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Sleeping Bags

Go by the comfort temperature. Down packs smaller, synthetic copes better with damp.

Guide

Sleeping Bags

A sleeping bag needs the right temperature specification, inner shape and fill. Choose it together with your mat and usual sleepwear.

Key points

Compare comfort temperature with the expected overnight temperature.
Extreme temperature describes a risk zone, not a buying target.
Include sleeping mat, clothing and personal sensitivity to cold.
Balance packed size, weight and freedom to move.

Which option suits your use?

Use	Choose	Why
Limited packing space	ChooseLightweight down bag	WhyCompare packed size and the exact version’s comfort temperature, not just the family name.
Prefer synthetic fill	ChooseSuitable synthetic bag	WhyCheck temperature range and packed volume. Fill type alone does not establish warmth.
More room to move	ChooseRoomier camp bag	WhyCheck internal shape at shoulders and feet. Extra room can feel comfortable but needs more packing space.
Light sleeping system	ChooseQuilt or compact touring bag	WhyAn open quilt must work with its mat and attachment system. It does not replace every enclosed design.

Types compared

Light down bag
Compressible down fill sits in a close-fitting shell. It suits trips where pack space and empty weight matter especially.
- Advantage: Substantial insulation for relatively little fill weight
- Drawback: Wet down loses much of its loft
Example: Sea to Summit Spark Down Sleeping Bag ›
Synthetic sleeping bag
Synthetic fibres insulate an elongated sleeping space. It suits trips where handling damp conditions is a priority.
- Advantage: Fill tends to retain its volume better when damp
- Drawback: Often bulkier than down for similar warmth
Example: Haglöfs Tarius -18 ›
Roomy camp bag
A broad interior leaves more space around the body. It suits fixed camps and people who move frequently in their sleep.
- Advantage: Easier to turn with bent legs
- Drawback: A larger shell increases packed bulk
Example: Kelty TRU.COMFORT Doublewide 20 DEG ›

What to look for when buying

Question	In brief	Why
Which temperature?	In briefStart with the comfort rating	WhyRatings provide guidance. Wind, fatigue, moisture and the sleeping mat affect perceived warmth.
Which shape?	In briefRoom at body and feet	WhyToo little room compresses the fill; excessive room makes the sleeping system and packed size larger.
Which fill?	In briefConsider packed size and care	WhyDown and synthetic designs differ by model. Compare similar comfort ratings rather than fill weight alone.
Which mat?	In briefPlan the complete sleep system	WhyFill beneath your body is compressed. A sleeping bag does not replace a suitable mat’s ground insulation.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check the fit?

Lie inside wearing your sleep clothing. Hood and collar should close without strongly compressing fill at shoulders or feet. Check that you can operate the zip from inside.

Which maker specification helps when comparing?

Haglöfs lists -11 °C comfort and -18 °C limit for the Tarius -18. Do not mistake the model name for its comfort rating.

How do I compare different designs?

Compare versions intended for the same use. Dimensions, capacity, weight and weather protection describe different properties. Check interfaces and the complete setup with your existing equipment.

How do I care for it?

Air after sleeping and store as directed. Washing and drying depend on fill and model. A down sleeping bag and a coated bivvy bag do not need the same treatment.