A good sleeping experience can make or break a camping trip. A cozy sleeping bag that stays warm even when temperatures drop overnight that will keep campers warm is worth an investment. Added features like anti-snag zippers and draft barriers make the difference between a suitable sleeping bag and a great sleeping bag for camping.
If you are in the market for a sleeping bag, you might be surprised to find that there are a few options to consider. In addition to price point and quality, shoppers should look for a bag that has the features that they need. Here are some things to consider:
Sleeping bags are either a camping sleeping bag or a backpacking sleeping bag. The difference is in the bulk. A sleeping bag that is for camping will prioritize comfort over portability, so they tend to be bulkier than the backpacking style.
The backpacking style sleeping bags are designed to be compressed as small as possible to fit into a backpack. As a trade-off, you will give up some comfort items like plush headrests and extra filling.
Sleeping bags for camping are designed for different regions and different seasons. If you are a summer-only camper, then a below-freezing temperature rating is not necessary. If you often camp in the early spring or late fall, then you need a warm sleeping bag that is for three-season use.
A three-season sleeping bag is for temperatures of 15 to 30 degrees and higher. A summer-only sleeping bag has a rating for temperatures above 30 degrees. And a winter sleeping bag is rated for temperatures below 15 degrees.
There are two materials to consider when shopping for a sleeping bag. The shell material will determine the durability and weatherproofing capabilities of a sleeping bag. The interior material will determine your comfort level while sleeping.
Most outer shells are a polyester. However, there is a lot of variation in the quality of polyester used in sleeping bags. A high-quality, camping-grade polyester can be very durable and highly weather-resistant. Meanwhile, a low-quality polyester sleeping bag can make you feel like you are sleeping in a plastic bag.
Sleeping bags have different materials and different amounts of material. A summer sleeping bag has three pounds or less of breathable, synthetic fill material. A winter sleeping bag has five pounds of synthetic or down fill material. Down fill is the best option for warmth, but not as suitable for warm or humid environments.
The zipper on a sleeping bag takes some moderately heavy use, so it is essential to look for a high-quality, durable zipper. Without a functional zipper, it will break down in the first few uses, leaving you with a blanket that is not very useful for camping.
MalloMe sleeping bags are designed with comfort and versatility in mind. These generously-sized sleeping bags come in a 32” width for a little more room over most competitors, which only average a 27” width. With a durable hexagon-weave design, high-quality zipper, and waterproof shell, it is a well-made sleeping bag that will stand up to repeated use.
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Parkol sleeping bags are outfitted with a free-range hood and foot box to allow a roomy design while still maximizing thermal efficiency for an extra bit of cozy. These bags have a weather-resistant shell that is ideal for outdoor use. Double-layer insulation and draft tube keep you warm while you sleep.
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The mummy bag is a snug-fitting, body-shaped sleeping bag that is perfect for backpacking trips. With its thermal enhancing, double-layer design, the mummy bag is ideal for colder temperatures down to zero degrees. Each bag has a drawstring hood, an interior pocket for valuables like car keys and wallet, and an anti-snag zipper.
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With five pounds of holofill insulation and a cozy flannel lining, the Coleman Big and Tall sleeping bag keeps campers comfortable in temperatures down to ten degrees Fahrenheit. A name brand like Coleman knows camping. This sleeping bag has roll control for secure storage and features like a comfort cuff to cozy around your face.
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The queen-sized sleeping bag from Sleepingo is 87x59 and is large enough to fit two adults or to be used as two separate sleeping bags. Folds down to a 15x12 size for easy transport, unlike most other double sleeping bags that are big and bulky. The 210 thread-count lining is super soft for maximum comfort. And the exterior shell is made from super durable camping-grade polyester that adds some waterproofing.
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This Redcamp sleeping bag is more significant than most competitors with at least three more inches on the width and an extra-long 75” length. The interior has soft flannel fabric lining for maximum comfort, and the shell is made from a high-quality polyester fabric for durability and weatherproofing. This sleeping bag comes in two fill options for greater versatility in different regions. The three pound fill option is great for summer camping and the four pound fill provides extra insulation for cooler temperatures.
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Overall, one of the best sleeping bags for camping is the Redcamp Cotton Flannel sleeping bag. As a camping bag, compression and portability are not as important. However, comfort is essential. The flannel lining and variable fill options make this the most versatile sleeping bag for camping in different seasons or regions.
The Redcamp sleeping bag is a little roomier than most of the other options on our list and is the only one that is long enough for those over six-feet. It even beats out the Coleman Big and Tall sleeping bag with the amount of room that it provides. It may not have the bells and whistles of extra headrests or ventilating foot compartments, but it is roomy and comfortable.
There are several considerations when shopping for the best sleeping bags for camping. Comfort and weatherproofing from the elements are some of the most critical factors. The right choice depends largely on how and where you will use it. We like the Redcamp sleeping bag because it is a nice mid-range quality sleeping bag that checks all of our boxes for comfort and outdoor protection.