Ashwin Lewis
Sleeping bags are essential for camping and hiking trips, providing warmth and comfort during sleep. They come in various types, such as summer weight and down-filled bags, and can be packed in different ways to optimise space and comfort. The two main methods of packing a sleeping bag are rolling and stuffing, with the latter being more common and effective for removing air and achieving a smaller packed size. When packing for a hike, individuals must consider the bag's position in their backpack, with options to place it at the bottom or top, or strap it to the outside. Various factors influence the packing method and position, including the bag's size, weight, and insulation type, as well as the hiker's personal preference and the trip's duration.
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What You'll Learn
Keep your sleeping bag dry
Keeping your sleeping bag dry is a major priority, especially if you are using a down bag. A wet bag is not only uncomfortable but will also fail to keep you warm.
One way to keep your bag dry is to use a waterproof stuff sack. If you are backpacking, you may want to carry your bag on the outside of your pack, in which case a waterproof stuff sack is a good idea. If you don't have a waterproof stuff sack, you can line a regular stuff sack with a plastic bag and then stuff the sleeping bag inside. You can also use a compression sack, which has cinch straps to further compress the bag after packing. However, compression sacks are heavier than regular stuff sacks and sleeping bag compression sacks are often not waterproof, so you may need to use a separate dry bag as well.
Another option is to use a lightweight synthetic quilt to go over the top of your bag. This will control where condensation forms. You can also use a liner or an extra blanket to put over the top of your bag for extra warmth and protection.
If you are camping in freezing temperatures, condensation from sweat can be a problem. A vapor barrier liner can help with this, although some people find them uncomfortable.
When you get home from your trip, unzip the bag and air it out to make sure it's completely dry before storing it loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack, a pillowcase, or a storage bag. Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack as this will damage the fill.
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Protect it from damage
When packing a sleeping bag, it is important to protect it from damage. This can be achieved through various methods, such as using a stuff sack or compression sack, or simply stuffing the bag into your backpack without a sack.
One way to protect your sleeping bag from damage is to use a stuff sack. A stuff sack is a bag that you can put your sleeping bag into to keep it contained and protected. It is important to get the right size stuff sack for your sleeping bag to avoid splitting seams or damaging your sleeping bag. Stuff sacks can also provide protection from dirt, mud, spray, and tears. However, some people choose not to use stuff sacks as they can take up valuable space in a backpack.
Another option for protecting your sleeping bag is to use a compression sack. A compression sack is similar to a stuff sack but has cinch straps to further compress the bag after packing. This can be beneficial for saving space, especially if you need to pack other soft gear like a pillow or extra layers. However, compression sacks can be heavier and may not always be necessary, depending on the size and type of your backpack and sleeping bag.
If you choose not to use a stuff sack or compression sack, you can simply stuff your sleeping bag into your backpack. This method is common among long-distance hikers who want to utilise all the space in their packs. When stuffing your sleeping bag, it is important to flatten and sweep out excess air first, as this will allow for a smaller packed size. Start with the foot end and stuff the bag until it's all in, distributing the insulation evenly.
To protect your sleeping bag from water damage, it is recommended to use a waterproof pack cover or liner, such as a trash compactor bag or dry bag. This will keep your sleeping bag dry, even if your backpack gets wet from rain or stream crossings. Additionally, when storing your sleeping bag for long periods, it is best to use a large mesh or fabric storage sack that will protect the bag without compressing it.
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Save space with compression sacks
Compression sacks are a great way to save space when packing your sleeping bag. They are stuff sacks with straps that you can pull to squeeze a larger sack into a smaller compressed size. They often reduce the volume of the sleeping bag by half or even more. The process of using a compression sack is simple: grab the end of the sleeping bag and push it in as far as you can, then keep stuffing it in one handful at a time. It is important to stuff instead of roll or fold the sleeping bag, as folding can create creases in the material, leading to cold spots and faster wear and tear.
When choosing a compression sack, opt for one with a looser fit. While stuff sacks often have fit guides, a test fit is sometimes necessary to ensure it meets your needs. It is also crucial to consider the type of insulation in your sleeping bag. Down sleeping bags compress more than synthetic ones, so you may require a smaller sack for down bags. Additionally, consider the uncompressed size of your sleeping bag and the level of compression you need when selecting a compression sack.
