Ashwin Lewis
When it comes to buying a sleeping bag for kids, there are a variety of options available in the market. While some parents may argue that a sleeping bag for kids is a waste of money since they outgrow it quickly, others believe that it is essential to keep kids warm while camping. Sleeping bags designed for kids are usually intended for children aged 2 to 12 years old, but depending on the size of the child, they may fit into it for a longer period. The key factors to consider when choosing a sleeping bag for kids include its shape, insulation, weight, and temperature rating. Some popular options include the REI Kindercone bag, Ozark Trail Youth warm-weather rectangle sleeping bag, and the Invoker Mummy Sleeping Bag.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Retailers | REI Co-op, Walmart, Morrison Outdoors, Big Agnes |
| Price | $14.77-$119.95 |
| Temperature Rating | 20-25 ˚F |
| Weight | 0.95kg-2.25 lbs |
| Insulation Type | Synthetic, Synthetic Polyester |
| Bag Shape | Mummy, Rectangular |
| Size | Fits up to 5 ft. 6 in. |
| Seasons | 2-4 |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag shape: mummy vs. rectangle
When choosing a sleeping bag for kids, it's essential to consider the shape, as it will impact the warmth, comfort, and portability of the bag. Mummy and rectangle sleeping bags are the two most common shapes, each with its advantages and drawbacks.
Mummy sleeping bags are characterised by their tapered design, wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet, resembling a mummy's shape. This form-fitting design closely contours the body, trapping body heat efficiently and reducing heat loss, making them ideal for cold-weather camping, high-altitude expeditions, and sleeping in colder climates. They are also lightweight and packable, making them a good choice for backpackers and hikers concerned about space and weight. However, the restricted internal space can limit movement during sleep, making them less suitable for side sleepers or those who change positions frequently.
On the other hand, rectangular sleeping bags offer a roomier interior, providing greater freedom of movement. Their uniform width from head to toe allows individuals to move around more easily and sleep in different positions. Rectangular bags are generally more spacious and comfortable, making them a good choice for those who don't like feeling restricted. They can also be unzipped to serve as blankets. However, the larger internal space means more air to heat, making them less efficient at retaining warmth and better suited for milder weather or indoor use. Rectangular bags are also typically heavier and bulkier, which can be a disadvantage when space and weight are critical, such as during hiking or backpacking.
When deciding between a mummy or rectangular sleeping bag for kids, consider the camping conditions, the child's sleeping habits, and personal preferences. Mummy bags are ideal for cold-weather camping and space-limited activities like backpacking, while rectangular bags offer more comfort and freedom of movement, making them suitable for milder weather or indoor use. Additionally, consider the child's age and size to ensure the bag provides a snug fit, maximising warmth.
Some popular options for mummy sleeping bags for kids include the Invoker Mummy Sleeping Bag, which is suitable for adults and kids and can be found on Walmart, and the Big Agnes Little Red and Wolverine bags, which are rated for temperatures as low as 20˚F and feature a built-in sleeping pad sleeve to keep kids warm and in place.
For rectangular sleeping bags, the Ozark Trail Youth warm-weather rectangle sleeping bag, available at Walmart, is a good option. It comes in a fun blue and red colour and is designed for youth, making it a suitable choice for kids.
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Sleeping bag size: kids vs. adult-sized
When considering the size of a sleeping bag for your child, there are several factors to take into account. Firstly, the age and height of the child are important. Kid-sized sleeping bags are typically designed for children aged 2 to 12 years old, but some bags may fit children for longer, depending on their size. Taller children, or those in their early tweens, may find adult-sized sleeping bags more practical as they will have more room to grow into them.
Another consideration is the purpose of the sleeping bag. If it is primarily for indoor sleepovers, a cute and fun kid-sized bag may be sufficient. These bags tend to be bulkier and heavier, and may not provide the same level of warmth or moisture protection as those designed for camping. For outdoor use, it is important to choose a bag that can withstand cold and damp climates and is easy for a child to pack and unpack independently. Mummy-style bags are form-fitting and provide more warmth with less mass, while rectangular bags offer more room and can sometimes be unzipped to serve as blankets.
When choosing a sleeping bag for your child, it is also worth thinking about cost and longevity. Kid-sized sleeping bags are often less expensive than adult-sized ones, but children can quickly outgrow them. If you opt for an adult-sized bag, be aware that there will be more air space around your child's body, which can make it harder for them to stay warm. However, this extra space can be filled with extra clothes or blankets to help keep them cosy. Additionally, some kid-sized bags come with built-in cinches that allow you to adjust the length of the bag, providing a snug fit for growing children.
Finally, it is worth considering the insulation and durability of the sleeping bag. Synthetic materials, such as polyester, are effective at insulating even when damp and can withstand tears and zipper issues over multiple seasons. Regardless of the size you choose, ensure the sleeping bag meets the temperature rating requirements for the climate your child will be camping in.
