How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

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Overwhelmed. That is the first word that comes to mind when I think about the first stages of buying my overnight backpacking gear.  Specifically, sleeping bags.

Should you get a down bag or a synthetic bag? Maybe you should get a blend?  Why are sleeping bags gender specific? What temperature rating do you need?

These are just some of the millions of questions I hurled at the poor REI sales associate that was burdened with helping me. He almost looked scared as I rattled off 3 weeks’ worth of concerns I had whittled down prior to going to the store. Luckily, he didn’t run away.

The truth is there is no perfect sleeping bag, but there is one perfect for you. Here are some things to consider prior to browbeating your local outdoor retailer.

Top 5 Sleeping Bags

PRODUCTDESCRIPTION
Best Sleeping BagsBig Agnes Pluton UL 40
-Two way full length locking zippers
-Draw cord controlled hood
-850-fill DownTek PFC-Free Water Repellent Down
-Ultralight rip-stop shell
-Mesh storage sack and nylon rip-stop stuff sack
Check Price
Best Sleeping BagsSea to Summit Ascent Down Sleeping Bag
-Internal Pocket
-Free flow zipper system
-750 Ultra dry down insulation
-Shaped hood
-Oversized draft collar
-Relaxed fit for more room
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Best Sleeping BagsSierra Designs Nitro Quilt 20 Degree Sleeping Bag
-Hide-away hood
-PFC Free DriDown insulation
-Hand/Arm Pockets
-Versatile use, blanket or bag
-Ultralight Weight
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Best Sleeping BagsTherm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 Ul Sleeping Bag
-900 Fill Goose Down
-Rated one of the lightest sleeping bags on the market
-Ergonomic shape
-Zoned Insulation to maximize warmth
-Synergy Connectors
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Best Sleeping BagsMountain Hardwear Lamina Eco AF
-Eco design
-Recycled fabric
-Recycled 20D nylon ripstop
-Shaped draft collar
-Tailored hood blocks drafts and seals in warmth
-Antisnag zipper for easy entry and exit
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Quick Answer: The Best Sleeping Bags

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

What type of season will you be backpacking in?

Arguably, this is the most important question when choosing a sleeping bag.  Most other features will fall in line.

If you are going to be hiking during the warm summer months you will want a summer season bag.  This is beneficial because they are lighter in weight and therefore much easier to transport. These bags are generally rated for temperatures 30 degrees and higher so even if it gets a little chilly at night you will stay cozy.  

If you want to hike through the spring and fall months, or if you are hiking through various altitudes where temperatures can shift drastically, you would need a 3-season sleeping bag.

The temperature rating for these is generally for 15 to 30 degrees.  It is important to note that you want to account for the coldest potential temperatures you could experience. Even if the bag is rated for 15 to 30 degrees you can use it in warmer temperatures by unzipping as to not overheat.

The winter sleeping bag (which you may also see as a zero-degree bag) is rated for temperatures 15 degrees and below.  However, this doesn’t mean just grab the first winter bag you see and head for the snowy peaks.

In each scenario, you also want to be looking for the ISO or EN ratings. These ratings mean standardized tests have been run on the sleeping bag, allowing you to reliably compare different brands.

The ISO/EN tests give you two types of temperature ratings. One for comfort and the other for limit. The comfort rating is the lowest temperature the average “cold sleeper” is comfortable.

The limit rating is the average lowest temperature it keeps a “warm sleeper” in a “situation of fighting against cold but in thermal equilibrium”.

Which leads to….

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Do I really need a gender-specific bag?

The answer, of course, is no. But, there are characteristics that make them different.  

A woman’s sleeping bag is generally shorter, which in turn makes them cheaper. Lesser material used means a lesser costing product. It’s that simple. The other characteristic is that these sleeping bags are made specifically for cold sleepers.

A woman’s average temperature, specifically in the hands and feet tends to be about 2.8C lower than a man’s.  So, a little extra fluff can be very beneficial in cooler climates.

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Down v. Synthetic v. Blend

This is a long-existing battle between backpackers.  Both down and synthetic have their own admirable features but they carry their fair share of cons as well.  You would hope a blend of the two would render the perfect sleeping bag but that is not necessarily true either. Here are the facts you need to know.

Down

Down insulation has long been the favorite choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It is light, easy to compress, is breathable and lasts forever. Down also has an unparalleled ability to trap and retain heat making it the only choice in cold dry climates.

The Achilles’ Heel? Water. Down’s heat-trapping abilities lie solely on retaining the loft of its filaments.  When exposed to water that loft is lost, and your sleeping bag becomes a cold sloppy mess.

This not only becomes an issue in rain-drenched circumstances but even morning condensation or sweat can affect the down’s ability to insulate.

