Buy a sleeping bag

• Determine the Purpose of the Sleeping Bag
  • If being used for family camping--consider comfort
  • If backcountry camping--consider weight and size

• Determine the Shape
  • Rectangular type
    • Provides more space for movement
    • Can be zipped together to create a double sleeping bag
    • Can be fully opened and used as an extra blanket
  • Mummy type
    • Weighs less
    • Smaller size requires less energy to keep warm at night
    • Has a hood to pull tight around your head.
• Determine the Size
  • Sizes vary--regular, youth, extra long, extra wide
• Determine Temperature Rating
  • Depends on the conditions you plan to camp in
  • A bags temperature rating indicates the lowest temperature in which a person would be comfortable.
    • "Comfortable" is a very subjective term--everyone is different
    • Use of a ground pad is assumed, necessary and very important--this provides extra insulation and comfort. A foam and air core pad is the best.
    • Other factors should be considered--quality of ground pad and tent, personal level of energy etc.
  • Basic ratings:
    • Traditional sleeping bags are rated at 40 degrees F
    • Three season bags are rated at 20 degrees F
    • Cold weather bags are rated at 0 degrees F
    • Winter camping bags are rated from -15 degrees F to -30 degrees F
• Determine Insulation
  • Down
    • Best natural insulator
    • Light and compressible
    • Must be kept dry or it losses its insulating abilities
  • Synthetic Fill
    • Cost less then down bags
    • Insulates even when wet
    • Dries quickly
• Determine the Lining
  • Nylon Taffeta
  • Polyester Cotton
  • Fleece
• Consider Quality of Other Features
  • Seams and stitching
  • Zippers
• Consider a storage bag