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Backpacking sleeping bag
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There are a number of variables to consider when choosing your bag. It is very tempting to buy a lower cost version. You don't need to have a large budget to get a quality backpacking sleeping bag, but you do need to understand what you are looking for.
A sleeping bag consists of mainly three parts; shell, lining and insulation fill.
Features and options
Sleeping bags come with a variety of optional features, all to enhance it's ability to make you comfortable and keep you warm. Here are the main features to consider when reading a product description.
Style
There are basically two main styles, rectangular and mummy. You can also find bags that are a compromise between the two styles.
Mummy sleeping bags are considered the most efficient for weight and warmth. These bags are cut wider at the shoulders and taper down to the feet which remove the unused space around your body and you have to keep a smaller area warm.
Rectangular bags are more comfortable, offer more room, but are not as warm because the large top opening promote heat loss. Due to their larger size, they tend to be heavier and not as efficient in keeping you warm then their mummy bag counterparts.
Zippers
Full-length zippers provide easy access in and out of the. A two-way zipper affords better ventilation and flexibility. An important feature is a zipper draft tube or baffle that covers the zipper to prevent heat loss.
For many bags you can choose between left zip or right zip. The main advantage, at least if you have a left zip and a right zip bag from the same manufacturer, is that you can zip the two together and get a double sleeping bag.
Hood
Unless you plan to only do summer camping, a bag with an adjustable hood that can be closed around the face is a must have option because 50% of your body's heat loss is through your head. Hoods come in a variety of styles and some are simply made and others may be insulated and offer other features to help keep the rest of you warm.
Storage Bag
Protect your bag when it is not being used. A sleeping bag must never be allowed to get wet...never.
When camping keep it inside a waterproof compression stuff sack to make sure it's dry when you are going to use it. A compression sack also allows you to squeeze down your bag, taking up less room in your pack.
For long-term storage, use a large storage bag made of a breathable material that allow you to store your backpacking sleeping bag uncompressed.
Extra cover
Bivi sacks and overbags are used with a sleeping bag. A bivi sack is used when sleeping under the stars, in extreme wet conditions or winter camping. It makes a good waterproof cover for a sleeping bag. Overbags are used when additional warmth is needed.
Sleeping pad
Make sure you have a sleeping pad placed under your bag. This is essential for insulation from the wet and cold of the bare ground.
Choosing a backpacking sleeping bag
Ready to get some tips on picking out the best backpacking sleeping bag for your needs?
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