Colin Snow
When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking, it's important to consider a variety of factors to ensure you get a good night's sleep. The most important consideration is the temperature rating of the bag, which should be rated lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. Other factors to consider include the shape of the bag, the type of insulation, the weight, and any extra features. In terms of size, it's important to choose a bag that fits your height closely to maximise warmth, but it's also a matter of personal preference as to whether you want a tighter or roomier fit.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | Choose a bag length that fits your height as closely as possible. |
| Temperature Rating | Select a bag with a temperature rating slightly lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. |
| Shape | Mummy bags are the most popular for backpacking as they minimise materials, maximise packability, and seal in heat. |
| Fit | A bag that is too tight or too loose will cost you warmth. |
| Weight | Backpacking bags are more lightweight and pack down smaller than camping bags. |
| Insulation Type | Consider the type of insulation (down vs. synthetic). |
| Shell Denier | Thicker denier bags are more durable, while thinner denier bags cut down on weight and packed size. |
| Features | Consider extras like adjustment features, stash pockets, and pad compatibility. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag length
Firstly, it is essential to select a sleeping bag that is the appropriate length for your height. A bag that is too short may restrict your movement and cause discomfort, while a bag that is too long may result in wasted space and reduced warmth. The ideal length will vary depending on your height and the amount of space you prefer to have in the bag. Most sleeping bags come in standard lengths such as small (5 ft. 6 in.), regular (6 ft.), and long (6 ft. 6 in.). If you are on the taller side, look for a bag that accommodates your height without compressing the footbox or hood.
Secondly, the length of the sleeping bag can impact its warmth. A bag that is too long or too loose may result in extra air space that needs to be heated, reducing the overall warmth of the bag. Conversely, a bag that is too short may compress the insulation at the feet, affecting its insulating properties. Therefore, it is important to find a balance between a snug fit and having some extra room.
Thirdly, the length of the sleeping bag can influence its weight. Longer sleeping bags tend to be heavier, which is an important consideration for backpackers who need to carry their gear for extended periods. If you are looking to minimise weight, opting for a shorter bag or a bag with a more tapered design may be preferable.
Finally, the length of the sleeping bag can impact your comfort, especially if you are a restless sleeper or prefer a particular sleeping position. A longer bag may provide more room to move around, while a shorter bag may feel more confining. Additionally, some bags offer extra features such as adjustable lengths or hoods that can enhance comfort.
In summary, when choosing a sleeping bag length for backpacking, consider your height, the desired amount of space, the warmth rating, weight constraints, and your personal comfort preferences.
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Temperature ratings
When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking, temperature ratings are a key consideration. Sleeping bags are designed to hold in body warmth, and temperature ratings provide an estimate of the level of warmth a bag provides. However, it's important to note that these ratings are not exact and can vary depending on individual factors such as body type, clothing, and sleeping style.
There are three main temperature rating categories: International standards from EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization), trustworthy homebrew ratings (often from smaller companies), and ratings from untrustworthy companies that may cheat the system. The EN standard was the original industry standard, but it has been largely replaced by the ISO standard, which uses nearly identical testing methods.
The ISO testing procedure involves placing an instrumented electronic mannequin, dressed in long underwear, inside the sleeping bag, which is placed on a foam sleeping pad. The air temperature is then lowered, and the electrical energy required to maintain the mannequin's temperature is measured. This process is repeated to correlate the results with real-world outcomes and predict the comfort level a person can expect from the bag.
The ISO test provides three temperature thresholds: Comfort, Limit, and Extreme. The Comfort rating is based on the temperature at which the "average woman" can sleep comfortably through the night without curling up for warmth. The Limit rating is based on the temperature at which the "average man" can maintain his thermal equilibrium in a curled-up position without shivering or risking hypothermia. The Extreme rating, used by the EN standard, indicates that a woman won't die of hypothermia within six hours at that temperature.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is generally recommended to select one rated slightly below the expected temperatures. Hearty thru-hikers may opt for bags rated for lower temperatures to save weight, while cold sleepers may want to choose a bag rated up to 20 degrees colder than anticipated temperatures. Additionally, it's important to consider the shape and fit of the bag, as a bag that is too tight or too loose can result in a loss of warmth.
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Mummy bags
The Magma bag is a good example of a mummy bag. Its trimmed-down design makes it highly efficient by eliminating the dead space your body would otherwise have to warm up. While there is still some room to move in the Magma, the leg girth is a bit narrower than many similar models, so some hikers may find the space a bit tight. However, wide models are available for each length option (short, medium, long) for those who need more space. The Magma is highly compressible for efficient packing and is a good choice for cold sleepers or for use on high alpine and winter adventures.
The Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 is another mummy bag that is recommended for backpackers with broad shoulders and narrower hips, as well as those who tend to sleep warm. The bag has diagonal baffles, which allow movement in two directions—vertically and horizontally. This unique design eliminates gaps between the body and the bag, minimising drafty dead spaces.
The Big Agnes Sidewinder SL 20° is a mummy bag that is suitable for side sleepers and backpackers who like to shift positions while sleeping. The shell is cut more widely in the middle than a typical mummy bag, making it easier to change positions without feeling constricted. The bag has a pillow sleeve behind the hood to hold a pillow in place while sleeping.
