Gina Johnson
When choosing a sleeping bag for summer, it's important to consider the temperature rating, weight, and features such as draft tubes and hoods. The ideal temperature rating for a sleeping bag for summer use is around 30°F to 40°F, as this provides warmth during cooler nights without being too stifling. Lighter sleeping bags are generally preferred for backpacking due to their compact size and ability to provide warmth without the bulk. Some popular options for summer sleeping bags include the Western Mountaineering EverLite, the Therm-a-Rest Space Cowboy, and the Coleman Brazos, which offer versatility, lightweight construction, and durability at a range of price points.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | 30°F, 40°F or higher |
| Shape | Rectangular, semirectangular, mummy or double |
| Size | Regular, long or short |
| Features | Draft-blocking details, a snug-fitting hood, extra zippers, stash pocket |
| Weight | Lightweight |
| Compressibility | Highly compressible |
| Insulation type | Down or synthetic |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag shape and weight
The shape and weight of a sleeping bag are important factors to consider when choosing a summer sleeping bag.
Firstly, the insulation type and bag shape have a significant impact on the weight of the sleeping bag. Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are typically lighter and more efficient at retaining warmth compared to rectangular or semi-rectangular bags. Mummy bags are also more streamlined, making them ideal for backpacking as they take up less space and weigh less. Rectangular bags, on the other hand, offer more room to move around and can be fully unzipped to use as a blanket in warmer weather.
When it comes to weight, lightweight sleeping bags are generally more portable and easier to pack, making them a good choice for backpacking or hiking. However, it's important to note that ultralight sleeping bags may not provide the same level of warmth as heavier options, so consider the temperature rating as well.
For summer use, a lightweight sleeping bag is often sufficient. Bags with a temperature rating of 40°F or higher are generally recommended for summer camping, especially in warmer climates. Some popular options include the Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL, which can function as a hoodless mummy bag or an open quilt, and the Therm-a-Rest Space Cowboy, a lightweight synthetic mummy bag rated at 45˚F/7˚C.
If you're looking for a versatile option, consider the Western Mountaineering EverLite, which can be used as a sleeping bag, blanket, inner/outer bag, or overquilt. The Big Agnes McKinnis is another lightweight, down-insulated bag that can transition from a summer bag to a winter liner.
Additionally, some people prefer quilts over traditional sleeping bags for summer use, as they provide more ventilation and flexibility. Quilts can be paired with an underquilt for hammock camping or used with straps to keep them in place on a pad.
Finally, it's worth mentioning that your comfort and sleeping habits play a role in choosing the right shape and weight. If you tend to sleep cold, you may want a bag with a lower temperature rating or consider additional insulation. Conversely, if you sleep warm, a higher temperature rating and a bag with more ventilation might be preferable.
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Temperature ratings
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a summer sleeping bag. Opt for a sleeping bag with a temperature rating below the lowest nighttime temperature you expect when camping. The ideal temperature rating depends on the user's preferences and the climate they will be camping in.
For summer camping, a sleeping bag with a temperature rating of around 30°F is generally recommended as it should be warm enough for most spring and fall conditions while not being too hot for the summer months. However, people camping in warmer climates, such as the American South, might prefer a bag with a higher temperature rating of 40°F or even 50°F. On the other hand, those who sleep cold or camp in colder climates may want a lower temperature rating of 20°F or even lower.
Some popular options for summer sleeping bags include the Western Mountaineering EverLite, which is rated to 45°F, and the Therm-a-Rest Space Cowboy, which is also rated to 45°F. The Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL is another lightweight option with a temperature rating of 40°F. For colder sleepers, the Feathered Friends Petrel UL 10 is a women's-specific bag rated to 10°F that has been used for summer trips in the mountains. The Coleman Brazos is a budget-friendly option that provides warmth for late spring, summer, and early fall camping.
It is important to note that the temperature rating of a sleeping bag is just a starting point, and individual preferences may vary. Other factors such as the sleeping pad and the environment can also affect how warm or cool a person feels while sleeping. Additionally, the shape of the sleeping bag can impact its warmth, with mummy bags generally being warmer than rectangular or semi-rectangular bags.
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Budget options
When selecting a sleeping bag for summer, the primary consideration should be finding a bag that matches your warmth, size, and budget requirements. A good temperature rating for a sleeping bag for summer is around 30°F, which should be warm enough for most spring and fall conditions while also not being too stifling in the summer months. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to opt for a warmer model, whereas a bag with a higher temperature rating may be more suitable for summer camping in warmer climates.
Coleman Brazos
The Coleman Brazos sleeping bag is a notable contender for those on a budget. It offers rugged durability and warmth, making it ideal for the normal camping season of late spring, summer, and early fall. While it may not be suitable for extremely cold camp nights, it provides adequate warmth for milder nights.
Mountain Equipment Starlight 1
Mountain Equipment is a top sleeping bag maker, and their Starlight range offers budget-friendly options with features comparable to more expensive bags. The Starlight 1 has a comfort rating of 9°C (48.2°F) and is filled with Mountain Equipment's own Polarloft polyester insulation, which helps prevent cold spots. The bag also features a durable 30D nylon shell, a shaped hood and footbox, a full-length zip with a baffle, and a warm collar. Weighing less than a kilo, it is a great option for summer backpacking.
