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10 Best Sleeping Bags of 2024

We've tested sleeping bags for every type of overnight adventure, every temperature, and every budget, and these are the best of the best
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10 Best Sleeping Bags of 2024
A warm down bag is crucial for a good night of sleep, so that you can feel rested and ready for winter sports action. Here our lead tester is psyched to get up and go skiing.
Credit: Jenni Snead

Our Top Picks

Wednesday February 28, 2024

Our testers are always on the hunt for the best sleeping bags that can make their outdoor overnights more comfortable, more fun, and hopefully more affordable. Sleeping bag designs, however, can be as complicated and varied as the people who snuggle up inside them. To better make sense of it all, we highlight some of our favorite bags that span different materials, weights, warmth ratings, and applications. We tested these bags on family camping trips, fast and light backpacking adventures, and remote winter expeditions. We present them here in the hope that you can find the best sleeping bag for you, no matter your needs or budget.

Our reviews include the best camping sleeping bags ideal for families, as well as our favorite backpacking sleeping bags for multi-night adventures, ultralight sleeping bags for fast and light backpacking, and budget options for those looking for a functional bag that will do the job without breaking the bank. Depending on your preferred camping style, we've also outlined some of our favorite tents to help you set up your perfect home away from home. If you feel the need to up your camping game all around, we have compiled a dream camping gear list that includes all of our favorite items to take on a weekend (or weeklong) adventure.

Editor's Note: This review was updated on February 28, 2024, to share further product recommendations and ensure our lineup is current.


Best Heavy-Duty Car Camping Sleeping Bag


ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood


REASONS TO BUY
Plush comfort
Outstanding warmth
Impressive construction quality
REASONS TO AVOID
Super heavy
Huge packed size

When it comes to classic sleeping bags, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a step above the rest. This well-made bag features a sturdy cotton canvas shell with a cozy flannel liner. Its generous dimensions and rectangular shape only enhance its comfort, ensuring a pleasant and spacious sleeping experience. Combine these dimensions with a wrap-around zipper, and you also get a bag that doubles as an excellent picnic blanket. With a -10° F rating and loads of TechLoft insulation, the warmth is substantial. Although we wouldn't recommend it down to quite that frigid of temps, it proved capable down to the single digits.

This is our overall favorite sleeping bag for camping near civilization, but it's not suited for backpacking or any sort of human-powered excursions. With an enormous packed size and at 11.7 pounds on the scale, it's far too bulky and heavy to carry any significant distance. Instead, the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 is another option that is lightweight, packs up into a stuff sack, and is a bit easier to transport. At full list price, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is also a poor value compared to many other car camping bags. Still, if you want the best classic sleeping bag, this is our suggestion. And if you're a patient shopper, you may be able to find it on sale.

Read more: ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood review

The Alps Redwood is an incredibly comfortable sleeping bag, perfect for when you want to get really cozy at your campsite.
Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Budget Car Camping Sleeping Bag


Coleman Brazos


REASONS TO BUY
Great price
Cozy warm
Long-lasting
REASONS TO AVOID
Inner liner easily collects dirt and debris
Short and narrow
Less water-resistance

For many years now, the Coleman Brazos has been a notable contender for those on a budget. Time and again, it has impressed us with its rugged durability and warmth, especially when considering how stiff the competition is in the world of sleeping bags. This is an ideal choice for anyone who needs a budget bag for that first camping trip or for families who want to load up on sleeping bags for the kids, their friends, and extended family.

As is common, there are some tradeoffs with budget products. The Brazos isn't as comfortable or as high-quality as the premium sleeping bags. It's also got a smaller fit, so it won't be the right choice for those who are tall or broad-shouldered. If that sounds like you, consider checking out The North Face Wawona Bed 20, which is larger and overall of higher quality — but also more expensive. However, for anyone on a tight budget and who just wants to get out under the stars from time to time, there really isn't a good reason not to have the Brazos in your camping gear arsenal.

