatures. The Western Mountaineering MegaLite is another toasty option for backpacking. If you are looking for a bag for warmer weather, rectangular sleeping bags are a good choice as they do not retain as much heat and can be unzipped and used as a comforter. The ALPS Outdoors Redwood is a warm and comfortable option in this category.
In general, it is recommended to pick a sleeping bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect to encounter. This is especially important if you plan to use your bag in colder months. Additionally, consider the warmth-to-weight ratio of the bag, especially if you will be backpacking and need to carry your gear.
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Sleeping bag shells: outer fabric and insulation
The outer fabric of a sleeping bag, also known as the shell, is typically made from durable polyester or nylon with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. This finish is essential to protect the insulation inside the bag from dampness. The shell is designed to prevent moisture from entering the bag and to stop the migration of down or other insulating materials. The inner fabric of the sleeping bag is made from materials with a soft, warm texture.
The type of insulation used in sleeping bags varies. Down and synthetic fill are the most common types of insulation. Down is the preferred choice for backpackers as it is lighter, warmer, and more compressible than synthetic insulation. Synthetic insulation is usually more affordable and is fine for car campers. Baffles are used in sleeping bags to divide the pockets of insulation and prevent the down or synthetic fill from shifting and forming cold spots.
The mummy bag design is the most effective shape for managing thermal efficiency while reducing weight. The tapered design and close-fitting hood help to retain warmth. However, the rectangular bag design is the most popular for camping due to its spacious interior, allowing campers to stretch out and roll over.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the temperature rating, which indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag is designed to keep a sleeper comfortable. It is recommended to select a bag with a lower temperature rating than the anticipated nighttime temperature at your camping location. The R-value of your sleeping pad and the type of clothing you will be wearing are also factors that will influence the overall warmth of your sleep system.
Liners are an additional feature that can enhance the comfort and functionality of your sleeping bag. They are thin fabric bags that go inside your sleeping bag and come in various materials such as silk, fleece, microfleece, and synthetic wicking fabrics. Liners can provide extra insulation, improve moisture management, and help keep your sleeping bag clean.
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Sleeping bag features: hoods, zippers, pockets, and pad compatibility
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, sizes, and features. The type of sleeping bag you need depends on the purpose, whether it be for camping or backpacking. Backpacking bags tend to be lighter and more snug, while camping bags offer more room to move around in. If you plan to do both, choose a backpacking style as you will need it to be lightweight if you're going to carry it in a pack.
Hoods
A snug-fitting hood can make a bag much warmer, so you're more likely to find hoods on bags with lower temperature ratings. Some hoods include "differentiated drawcords", which have different thicknesses so that you can easily tell which cord adjusts the neck fit and which adjusts the hood opening.
Zippers
Zippers are an important feature to consider when choosing a sleeping bag. Bags with more than one zipper slider make it easy to adjust ventilation. Some bags have anti-snag zipper features to prevent wear and tear on the fabric. The zippers may be shielded by a guard along their full length, or they may be covered. The direction of the zipper also matters: if you are a couple who wants to zip two bags together, one bag should have a left-hand zip and the other a right-hand zip.
Pockets
Some sleeping bags offer stash pockets, which are handy for keeping small items like a watch or lip balm close at hand.
Pad compatibility
The R-value of your sleeping pad is a key component of your sleep system. Sleeping bags may have sleeves to fit a sleeping pad (sold separately). Pad loops also allow you to use straps (also sold separately) to connect the bag to your pad.
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Backpacking vs camping: warmth-to-weight ratio, lightweight, and packability
When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag for your outdoor adventures, it's essential to consider the type of activity you'll be doing, whether backpacking or camping. Here's a detailed comparison of the two types of sleeping bags in terms of warmth-to-weight ratio, lightweight design, and packability:
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
The warmth-to-weight ratio is a critical factor, especially for backpackers who want to keep their pack weight down without compromising warmth. Down insulation provides one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios, making it the preferred choice for ultralight sleeping bags. The higher the fill power of down, the more loft it has, resulting in higher quality. Backpacking sleeping bags with down insulation can offer exceptional warmth while being lightweight. However, synthetic insulation should not be overlooked, especially in damp climates, as it retains insulative power when wet. Synthetic insulation is also more affordable and suitable for mild conditions.
Lightweight and Packability
Backpacking sleeping bags are designed to be lightweight and pack down smaller than camping sleeping bags. When you're carrying your gear on your back, minimizing weight and bulk is crucial. The mummy-style sleeping bag is popular among backpackers as it boosts warmth and cuts weight with a snug fit. On the other hand, camping sleeping bags offer more room to move around, making them bulkier and heavier. If you're car camping, weight and packability are less of a concern, and you can prioritize warmth and comfort.
Key Considerations
When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking, consider the temperature rating, ensuring it's suitable for the anticipated low temperatures. The R-value of your sleeping pad also affects your overall warmth. Additionally, look for features such as stash pockets, pad compatibility, and draft-blocking details to enhance your sleeping experience. If you plan to use one bag for both backpacking and camping, a backpacking style bag is generally recommended due to its lightweight and packable design.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, semi-rectangular (or "modified mummy"), and mummy. Rectangular bags allow plenty of room for your arms and legs to stretch out and can sometimes be unzipped and used as a comforter. Semi-rectangular bags offer a compromise between warmth and roominess, while mummy bags are more snug-fitting to boost warmth and cut weight. There are also double sleeping bags for couples, and kid-sized bags.
The key factors to consider are the temperature rating, the type of insulation (down vs. synthetic), the weight, and additional features such as pockets, pad compatibility, and adjustment options. If you're backpacking, you'll also want to consider the warmth-to-weight ratio and how small the bag packs down.
A sleeping bag's temperature rating indicates the lowest temperature at which it will keep an "average sleeper" warm. It's recommended to pick a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect. Keep in mind that temperature ratings are based on several assumptions, including the type of sleeping pad and clothing worn, so your mileage may vary.
Down sleeping bags offer superior warmth-to-weight ratios and breathability but are more vulnerable to moisture. They also tend to be more expensive and require more care in cleaning and storage. Synthetic bags, on the other hand, offer good value for money, are easier to care for, and perform better when wet.
