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Most people have gone camping at least once in their lives, and know that all that stands between you and cold, hard, lumpy ground is a super thin layer of tent canvas and your trusty sleeping bag.
For this reason, everyone deserves a high-quality sleeping bag that will keep you comfortable and warm.
Since many people will be bringing their sleeping bag with them when backpacking, hiking, climbing, and other strenuous activities, the sleeping bag should pack up easily, be lightweight, and be durable.
Whether for occasional camping or weekly use, the right sleeping bag can make all the difference to your quality of sleep under the stars.
To make finding a sleeping bag that much easier, we’ve prepared a how-to guide on choosing a sleeping bag. Plus, we’ve included a list of the best sleeping bags in Canada for your perusal. We analyzed 15 products and 640 reviews over 19 hours to find the best of the best for accurate, helpful recommendations.
Following out last update, we recommend the Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping for comfort, convenience, and warmth, and it is priced very reasonably for the durability and quality offered.
Our Top Sleeping bag in 2023
This is a great pick for a number of reasons. The sack size when packed is small enough to be convenient, it has several key user-friendly features for comfort, convenience, and warmth, and it is priced very reasonably for the durability and quality offered.
Pros
- Fold-down second zipper for easy access
- Women’s specific fit for insulation in common cold spots
- Lightweight for packing and hiking
- Great length for most individuals (6.25 ft)
Cons
- Slim fit may not work for wider men
Our selection of the best models available right now:
Sleeping bag Comparative Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy |
9.5
|
See price on AmazonSee price on Altitude Sport |
|
Upgrade Pick
|
The North Face Blue Kazoo
|
9.8
|
See price on Altitude Sport |
|
Budget Pick
|
SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag
|
8.7
|
See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Sleeping Bag
Presentation of the Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag
The Best Overall
Sleeping bags are responsibly for more than just keeping you warm. They must also allow you to get a full night’s rest so you can enjoy the next day’s adventures. If you need a sleeping bag that will give you a great sleep, the Marmot Trestles Cold-weather mummy sleeping bag is the right choice.
Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag Video Review
What We Think of the Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag
The Marmot Trestles cold-weather mummy sleeping bag is optimally designed to keep you warm and toasty as the weather gets colder. Though it isn’t rated for mid-winter use and freezing temperatures, it will do a good job of keeping you warm in temperatures down to -8.5° C. The sleeping bag is made completely out of polyester, from the inner filling to the outer fabric.
A drawstring hood keeps your head and face warm and protected from the elements, which is the ideal option if you’ll be sleeping in the open outdoors without a tent or RV. The Spirafil high loft insulation used in the body of the sleeping bag is designed for maximum warmth retention and durability, and it won’t clump.
“This is warm and cozy below freezing temperatures in Algonquin Park. It dipped below freezing both nights we slept there and I was comfortable all night. Considering I am usually cold when I sleep, this is some feat. The zipper glows in the dark for that 2a.m. pee, and it was so helpful for getting zipped back in too. It compresses down quite small in its compression bag for quick packing as well.”
Kim A
It is 75” in length, which provides enough room for people up to 6.2 ft. The outer zipper is a full length locking YKK two way zipper that won’t budge unless you’re moving it yourself. The fold down second zipper provides easy access and is more convenient. The sleeping bag weighs only 4 lbs and folds up small enough to fit into a backpack for storage or transporting on a pack if hiking. This style of mummy sleeping bag doesn’t leave much room for maneuverability if you want to spread your feet apart or roll over.
Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag Specifications
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Colour: Blue
- Temperature Rating: -8.5° C
- Length: 75”
Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Fold-down second zipper for easy access
- Women’s specific fit for insulation in common cold spots
- Lightweight for packing and hiking
- Great length for most individuals (6.25 ft)
Cons
- Slim fit may not work for wider men
Our Final Opinion About the Marmot Trestles Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
This is a great pick for a number of reasons. The sack size when packed is small enough to be convenient, it has several key user-friendly features for comfort, convenience, and warmth, and it is priced very reasonably for the durability and quality offered.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Sleeping Bag
Presentation of the The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag
The Advanced Choice
If you’re in the market for a new sleeping bag and want a high-quality, long-lasting option, choose The North Face Blue Kazoo sleeping bag. It is durable, comfortable, lightweight, and designed with innovative features and technologies to lock in warmth and keep you toasty all night.
The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag Video Review
What We Think of The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag
The Blue Kazoo sleeping bag is a high-end choice designed for optimal performance in average temperatures. This water-resistant sleeping bag is great for outdoor use since it has anti-compression pads that prevent cold spots from forming with extended use. These pads prevent the insulation from thinning in areas that take most of your weight while you sleep so it keeps working at peak performance.
