Gina Johnson
Choosing the right sleeping bag temperature rating can be confusing. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are based on an average sleeper and are meant to allow you to compare bags with one another. However, there are many other factors that will affect your comfort outdoors, such as your sleeping pad, clothing, humidity, wind, and metabolism. Lab-tested temperature ratings (indicated by EN or ISO) are useful for making direct comparisons between sleeping bags from different brands. However, not all brands use these ratings, and temperature ratings are only estimates, so your comfort level may differ from the tested rating. When deciding on a sleeping bag temperature rating, it's important to consider the coldest conditions you anticipate and select a bag that will keep you warm at or below that temperature.
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
The EN and ISO rating systems are commonly used by prominent outdoor gear companies such as REI Co-op, The North Face, and Marmot. The EN rating, for example, has an 'extreme' category, indicating that a woman won't die of hypothermia within 6 hours at that temperature. The ISO 23537 standards define the Comfort rating as suitable for a "standard woman" who isn't shivering "in a relaxed posture", while the Lower Limit rating is for a "standard man" who's "curled up inside the sleeping bag" and not shivering.
When choosing a sleeping bag based on temperature ratings, it's recommended to consider the lowest temperature you'll likely encounter and your personal tolerance for cold. If you tend to feel cold easily, opt for a bag with a comfort rating that matches the coldest expected temperature. If you sleep warm, you may rely on lower-limit ratings, but it's still advisable to allow for a buffer of a few degrees Celsius. Additionally, consider the activity and conditions you'll be using the bag for, as different seasons and activities require varying levels of warmth.
The shape and insulation type of the sleeping bag also play a role in temperature ratings. Mummy bags tend to be snugger and warmer, while rectangular bags offer more room to move around. Synthetic insulation is versatile and ideal for wet climates, as it dries fast and maintains insulation when wet. In contrast, goose down provides the most warmth for its weight but requires careful handling to keep dry.
It's worth noting that temperature ratings are just estimates, and your experience may vary. It's always better to have a bag that's a "bit too warm" than "not warm enough". Therefore, when deciding on a sleeping bag temperature rating, consider adding 10–15 degrees to the advertised rating to ensure sufficient warmth.
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Insulation types
When choosing a sleeping bag, the temperature rating is a key factor. The lowest rating on a sleeping bag is the coldest it will keep you from feeling cold inside. The bag's fit and whether the sleeper tends to sleep hot or cold also factor in.
There are several types of insulation used in sleeping bags, each with its own pros and cons. Here is an overview of the most common types:
Synthetic Insulation
Synthetic insulation is ideal for most summer camping trips. Synthetic bags dry quickly and maintain their insulating ability even when wet. They are also more forgiving when it comes to storage, although they should still be stored in a larger bag to prevent insulation compression.
Goose Down Insulation
Goose down provides the most warmth for the lightest weight. It is a good choice if you know you can keep your bag dry. However, it should never be stored in a stuff sack and should always be allowed to air dry.
Cotton Insulation
Cotton insulation is typically used in sleeping bags designed for warmer climates. It is important to note that cotton should be avoided in the backcountry, as moisture can quickly reduce its effectiveness.
Nylon and Polyester Insulation
Nylon and polyester materials are often used in sleeping bag liners and shells. These materials are ultra-durable, feather-light, and water-repellent, making them ideal for various weather conditions.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is also important to consider the type of sleeping pad you will be using. A quality sleeping pad provides insulation between the ground and the sleeper, and the colder the weather, the thicker the pad should be.
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Bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common bag shapes:
Rectangular
Rectangular sleeping bags are a popular choice for camping due to their spacious design, which allows ample room for legs and arms to stretch out. Some rectangular bags can be completely unzipped and used as blankets. They are a good option for those who prioritise comfort and space over weight and compactness.
Semirectangular or "Modified Mummy"
Semirectangular bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" bags, come in a variety of shapes that strike a balance between warmth and roominess. They are a good choice for those who want to save weight without feeling restricted.
Mummy
Mummy bags are designed to be snug and form-fitting, allowing you to roll over with the bag rather than inside it. This close-fitting design makes them highly efficient at retaining warmth while minimising weight. Mummy bags are a common choice for backpacking due to their lightweight and warmth-retaining properties. However, they may be uncomfortable for those who prefer more space or tend to toss and turn during sleep.
Double
Double sleeping bags are ideal for couples who want to sleep together. Alternatively, some rectangular bags can be zipped together to form a double bag, but they usually need to be the same model and brand.
