Tips for Evaluating Sleeping Bags

It’s easy to sleep like a baby in the backcountry if you know how to evaluate the right camp bedding gear. Choosing the right sleeping bag is a big decision and the most important one for getting a good night’s sleep, which is critical to being on your toes and aware while hiking. Here are some of the most important tips for choosing a sleeping bag.

1) Use a Sleeping Pad

Using a sleeping pad is key to realizing the most benefit from your sleeping bag. Make sure that your bag attaches easily to your pad and that it won’t detach easily. You don’t want to roll off your pad when moving an inch during the night. Your sleeping pad provides a nice layer of insulation between your bag and the cold ground, make sure the material is water resistant for long lasting durability.

2) Temperature Ratings

All sleeping bags should have temperature ratings, err on the side of caution and select a bag that can give you at least 10° of leeway should the weather shift. Remember that temperature ratings are best used as guidelines and not absolutes. For example it doesn't take in account whether you are a cold or a hot sleeper or the type of clothes worn when sleeping. Another fun fact that many people forget is that extra layers don’t necessarily keep you warmer at night in your bag. Your sleeping bag is insulated to keep a warm body warm but can also keep cool temps cool. Some backpackers even do some jumping jacks to warm up before jumping in their bag, and strip down to few light layers so the bag does it’s job at keeping them warm. 

3) Style and Cut

The mummy style of sleeping bag keeps you much warmer than the rectangle cut and is lighter to pack. Unless you’re going to a sleepover, choose the mummy back for all outdoor camping or hiking. 

4) Testing

Test out your bag before your trip and make sure you stay put on your sleeping pad and have plenty of room for your legs and feet. You don’t want your feet pushing against the end, it’s worth going with a longer bag to keep your feet nice and dry. 

5) Storage

Never store your sleeping bag in the compressed bag until you’re ready for your hike. Insulation tends to pack down over time and storing in your stuff sack will speed up the process. 

Cascade Mountain Tech for More Camp Bedding Tips

Cascade Mountain Tech has all your outdoor camping, hiking and bedding products with tips from avid outdoor enthusiasts. We carry a wide selection of hiking poles, camp seating, super coolers and camp bedding. Our mummy sleeping bags come with camp pillows with matching sleeping pads available. 

Cascade Mountain Tech was founded by outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest. We are dedicated to providing affordable outdoor adventure to all. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about our camp bedding and mummy sleeping bags.