Evie Summers
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the temperature rating, type of insulation, weight, and additional features. The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is based on the lowest temperature at which it is designed to keep a person warm. It's recommended to choose a bag with a lower temperature rating than the anticipated low temperatures during your trip. The type of insulation, either down or synthetic, will also impact the warmth and weight of the bag. If you're backpacking, a lightweight bag is ideal, and you'll want to consider the compressibility and volume of the bag in litres when packed. Additional features such as a hood, draft tubes, and adjustment options can also enhance your comfort. Understanding these factors will help you select the most suitable sleeping bag for your needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | Choose a sleeping bag rated a little lower than the typical low temperatures you expect to encounter. |
| Sleep system | Comfort at a particular temperature depends on variables like the R-value of your sleeping pad. |
| Type of insulation | Choose between down and synthetic insulation. |
| Weight | The quality of insulation and the cut of the bag are factors to consider. |
| Features | Extras like adjustment features, stash pockets, and pad compatibility. |
| Sleeping bag hood | A hood offers added warmth, especially when cinched tightly around your head. |
| Draft-blocking features | Draft tubes prevent warm air from escaping through the zipper. Draft collars or yokes prevent warm air from escaping around your neck. |
| Anti-snag zipper | Some bags have a full-length zipper guard, while others have a zipper cover. |
| Zip direction | Bags with left or right-hand zips can be zipped together. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is a key factor in choosing one. It identifies the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep an "average sleeper" warm. The rating is based on lab testing, which involves placing a sleeping pad under the bag and a test dummy inside the bag dressed in base layers. The dummy is assumed to be wearing long underwear and socks.
There are three main rating categories:
- International standards from EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization): These are the most common and allow for easy comparison between different brands. The EN standard has now been replaced by ISO, but the testing method remains almost identical.
- Trustworthy homebrew ratings : These are usually from smaller companies and may be set to "comfortable at X°F".
- Untrustworthy ratings : Some companies cheat the system, so it's important to be wary of this when choosing a bag.
It's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates and don't account for all variables, such as differences in clothing, gear, body types, and weather conditions. Therefore, it's recommended to choose a bag with a temperature rating slightly lower than the coldest temperature you expect to encounter. For example, if you're expecting 20°F, assume it may be colder and get a bag with a comfort rating of 15°F or 20°F. This is because it's easier to let cool air in than stay warm in a bag that's not rated properly.
There are two main temperature ratings:
- Comfort rating: This is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. It is the rating used for women's bags because, on average, women feel colder than men in the same bag.
- Lower limit rating: This is always lower than the comfort rating and indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable. It is the rating used for men's bags.
Other ratings may include the upper limit, which is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep without excessive perspiration with the hood and zippers open and arms outside the bag.
In addition to the temperature rating of the bag, the R-value of the sleeping pad is also important. The R-value measures the pad's thermal performance and should be considered when choosing a bag.
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Backpacking vs camping bags
When choosing a sleeping bag, the first thing to consider is what activity you need it for. Are you camping or backpacking? Are you mountaineering or packrafting? The weight, shape, and features of sleeping bags are often best suited to specific end uses, so it's important to choose one based on what you'll be using it for the most.
Camping sleeping bags are heavier, bulkier, and more geared towards comfort than sleeping bags made for backpacking. They are ideal for family car camping trips and other front-country sojourns, and since they are less technical, they are also much less expensive.
Backpacking sleeping bags, on the other hand, are more lightweight and pack down smaller. They are also more efficient, providing more warmth for their weight. When choosing a backpacking sleeping bag, the main considerations should be weight and compressibility. The trick to picking the right bag is balancing weight and compressibility with the correct level of warmth, so keeping an eye on temperature ratings is important. The outer shell of a backpacking bag is typically made of ripstop nylon or polyester, and many are treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish to prevent moisture from soaking through.
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: mummy, semi-rectangular, and rectangular. Mummy bags are designed to boost warmth and reduce weight, and have a slim cut and a contoured hood that can be cinched tight for greater warmth. Semi-rectangular bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. Rectangular bags maximize roominess and can be unzipped and used as blankets, or zipped together with another rectangular bag to create a double bag.
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Insulation type
When choosing a sleeping bag, one of the most important considerations is the type of insulation. The two main types of insulation are down and synthetic. Down sleeping bags are typically more expensive and offer better warmth-to-weight ratios, making them a popular choice for backpacking as they can be compressed into a small size. Synthetic sleeping bags, on the other hand, are more affordable and retain warmth better when wet. They are also easier to care for and dry quickly, making them a good option for camping trips.
Down insulation is measured in "fill power", which indicates the volume of space that one ounce of down occupies. Higher fill power means better insulation and compressibility. For example, a down sleeping bag with 800 fill power will be warmer and more compact than one with 600 fill power. Fill power can vary between different types of down, with goose down generally having a higher fill power than duck down.
Synthetic insulation is made from man-made fibres that mimic the structure of down. The fibres are designed to trap warm air and provide insulation. Synthetic insulation is measured in "loft", which indicates the thickness of the insulation. A higher loft means more air is trapped, resulting in better warmth retention. Synthetic insulation is also hydrophobic, meaning it dries quickly and continues to insulate even when wet, making it a good choice for humid environments.