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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 sleeping bag for a child. The temperature rating is supposed to indicate the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep the sleeper warm and comfortable. However, it's important to note that temperature ratings are not always standardised across brands, and real-world comfort may not always match the lab-tested temperature ratings.
Most sleeping bags are now tested by independent labs using the EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization) methods. These 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 might feel comfortable, and it is typically used for women's bags. The lower-limit rating is the temperature at which an average sleeper might start to feel cold.
When choosing a sleeping bag for a child, it's recommended to pick one with a lower temperature rating than the lowest expected nighttime temperature. This is because children lose body heat more quickly than adults and need extra warmth to stay comfortable. Additionally, factors such as the type of shelter, sleeping surface, sleeping pad, and the child's metabolism can also affect how warm they feel.
Some sleeping bags for children have temperature ratings as low as 20°F, such as the Big Agnes Little Red and Wolverine models. The Kindercone 25 has a temperature rating of 25°F and is suitable for camping in cool weather. The Invoker Mummy Sleeping Bag has a temperature rating of 32-59°F and is suitable for 3-4 seasons. The Ozark Trail Youth warm-weather rectangle sleeping bag is designed for warmer weather.
It's worth noting that children can outgrow sleeping bags quickly, and they may also sleep warm and shed their bags even in cooler weather. If you have an adult sleeping bag in good condition, you could try letting your child use it before purchasing a new one specifically for them.
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Insulation type
When choosing a sleeping bag for a child, it is important to consider the insulation type. The two main types of sleeping bag insulation are goose down and synthetic. Synthetic insulation is made from polyester, which looks similar to cotton candy, while goose down is the natural insulation found beneath the feathers of waterfowl.
Goose down sleeping bags often include terms like "600+ fill goose down" or "900+ fill goose down", which indicate the amount of goose down included in the bag. A higher number means more goose down and, therefore, a warmer bag. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is constructed in layers, with higher-quality bags using layers sewn diagonally, called shingles, to improve loft. Branded synthetics, such as Thermolite®, retain their loft longer than generic synthetics.
If you plan to use the sleeping bag in colder weather, look for bags with higher fill ratings, such as three-season sleeping bags with a fill rating of at least 600 or four-season sleeping bags with a fill rating of around 900-1000. Synthetic bags with shingle or WaveLoft™ construction can also provide extra warmth in colder conditions. Additionally, consider the bag's shape, as form-fitting mummy bags tend to provide more warmth than rectangular bags.
For warmer weather or indoor use, the insulation type becomes less critical, and you can prioritize comfort and roominess. In such cases, a rectangular bag that can be fully unzipped and used as a blanket may be a good option.
Some sleeping bags, like the Kindercone 25, use synthetic polyester fill that insulates even when damp. This feature can be useful if you anticipate camping in humid or wet conditions.
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Price
The price of a sleeping bag for kids can vary depending on the brand, features, and quality. Here is a range of prices for kids' sleeping bags from different retailers:
Walmart
Walmart offers a variety of affordable sleeping bags for kids, with prices ranging from $14.77 to $26.99. For example, the Ozark Trail Youth warm-weather rectangle sleeping bag in blue and red is priced at $14.77. The Teblint Camping Sleeping Bag for Adults and Kids, suitable for cold weather, is priced between $22.99 and $24.99.
REI Co-op
REI Co-op offers a range of kids' sleeping bags, including the Zephyr 25 Sleeping Bag and the Big Agnes Wolverine 20 Sleeping Bag. The Wolverine 20 bag is currently on sale for $89.89, reduced from $119.95. The regular price of the Zephyr 25 bag is not provided.
Tales of a Mountain Mama
While the exact prices are not mentioned, the website mentions that sleeping bags for kids can be considered a "luxury item" due to their higher prices. The website also acknowledges that kids grow quickly, and parents may be hesitant to invest in expensive gear that will be outgrown soon.
Morrison Outdoors
Morrison Outdoors specializes in sleeping bags for babies, toddlers, and young children. Their Little Mo 20 sleeping bag weighs only 9 ounces and is designed for backpacking. While the price is not mentioned, they offer a cash-back program if the sleeping bag is outgrown.
Big Agnes
Big Agnes sleeping bags for kids, such as the Little Red and Wolverine models, are mentioned as being more expensive than other options. The exact prices are not provided, but the additional cost of a separate sleeping pad is noted.
In summary, the price of a sleeping bag for kids can range from around $15 to over $100, depending on the brand, features, and quality. It's important to consider the intended use, the child's age and growth, and the importance of keeping them warm and comfortable during their outdoor adventures.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy a sleeping bag for cold weather from Walmart. The Teblint Camping Sleeping Bag for Adults and Kids is suitable for cold weather and is available for $22.99 to $26.99.
The Ozark Trail Youth warm-weather rectangle sleeping bag is available at Walmart for $14.77.
The Little Mo 20 sleeping bag weighs just 9 ounces, making it ideal for backpacking. It is available at Morrison Outdoors. REI Co-op also offers sleeping bags for backpacking.