Further, it takes a very long time for the down to dry back out meaning you could get stuck sitting around the tent waiting a day for it to repair itself.  

Synthetic

This is where synthetic steps in. This cheaper option is quick to dry and retains it’s insulating power even when wet. Synthetic insulation is also hypoallergenic and is resistant to abrasion.

While this may make synthetic seem like a reasonable option, there are some additional factors to consider. 

Synthetic’s warmth-to-weight ratio is nowhere near that of down.  These sleeping bags tend to be bulkier and lose insulating power each time they are stuffed in their sack.  

This means you will be shelling out more money, in the long run, to purchase an additional replacement sleeping bag if used regularly.

Blend

The idea of a down/synthetic blend sleeping bag is to provide the benefit of both options while limiting their respective imperfections. Some blends mix the synthetic and down fibers through the bag while others strategically place them in the areas they are of the most use.  

For example, some sleeping bags come with synthetic insulation lining the bottom of the bag where down loses its most loft when compressed.

While these can be great in some instances, it is important to note that you are also reducing the benefits of both.  These won’t be as warm and durable as solely down bags and they won’t retain quite as much heat when wet like solely synthetic bags.  

What is the Best?

This all I wanted that helpful little associate to tell me, but as he said, it is just not that simple.  If you plan on hiking long distances in drier climates you should consider down.

If you are intending trips through the rainforest or the Appalachians during the rainy season maybe go with synthetic.  If you are a novice hiker and aren’t sure how much use you will get from the sleeping bag, consider a blend so you can try them both out.

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Shape Affects Weight

There are three general shapes you will find in backpacking sleeping bags: mummy; semi-rectangular; and rectangular. Rectangular sleeping bags are probably the most familiar as they are widely used for camping.  However, these roomy cocoons are not generally recommended as a backpacking sleeping bag.

While their size allows you to twist and turn in your sleep it also means more weight for you to carry on the trail and less heat-trapping abilities because there is more space for the cold air to get in.  

Mummy bags are their streamlined backpacking counterpart.  Their slim snug fit allows for maximum warmth and the reduction of excess materials that add unnecessary weight. This is the top choice for most long-distance hikers.

However, if you are a little claustrophobic and shiver at the thought of being cinched in, flipping around like a Roly-poly the semi-rectangular bag may be a better fit.  They allow for a bit more wiggle room without carrying the heavyweight of a normal rectangular sleeping bag.

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Does a sleeping bag have to be a bag?

My mind was spinning with all of this information when I was introduced to the concept of a sleeping quilt.  A sleeping quilt sort of solves the problem of choosing a sleeping bag to take on hikes in various climates and weather conditions as well as concerns with cost and quality.

It is nothing like the quilt that your grandmother made for you when you were a baby.  Instead, it is a sleeping bag with a foot box and no back. Due to less fabric being used they tend to be more affordable for high quality water-resistant down filling and lighter in weight for those long treks.

As mentioned earlier, down loses its loft when laid on anyway making the back an unnecessary and expensive addition.  The quilt combined with an insulating pad will keep you just as warm at a fraction of the price.

Quilts usually come with straps that will help secure it to the pad which can cinch down and eliminate drafts on cold nights.

Even better is can be used as just a blanket allowing you to utilize it even in warmer conditions. I have to say I was sold on this style because of this versatility.

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Making the Decision

Once you have decided on what features, style and weather type you want out of a sleeping bag there are just a few more things that you want to make sure are included across the board.  

First is making sure that your backpacking sleeping bag has been treated or was made with some form of a water-resistant product. Even though you will stay warm in a synthetic, you will still be wet.

Also, just like any piece of backpacking gear, you want to try it out. Wiggle on in while you are at the store and make sure the sleeping bag fits your frame. I am sure the employees have seen stranger things.

Finally, don’t be afraid to make a mistake.  Your needs will probably evolve as you choose different seasons or locations and continue to push your backpacking skills.  You can always sell or exchange the sleeping bag as you expand your backpacking repertoire.


Our Best Sleeping Bag Recommendations

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Big Agnes Pluton UL

You’ve got ultralight adventuring down to a science, right? Your pack and 90% of its contents are totally dialed in for fast and light on-trail travel in warm temps, so make sure your sleeping bag doesn’t weigh you down.

The Pluton UL is a highly compressible sleeping bag with a cozy lining of incredibly lightweight and packable 850-fill DownTek insulation. It will keep you warm and keep your pack light, no matter what your activity is.

