The Truth About Sleeping Bags…
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The quint essential piece of camping gear. The top of the backpack for the hiker.
You should get a bag that is rated for 10 degrees above what the coldest temperatures you expect. These ratings are supposed to be the temperature where you can sleep comfortably in the bag, but this can vary as we all have different temperature comfort levels. It can also vary by the weather conditions of where you are sleeping.
You should check the fit in the store if you sleep with little movement get a narrow cut because it will keep you warmer, but if you toss and turn a lot consider comfort and get the wider bulkier cut.
A classic mummy shaped bag is best for heat retention but for mild conditions consider a almost rectangular shaped bag. A hood and draft collar will also prevent unwanted heat loss for very cold conditions.
Down bags will last at least two times longer than synthetic bags with makes the goose down fluff the most economical in terms long-term choice. There is nothing that beats the light weight total warmth of down, but it is almost worthless when wet, so you have to keep this bag extra dry.
High quality bags will always have flaps to protect the zipper area form drafts and most will also have water tight zippers.
Look for nice extras like pad loops which will help prevent feeling the cold earth while sleeping at night. Microsanded polyester will also give the illusion of sleeping on silk, so you might like that. Silk or cotton liners can add to your sleeping comfort. Pillow pockets are also an added comfort, you can insert an inflatable pillow or stuff it with other items to act like a pillow.
When packing line your nylon bag with a garbage bag for added moisture protection. Consider getting a darker bag because it will dry in the sun quicker and stains won’t be as noticeable.
Dry the bag in the sun before storing it. Wash the bag as needed without hesitation, just follow the manufacturers instructions and dry thoroughly. Handle your wet bag very carefully, holding the whole bag with full support, have plans to get yourself wet. When drying use the lowest settings possible and toss in a few tennis balls to keep the clumps in the bag to get to bunchy.
Leave the bag loose for added fluffiness and stuff it only when it is being hiked to the sleep location. Your bag should be stored in a dry and flat location, such as under a bed or upright in a closet where it can breathe.
Always sleep on even a bare minimum ground cloth to keep dirt outside of your bag. If you are staying put in one location for a few days lay your bag out in the sun so the air can circulate and help eliminate moisture in it.
If you like camping with your significant other, consider getting matching bags. Most bag manufacturers make there bags so that they can be zipped together for a comfortable couples bag.
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Sierra Designs Nitro 15 Degree Down Sleeping Bag. - $ 294.95 Another Sierra Designs bag that takes our concerns about trail weight seriously. At just over 2 lbs, Mountains Plus gives this pack a big thumbs up. Designed for those times when lightweight is your first concern in a sleeping bag, Sierra Designs’ Ultralight Series pushes the envelope of the possible. 800-fill goose down, 15D ripstop nylon shells, Jacket Hood, half zippers and new Foot Box Vent come standard in these wonders of weightlessness. Starting at 12 ounces. Great for: Backpacking, Expedition, MountaineeringSpecifications:Type UltralightInsulation Powerfill 800-Fill Goose DownTrail Weight 2 lbs 4 ozFill Weight 22 ozInside Length 88″”Zipper Side LeftStuff Size 7″” x 17 “”Shell Material 15D NylonLiner Material 15D NylonShoulder Girth 62″”Hip Girth 59″”Footbox Girth 41″”Features: * 1/2 Zippers * Baffle Construction * Draft Tube * Foot Box Venting * Jacket Hood * Removable Pad Locks * Snag Free Zipper Tracks * Tucked Stitching |