Ashwin Lewis
When it comes to camping, a good night's sleep is essential. Choosing the right sleeping bag can be a complicated process, with factors such as temperature rating, insulation type, bag shape, and intended activity level all coming into play. Temperature ratings, in particular, can be confusing, with various ratings systems and a range of factors influencing the actual comfort level of the bag. Understanding how to choose the right sleeping bag for your needs can ensure a restful night's sleep and maximize your enjoyment of the great outdoors.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature Rating | The key factor when choosing a sleeping bag is its temperature rating. Sleeping bags are given a standardised rating range through laboratory tests, with two temperature ratings within that range: a comfort rating and a lower limit rating. |
| The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. This is the rating used for women's bags. The lower limit rating is always lower than the comfort rating and indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable. This is the rating used for men's bags. | |
| Temperature ratings are not always accurate and are based on an "average sleeper". Other factors that affect warmth include sleeping pads, clothing, humidity and wind, metabolism, etc. | |
| It is recommended to choose a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. | |
| For summer camping, a bag with a rating of 20-30° Fahrenheit is recommended. For winter camping, a bag with a rating of -20° Fahrenheit or lower is recommended. | |
| Insulation Type | Synthetic insulation is ideal for summer camping as it dries quickly and maintains insulation when wet. Goose down provides the most warmth for its weight and is a good option if the bag can be kept dry. |
| Synthetic bags are easier to clean and are more affordable. Goose down bags are ideal for lightweight camping and backpacking. | |
| For ethical goose down, look for bags labelled RDS (Responsible Down Standard) or TDS (global Traceable Down Standard). | |
| Size and Weight | For camping, choose a bag with ample room to stretch out and roll over. For backpacking, choose a bag that is lightweight and packable within your budget. |
| Double sleeping bags are ideal for couples. Bags can also be zipped together if they are the same model and brand, or if one has a right-hand zip and the other a left-hand zip. | |
| Kids' sleeping bags are shorter, smaller, and more affordable. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
The ISO test provides three temperature thresholds: Comfort, Limit, and Extreme. The Comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, and it is typically used for women's bags as women tend to feel colder than men on average. The Limit rating, which is lower than the Comfort rating, indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable, and it is usually assigned to men's bags. The Extreme rating indicates the temperature at which there is a serious risk of hypothermia, and it is important to note that additional layers or warmth sources may be necessary below this threshold.
When choosing a sleeping bag based on temperature ratings, it is recommended to consider the expected nighttime temperatures and select a bag with a lower temperature rating. This is because it is easier to unzip the bag if you get too warm, but more difficult to warm up if your bag is not warm enough. For summer camping, synthetic bags are recommended as they dry quickly and maintain insulation when wet. For winter camping, goose down sleeping bags are ideal as they provide the most warmth for their weight, but it is crucial to keep them dry.
It is worth noting that temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper", and individual factors such as metabolism, clothing, sleeping pads, and weather conditions can also impact the comfort level of the sleeping bag. Additionally, not all sleeping bags have ISO or EN ratings, as these tests do not apply to bags designed for extreme cold or children. In such cases, brands may provide their own temperature estimates, which should be used as a rough guideline rather than an absolute comparison across brands.
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Insulation types
When it comes to insulation types, you have two main options: down or synthetic. Down insulation is made from goose feathers, whereas synthetic insulation is usually made from polyester.
Down insulation is the best option for lightweight warmth. Goose down provides the most warmth for the lightest weight, and is a good choice if you know you can keep your bag dry. Down is also more durable than synthetic insulation, retaining warmth for decades if properly cared for. However, down is more expensive than synthetic insulation, and it is not a good insulator when wet.
Synthetic insulation is a better option if you are camping in damp conditions. Synthetic bags dry quickly and continue to insulate when wet. They are also generally cheaper than down insulation. However, they do not loft to the same degree as down, and they are bulkier and heavier.
You can also get sleeping bags with a down/synthetic blend, which have synthetic insulation on the bottom, where it will compress less, and down on top, where it will loft better.
The construction of the insulation is also important. Basic synthetic bags use flat layers of insulation, whereas better-quality bags use layers sewn diagonally over one another (called 'shingles'). The goal is to get an even distribution of insulation to avoid cold spots. When testing a bag in the store, make sure you roll over a few times and adopt a typical sleeping position—if you feel your limbs compressing the insulation, try another bag.
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Bag shapes
The shape of a sleeping bag is an important consideration when choosing one. 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 anticipate using it for the most.
If you're camping, you might not have to worry about weight or fitting your bag into a pack, so you can opt for a roomier bag. Mummy bags, named for the shape of the coffins Egyptian mummies were found in, are cut close to the body and are ideal for sleeping in a bag without a pad. They can be used on top of a sleeping pad or on their own. Mummy bags are the lightest traditional sleeping bags, but some people might find them uncomfortable or claustrophobic. They are also great for backpacking as they are lightweight and take up less space.
Rectangular sleeping bags give the most space to move around and are a good option for car camping. They can also be zipped together to create a double sleeping bag for couples. They are also a good option for children as they are shorter, smaller, and more affordable.
Double sleeping bags are a great option for couples as they allow you to rely on each other's body heat for warmth and get a lighter bag.
If you'll be using one bag for camping and backpacking, choose a backpacking style because you'll need it to be lightweight if you're going to carry it in a pack.
