A sleeping bag is generally not something you take along for hiking. However, when you want to sleep at night, you need some form of sleeping bag or tent that could keep you protected for a while. Since sleeping bags can be expensive, many people wonder, “How much should a sleeping bag weigh for backpacking?”
The ideal sleeping bag will be lightweight. However, some of the best sleeping bags are made from down and down tends to be a little heavier. The weight of your sleeping bag will depend on the temperatures that you are facing. It will all come down to which sleeping bag you need for a specific situation.
In the following article, we will look slightly deeper at some of the key characteristics of the sleeping bag and how you need to go about selecting the right one for your needs. We will look at some of the best sleeping bags that money can buy. However, you will also find some of the information we used in selecting the top products.
What Do You Need To Look For When Buying Hiking Sleeping Bag?
By looking at the introduction to the article, you might have noticed that you will need to look at the weight of the sleeping bag. While there are tons of different features one can consider, the weight and the type are the most important. A sleeping bag should be comfortable, but you don’t want to break your back carrying it around.
When it comes to the type of sleeping bag, you will need to look at down or synthetic sleeping bags. Down sleeping bags are stuffed with duck feathers, and synthetic sleeping bags have a variety of synthetic materials that you need to look through. Down is much warmer than the other sleeping bags, but it is also far mo0re expensive.
Detailed List Of The Key Features To Look For In A Hiking Sleeping Bag
While you have seen the main features for selecting a sleeping bag, there are also a couple more things to keep in mind. Before we look at the best sleeping bags for backpacking or hiking, we need to understand the intricacies of what makes them special. Here are the most important features to keep in mind when buying a sleeping bag.
Size (Open And Folded)
One of the first things to keep in mind about the sleeping bag is the size. The bag should be large enough for you to stay inside the unit comfortably. However, when folded, it is all about saving space. It would be best if you considered a sleeping bag that folds up small enough not to disrupt any of your other packing spaces.
Shape
There are tons of different sleeping bag shapes, and you will need to find the right sleeping bag shape to make your life easier. The mummy shape is probably one of the most popular options on the market today. However, there are a couple more that you might be interested in to ensure you find the right sleeping bag:
- Mummy: The mummy sleeping bag is most comfortable with a snug fit and allows you to roll over in the bag.
- Rectangular: The rectangular sleeping bag is the traditional sleeping bag that offers ample space for your arms and legs.
- Semi Rectangular: The semi-rectangular sleeping bag is a combination of mummy and rectangular sleeping bags. It has tons of space for roominess while adding a snug fit.
- Double Sleeping Bag: The double sleeping bag is one of the largest sleeping bags on the market today. These sleeping bags are ideal for two people.
Insulation Type
One of the things we did touch on a little bit is the type of insulation. You will need to choose if you want down or synthetic insulation. Down is slightly more expensive, but it offers you more insulation to keep you warm. If you choose synthetic, you might have a cheaper sleeping bag, but it does not offer the same protection. However, the synthetic sleeping bag offers protection when damp.
Accessories
Finally, you will need to consider the accessories. The zippers need to be comfortable and easier for you to use and access. If there are additional storage pockets, they can be useful to ensure you have additional storage space. There are plenty of accessories you can look at, but having some of them can make your trip more comfortable.
Top 3 Hiking Sleeping Bag
Now that you have seen some of the top features, we must consider the top sleeping bags for backpacking. We have isolated some of the top options, which should make your decision that much easier. Here are the best sleeping bags for hiking and backpacking on the market today:
Western Mountaineering MegaLite 30 Degree Sleeping Bag
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Down-filled
- Lightweight design
- Solid YKK zipper
- Mummy shape
Cons:
- Expensive
Bottom Line: The Western Mountaineering MegaLite 30 Degree Sleeping Bag is one of the best winter sleeping bags, and it is designed to keep you warm in some of the coldest conditions you can face. The unit might be a bit expensive, but it is filled with down that should keep you sufficiently warm.
Nemo Riff Down Sleeping Bag
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Solid down construction
- Ultra-compressible
- Semi-rectangular design
- Reliable
Cons:
- Heavy
Bottom Line: If you are willing to have something heavier, the Nemo Riff Down Sleeping Bag is one of the best options for beginners. The sleeping bag is made from down, but the biggest downside is the weight. It is almost 2.5-pounds in total weight.
Western Mountaineering Ultralite Mummy Sleeping Bag
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- High loft design
- Reliable brand
- Down construction
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive
Bottom Line: Finally, the Western Mountaineering Ultralite Mummy Sleeping Bag is one of the best options available. It is just over 1-pounds, the sleeping bag is far more affordable. IT is from a reliable brand, and the down will keep you sufficiently insulated.
Hiking Sleeping Bag Summary
When looking for the best sleeping bag, you will need to wade through a variety of different sleeping bags to find the right one. We recommend all the options on the list and we believe they should give you some great value for your money. Having a good sleeping bag for hiking or backpacking will ensure you have enough comfort.
Need Help Preparing for a Hike or Backpacking Trip?
Check out our Hiking Equipment Guide for Beginners. It’s a complete list of gear that every beginner should have!