Read more: Coleman Brazos review

Despite its budget status, the Coleman Brazos comes with an excellent zipper that does not snag.
Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag


Western Mountaineering MegaLite


REASONS TO BUY
Supreme comfort
Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
850+ fill power goose down
REASONS TO AVOID
Spendy
Unreliable hood closure

For the folks seeking the absolute best sleeping bag, we recommend the Western Mountaineering MegaLite. This ultra-premium model utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power down to create a cozy cocoon of outstanding comfort. Our testers appreciated the more generous dimensions of the MegaLite compared to other products at its price point. The materials and construction are quality throughout. We're also fans of its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, which should make this bag especially appealing for diehard backpackers or long backcountry trips.

The biggest issue most shoppers will have with the MegaLite is the expensive price tag. Beginners or occasional backpackers will likely be happier with a budget model for half the price, like the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15. Serious backpackers, however, should really consider spending extra for the MegaLite, or another bag from Western Mountaineering or Feathered Friends. Bags from these specialty manufacturers usually cost more than high-end models from other companies, but in our opinion, they greatly outperform premium models from their competitors.

Read more: Western Mountaineering MegaLite review

The MegaLite is warm, super cozy, and just roomy enough to allow you to roll over when needed.
Credit: Ian McEleney

Best Overall Women's-Specific Sleeping Bag


Feathered Friends Egret UL 20 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Impressive warmth
Ultra lightweight
Outstanding 950+ fill power down
REASONS TO AVOID
Pricey
Narrower dimensions

Among the premium sleeping bag companies, Feathered Friends stands out for offering some of the absolute loftiest goose down. They incorporated this impressive insulation into our favorite women's sleeping bag, the Egret UL 20. As you might expect, this bag offers an outstanding warmth-to-weight ratio. And at just 1.72 pounds, we believe it truly lives up to its 20°F temperature rating. We also appreciate the full-length zipper for added venting possibilities on warmer nights. To top it off, it packs small to leave more room for luxuries in your overnight bag.

The primary drawback to the outstanding performance of the Egret is its staggering price tag. However, every bag is handmade in Seattle, and the high price is somewhat offset by the longevity of the insulation, which we've seen outlast the lesser goose down used by many companies. The slimmer dimensions also do not offer the same generous sleeping space as some other models, like the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed 20, which is a non-mummy-shaped bag. Nevertheless, this is our favorite women's sleeping bag and an excellent choice for any serious backpacker.

Read more: Feathered Friends Egret UL 20 - Women's review

The Egret is fluffy, excellently crafted, and very warm - all while staying lightweight. We love this sleeping bag.
Credit: Ian McEleney

Great Value for a Down Sleeping Bag


Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15


REASONS TO BUY
Exceptional value
Decent warmth-to-weight ratio
Minimal packed size
REASONS TO AVOID
Warmth doesn't match temp rating
Average material quality

We believe the astronomical prices of some high-end sleeping bags won't make sense to the average backpacker. For these folks, we suggest selecting a better value, such as the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15. This is our favorite budget bag because it combines 650-fill power down in a simple mummy design that offers a solid balance of performance characteristics. The warmth-to-weight ratio is impressive for an affordable option, and it packs smaller than other models that provide similar warmth. Its comfort and versatility may not be otherworldly, but they should be high enough to satisfy most shoppers.

The Bishop Pass simply can't match the performance of an ultra-premium sleeping bag. Its goose down isn't as lofty, and the nylon lining isn't as supple. There is also a roughly 30% weight disadvantage compared to the lightest high-end models. However, we think most backpackers will hardly notice these drawbacks. Instead, they will probably be happiest settling for the Bishop Pass and using the substantial money they save to upgrade other components of their overnight kit. Likewise, the REI Co-op Trailmade 20 is budget-friendly and comfortable, though it doesn't pack down as small as the Bishop.

Read more: Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 review

The zipper on the Bishop Pass isn't full-length, but it's still long enough to make getting in and out ergonomic.
Credit: Ian McEleney

Great Value for a Women's-Specific Down Bag


Sierra Designs Get Down 20 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight
Comfortable, roomy design
Small packed size
Good value for the weight and performance
REASONS TO AVOID
Not quite as warm as top competition
Lower-quality down adds weight

The Sierra Designs Get Down 20 is an extremely well-priced product for a down sleeping bag. It is warm enough for most 3-season excursions, decently lightweight, and packs down pretty small. Yes, there are fancier and higher-performing bags, but at this price, the Get Down represents a spectacular value. We just wouldn't stretch using this bag too far into the shoulder season. It's rated to 23 degrees Fahrenheit, but we would not be comfortable bringing it along if the temperatures were below freezing. It's just a tube with few bells and whistles, but that means it's also pretty light to carry.