Other Shapes
Some sleeping bags, like the Nemo Spoon bag, feature an hourglass shape designed with side sleepers in mind. Quilts are another option, particularly for those who prioritise comfort and freedom of movement. They eliminate the need for insulation at the bottom of the bag, as you sleep directly on a sleeping pad with the quilt wrapped around your body.
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Additional features
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider additional features beyond its temperature rating. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Shape and Size
The shape and size of a sleeping bag can significantly impact its warmth and comfort. Mummy bags, for example, are designed to be snug-fitting to retain heat, but some people may find them restrictive. Rectangular bags offer more room to move around but may not be as warm as mummy bags. Semi-rectangular bags aim to strike a balance between the two, providing more space than a mummy bag without sacrificing too much warmth. Backpacking bags tend to be lighter and more compact, while camping bags often offer more room and comfort.
Zipper Features
Zippers with multiple sliders allow for easy ventilation adjustment. Some bags have features to prevent zipper snagging, such as full-length guards or zipper covers. Additionally, look for bags that can be zipped together to form double sleeping bags, which are ideal for couples.
Storage and Portability
If you're backpacking, weight and packability are crucial. Aim for a lightweight, compressible bag that fits within your budget. A stuff sack is a great option for storing your sleeping bag compactly when not in use, but for long-term storage, consider using a larger mesh or cotton storage sack to avoid damaging the insulation.
Insulation and Padding
The type of insulation used in sleeping bags varies and can affect their warmth and weight. Down insulation, such as goose down, is known for its superior warmth and lightweight properties, but it requires a waterproof stuff sack to keep it dry. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, dries quickly and retains some insulating ability even when wet, making it a good choice for summer camping. Sleeping pads are essential to provide insulation from the ground, and thicker pads are recommended for colder weather.
Additional Accessories
Sleeping bag liners can add extra warmth and help keep your bag clean. Travel sheets or fleece blankets can also extend the temperature rating of your bag. A snug-fitting hood can provide additional warmth, especially in colder conditions. Finally, consider a stash pocket for convenient storage of small items.
Remember, while temperature ratings provide a starting point, they may not always align with your personal comfort level. Consider your individual needs and preferences, and don't hesitate to choose a bag with a lower temperature rating if you tend to feel cold easily.
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Storage and care
When storing your sleeping bag, it is important to never store it when it is wet. Always ensure it is dry before storing it. If you need to wash your sleeping bag, use a front-load washing machine with minimal soap and cold water. Tumble dry on low heat. Never dry clean a sleeping bag, especially a bag filled with goose down.
Sleeping bags should be stored in a larger bag, such as a laundry bag, to prevent insulation compression. Synthetic bags can be stored in a stuff sack for a short period of time, but it is still recommended to store them in a larger bag. A sleeping bag liner can be used to keep your bag clean and add extra warmth.
If you are storing your sleeping bag for a longer period of time, consider getting a larger storage sack to give the insulation room to breathe and protect synthetic down from gradual compression degradation. This is especially important if you are storing a goose down bag, as natural down insulation can get clumpy when wet and takes longer to dry.
To minimize the bulk of your sleeping bag, most sleeping bags come with a stuff sack or compression bag. This is a small bag that you can cram your sleeping bag into to make it more portable. However, it is important to note that leaving a bag permanently in its stuff sack is hard on the insulation.
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Frequently asked questions
The key factor when choosing a sleeping bag is its temperature rating. First, you need to know the lowest temperature you’re likely to be sleeping in. Then consider your own internal thermostat – do you tend to feel the cold, or do you run hot? If you often feel cold, use comfort ratings as a baseline, but get a bag with a significantly lower comfort figure than the coldest expected temperature. If you sleep warm, you might be able to rely on lower-limit ratings instead, but give yourself a buffer of a few degrees.
A summer bag should have a temperature rating of 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, or 32 degrees and up.
A winter sleeping bag should have a temperature rating of 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below. For winter camping, a bag with a rating of at least -20 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended, but -40 degrees provides a larger margin of safety.
The comfort rating is based on a "standard woman" who isn't shivering "in a relaxed posture". The lower-limit rating is based on a "standard man" who is "curled up inside the sleeping bag" and not shivering.
You should consider the shape of the bag (snug mummy or roomy rectangular), the insulation type (down or synthetic), and features such as the hood, zipper, stash pocket, and stuff sack. If you're backpacking, you'll also want to consider the weight and bulk of the bag.
