Colin Snow
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the type of activities you'll be doing and the climate you'll be in. Sleeping bags come in different shapes and sizes, with varying features and temperature ratings. If you're going backpacking, you'll want a lightweight and snug-fitting bag that won't weigh you down during your travels. On the other hand, if you're car camping, you have the luxury of choosing a warmer and roomier bag. The temperature rating of your bag is crucial—it represents the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you comfortable. Other factors to consider include the type of insulation (down vs synthetic), the presence of a hood or stash pocket, and the weight and packability of the bag.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Camping or backpacking |
| Temperature rating | Based on the lowest temperature you expect to encounter; the lower the temperature rating, the warmer the bag |
| Shape | Rectangular, semi-rectangular, or mummy |
| Size | Regular or long |
| Weight | The warmer the bag, the heavier it is |
| Insulation | Down or synthetic |
| Zipper | Multiple zipper sliders make it easy to adjust ventilation |
| Storage | Stuff sack or storage sack |
| Pillow | Pillow pocket or hood |
| Water resistance | Treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish |
| Liners | Sleeping bag liners add extra warmth |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag shape: rectangular, semirectangular, or mummy
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, semirectangular (or "modified mummy"), and mummy. Each shape has its own advantages and caters to different sleeping styles and outdoor scenarios. Here's a detailed overview of each type:
Rectangular Sleeping Bags
Rectangular sleeping bags offer ample room for both legs and arms to stretch out, making them ideal for people who move a lot in their sleep or prefer sleeping in different positions. They are generally more spacious and comfortable. Rectangular bags can also be completely unzipped and used like a comforter. While rectangular bags can be bulky, they can be a good choice for car camping, where weight and space are less of a concern. Additionally, there are some very warm rectangular bags available, ensuring a cosy night's sleep.
Semirectangular Sleeping Bags
Semirectangular sleeping bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" bags, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They have a semi-rectangular design, providing more wiggle room than a traditional mummy bag. This type of bag is suitable for those who want a balance between warmth retention and freedom of movement.
Mummy Sleeping Bags
Mummy sleeping bags have a tapered form, wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet, resembling a mummy's shape. Their snug fit helps retain warmth and minimise heat loss, making them ideal for cold-weather camping and mountaineering. Mummy bags are also more lightweight and packable, saving space and weight for backpackers and hikers. However, some people may find the mummy bag restrictive and uncomfortable, particularly side sleepers or those who prefer more room to move.
When choosing a sleeping bag shape, it's important to consider your sleeping style, the outdoor conditions you'll be using it in, and your personal preferences for comfort and warmth. Additionally, factors such as insulation type (synthetic or down), temperature ratings, zipper features, and stash pockets should also be taken into account to ensure you get a good night's sleep during your outdoor adventures.
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Temperature rating: the lowest temperature the bag can withstand
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing one. It identifies the lowest temperature at which a bag is designed to keep an "average sleeper" warm. The rating is based on a person wearing long underwear and socks, and sleeping on an insulated pad with an R-value of approximately 5.5.
It is important to select a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. This is because you can always unzip a bag that feels too warm, but a bag that is too cold can ruin your experience. If you are a warm sleeper, you can refer to the LIMIT rating, which is the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you comfortable. If you are a cold sleeper, refer to the COMFORT rating, which is the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep the average "cold sleeper" comfortable. These ratings are based on the "average man" and "average woman", respectively, as data shows that the "average woman" will feel colder in the same bag as the "average man".
The temperature ratings are determined through standardized testing, such as the ISO 23537 test, which is recognised globally. This test involves placing a heavily instrumented electronic manikin, wearing standard pyjamas and a cold-weather mask, inside the sleeping bag, on top of a foam sleeping pad. The temperature of the air is then cooled, and the amount of electrical energy needed to maintain the manikin's initial temperature is measured. The test is conducted in a climate-controlled room, and the thermal resistance measured is converted into temperature ratings based on historical data.
It is worth noting that temperature ratings are estimates and not exact guarantees of warmth. They do not account for individual differences such as body type, clothing, gear, and sleeping location. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a bag with a lower temperature rating than you expect to need and to bring extra layers for warmth if needed.
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Weight and packability: the bag's weight and how compressible it is
When choosing a sleeping bag, weight and packability are important factors to consider. If you're car camping, you don't need to worry as much about the weight and bulk of your sleeping bag since your vehicle will be doing the heavy lifting. In this case, you can prioritize warmth and roominess when selecting a bag. On the other hand, if you're backpacking or hiking, minimizing weight and maximizing packability become crucial. You'll want to choose the lightest, most packable bag within your budget that will still ensure a comfortable night's sleep.
The weight of a sleeping bag is influenced by various factors, including the type of insulation, the fill power, and the materials used for the shell and liner. Down insulation, made from feathers, typically offers a superior warmth-to-weight ratio compared to synthetic fill. It is highly compressible and maintains its loft even after being stuffed into a compression sack multiple times. However, down insulation loses its insulating properties when wet, while synthetic insulation can still provide some warmth when soaked.
