Miya Pearson
When choosing a sleeping bag, the most important factor is its temperature rating, which indicates how warm the bag will be. Bags with a higher temperature rating are designed for colder climates, whereas bags with a lower temperature rating are better suited for milder conditions. The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is determined through standardised laboratory tests, which produce a rating range for each bag. However, it's important to remember that these ratings are estimates, and the comfort level of a sleeping bag in real-world use may differ from its tested rating. Other factors that contribute to the warmth of a sleeping bag include its shape, insulation, and the use of additional accessories such as liners and hoods.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Key factor | Temperature rating |
| Temperature ratings | Lab-tested temperature ratings (indicated by "EN" or "ISO") |
| Comfort rating | |
| Lower-limit rating | |
| Weight | Depends on whether the bag is for camping or backpacking |
| Shape | Rectangular, semirectangular, mummy, double |
| Liners | Add warmth and are easier to clean than the bag itself |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
Historically, sleeping bag manufacturers tested their products in their own labs using different methods, making it challenging to compare temperature ratings across brands. To address this issue, the sleeping bag industry adopted the EN (European Norm) standard for testing. Today, most brands send their sleeping bags to independent labs that utilise the EN standard or the similar ISO (International Standards Organization) method. These standardised tests produce a rating range for each sleeping bag, with two specific temperature ratings: the comfort rating and the lower limit rating.
The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper, typically a woman, might feel comfortable. This rating is used for women's bags as data shows that the "average woman" feels colder than the "average man" in the same conditions. The comfort rating considers the additional insulation required to ensure a woman feels as warm as a man in a bag with a lower limit rating.
The lower limit rating, which is always lower than the comfort rating, represents the temperature at which a warm sleeper, usually a man, would still feel comfortable. This rating is typically used for men's sleeping bags. It's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates, and factors such as clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and individual variations can affect the actual comfort level of the sleeping bag.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's recommended to consider the lowest expected temperature during your adventure. As a rule of thumb, select a bag with a comfort rating slightly lower than the anticipated temperature to ensure adequate warmth. Additionally, pay attention to the R-value of the sleeping pad you use with the bag, as it also contributes to your overall warmth and comfort.
Some reputable manufacturers, especially smaller companies, may use their own rating systems or provide additional ratings. It's advisable to trust ratings from established manufacturers and consider international standards like EN or ISO when making a purchase.
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Sleeping bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and the best choice for you will depend on factors such as your sleeping habits, temperature preferences, and outdoor activity. Here is a rundown of the most common sleeping bag shapes:
Rectangular
Rectangular sleeping bags are the most traditional and common type of sleeping bag. They allow plenty of room for both legs and arms to stretch out and are perfect for camping in warm weather if you move a lot in your sleep. Some rectangular sleeping bags can be completely unzipped and used like a comforter, making them a good option for couples.
Semi-Rectangular
Also known as a "modified mummy" or "barrel" shape, semi-rectangular sleeping bags offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They are generally more slender than rectangular bags, with a rounded top and a slight taper at the bottom. They are well-suited for cool-weather camping when conditions are chilly but not frigid.
Mummy
Mummy bags are hooded and shaped to follow the contours of the human body. They are designed to minimize bulk and weight while maximizing warmth, making them ideal for backpacking, bike packing, mountaineering, and winter camping. The tapered shape of a mummy bag, however, reduces the space for your legs, so some people may find them uncomfortable.
Double
Double sleeping bags are designed for couples and are typically twice as wide as a standard sleeping bag. They can come in rectangular, barrel, or mummy shapes. Some single-sized rectangular bags can also be zipped together to form a double-sized sleeping bag.
Kid-Sized
Kid-sized sleeping bags are simply shorter and smaller variations of adult sleeping bags, which makes them more affordable. They come in a variety of shapes, including mummy, rectangular, and semi-rectangular, and often feature fun prints, patterns, and colours.
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Sleeping bag liners
Temperature Ratings
The key factor when choosing a sleeping bag or liner is the temperature rating. Lab-tested temperature ratings, indicated by "EN" (European Norm) or "ISO" (International Standards Organisation), are useful for comparing bags from different brands. The EN standard was the original rating adopted by the sleeping bag industry, and the ISO test method is almost identical, so you can compare old and new bags. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, and this is the rating used for women's bags. The lower-limit rating, which is always lower than the comfort rating, indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable; this is the rating used for men's bags.
Types of Liners
There are various types of sleeping bag liners available, from lightweight liners for backpacking to bulkier liners for car camping. If you're looking for a lightweight liner that packs down small, consider a liner made from breathable materials such as cotton or silk. These liners can add a bit of warmth to your bag without adding too much weight or bulk. For car camping or colder temperatures, you might opt for a liner made from fleece or down, which will provide more warmth but will be bulkier and heavier.