The temperature rating on this model is -9° C, which is fairly average for a three-season sleeping bag. a zipper baffle prevents heat loss by adding an extra protection against unwanted airflow to lock heat inside with your body. The fitted hood is another feature that traps heat where you need it so those colder nights don’t have as much of an effect. The draft collar works toward keeping you warm as well added comfort.
“I wouldn’t use it again in temperatures under -5°C since I was a bit cold until I put my down jacket back on, but it is great for 0+ temperatures. I do tend to sleep cold though. It is comfortable and accommodated my 6’6” frame well which was great, my toes had plenty of room. I do wish it compressed down a bit more. It is very lightweight to carry as well, you won’t even feel it attached to your pack.”
Jeff L
A wonderful 2lb weight ensures you can hike for days and barely notice this sleeping bag swinging from your pack or riding in a backpack. The compression sack guarantees a small footprint with your other belongings since it will further compress the sleeping bag into a compact, travel-friendly size. One of the most convenient and thoughtful features on this sleeping bag is the addition of pad loops for attaching it to a sleeping pad to make the ground a touch more comfortable to sleep on without feeling like you’re on a slip and slide.
The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag Specifications
- Weight: 2 lbs
- Colour: Grey and Hyper Blue
- Stuff Sack Size: 9” x 17”
- Temperature Rating: -9° C
The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Fitted hood locks in warmth on cooler nights
- Very lightweight for hiking in to your camping spot
- Includes pad loops for attaching to a sleeping pad on rocky terrain
- Zipper baffle and draft collar lock in warmth
Cons
- Temperature rating could be better
Our Final Opinion About The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 2.5 out of 5.0 stars
There are no major flaws to note with this North Face sleeping bag. while it isn’t ideal for use in freezing temperatures, it is a great well-rounded pick that will keep you warm, comfortable, and sleeping soundly when camping. You’ll never feel a cold spot again thanks to its well-developed technologies.
Our Budget Pick for a Sleeping Bag
Presentation of the SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag
The Affordable Choice
Swtmerry
When it comes to affordable sleeping bags, there are many out there that simply are not worth even their minimal purchase price. If you want a well made, durable sleeping bag that you can buy on a budget, look no further than the SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag.
What We Think of the SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags often come in drab, boring colors that can easily get misplaced. That’s why SWTMERRY offers their sleeping bag in 8 different colors, most of which will be easily identifiable due to their bright exterior. This bag is fully waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about getting wet while trying to enjoy a peaceful sleep out in nature.
One downside of this bag is that it only comes in one standard size measuring 29.5” x 86.6”. While adequate for most people, it will be a bit large for kids and too short for some adults. Measure yourself (and your family) before purchasing! Each sleeping bag weighs 3.5 lbs, and will roll down to a size of 9” x 16”. This is ideal for packing since it comes with both a compression sack and carry bag.
I’ve been using this sleeping bag for canoeing trips since the weather got warm enough in spring (writing this in mid fall), and it has been perfect for every weather condition so far. It is easy to store in the front of my canoe and it has kept me dry from both moderate rainfall and damp ground. Very impressed by the quality of construction too for such an affordable bag.
Damian E.
This sleeping bag is rated to -25º C, but this is a bit deceiving as most people find it does not keep them warm enough in winter temperatures. There isn’t a hood on this model either, so you will experience some drafts and heat loss. As such, we recommend this as a 3-season bag instead. It is machine washable, and it can unzip to lie completely flat, making it great for day use. Its zippers are protected by a Velcro piece when done up, so you won’t accidentally unzip overnight.
SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag Specifications
- Sizes: 1
- Dimensions: 29.5” x 86.6”
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Color: Sky blue, yellow, red, green, navy blue, purple, orange/grey, black/grey
- Stuff Sack Size: 9” x 16”
- Waterproofness: Waterproof
- Temperature Rating: -25º C
- Seasons for Use: Spring, summer, fall
SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with a carry bag and compression sack
- Machine washable
- Has a Velcro piece to secure the zipper
- Can be rolled out flat for day use
Cons
- Temp rating is misleading: not actually warm enough for winter
- No hood
Our Final Opinion About the SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the SWTMERRY Sleeping Bag is the best quality sleeping bag you’ll find for a budget-friendly price. Although not actually usable in winter conditions, the rich feature list and user friendliness of this model make it a great fit for all low budget shoppers.
