How to choose a hiking sleeping bag

Wherever the night finds you, a comfortable and full sleep will always be a priority. And it doesn't matter if you are in a cosy hotel or tent. Therefore, if you are planning a hike in the mountains with an overnight stay, it is important to take care of the necessary equipment for a comfortable and safe sleep. It's about a sleeping bag.

Today, models from different manufacturers are presented in stores. They differ in shape, size, materials used. Therefore, it is important to know how to choose the right sleeping bag for a hike.

How to choose a sleeping bag for a hike?

We are sure that everyone knows what a sleeping bag is, but not everyone understands what to look for when buying. The main characteristics of the product are considered to be:

Temperature conditions;

Weight;

Size;

Insulation type;

availability of additional functions.

When choosing a sleeping bag, pay attention to the temperature for which it is designed. The temperature threshold for the correct model should be slightly lower than the minimum values at the location where you plan to spend the night.

Also, when choosing a travel sleeping bag, it is worth considering the type of insulation. Today, most often manufacturers offer options with down and synthetic filler.

The advantages of down include low weight, compact size and good thermal insulation in dry, cold weather conditions. Among the advantages of sleeping bags with synthetic insulation are hypoallergenic and practical. It dries quickly if wet and does not clump.

When buying a sleeping bag-blanket or other model, pay attention to its weight. To do this, compare the options with the same temperature threshold you need and choose the lightest one.

In addition to its intended purpose - warming during sleep, a sleeping bag can provide additional comfort. For example, some models are equipped with windbreak, hidden pockets, double zip, hood, etc.

How to choose a sleeping bag for summer?

When choosing a model, it is important to consider the season. Therefore, if your hike falls on the warm season, pay attention to the summer sleeping bag. Unlike universal and winter options, it is thinner and lighter, making it comfortable for use in warm weather. The features of summer models include:

application in the production of lightweight, breathable materials, such as silk, cotton, synthetics or a mixture thereof. Thanks to this, it is possible to prevent overheating of the body;

temperature conditions. Usually they are designed for use at an air temperature of at least +10 ° C. Therefore, often, if the weather permits, a demi-season sleeping bag is also replaced with a summer model;

size - they are smaller and narrower than winter bags, which saves space in the backpack;

Design - summer sleeping bags can be open and closed. In the first case, they resemble a blanket, which provides freedom of movement inside. Closed models resemble a cocoon. They protect well from the cold in bad weather.

Also, if you want to figure out how to choose a sleeping bag by temperature, you can use such a "cheat sheet". Depending on the minimum allowable temperature values, models are divided into:

summer — limit values of 0°C;

demi-season — -10°C;

winter — below -10°C.

Also, when choosing, pay attention to the shape of the sleeping bag. It may look like:

The cocoon is the most common type, which anatomically follows the shape of the body, providing warmth. They usually have a hood and a thermal collar that prevents cold air from entering.;

blankets - usually they do not have a collar and when the zip is unbuttoned, they transform into a full-fledged blanket;

quilta - connects to the mat and is used instead of the backrest.

There are also multi-seat bags, but they are custom-made for caving and challenging winter hikes. Thanks to this solution, it is possible to reduce the weight of group equipment.

How to choose a sleeping bag by size?

The size of the sleeping bag deserves special attention. Many brands offer two main sizes - Regular (up to 185 cm) and Long (up to 195 cm). However, it is also possible to purchase options for women, teens, and children. In addition to the length, the width of the model is also indicated, especially if you choose a sleeping bag in the shape of a cocoon. In this case, measure the width in the shoulder and leg area.

To make it comfortable for you to use the accessory, calculating the optimal dimensions of the sleeping bag, it is recommended to add 15-25 cm to your height for the summer or demi-season model, and 25-35 cm for the winter model due to the denser material. Also, don't forget about extra space for things, especially on winter hikes.

Some manufacturers indicate the size by the outer length of the bag, while others are indicated by the height of the tourist. It is important that both values are present in the description.

For those with a large build, sleeping bags with an increased width are available, marked with standard clothing sizes (L, XL or XXL Wide). In this case, the width in the chest and legs reaches 80-110 cm.

Now you know how to choose the size of your sleeping bag, but remember that personal preferences also matter. Therefore, the ideal option is the one that satisfies all your needs. For example, if you suffer from claustrophobia, opt for a more spacious bag to reduce discomfort and gradually overcome your fears.

How to choose a sleeping bag for a child?

Special attention should be paid to the purchase of a suitable sleeping bag for a child. It provides safety and comfort when hiking. Made of soft and pleasant to the touch materials, children's models warm, guarantee optimal air exchange and protect from the wind. In addition, they fold easily and take up little space.

When choosing the optimal model, consider the age and height of the child, but remember that children grow quickly, so it is better to choose a sleeping bag with a margin.

Also, when choosing, the season and conditions of use are important. For the warm season, bags with light filling and thin fabric are suitable, and for the cold season, bags made of more durable and warm materials are suitable.