Every camping trip to the countryside demands a sleeping bag. The weather, the place, your own
body temperature, are the factors you must consider even before the material and the temperature
rating of your sleeping bag itself. Sleeping bags are also crucial to maintain as any wear and tear
can send you on a trip to the store to buy a new one.
If you’re tired of your old sleeping bag or buying one for the first time, here are five tips you’ll need to
find the most comfortable one for your next camping trip.
1. Temperature Ratings
Most bags have European temperature ratings on them which are labeled as T-Comfort and T-limit.
The T-comfort is the value of the lowest temperature you should be using your bag as if you’re an
average woman. The T-limit is the value of the lowest temperature you should be using your bag in if
you’re an average man. Therefore, look for gender-specific bags that match the values of 32
degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degree Celsius.
2. The Shape of The Bag
The shape of the bag determines the amount of warmth you’ll be packing in while sleeping in your
bag. The two common shapes of the sleeping bags are mummy and rectangular. The mummy cut
packs more warmth during a camping trip whereas rectangular one can be used for warmer
seasons. Always look for a bag with a zipper on the side so that you can cover your feet well. A
comfy sleeping bag works best here.
3. Sleeping Pad
The sleeping pad of your bag has an R-value that determines when you can use your bag. If you like
to camp all year round, it’s crucial to choose a bag with an R-value of 3. You must look for a bag
that provides you a good warmth, has memory foam and is also light in weight.
4. Synthetic or Down
Your sleeping bag could either offer down insulation or a synthetic one. The down insulation is
provided with the help of bird’s plumage that lies under its feathers. Thus, this amounts to the fill
power which is the number of cubic inches displaced by one ounce of down.
The highest quality of the insulation comes from a goose down. However, when buying your first
sleeping bag, go for a synthetic one as it’s more durable, lighter, less expensive, and isn’t affected
by changes in weather. The only problem with a synthetic sleeping bag is that you’ll have to change
it every few years as it loses its warmth over a period.
5. Testing and Storage
Always try sleeping in the bag before you buy it as you’re able to check its sleeping pad and if your
feet push on its foot box. If the sleeping pad under your bag slips every time you open the zipper,
then it’s of no use. Make sure that your feet don’t push on the foot box of the bag. Otherwise, you’ll
be very cold. If you’re confused about the size of the bag, go for a bigger one.
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