Patrol Sleeping Bag: Packing And Placement Strategies

where to pack a patrol sleeping bag

The patrol sleeping bag is a lightweight sleeping bag that is popular among hikers and campers. It is a part of the Military Modular Sleep System and can be used separately or in conjunction with an intermediate bag to provide warmth in temperatures as low as -10°C. The bag is made of durable rip-stop nylon fabric and features a mummy design, which helps trap body warmth while providing ample foot room. It typically weighs around 2 pounds and compresses to a compact size, making it ideal for hikers and campers who need to travel light. The patrol sleeping bag is a versatile option for those seeking a comfortable and durable sleeping solution in various weather conditions.

Characteristics Values
Temperature rating -1° Celsius to 30° Celsius
Weight 0.9 kg to 2.2 kg
Pack dimensions 40 cm x 15 cm diameter to 6" x 16"
Fabric Rip-stop nylon
Insulation Polyester
Zipper Heavy-duty YKK zippers
Colour Olive drab, green
Size 198 cm x 70 cm (shoulders) x 50 cm (feet) to 90" x 36"

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In a backpack

Sleeping bags are usually the bulkiest items in a backpacker's kit, and they can take up a lot of room in your backpack. The best place for your sleeping bag is inside your backpack, as this is where it will be best protected from damage and from getting wet. However, if this isn't an option, there are a few methods for attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack:

  • Use the lid: Fasten your backpack's lid over your sleeping bag, holding it securely in place.
  • Use the compression straps: Loosen your compression straps, slide your sleeping bag in and tighten them up again.
  • Use the gear loops: If your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, attach these to your backpack's gear loops.
  • Use bungee cords: If the straps on your pack aren't long enough, bungee cords can be used to secure your sleeping bag to your backpack. With an internal-frame backpack, attach one of the hooks to one side of your pack, then crisscross the pack with the cord several times before attaching the second hook on the other side.

If you are packing your backpack for an extended trip, you may need to attach your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack. This is also the case if your sleeping bag is wet and you want to keep it separate from the rest of your gear.

When packing your backpack, it's important to consider the weight distribution. Heavy, dense gear that you won't need to access during your hike should be packed in the core zone of your backpack, which helps create a stable centre of gravity and directs the load downward rather than backward. Bulky gear and items not needed until camp should be packed in the bottom zone, while bulkier essentials you might need on the trail should be packed in the top zone.

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In a compression sack

A compression sack is a great option to pack your patrol sleeping bag. It is a stuff sack with straps that can be pulled to squeeze a larger sack into a smaller compressed size. Compression sacks come in many sizes, styles, and weights, so you can choose one that suits your needs.

When packing your sleeping bag into a compression sack, it is best to stuff it rather than roll or fold it. Start with the footbox, and 'stack' your sleeping bag by grabbing and stuffing the bag from bottom to top. This method will prevent the bag from getting twisted or wrapped tightly around itself, reducing the risk of tears. Once you have stuffed the sleeping bag into the compression sack, pull the straps tight and evenly. You can place the sack on the ground and press your knee into it as you pull the straps to make this step easier.

Along with your sleeping bag, you can add pillows, extra clothes, or a backpacking pillow to save even more space in your pack. It is important to distribute the weight of your gear when packing. Place the heaviest gear in the middle of the pack so that the weight goes to your hips and does not sink too low.

While some sleeping bags come with a compression sack, they often need to be purchased separately. It is recommended to get a compression sack with a looser fit and to avoid storing your sleeping bag compressed for extended periods, as this will break down the insulation.

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In a British jungle cram sack

A British jungle cram sack is a compression sack designed to fit a warm-weather jungle sleeping bag. It is also compatible with the latest lightweight British modular sleeping bag. The cram sack is made for lightweight/jungle sleeping bags, meaning larger sleeping bags like the arctic sleeping bag won't fit inside.

The British jungle cram sack is ideal for outdoor trips, helping to keep your sleeping bag contained and preventing it from unfolding. The sack is adjustable, with pull cords that allow you to modify the size. It also features a frame that doesn't take over the whole sleeping bag, allowing you to easily attach it to gear, vehicles, or packs.

The compact size of the British jungle cram sack is advantageous, especially when paired with a lightweight sleeping bag. This combination is well-suited for hikers and campers who prefer to travel with minimal gear. The sack can compress a sleeping bag into a small package, making it convenient for day packs or overnight trips.

Additionally, the British jungle cram sack can be used for storing other items when not in use for a sleeping bag. Its compression capabilities make it useful for storing items like poncho liners, blankets, or even large puffer jackets.

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In a bivy bag

A bivy bag, also known as a bivvy bag, was developed as a basic solo shelter to protect users from the elements. It is a minimalist option for sheltering from the elements, and it is extremely lightweight, weighing only a few hundred grams. Bivy bags are perfect for those looking to reduce their pack weight but still be protected from the elements. They are typically used by adventurers who require a low pack weight and quick movement.

Bivy bags are often used in conjunction with a patrol sleeping bag, as they can make up a waterproof, extreme weather sleeping system. The patrol sleeping bag is placed inside the bivy bag, which protects the sleeping bag from moisture and increases its warming capacity by about 10°F. This makes the combination suitable for sleeping in temperatures down to -1° Celsius.

When packing a patrol sleeping bag in a bivy bag, it is important to consider the limited space available. The bivy bag should be large enough to accommodate the sleeping bag and any other necessary items, such as a sleeping mat. It is also important to ensure that the bivy bag is properly sealed to prevent moisture from getting inside. This can be done by pulling the drawstring on the head opening tightly, although this may restrict the user's head movement.

Additionally, when packing a patrol sleeping bag in a bivy bag, it is worth considering the potential for condensation to build up inside the bivy bag. While good ventilation can help minimize this issue, it is still something to be aware of when using a bivy bag for shelter. Overall, packing a patrol sleeping bag in a bivy bag can be a great option for those looking to reduce weight and bulk while still having protection from the elements.

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In a modular sleep system

The Modular Sleep System (MSS) is a 4-piece set that includes a lightweight patrol sleeping bag, an intermediate cold-weather sleeping bag, and a bivy cover. The patrol bag is made from water-resistant ripstop nylon and is designed for cool and temperate climates. It can be used alone or in combination with the other components of the MSS.

When used independently, the patrol bag is rated for temperatures between +30° to +50°F and weighs just over 2 lbs. The bag can be packed into a compression sack, reducing its size even further, which is ideal for overnight trips with a daypack. The patrol bag can also be stuffed into another patrol bag to provide warmth well below freezing temperatures.

The MSS provides flexibility and can be adapted based on the weather and mission needs. The patrol bag can be combined with the intermediate cold-weather bag, which can handle temperatures from +30° to -10°F, by inserting the latter into the patrol bag and attaching them with snap fasteners. This configuration creates an extreme cold-weather (ECW) sleeping bag system, providing insulation down to -30°F for a user dressed in polypropylene expedition weight clothing and even lower (-50°F) with various layers of ECW clothing.

The MSS also includes a bivy cover that offers waterproof, breathable protection against rain, snow, and wind. The bivy cover can be used with either the patrol bag or the intermediate bag, or both combined, providing a versatile sleep system. When all components are used together, the MSS can provide effective insulation and protection in environments as cold as -40°F for up to 4 hours.

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