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Budget options
When choosing a sleeping bag, the key factor is its temperature rating. It's important to pick a bag that will keep you warm in the coldest conditions you anticipate encountering. While temperature ratings are a useful tool, they are not always accurate, as they are based on an "average sleeper". Other factors, such as your sleeping pad, clothing, metabolism, and weather conditions, will also affect how warm you feel.
If you're on a budget, there are still plenty of great sleeping bag options available. Here are some budget-friendly choices for different temperature ratings:
Coleman Brazos
The Coleman Brazos is an excellent option for those on a budget. It impresses with its durability and warmth, especially for its price point. While it may not be suitable for extremely cold nights, it will keep you comfortable during the normal camping season, including late spring, summer, and early fall. It's a great choice if you're outfitting a large group or family for a camping trip, as it offers a good balance of warmth and affordability. However, it may not be the best option for tall or broad-shouldered people due to its smaller fit.
Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15
The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is a fantastic budget bag that offers a great balance of performance and affordability. It features a simple mummy design with 650-fill power down, providing a solid warmth-to-weight ratio. While it may not have the comfort and versatility of ultra-premium bags, it is more than sufficient for most campers. Its compact size and reasonable price make it an attractive option for those looking for a warm and easy-to-pack sleeping bag without breaking the bank.
REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option for backpacking, the REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag is an excellent choice. It stands out for its spaciousness, offering four extra inches of wiggle room in the shoulders compared to standard sleeping bags. It's a rectangular bag with widened shoulders and hip girth, providing a comfortable and plush experience. While it's not designed for backpacking due to its weight, it still performs well in terms of packability, especially when considering its roominess.
Alps OutdoorZ Redwood
The Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a fantastic budget option for car camping. It offers a cozy and comfortable experience with its rugged yet soft flannel interior. While it may be too heavy for backpacking, it is perfect for those who want a warm and classic sleeping bag design. It's important to note that the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood might not offer the best value compared to other camping bags, but if you're patient, you may be able to find it on sale.
Nemo Sonic 0
If you're looking for a mummy bag on a budget, the Nemo Sonic 0 is a great option. While it may be heavier and not as packable as some other bags, it excels in warmth and weather resistance. It's a good choice if you prioritize warmth and affordability over weight and packability.
When choosing a budget sleeping bag, it's important to consider your specific needs, such as the temperature range you require, the type of camping you'll be doing, and your body type. Remember that temperature ratings are just estimates, and individual factors can greatly affect your warmth and comfort.
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Double sleeping bags
When choosing a sleeping bag, the key factor is its temperature rating. Sleeping bags with higher temperature ratings are ideal for summer camping, while those with lower ratings are better for winter camping. Temperature ratings are determined by standardised laboratory tests, which produce a rating range for each sleeping bag. However, it's important to note that these ratings are estimates, and actual comfort levels may vary depending on external factors such as weather conditions, sleeping pads, and individual differences.
Now, let's focus on double sleeping bags, which are designed for couples or families who want to sleep together while camping. Here are some options for double sleeping bags with different temperature ratings and features:
Kelty TruComfort Doublewide 20
The Kelty TruComfort Doublewide 20 is a spacious and comfortable car-camping bag for two people. It has a temperature rating of 20 °F, making it suitable for use in temperatures down to around 40 °F. This bag is well-made, with solid zippers, good stitching, and a smooth polyester shell and lining. It also comes with a stuff sack and is covered by Kelty's lifetime warranty.
Teton Sports Mammoth Double Sleeping Bag
The Teton Sports Mammoth double sleeping bag is rated at 0 °F, making it ideal for cold nights, especially when sleeping next to your partner. However, its weight of 16.5 lbs makes it more suitable for car-camping rather than backpacking.
Big Agnes Dream Island 20
The Big Agnes Dream Island 20 is a warmer couples' sleeping bag with an integrated pad. It has the same temperature rating as the Kelty TruComfort Doublewide 20 but is functionally warmer.
The North Face Dolomite One Duo
The North Face Dolomite One Duo is a versatile sleeping bag with an interchangeable 3-layered temperature system. The lowest temperature rating with the 3-layer setup is 15 °F, but you can remove a layer to make it a 30 °F bag or use the single 50 °F layer for stargazing in the summer.
Nemo Duo Tango Sleeping System
The Nemo Duo Tango Sleeping System is a lightweight and warm option for longer backpacking trips. It is designed to fit two people and can keep you warm in temperatures above 40 °F. It pairs well with an air mattress or a tent when camping.
When choosing a double sleeping bag, consider the temperature rating, weight, and features that suit your camping needs and preferences. Remember that it's generally better to have a bag that is a bit too warm than not warm enough.
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Frequently asked questions
The most important factor is the temperature rating of the bag. You should also consider the type of camping you will be doing, as backpacking bags are usually lighter and more snug, while camping bags can be roomier. If you are camping with a partner, you can also get double sleeping bags or rectangular bags designed to be zipped together.
Temperature ratings are assigned to sleeping bags through standardized testing, such as ISO or EN testing. These tests involve placing a manikin inside the sleeping bag, dressed in base layers, and measuring the amount of electrical energy needed to maintain its temperature as the surrounding temperature is lowered. The tests produce a rating range with two temperature ratings: a comfort rating and a lower-limit rating. The comfort rating is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, while the lower-limit rating is the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable.
If you know the coldest conditions you anticipate during your trip, you can pick a bag that will keep you warm at or below that temperature. It is generally recommended to choose a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect. You should also consider the time of year you will be using the bag, as bags for summer camping should be different from those for winter camping.
