How to Choose a Sleeping Bag?

Answer 1

A sleeping bag can be the most useful piece of camping equipment, outside of a tent, for getting good rest while camping. Choosing the right sleeping bag depends on the kind of camping that someone wants to do. Two primary factors drive selecting the right bag. The first is finding a bag that fits, and the second is selecting one that is rated for the lowest temperatures someone is likely to experience when camping.

Although the weather is a big variable, people can anticipate the coldest weather they might encounter. People who only camp in the summer know that the lows are likely to be above 32 degrees in most locations, so they can select bags that are rated for warm weather camping. People who enjoy camping in high elevations may need to choose a sleeping bag rated for 20 degrees because temperature swings are wider on high mountains. A cold rain storm could occur overnight and drop the temperatures below freezing briefly.

The size of the sleeping bag makes a difference. A sleeping bag that is too big will be difficult to heat up using body heat. Sleeping bags insulate the body from chilly outdoor temperatures, and one that is too wide or long will leave the camper chilled until he can generate enough warm air inside the bag. Choosing a sleeping bag that is slightly longer than the person is tall and wider than the torso will warm up much faster than a sleeping bag that is too big. The person should be able to roll over easily in the sleeping bag and move her arms around relatively easily.

Besides size and temperature rating, people can choose between mummy bags or rectangular sleeping bags. Serious campers and backpackers often choose the mummy bags because they take up less space and warm up more quickly once inside. Most mummy bags come with hoods that allow the sleeper to keep his head warm during cold nights. The hoods do not close up completely so the camper can breathe fresh air, and they do a good job keeping someone warm. The rectangular bags generally cost less and are a good choice for people who camp less frequently and only in good weather conditions.