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How to choose the
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- temperature rating
- shell
- lining
- fill
- style and size
What temperature rating and material you choose, depend under what climate conditions you are going to use your backpacking sleeping bag. A simple advice is to go for quality. Take the best bag you can afford. After all, there's nothing more miserable than sleeping in a bag in the wilderness and being cold.
What style and size do you need?
Sleeping bags come in different styles and sizes. Standard sizes are fine for most. However, when selecting a bag for your needs you should find one that fits you comfortably. Even not so big as to add weight or create empty space that is hard to keep warm. Check the length dimensions as they do vary between manufacturers.
Mummy bag
For a wilderness camping trip in a tent a mummy style bag with a hood should be your first choice. If you winter camp or plan extreme mountain excursions, the mummy bag should be your only choice. If you for some reason need more space go for a hybrid bag also called semi-rectangular bag.
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Material
The best sleeping bag for harsh conditions is a high-end sleeping bag. High-end bags have a water- and wind-resistant shell made of microfiber and soft and supple nylon taffeta lining.
You also need to make a decision whether to choose a bag with down or synthetic filling.
Down
Down is definitely the preferred choice for those who want to travel light in dry conditions. However, down is also an excellent choice when you want to be able to choose an all-round sleeping bag. Down is light, compressible and nothing will keep you warmer. If you can afford it and are prepared to take some extra care, go for down.
Synthetic filling
If you know you will be facing more extreme damp conditions consider a good quality synthetic filling, maybe also with a water resistant shell.
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