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is another crucial factor to consider. It indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep an "average sleeper" warm. It's important to note that temperature ratings are based on individuals wearing long underwear and socks, sleeping on an insulated pad, and other variables. Therefore, it's recommended to choose a bag with a temperature rating slightly lower than the anticipated low temperatures during your trip. This way, you can always open up the bag if conditions get warmer.
Additionally, the shape and features of the sleeping bag also play a role in insulation. A mummy-shaped bag, for instance, tapers from the head to the foot, reducing the amount of dead space to warm up. A hooded bag provides added warmth, especially when cinched tightly around the head. Draft tubes along the length of the bag and draft collars at the top prevent warm air from escaping, while anti-snag zippers prevent wear and tear on the fabric. All these features contribute to a more comfortable and warm sleeping experience.
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Weight
The weight of a sleeping bag is a key consideration when choosing one for camping or backpacking. If you're car camping, you don't need to worry about weight or packing your bag into a small space, so you can opt for a roomier, warmer bag. However, if you're backpacking or hiking, minimising weight and bulk is crucial, as you'll be carrying your gear on your back. In this case, you'll want to choose the lightest, most packable bag within your budget.
The weight of a sleeping bag depends on various factors, including its shape, insulation type, and the materials used for the shell and liner. Mummy-shaped bags, which have a slim cut and a contoured hood, are lighter than semi-rectangular or rectangular bags, which offer more room. Backpacking bags tend to be lighter and more snug than camping bags.
The type of insulation also affects weight. Down insulation is more compressible and lighter than synthetic insulation, but it may not be suitable for all users due to ethical concerns and higher prices. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is generally more affordable and suitable for vegans or those with allergies, but it requires a larger volume stuff sack.
When considering weight, it's important to look at the shell and liner materials as well. Low-denier shells and liners, along with complex construction, can provide lightweight warmth in a small space, but they come at a higher cost. If you're looking for an ultra-lightweight option, consider a bag with a low-denier shell and high-fill-power down (such as 850+ down).
Finally, the packed volume of a sleeping bag can impact the weight of your overall gear. Sleeping bags vary in packed volume depending on the insulation type, shell, and liner fabrics. To minimise weight and space, choose a compression sack that suits your sleeping bag and the environmental conditions you'll encounter.
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Additional features
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider additional features that can greatly improve your comfort. Here are some key features to look out for:
Temperature Rating: Select a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is suitable for the conditions you will encounter. It is generally recommended to choose a bag with a rating slightly lower than the anticipated low temperatures. Remember that the temperature rating is based on an "average sleeper" wearing long underwear and socks, sleeping on an insulated pad. If you tend to sleep cold, use the bag's "comfort" rating, while warm sleepers can opt for the "lower limit" rating.
Hood and Draft-Blocking Features: A hood provides extra warmth, especially when cinched tightly, and some hoods have differentiated drawcords for easy adjustment. Draft tubes, draft collars, or yokes help prevent warm air from escaping from the bag, especially around your neck and the zipper area. Look for anti-snag zipper features to prevent wear and tear on the fabric.
Type of Insulation: Sleeping bags typically offer either down or synthetic insulation. Down bags tend to be more lightweight and pack smaller, while synthetic bags are often more affordable and retain warmth when wet. Consider the pros and cons of each type to decide which insulation suits your needs.
Weight and Compressibility: If you're backpacking, weight and compressibility become crucial. Opt for a lightweight bag that can be compressed into a small size, freeing up space in your backpack. Down sleeping bags are known for their superior compressibility.
Pad Compatibility: Ensure your sleeping bag is compatible with your sleeping pad. Check the R-value of your pad, which indicates its thermal performance, and choose a bag with a matching temperature rating. Some bags have features that facilitate attachment to the pad, ensuring they work together effectively.
When selecting a sleeping bag, consider the additional features that align with your specific needs and preferences. These features can significantly enhance your comfort and overall sleeping experience, whether you're backpacking, camping, or enjoying a night outdoors.
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Frequently asked questions
The right liter sleeping bag for you depends on the kind of trip you are taking and the expected temperatures. If you are backpacking, you will want a lightweight sleeping bag that can be compressed down as small as possible. If you are camping, you can afford to have a larger sleeping bag. In general, choose a sleeping bag rated a little bit lower than the typical low temperatures you expect.
A temperature rating identifies the lowest temperature at which a bag was designed to keep an "average sleeper" warm. A lower temperature rating usually means a bulkier sleeping bag.
Backpacking bags are more lightweight and compact than camping bags. If you are doing both activities, it is recommended to get a backpacking bag.
A compression sack is used to compress your sleeping bag down to a smaller size. To calculate the liter size of the compression sack you need, take the compressed volume of your sleeping bag and add 5 liters.
Consider the type of insulation (down vs. synthetic), the weight, and additional features such as a hood, draft-blocking tubes, anti-snag zippers, and stash pockets.
