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Whether you’re camping at a festival or heading on a hiking adventure, equipping yourself with the best gear, including the best sleeping bag, is essential. While sleeping bags may not seem too complicated on the surface, they’re actually tailored to certain environments and seasons. The best sleeping bag for you will depend on when your camping trip is set to take place and the location.
Sleeping Bag Buying Guide
First up, consider the design of the sleeping bag. There are multiple styles that feature zippers down the center, as well as on the side, so keep this in mind when you’re shopping. Some sleeping bags include coverage around your head, while others zip up to your chest.
Next, think about where you’re going to take your sleeping bag. Most modern sleeping bags made with down insulation or synthetic materials are lightweight and easy to pack in their own sack or a backpack, especially solo sleeping bags.
After that, you’ll want to consider the temperature range you’ll use it. For example, if you’re camping out west in the peak of summertime, you’ll need a lightweight sleeping bag that’s designed to keep you comfortable when nighttime temperatures are still quite warm. However, if you’re planning a camping trip for the fall in the mountains, look for a lower temperature rating.
When you’re shopping, it’s easy to tell if the bag is right for your upcoming trip, because most sleeping bag brands clearly state the temperature range on the bags themselves. The materials, meantime, range from cotton and polyester, to nylon and water-resistant exterior fabrics. We’ve included a wide variety in this guide.
The Best Sleeping Bags for Every Season
To make the buying process easier for you, we’ve rounded up the best sleeping bags for the full range of temperatures, including the best sleeping bags for warmer weather and colder temperatures alike.