As a rule of thumb, the best bag is what is right for you. The question therefore is how to choose a sleeping bag that is right for you. The answer would depend largely on your needs and preferences. You need first to identify when, for what purpose and who is going to use the sleeping bag. After identifying all these factors, then you can proceed with knowing the features of a quality sleeping bag that will fit your needs.

If you are backpacking or hiking, your lightest sleeping bag option is the one that use goose down fill. Although a little expensive than the synthetic sleeping bags, it is generally warmer and the most compressible insulation material that you can use. You can check Marmot Pinnacle review to know how much comfort a goose down sleeping bag can provide you. If you are going to camp in wet environments, you can use synthetic fill sleeping bag but be prepared to carry more weight.

Sleeping bag manufacturers usually refer to temperature rating as the coldest temperature a sleeping bag is suitable for sleeping in. Use this rating only as a rough guideline because being a warm or cold sleeper is still a big factor. It will surely be a nightmare for you to find out later in the camp that the bag is too cold for you. Always purchase sleeping bag made from polyester or nylon since both are breathable and can keep you dry and warm.

In order to ensure that you are comfortable inside the sleeping bag, it is best that you fit it in before you make a purchase. You may choose a rectangular sleeping bag or a mummy shaped type. A rectangular sleeping is best for shared sleeping or when you feel you are not comfortable to sleep inside a cocoon. You have to consider however that mummy sleeping bag would provide you more warmth as it snug into the body and comes with a hood and draft collar. Some may find mummy bag uncomfortable to sleep, it is still the most popular choice of campers especially for cold weather camping and long hikes.

Aside from the hood, it is important that you also check for other features like vents that you can open to adjust the temperature inside your sleeping bag. Draught tubes are included in an efficiently designed zipper system as this will prevent the warmth inside the bag from escaping. Consult an expert in the store which features would really fit your needs.

Filed under: Camping Gear