Features
Some sleeping bag liners have features like a hood or a draft collar to help retain heat. If you tend to sleep cold, look for a liner with these features. Additionally, consider the shape of the liner; a mummy-shaped liner will have less fabric and be more form-fitting, while a rectangular liner will offer more room to move around.
Recommendations
The Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme is a well-regarded liner that can add warmth to your setup. It's stretchy, fitting wider shoulders well without adding too much material. For lightweight liners, consider the Zpacks Classic 30-degree sleeping bag, which weighs just 14 ounces. If you're looking for a liner for car camping or colder temperatures, a fleece liner or a down quilt can add significant warmth.
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How to care for your sleeping bag
A good sleeping bag can make all the difference when camping or hiking, and keeping it in good condition is key to getting the most out of it. Here are some tips on how to care for your sleeping bag:
Washing
Washing your sleeping bag is important, but it should be done sparingly—once a year or every other year. Before washing, check for any tears and repair them with a sewn patch, nylon ripstop tape, or the sticky part of a Band-Aid. When it's time to wash your bag, choose a mild soap designed for cleaning down or synthetic sleeping bags. Avoid harsh laundry detergents. If hand-washing, fill a bathtub with warm water and add the soap, mixing it thoroughly. If using a washing machine, opt for a large-capacity, front-loading machine, and unzip your bag before washing, bringing the zip slider halfway up one side to prevent it from coming off. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water.
Drying
After washing, carefully transport your bag to the dryer, as it will be heavy, especially if it is waterproof or water-resistant. Set the dryer to its lowest temperature setting and add some heavy cotton towels to absorb water and a few tennis balls to help break up clumps and improve loft. Check on the bag periodically, as many dryers put out too much heat even on low settings. Once the bag seems dry, take it out and wait an hour. If it feels damp, put it back in the dryer. You can also air-dry your bag, but avoid hanging it in direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV light can damage the fabric.
Storage
Once your bag is completely dry, store it in a loose cotton sack in a cool place. Do not keep it in a stuff sack, as this will affect the loft of the bag and its ability to keep you warm. Additionally, keep your bag away from constant compression, as this will damage the filling.
Keeping it Clean
To reduce the number of washes, keep your bag clean by showering and changing into clean clothes before snuggling up in it. Using a sleeping bag liner is also a great way to keep your bag clean and add extra warmth. Make sure to keep the outside of your bag clean too, and shake off any ice or condensation that forms on it.
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Additional ways to stay warm
There are several ways to stay warm when sleeping outdoors, besides choosing an appropriate sleeping bag. Here are some additional strategies to ensure you stay warm and toasty:
Firstly, pay attention to what you put between yourself and the ground. A good insulating pad or sleeping mat is essential to prevent heat loss through conduction. A cheap blow-up mattress or a foam mat can be a good option if you're on a budget. If you're camping in extremely cold temperatures, consider investing in an insulated air mattress, such as the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme.
Secondly, defend against other sources of heat loss, such as radiation and convection. A bag liner can add extra warmth and keep your sleeping bag clean. Additionally, choose a campsite that provides some natural windbreak, like a stand of trees, and set up your tent there to protect against windchill.
Thirdly, wear appropriate clothing. While some people prefer to wear multiple layers of clothing inside their sleeping bag, others argue that wearing minimal clothing allows the bag to trap your body heat more effectively. Either way, make sure your clothes are dry, and consider wearing a beanie or using the mummy hood of your sleeping bag to cover your head, as you lose heat through any exposed body parts.
Lastly, boost your body's internal furnace. Eat a snack high in complex carbohydrates before bed, as they provide a steady supply of energy. Additionally, a little light exercise before bedtime can help your body produce extra warmth. If you're camping with a partner, consider getting bags that zip together or a couple-sized bag to share body heat.
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Frequently asked questions
The key factor when choosing a sleeping bag is its temperature rating. Bags with a higher temperature rating will provide more warmth. You can also add a sleeping bag liner to increase warmth.
Lab-tested temperature ratings (indicated by "EN" or "ISO") are useful for comparing bags from different brands. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. The lower-limit rating indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable.
The Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF is an excellent option for cold-weather camping due to its warmth, weather resistance, and lightweight design. The Marmot Never Summer 0 is another affordable and relatively warm option for winter camping.
The mummy-shaped sleeping bag provides the most warmth as it has a snug fit, allowing you to roll over with the bag rather than inside it.
Make sure to eat enough high-calorie foods and wear a full set of dry thermal base layers before bed. You can also fill a well-sealed water bottle with hot water and place it inside your sleeping bag.