While mummy bags are popular, they may not be suitable for everyone. They tend to be more restrictive, so if you are a side sleeper or someone who tosses and turns throughout the night, a roomier bag could be a better option. Additionally, mummy bags usually don't have width options, so if you find the cut too slim, you may need to choose a different model or consider a quilt, which provides a better warmth-to-weight ratio compared to mummy bags when nighttime temperatures are above freezing (32°F).
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Weight and packability
The mummy bag is the most popular shape for backpackers because it minimises materials to maximise packability and weight savings. Mummy bags are cut to the contours of the human body, narrow around the feet and legs, wider around the hips and shoulders, and with a hood that wraps around the head to seal in heat. They are lightweight, pack down easily, and are ideal for backpacking or technical adventures that require packability and a high degree of warmth. However, if you tend to toss and turn or sleep on your side, a roomier bag may be a better option. While roomier bags will be heavier and more likely to have drafts and pockets of cold air, they can make it easier to roll over and move around, which may be more important to you than maximising warmth.
The weight of a sleeping bag is also affected by its length. The ideal length for your sleeping bag is one that fits your height as closely as possible without compressing any down in the footbox or hood. This close fit will ensure that you're not wasting energy warming empty air, helping your feet and head stay warm. If you're looking to keep the weight of your sleeping bag down, you may be able to size down comfortably into a regular length. However, if you're looking to stash extra gear in the footbox, you may need to size up.
The weight of a sleeping bag is also determined by its shell denier, which refers to the thickness of the bag's outer shell fabric. Many popular backpacking bags are in the 20-30D range, while some of the burliest models go up to 70D. If you're looking to cut down on weight and packed size, opting for a thinner bag can be a good choice. However, if you tend to be hard on your gear, bring a dog inside your tent, or sleep directly on the ground without a tent, you may want to choose a thicker, more hardwearing material.
Finally, the weight of your sleeping bag will depend on the type of insulation it uses. The two main options are down and synthetic fill, each with its own pros and cons. Down insulation is known for its warmth, compressibility, and lightweight properties, while synthetic insulation is more affordable, dries faster, and continues to insulate even when wet. Ultimately, the type of insulation you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences for your backpacking trip.
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Fit and comfort
When selecting a sleeping bag for backpacking, it's important to consider the fit and comfort to ensure a good night's sleep. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Length
The length of the sleeping bag is crucial. It should match your height as closely as possible without compressing the insulation in the footbox or hood. This ensures that you don't waste energy warming empty air, keeping your feet and head warm. Most sleeping bags come in two standard lengths: regular (for individuals up to 6 feet tall) and long (up to 6 feet 6 inches). However, some brands offer additional size options, such as small (5 ft. 6 in.) for individuals below 6 feet.
Shoulder Girth
Shoulder girth refers to the circumference of the sleeping bag across the shoulders. This measurement is important, especially if you plan to sleep in a jacket or move around a lot while sleeping. Testing different sleeping bags with varying shoulder girths can help you find the right balance between comfort and warmth.
Hip Girth
Hip girth is the circumference of the sleeping bag across the hips. While it varies based on whether it's a men's or women's sleeping bag, it generally accommodates the physique of the intended user. Men's bags typically feature a hip girth of around 58 inches, while women's bags may offer slightly wider options of up to 60 inches. Trying out different models is the best way to determine your preferred hip girth.
Roominess
The roominess of a sleeping bag is a matter of personal preference. While a snugger fit maximizes warmth, a roomier bag provides more space to move around, making it ideal for restless sleepers or those who feel claustrophobic in tighter spaces. However, keep in mind that roomier bags may be heavier and more prone to drafts and pockets of cold air.
Hood
The hood of the sleeping bag should fit comfortably and naturally around your head, trapping heat that would otherwise escape. It should not feel too tight or restrictive. A well-fitting hood should move with your head as you shift positions during sleep.
Remember, the right balance between fit and comfort will enhance your sleeping bag's performance and ensure a pleasant backpacking experience.
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Frequently asked questions
The size of your sleeping bag depends on your height, the amount of space you prefer to have, and the temperature you will be sleeping in. It's important to choose a bag that is not too tight or too loose to avoid losing warmth. Most sleeping bags come in two standard lengths: regular (for people up to 6 feet tall) and long (for people up to 6 feet 6 inches tall). If you're exactly 6 feet tall, you can choose between a regular or long bag depending on whether you prefer a tighter or roomier fit.
Mummy bags are the most popular shape for backpacking because they minimize material to maximize packability and weight savings. However, if you're a side sleeper or tend to toss and turn, you may prefer a roomier bag.
The comfort of a sleeping bag depends on your tolerance for feeling confined. If you're a restless sleeper, a roomier bag may be better as it allows you to move around more easily and reduces the sense of claustrophobia. However, keep in mind that mummy bags are designed with extra girth at the hips and shoulders to provide more space for movement.
Weight is an important consideration for backpacking as the sleeping bag will be one of the heavier and bulkier items in your pack. Ultralight bags are a good option for backpacking as they are designed to be lightweight and pack down to a small size.
It's important to choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that is lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. Most bags have two temperature ratings: "comfort" and "lower limit" or "limit". The "comfort" rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep an "average sleeper" warm, while the "lower limit" or "limit" rating is for cold sleepers who are willing to sacrifice comfort for weight savings.