The fill power of a down sleeping bag, indicated by a numerical rating, represents how "lofty" the down is. A higher fill power means more air is trapped by the down, resulting in better insulation. Higher fill power also leads to lighter sleeping bags since less filling is required to achieve the same level of warmth. For example, a 600-fill down bag will be heavier than an 800-fill bag with the same temperature rating.
The materials used for the shell and liner of the sleeping bag also impact its weight and packability. Nylon is commonly used due to its lightweight and comfortable properties, allowing the bag's fillings to loft well. The denier specification indicates the weight and thickness of the nylon fabric—the lower the denier, the lighter and thinner the fabric. However, keep in mind that ultralight sleeping bags made with very thin nylon may not provide sufficient warmth in colder conditions.
Some sleeping bags come with additional features that enhance packability. For example, a stuff sack allows you to compress your sleeping bag into a smaller size for easy packing. However, it's important to use a storage sack for long-term storage, as keeping the bag tightly compressed in a stuff sack can impair its ability to loft and insulate efficiently over time.
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Insulation type: down or synthetic
When choosing a sleeping bag, one of the most important considerations is the insulation type: down or synthetic. Both have their own advantages and are suited to different situations and environments, so it is important to understand the differences between them.
Down vs synthetic
Down sleeping bags are filled with the natural insulation that ducks or geese produce to keep themselves warm. Down is extremely efficient at trapping warm air, which makes it ideal for keeping you cosy at night. It is also highly compressible, which means down sleeping bags can be packed down small, saving space in your backpack. However, down insulation loses its insulating properties when wet, so down sleeping bags are best suited to dry environments. They also tend to be more expensive than synthetic options.
Synthetic sleeping bags, on the other hand, are filled with man-made insulation designed to mimic the properties of down. Synthetic insulation is cheaper to produce than down, which makes synthetic sleeping bags more affordable. It also continues to insulate when wet, so synthetic sleeping bags are a good choice if you're expecting damp or rainy conditions. However, synthetic insulation is generally bulkier and heavier than down, which can be a consideration if you're counting every gram in your backpack.
If weight is a primary concern, ultra-light synthetic sleeping bags are also available. These use specially engineered synthetic insulation that is lighter and more compressible than standard synthetic fill. However, they tend to be more expensive than regular synthetic bags, narrowing the price gap with down bags.
Ultimately, the decision between down and synthetic comes down to a number of factors, including budget, expected weather conditions, and weight and space considerations. For cold, dry conditions, down is an excellent choice, providing warmth and comfort without the weight. For wetter environments, synthetic insulation is a better bet, offering continued insulation when damp or wet.
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Additional features: pillow pockets, stash pockets, hoods, etc
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the additional features that can enhance your comfort and convenience. One such feature is a pillow pocket, which allows you to stuff clothes inside to create a makeshift pillow. This is a great option if you want to save space and weight by avoiding bringing a separate pillow. Alternatively, some sleeping bags, like the Kelty TruComfort Doublewide 20, have a hooded "pillow barn" that can accommodate standard pillows from home, providing an even cozier experience.
Stash pockets or storage pockets are another useful feature, allowing you to keep small essential items close at hand. These pockets can be used to store items like a torch, a phone, or other personal belongings that you might need quick access to during the night. They also enable you to free up space in your backpack or tent by keeping certain items safely tucked away in your sleeping bag.
Hoods are another important consideration, especially if you plan to camp in colder climates. Mummy-shaped sleeping bags often come with contoured hoods that can be cinched tight to retain heat and provide extra warmth for your head. The Therm-a-Rest Boost 650, for example, has a center zipper that allows the bag to convert from a snug mummy shape with a hood for cold nights to a wider rectangular shape for warmer nights.
Other additional features to consider include stuff sacks, which are used to compress your sleeping bag into a smaller size for easy packing and storage. Some sleeping bags, like the Teton Sports Polara 3-in-1, also offer removable interior liners, providing versatility for different temperatures and environments. Finally, sleeping pad compatibility is another feature to look out for, as some bags have a sleeve to fit a sleeping pad, enhancing your comfort and insulation from the ground.
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Frequently asked questions
When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking, consider the following:
- Temperature rating: Choose a bag rated slightly lower than the typical low temperatures you expect.
- Sleep system: Your comfort depends on variables like the R-value of your sleeping pad.
- Type of insulation: Down vs synthetic. Down has a better warmth-to-weight ratio, is more compressible, and lofts better. Synthetic insulation keeps you warm when wet.
- Weight: The quality of insulation and the bag's cut are key. Aim for the lightest, most packable bag within your budget.
For car camping, you can choose a warmer, roomier bag without worrying as much about weight or bulk. The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a popular option for car campers.
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, semirectangular (or "modified mummy"), and mummy. Rectangular bags offer ample room to stretch out and some can be fully unzipped. Mummy bags are snugger to boost warmth and cut weight. Semirectangular bags offer a compromise between warmth and roominess.
Consider the warmth, water resistance, and weight of the bag. Other features include hoods, zipper sliders, stash pockets, stuff sacks, storage sacks, and sleeping bag liners.
Some recommended sleeping bags include the Feathered Friends Snowbunting, Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30, Kelty TruComfort, Big Agnes Sidewinder SL 20°, and the Teton Sports Polara 3-in-1.