Alpkit Ultra 120
The Alpkit Ultra 120 is a budget-friendly sleeping bag priced at £200. It is lightweight and has a lean, trim design, making it suitable for minimalist backpacking trips or mountain marathons. The bag features PrimaLoft Gold insulation, providing an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. While its minimalist nature may make it tighter and better suited for warmer nights, it is a good option for warm, one-night summer wild camping trips, as it takes up minimal space in your pack.
REI Co-op Magma 30
The REI Co-op Magma 30 is a lightweight sleeping bag that uses 850 fill power water-resistant down to keep the weight down to around 25 ounces. It is offered in nine different sizes for a custom-like fit. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, you can find it on sale at a more affordable price.
Kelty Cosmic
The Kelty Cosmic is a light budget bag that can be a good choice for summer. While it may not have the premium features of more expensive bags, it can still provide adequate warmth and comfort for summer camping trips.
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Backpacking sleeping bags
When choosing a sleeping bag for summer backpacking, it's important to consider the typical nighttime temperatures of your camping location. A good summer sleeping bag should be lightweight and provide enough warmth for the conditions.
The ideal temperature rating for a summer sleeping bag is around 30°F. This is suitable for warm-weather summer backpacking, especially below the tree line. Bags in this temperature range include the REI Co-op Magma 30, Western Mountaineering SummerLite (32), and Feathered Friends Swallow UL 30. If you're looking for a budget option, the REI Co-op Magma 30 offers a good balance between weight and temperature rating, averaging around 25 ounces at $380.
If you're expecting temperatures closer to freezing, you may want to consider a bag rated at 20°F to 25°F. The Western Mountaineering UltraLite is a good option for colder sleepers, while the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 and NEMO Disco Endless Promise 15 are well-priced down options. The Trailmade 20 is also an excellent synthetic value, and if you're looking for something even more affordable, the TETON Sports Trailhead is a lower-priced synthetic bag.
For those who tend to sleep warm, a quilt might be a better option. Quilts offer similar warmth to sleeping bags at a lower weight because they eliminate the unnecessary insulation at the bottom, which gets compressed under your body anyway. The Sea to Summit Spark is a good choice for mid-summer outings at low elevations, as it weighs only 12.8 ounces and packs down to the size of a 1-liter bottle.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's also important to consider the fit and design. A bag that is too roomy will make you feel colder, as your body has to heat the extra space. Conversely, a bag that fits too tightly will reduce its ability to trap heat. For maximum warmth, size your bag to fit snugly but not tightly.
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Quilts and liners
Quilts are a popular choice for summer sleeping bags. They are lightweight and can be paired with a liner for added warmth. If you are hammock camping, an underquilt is necessary to protect you from drafts.
The Mountain Quilt & Bag Liner is a good option for those seeking an ultralight and ultra-versatile liner. It can add 5° of warmth to any sleep system, be used as a warm-weather sleeping bag replacement, or even a minimalist bivy sack. It is made from Mountain 10D X 10D Mini Ripstop Nylon with a 3X DWR Finish and is available in a bright orange colour, which could serve a dual function as a signalling material in emergencies.
Zpacks also offers a Summer Quilt/Winter Liner, which is designed to provide the right amount of warmth for summer nights when the temperature is above freezing. It is lightweight and packs down small, making it easy to carry on longer summer trips. It can be used as a standalone quilt or liner, and is compatible with the Sleeping Pad Quilt Strap (sold separately) to keep it tucked in place.
Another option for a quilt is the JacksRBetter Summer Quilt, which can be used in a hammock or as a liner with a sleeping bag.
When choosing a quilt or liner, it is important to consider the temperature rating and ensure it is suitable for the conditions you will be sleeping in. Quilts and liners can be paired with sleeping bags to provide extra warmth, but it is important to consider the weight and bulk of the additional layers.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some summer sleeping bag options:
- The Western Mountaineering EverLite is a lightweight bag that can also be used as an inner bag or an overquilt.
- The Big Agnes McKinnis is a lightweight, down-insulated sleeping bag that can be used in summer and winter.
- The Space Cowboy is a lightweight, synthetic sleeping bag.
- The Coleman Brazos is a notable budget option.
- The REI Co-op Magma 30 is a lightweight bag that comes in nine different sizes.
A temperature rating of around 30°F is suitable for most spring and fall conditions and should not be too hot during the summer. If you live in a colder climate, you might want to consider a warmer model. Summer campers may prefer a 40°F model.
Insulation type and bag shape affect weight the most. Summer sleeping bags should be lighter and more efficient at keeping you warm compared to camping bags. Draft-blocking details, extra zippers, and a stash pocket can add more durability, warmth, and function.
Quilts are a good alternative to sleeping bags for the summer. They are lighter and can be draped over you if you get too hot.
Make sure to review the bag's size specifications to ensure a good fit. If you are planning to go backpacking, you will need a bag that is smaller and lighter.
