Buying the right sleeping bag can be as crucial as where you go camping. Check out some of our tips on determining the right sleeping bag.
- Determine the Purpose of the Sleeping Bag
- If being used for family camping – consider comfort
- If backcountry camping – consider weight and size
- Determine the Shape
- Rectangular type
- Provides more space for movement
- Can be zipped together to create a double sleeping bag
- Can be fully opened and used as an extra blanket
- Mummy type
- Weighs less
- Smaller size requires less energy to keep warm at night
- Has a hood to pull tight around your head.
Determine the Size
- Sizes vary – regular, youth, extra long, extra wide
Determine Temperature Rating
Depends on the conditions you plan to camp in
- A bags temperature rating indicates the lowest temperature in which a person would be comfortable.
- “Comfortable” is a very subjective term – everyone is different
- Use of a ground pad is assumed, necessary and very important – this provides extra insulation and comfort. A foam and air core pad is the best.
- Other factors should be considered – quality of ground pad and tent, personal level of energy etc.
- Basic ratings:
- Traditional sleeping bags are rated at 40 degrees F
- Three season bags are rated at 20 degrees F
- Cold weather bags are rated at 0 degrees F
- Winter camping bags are rated from -15 degrees F to -30 degrees F
Determine Insulation
- Down
- Best natural insulator
- Light and compressible
- Must be kept dry or it losses its insulating abilities
- Synthetic Fill
- Cost less then down bags
- Insulates even when wet
- Dries quickly
Determine the Lining
- Nylon Taffeta
- Polyester Cotton
- Fleece
Consider Quality of Other Features
- Seams and stitching
- Zippers
Consider a storage bag