Compression sacks offer the advantage of space efficiency, allowing you to reduce the bulk of your sleeping bag and free up valuable space in your backpack. They can also provide protection from moisture, dirt, and wear. Some compression sacks are waterproof, ensuring your sleeping bag stays dry in wet conditions. These sacks are typically made from materials like nylon with a polyurethane coating and have sealed seams and a roll-top closure to prevent water ingress.
Along with your sleeping bag, you can also pack pillows, pyjamas, or extra clothes inside the compression sack to maximise space savings. Distributing the weight of your gear is essential when packing. Place the heaviest items in the middle of the pack so that the weight rests on your hips without sinking too low. Remember not to store your sleeping bag compressed for extended periods, as this can break down the insulation.
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Pack it at the bottom of your bag
Sleeping bags are usually placed at the bottom of the backpack. This is because sleeping bags are lightweight for the amount of space they take up, and you want to keep light items away from your centre of gravity. As you will likely use your sleeping bag at the end of the day, it makes sense to pack it at the bottom of your bag, so it is not in the way of other items you may need throughout the day.
Packing your sleeping bag at the bottom of your bag is also convenient as it is easier to pack everything tight when you start with your sleeping bag at the bottom. This means that every nook and cranny of the bottom of the pack will be taken up, and the sleeping bag can still be laid flat instead of being scrunched up into a ball.
If you are using a compression sack, it is also recommended to pack your sleeping bag at the bottom of your bag. This is because compression sacks often form inconveniently shaped balls that may waste some space. However, you can sometimes change your packing to account for this.
If your backpack has compression straps at the bottom, you can use these to secure your sleeping bag. Alternatively, if your backpack has tie points at the bottom, you can use bungee cords to attach your sleeping bag to these tie points.
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Wash it as seldom as possible
Sleeping bags are designed to be durable and withstand the elements, but they are not indestructible. Over time, the fill and fabric can break down, affecting the bag's performance and lifespan. One of the most common ways that sleeping bags degrade is through excessive washing. While it is important to keep your bag clean, washing it too frequently can do more harm than good.
Modern sleeping bags are typically made with water-resistant fabrics and treated with durable water repellency (DWR) coatings, which help keep moisture out. However, these treatments are not permanent and can be washed away over time. Each time your sleeping bag is washed, the DWR coating breaks down a little bit more, reducing its effectiveness. As a result, your sleeping bag may become less water-resistant and less able to keep you warm and dry.
Similarly, the insulation in your sleeping bag can also be affected by frequent washing. The fill, whether it's down or synthetic, can clump together and lose its loft. This reduces the bag's ability to trap warm air and keep you insulated from the cold ground. Washing your sleeping bag too often can also cause unnecessary wear and tear on the fabric, shortening its lifespan.
So how often should you wash your sleeping bag? The general rule of thumb is to wash it as seldom as possible. Spot-cleaning minor stains and dirt marks is usually sufficient to keep your bag in good condition. Only consider washing your sleeping bag when it really needs it—for example, if it starts to smell bad or becomes visibly soiled. When you do need to wash your sleeping bag, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use a gentle detergent designed for outdoor gear.
Taking care of your sleeping bag by washing it sparingly will help maintain its performance and longevity. By following these guidelines, you can keep your sleeping bag in great condition for many adventures to come. Remember, when it comes to your sleeping bag, less is often more when it comes to washing.
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Frequently asked questions
A stuff sack can help you pack your sleeping bag into a smaller volume. A compression sack, a type of stuff sack, has cinch straps to further compress the bag after packing. This will save you space.
Packing your sleeping bag at the bottom of your backpack will reduce strain on your back and knees as the bag is lighter (by volume) than most other supplies. You won't need the sleeping bag during the day, so it makes sense to pack it underneath everything else.
Keeping your sleeping bag dry is a major priority, especially for down bags. Sleeping in a wet bag on a cold night can be very uncomfortable. Waterproof stuff sacks and rucksacks are one option, but they can be expensive and not always reliable. For extra protection, use a quality pack cover and line the interior of your pack with a trash compactor bag.
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