Alternative Products to Consider
Presentation of the Teton Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag
The Large Alternative
If you’re a large or tall person who doesn’t find normal-sized sleeping bags comfortable to sleep in, or they won’t even close properly around your larger body, we have the perfect solution. The Teton Sports Celsius XXL sleeping bag is the best choice for larger people since it is significantly spacious.
Teton Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag Video Review
What We Think of the Teton Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag
The Teton Sports sleeping bag is a generously sized option for larger, taller people or for those who simply want extra space to stretch and move around without baring limbs to the cold night air. The sleeping bag measures 90” by 39”, providing plenty of space for sharing with kids and pets as well. That’s 7.5ft of room so you can bury your head under the sleeping bag if you’re particularly chilly.
A compression bag is included with this sleeping bag, so you won’t ever need to roll it up – simply stuff it into the bag, then tighten the straps to create a compact, travel-friendly package. The hood on this sleeping bag is more open than a mummy style sleeping bag but shares one important feature; it can be cinched in to curl around the top of your head and protect you from the elements without aggravating your claustrophobia.
“This thing is HUGE. It doesn’t fit in any backpack, so I had it bungeed in place on the bottom of my pack for the 8km hike. It is lightweight enough that it didn’t slow me down despite its size. I shared it with my dog and slept so well. The top can be tightened to wrap around your head nicely but is more breathable than those mummy style ones.”
Gemma T
Due to its larger size, it is a more noticeable weight on your back when hiking, but at 7lbs, is still a light burden to carry. The temperature rating of this sleeping bag is fantastic with warmth guaranteed down to -18° C. While this doesn’t make it the right choice for use on colder nights, it offers more protection than many others. The inner side of the sleeping bag is also equipped with a pocket to protect your most valuable possessions like your keys, wallet, and phone.
Teton Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag Specifications
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Colour: Brown
- Stuff Sack Size: 17” x 12.5”
- Temperature Rating: –18° C
- Length: 90”
Teton Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Extended length and roomy interior
- Interior storage pocket for precious belongings
- Half circle hood protects your head
- Great for colder weather below freezing
Cons
Cons
- Heavier to pack and hike with
- Harder to stay warm if you’re petite
Our Final Opinion About the Teton Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Teton Sports XXL sleeping bag is a top choice for sharing with kids, petite spouses, and pets. While it is heavier to travel with compared to average-sized sleeping bags designed to fit snugly to a single person, this is one of the most comfortable sleeping bags out there and is worth the added weight to your pack.
Presentation of the The North Face Eco Trail Down 20
The Best Overall
The North Face
There are so many sleeping bags out there, and it can be hard to know which features are important and which ones are unnecessary. If you’re looking for a durable, reliable, well thought out sleeping bag, the The North Face Eco Trail Down 20 is the best overall.
The North Face Eco Trail Down 20 Video Review
What We Think of the The North Face Eco Trail Down 20
The North Face is an incredibly well-known brand for outdoor gear, so it’s no surprise that one of their sleeping bags has cemented a place as our top overall pick. This model comes in 4 different sizes, so all the kids and really tall people out there can have a sleeping bag suited to their size. At its largest, this sleeping bag only weighs 3 lbs, so it is also a highly portable model. The rolled-up size is only 9” x 16”, so you won’t have to worry about it taking up too much space.
This model isn’t fully waterproof but it is water-repellent, so you do have some barrier against the wetness the outdoors has to offer. This is a 3-season sleeping bag (summer, spring, and fall) with a temperature rating of -7º C. Since everyone has a different cold tolerance, you may find this sleeping bag is comfortable in slightly colder weather, but there is also the possibility that you’ll need to use it in slightly warmer temperatures.
My family is in love with this sleeping bag. We have three of the four sizes and they are all really well made. So far, we have used them in the summer up to late fall, and I could not ask for better performance. They were not too warm in the summer heat, but we weren’t cold in the fall weather either. Great balance, and I love that it’s made from recycled materials. Very high quality!
Leona S.
Our favorite feature of this model is that it is made from recycled materials. Protecting the environment is an endeavor that everyone is responsible for, so we celebrate every opportunity to promote products that are in line with relevant initiatives. This sleeping bag also has a J-zip for mobility and venting, and a cinched hood to keep bugs out and heat in.
The North Face Eco Trail Down 20 Specifications
- Sizes: 4
- Weight: Short and regular weigh 2 lbs, long and extra long weigh 3 lbs
- Color: Blue
- Stuff Sack Size: 9” x 16”
- Waterproofness: Water-repellent
- Temperature Rating: -7º C
- Seasons for Use: Spring, summer, fall
The North Face Eco Trail Down 20 Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Wrapround J-zip for mobility and venting
- Made from fully recycled materials
- Has a hood cinch cord for warmth
- Highly durable
Cons
- Not warm enough for winter
Our Final Opinion About the The North Face Eco Trail Down 20
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the The North Face Eco Trail Down 20 sleeping bag is one of the highest quality choices on today’s market. It is great for three seasons and has an eco-friendly composition. With features that prioritize user comfort, there aren’t many alternatives that can beat the value of this choice.