SPECS:

  • Weight- 1 lb.
  • Highly compressible with water-resistant 850 fill DownTek™
  • Minimalist hood with drawcord
  • A full-length zipper can be opened up for quilt use and provides easy temperature regulation
  • Ergonomic foot box construction provides more loft and warmth
  • Two-way zipper
  • Interior fabric loops for sleeping bag liners
  • Streamlined exterior loops for hang drying or storage
  • Mesh storage sack & nylon rip-stop stuff sack

Check Big Agnes Pluton UL price at Amazon


How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Sierra Designs Nitro Quilt

Blanket or Bag? You decide. Part blanket, part bag, all cozy, the Nitro Quilt brings the best of both worlds together in this back-country collision of features. With an integrated hood plus hand/arm pocket, you can seal in warmth and still have room to move around.

SPECS:

  • Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.
  • 800 Fill Power Fluro-carbon free DriDown
  • 15d nylon ripstop fabrics for an ultralightweight quilt
  • Oversized design and a larger size for more coverage and more comfort
  • Full-length, insulated hand/arm pockets help to seal out drafts and seal in warmth
  • Hide-away hood provides insulation for your head when temps drop
  • EN Rating gives you tested and proven performance

Check Sierra Designs Nitro Quilt price at Amazon


How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Mountain Hardwear Lamina Eco AF

The Mountain Hardwear Lamina Eco AF proves that sustainability is about the opportunity, not sacrifice. But there’s more to this sleeping bag than a little green here and there.

In fact, there’s no color at all. The Lamina Eco AF™ is undyed to reduce its water footprint. And on top of that, it’s made with a recycled shell, lining, insulation, and trims. ‘Eco’ alone wouldn’t quite do it justice.

SPECS:

  • Weight: 2 lbs. 6.4 oz.
  • Eco-design features recycled fabric, insulation, trims, storage, and compression sack
  • Recycled 20D nylon ripstop 
  • Shaped draft collar 
  • Performance mummy cut efficiently minimizes weight
  • Foot box for the natural foot position to maximize warmth and comfort
  • The tailored hood blocks drafts and seals in warmth
  • Two-way zipper with anti-snag 
  • Recycled nylon compression sack and storage sack included
  • Water-repellent finish

Check Mountain Hardwear Lamina Eco AF price at Amazon


How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Sea to Summit Ascent

The Ascent down sleeping bag redefines what versatile means in a sleep system. Complex construction and high-quality down keep you warm when it’s cold outside, while the triple-zipper Free-Flow Zip system ensures you stay cool and ventilated when the weather warms.

Shaped to allow a natural sleeping position for comfort, the Ascent is light and compact enough to go everywhere your adventures may take you.

SPECS:

  • Weight: 1 lb. 14.3 oz.
  • ULTRA-DRY Down 750+
  • Loft 90% Down Cluster Premium Duck Down
  • Free-flow zipper system
  • Full-length main side zip
  • Half-length opposite side zip
  • Foot zip provides unparalleled ventilation and use as a comforter.
  • Vertical baffles over the chest to prevent down shifting as you roll over in your sleep.
  • Shaped hood
  • Oversized draft collar
  • Zipper draft tube keeps the cold out and the warmth in.
  • Internal pocket for phone, GPS and valuables.
  • Zip to any Altitude, Journey or Venture sleeping bag to make one big bag
  • Lightweight Ultra-Sil compression bag and storage cell

Check Sea to Summit Ascent price at Amazon


How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Therm-a-Rest Hyperion

The Hyperion sleeping bag is among the lightest in its class while still providing high-performance during backcountry pursuits. The bag uses thermally-efficient box baffled construction in key areas to ensure warmth and comfort in an ultralight package.

Designed with high-quality materials and Therm-a-Rest performance features, the Hyperion keeps your pack featherweight without sacrificing an ounce of performance. 

SPECS:

  • Weight: 1 lb.
  • Ultralight high-performance sleeping bag
  • 900-fill 

    Nikwax® Hydrophobic Down

    Boasting unrivaled temperature regulation, it dries three times faster, absorbs 90% less water and maintains loft 60 times longer than untreated down.

    ” data-original-title=”Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™”>Nikwax Hydrophobic Down

  • Unrivaled Packability
  • Uses mesh walls to maximize loft and minimize cold spots in key areas.
  • Comfort-Fit
  • Ergonomic shape
  • SynergyLink™ Connectors

    These removable straps integrate your mattress and sleeping bag to minimize heat loss and keep you secure through the night.

    ” data-original-title=”SynergyLink™ Connectors”>SynergyLink Connectors

  • Zoned Insulation

    Intentionally placed insulation puts fill exactly where you need it, maximizing thermal properties while reducing weight.

    ” data-original-title=” Zoned Insulation”>Zoned Insulation for warmth where you need it most

Check Therm-a-Rest Hyperion price at Amazon


How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

  • Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
  • Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
  • Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

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About David Stock

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.



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