7 of 25

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

instead, a wet bag can make a good adventure feel miserable.

The amount of insulation is another factor to consider. If you only camp in the summer time, choose a bag with minimal insulation, but don't forget that you can unzip bags at the bottom for extra air circulation and can even be draped over you if it is extra warm outside. Mainly just don't be afraid to get a little extra, just in case the weather changes unexpectedly. For the fall and winter campers, go with bags with more insulation, and most bags will have tags that describe what the bag's limits are as far as temperature.

Choosing the right insulation isn't the only part in picking the right bag however. Depending on where you plan to use your bag is a large factor. If you only plan to use it around the house for guests or for parties, stick with a synthetic bag or cheap down bag. A rectangular shape is recommended as well because it gives you more space to move around.

But if you are planning to use your sleeping bag while camping and anywhere outside of the comfort of a climate-controlled area, you will have a lot more variables to consider. If you like to camp in damper areas, pick synthetic bag every time for their resistance to water. The temperature of your usual stomping grounds is another thing to consider. If you like to camp up in the mountains at high elevations and low temperatures use a down bag in a mummy shape.

You should pick a mummy-shaped bag if you are planning on very cold temperatures because it insulates your body much better and there is less space that your body has to heat to keep warm. These tend to be a little more expensive but the price is well worth it. This shape may keep you warmer, but if you like to shift around in your sleep, you may feel restricted and could make for a less comfortable night's sleep. For those looking for something in between, look for a semi-rectangular bag. These taper at the legs but remain broad at the hips and shoulders and still keep you quite warm as long as you are not in extremely cold climates. A rectangular bag is good for temperate to warmer climates because there is plenty of space to move around and are quite comfortable in most climates. The downside is that there is more space for your body to warm up.

Sleeping bags generally come in two lengths, regular and long. Regular bags will cover anyone below six feet which covers a large range if you are planning to share your sleeping bag. Long bags are for anyone six-foot six-inches to six-foot and may cost a little more than regular bags. If you are right on the border between regular and long, go with the long bag because having a short bag causes it to stretch and flatten which decreases the effectiveness of the insulation, and if your body isn't heating up the whole bag, feel free to tie off a few inches at the end of your bag with a bungie cord, or put some clothes at the bottom as well.

Another thing to consider is a pad to put under your sleeping bag. Sleeping pads are usually inexpensive and they also contribute greatly to getting a good night's rest and waking up with a knot in your back from the rock you happened to roll onto. Pads are essential in all climates and not only keep you away from unexpected bumps in the ground but also make your sleeping bag feel much more comfortable. They can be blown up at will with minimal time and effort and
compact easily.

I hope with your new found knowledge you can find the sleeping bag that is perfect for you and your next adventure. Happy camping!

Learn more about this author, Shakeil Greeley.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to choose the right sleeping bag?
We want to hear your view. Write now!