Presentation of the Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag
The Tandem-Compatible Alternative
Coleman
If you frequently camp with a partner and you want to cuddle comfortable at night, the Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag is the choice for you. It is tandem compatible, so simply buy two of these sleeping bags and zip them together for the most comfortable outdoor sleep you’ve ever experienced together.
Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag Video Review
What We Think of the Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag
This sleeping bag is really best suited to couples or families that like to camp only in mild conditions (late fall and early spring). You will find this sleeping bag comfortable when the temperature is between 4º C and -7º C. This 5.4 lb navy blue bag comes in one size only, and measures 75” x 33” x 4”. Its exterior is water-resistant, so does an adequate job of keeping unwanted rain and dampness out of your sleeping place.
This model does not come with a hood, so some people may find it’s not even warm enough for its lowest temperature rating; a lot of your comfort depends on your own tolerance of hot and cold weather. The limited temp range does mean that you may need a second, more versatile bag if you plan on sleeping outdoors any other times of the year.
I wouldn’t go so far as to say this is a cold weather sleeping bag, but it is perfect for mid fall and spring for me and my wife. We bought two so we could turn them into a tandem queen-sized bag, and we were perfectly warm when it was around zero outside. I wouldn’t recommend using it in weather much colder than that, but everyone has a different tolerance.
Adam R.
Since this sleeping bag has the unique option of becoming a tandem sleeping bag, we mostly recommend it for couples that want to snuggle overnight or families with young kids that can sleep together. Sharing two sleeping bags does make them warmer, which may be a benefit to you. There is a Roll Control system that keeps the bags straight for rolling (very convenient), and they are also machine washable.
Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag Specifications
- Sizes: 1
- Dimensions: 75” x 33” x 4”
- Weight: 5.4 lbs
- Color: Navy blue
- Waterproofness: Water-resistant
- Temperature Rating: 4ºC to -7º C
- Seasons for Use: Late fall, early spring
Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Two sleeping bags can be zipped together
- Machine washable
- Stuff sack included
- Has a Roll Control system for easier packing
Cons
Cons
- Small temperature range for use
- No hood
Our Final Opinion About the Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Coleman 2000004419 Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag is a great choice for couple’s looking for some outdoor adventure. Although not warm enough for winter but too well-insulated for summer, this sleeping bag is made to last and has cemented user experience as a top priority.
Presentation of the TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag
The All-Season Alternative
Teton Sports
Outdoor aficionados will be highly impressed by this TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag. It is designed to be comfortable for use all year round, and has a long list of features that make it perfect for every situation. We’re guessing you won’t ever go back after trying out this model.
What We Think of the TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag
Finally, an all-season alternative! This TETON Sports sleeping bag has a rating down to -22º C, but it is unique in that it can keep you very warm in winter temperatures, but also allow you to stay cool in the hotter months of the year. It isn’t waterproof, but that’s really the only possible negative thing we can say about this sleeping bag.
It comes in two sizes, each of which will roll to a size of 9” x 15”, and they only weigh a little over 4 lbs. They are mummy style, so may be too restrictive for some people. Each sleeping bag will come with a free compression sack to make packing easier, and it has an interior pocket to store your valuables, protecting them from inclement weather, wildlife, and perhaps even thieving companions.
I am so happy I decided to go with this TETON sleeping bag. I was tempted to buy a three-season alternative instead, since I wasn’t sure I’d be sleeping outdoors in the winter, but because of this bag, I have discovered my love of winter backpacking. I just grab my snowshoes and this sleeping bag and I’ll go out for up to a week at a time.
Hayley K.
There is extra insulation in the foot box to keep your feet toasty at all times, and the mummy hood has a drawstring to help prevent the leakage of warm air and entry of cold drafts. Although surprising for a sleeping bag, TETON Sports offers a lifetime warranty. If something ever, ever goes wrong with your sleeping bag, you’ll either get a full refund or a replacement at no charge. That is confidence we can get behind.
TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag Specifications
- Sizes: 2
- Dimensions: 87” x 34” x 22”
- Weight: 4.2 lbs
- Color: Black
- Stuff Sack Size: 9” x 15”
- Waterproofness: Water-resistant
- Temperature Rating: -22º C
- Seasons for Use: Summer, spring, fall, winter
- Warranty: Lifetime
TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with a free compression sack
- Extra insulation in foot box for warm feet
- Has a mummy hood with tightening cord to prevent air leakage
- Has an interior pocket
Cons
Cons
- Not waterproof
Our Final Opinion About the TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag is the all-year alternative of champions. Although not waterproof, the heat-saving design and portability-minded features make this one of the top-tier sleeping bags on the market.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Sleeping Bag
Benefits of Using a Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are great to have on camping trips. They are one of the most portable options for sleeping outdoors since they can be rolled up compactly, they are lightweight, and they can be tied essentially anywhere. Whether you are heading to a campsite or backpacking over rough terrain, a sleeping bag is a must have. They are designed to be comfortable and secure, allowing you to get the best rest possible outdoors. Sleeping on cold, hard ground, exposed to the elements, is not the best recipe for a restful sleep. The right sleeping bag can make all the difference.
They are also designed to be used in all sorts of weather conditions. Not all sleeping bags can be used year-round, but at most you would need two sleeping bags to have the option of sleeping comfortably outdoors in any season. Most are also waterproof or at least water resistant, so you’ll be able to stay dry as well. Lastly, sleeping bags are the most protective option for sleeping outdoors. Since you are snuggled up tight in your sleeping bag with only your head exposed, you have a lot less risk of being bitten by bugs or having an encounter with snakes, spiders, and other woodland creatures.
Applications for a Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags don’t only have to be used while camping or sleeping out on the trails. There are also uses for them at home. They can be used to camp out in the backyard or laid flat to keep your kids off the grass while playing outside. Indoors, they can quickly become an extra sleeping space for guests or used as some extra padding on uncomfortable and unfamiliar beds while travelling.
How to Properly Choose Your Sleeping Bag
- Price.
There are sleeping bags out there that cost less than $100, and some that cost nearly a thousand dollars. It can be hard to know the right amount you should be spending. More expensive sleeping bags are often made of higher quality materials and are more versatile and durable. However, some are overpriced, and you’ll wind up paying for the brand name instead of the actual quality. Decide on a budget before you start shopping so you don’t waste your time.
- Size.
The size of a sleeping bag is very important for your comfort. Mummy style sleeping bags are built to be tight, but only people with a certain frame can use them comfortably. It’s important to pay attention to both the length and width of a bag to make sure you can fit comfortable. The rolled-up size is also important to consider for packing and travelling.
- Padding.
The amount of padding in a sleeping bag influences how comfortable it will be on hard ground and also how insulated it is. Thicker sleeping bags are better for colder weather because they retain heat better, and they are also more comfortable for use directly on the ground. If you will be using a sleeping bag in warmer weather and/or on a mat, a thinner sleeping bag is more than suitable.
- Hood.
Whether you are sleeping in warm or cold weather, having a hood on the sleeping bag will be a plus. In warm weather, it limits bug access to your skin, and in cold weather, it retains heat and prevents drafts from chilling you while you sleep. This is a pretty standard feature, especially on more expensive models.
- J Zipper.
J zippers are the best kind of zipper because they allow easy entry and exit, and you can also open the sleeping bag fully so it lies flat on the ground. This allows you to be 100% certain that no creepy crawlies have made it their home during the day, and you can also use it as a blanket to sit on throughout the day.
- Waterproofness.
Whether you are sleeping in a tent or not, dampness can always be an issue when sleeping outdoors. It is best to find a sleeping bag that is at least water-resistant so you can stay dry overnight. If you will be more exposed to the elements, a sleeping bag that is fully waterproof is a necessity so you will not be made uncomfortable by wet ground or rainfall.
- Temperature Rating.
The temperature rating on a sleeping bag is the best indication of its insulation. Sleeping bags with a higher temp are better used in the warmer months since they do not keep you as warm. Sleeping bags with a rating below -15º C are great for use in the winter since they are built to retain heat. Sometimes, these ratings can be deceiving, so it’s a good idea to check out reviews before purchasing, especially if you’re looking for a winter sleeping bag.
- Weight.
Sleeping bags will range between 2 and 5 lbs on average. The lighter models will be less dense and roll more compactly, and they are better for use in the warmer months since they have fewer insulating properties. Heavier sleeping bags are more insulated and will be a bit bulkier to carry around.
- Warranty.
It can be difficult to find a sleeping bag with warranty, but some companies do go so far as to give them a lifetime protection package. If you are someone who prefers to purchase products with warranty coverage, you’ll simply have to look a bit harder than you do for other products. They are out there, though.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of sleeping bags allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
