Blog

1. Down or Synthetic Insulation?

Down:

• Lightweight and highly compressible, ideal for packing.
• Superior warmth-to-weight ratio.
• Loses insulation properties when wet unless treated with water-resistant down.
• More expensive but lasts longer with proper care.
• Retains warmth even when wet.

Synthetic:

• Retains warmth even when wet.
• Dries quickly and costs less than down.
• Bulky and heavier than down.
• Shorter lifespan with frequent use.

2. Temperature Ratings: Comfort vs. Limit

• Comfort Rating: Indicates the temperature at which an average person sleeps comfortably. Best for selecting based on your typical camping conditions.
• Limit Rating: The lowest temperature at which the bag keeps a user warm. Suitable for survival situations or those who sleep warm.
• Remember: Add a few degrees as a buffer, especially for cold sleepers or if conditions can vary.

3. Seasonality

• Summer Bags: Lightweight with temperature ratings around 35°F (1°C) and up.
• 3-Season Bags: Versatile, rated from 20°F to 35°F (-6°C to 1°C).
• Winter Bags: Rated below 20°F (-6°C) for extreme conditions.

4. Mummy or Quilt?

Mummy Bags:

• Tapered design reduces weight and heat loss.
• Snug fit may feel restrictive.
• Best for cold conditions.

Quilts:

• Ultralight and versatile.
• Best paired with an insulated sleeping mat.
• Not ideal for extreme cold or restless sleepers.

5. Weight and Packability

• Ultralight Bags: Perfect for long-distance hikers prioritizing minimal weight.
• Heavier Bags: Offer more features and durability, suitable for shorter trips or colder weather.

6. Hydrophobic Coatings and DWR

• Many bags now feature hydrophobic down or a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to resist moisture.
• Essential for damp climates or multi-day trips.

7. Length and Fit

• Regular, Long, or Short Sizes: Choose based on your height to ensure maximum insulation.
• Women's-Specific Bags: Offer extra insulation in areas like the feet and torso.

8. Sleeping Bag Accessories

• Liners: Add warmth and keep the bag clean. Easy to wash and pack.
• Stuff Sacks: Compression sacks reduce packed size, while dry bags protect against moisture.

9. Don't Forget About Your Sleeping Mat and R-Value Even the warmest sleeping bag won’t perform if paired with an inadequate sleeping mat.

• The R-value of a sleeping mat measures its insulation and ability to prevent heat loss to the ground.
• Match the mat's R-value to your sleeping bag and expected conditions:

 - 1–2: Summer use.

 - 2–4: Spring, summer, and fall (3 seasons). 

 - 4+: Winter and cold-weather camping.

You can read more about The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Sleeping Mats here. For a more detailed breakdown, or use our filters to find your  Top Picks.

Our Time-Saver Guides distil expertise into a concise format, blending facts and opinions to save you time while ensuring informed decisions!

Andy Neil
Andy has been a keen long-distance hiker and wild camping enthusiast since he completed the Cleveland Way in 2015. Since then, he has walked thousands of trail miles all over the UK and is an active member of the Wild Camping UK community, being an admin of the largest wild camping community on Facebook. He strongly advocates for responsible wild camping and believes it is important to leave no trace when camping in the wilderness. He joined the UOG team in 2021 and works as a website developer and content creator. Read more from Andy Neil