We like that Sierra Designs is trying to save weight by using a half-length zipper, but that makes the Get Down slightly less comfortable because you can't stick your feet out or drape the bag over you. We also wish the down was slightly higher quality; it's a hefty 550 fill power, which means it's not as lofty as other higher fill power products — it takes more down to achieve the same amount of warmth, so it's heavier. If you're looking for a bag with exceptional comfort we love the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed 20. It's a bit pricier, but you're guaranteed a super cozy night's sleep.

Read more: Sierra Designs Get Down - Women's review

The Get Down packs small but is comfy, roomy, and lightweight. It's not as warm as more technical bags, but if the weather isn't too intense you should be happy as a clam. That said, the zipper only goes down halfway which isn't our favorite design choice.
Credit: Ian McEleney

Best Ultralight Sleeping Bag


Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL


REASONS TO BUY
Great warmth-to-weight ratio
Versatile design doubles as quilt
950+ fill power goose down
REASONS TO AVOID
No hood
Expensive

Our top choice for the ounce counters out there is the Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL. This innovative model incorporates a truly full-length zipper that allows it to function as a hoodless mummy bag or an open quilt. This design greatly extends its usable temperature range. When opened as a quilt, it offered plenty of ventilation for a warm summer night. Meanwhile, its 8.4 ounces of 950+ fill power goose down proved to be capable all the way down to its 40° F temperature rating. That makes this bag an ideal choice for thru-hikers or serious backpackers looking for a lightweight model that can handle a range of conditions.

One obvious drawback to the Flicker 40 UL is its expensive price tag. We think its quality matches its price, but that price may not be justifiable for all but the most serious ultralight aficionados. The hoodless design of this bag is also a compromise. Its warmth-to-weight ratio is certainly outstanding, but you can attain an even higher warmth-to-weight ratio with a hooded mummy design, like the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20. Still, we believe the added versatility of the Flicker is worth this compromise.

Read more: Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL review

The Flicker 40 quilt transforms into a mummy bag with its full-length zip and cinched footbed.
Credit: Justin Simoni

Best Winter Sleeping Bag


Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF


REASONS TO BUY
Exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio
Spacious dimensions
Lofty 850 fill power goose down
REASONS TO AVOID
Exorbitant price
Not water-resistant

Western Mountaineering is a company known for making some of the best sleeping bags, and the Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF certainly lives up to that reputation. We were blown away by how this bag supplied comfort and warmth in a packable, lightweight package. Our testers believe it truly lived up to its 0° F temperature rating. They were also delighted with the wider dimensions of this bag compared to many other winter bags. Its high-quality 850 fill power goose down was some of the best at maintaining excellent loft despite numerous compression cycles.

If this bag is so great, why isn't it wildly popular? One word: price. The high-end down insulation used throughout this bag is an expensive material, and it results in a price tag that many will balk at. We should emphasize, however, that Western Mountaineering's down does seem to maintain its loft better than down from many other companies. That means this bag offers a value advantage over the very long term. It's also made in the USA, which is a selling point for some folks. If you know you'll be doing some winter camping for the next decade and you've got the money to throw down on a quality bag, give this quality option some serious consideration. Otherwise, the Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass 0 is worth taking a peek at. This mummy bag is warm, weather-resistant, and budget-friendly.

Read more: Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF review

sleeping bag - the undisputed loft king, the western mountaineering kodiak mf.
The undisputed loft king, the Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF.
Credit: Jeff Rogers

Outstanding 3-in-1 Versatility


TETON Sports Polara 3-in-1


REASONS TO BUY
Removable inner liner
Ability to layer and adjust warmth
Thick and warm
Good water resistance
REASONS TO AVOID
Stuff sack is tight
Inner fleece grabs dirt and clothing
Rather narrow

The Teton Sports Polara 3-in-1 is a highly versatile 3-in-1 sleeping bag with a warm fleece interior and a durable outer shell. Each part of this customizable bag is uniquely separate and can be changed out, removed, or added back in. This system provides a lot of options for all kinds of sleepers and environments. The Polara also stows away into a much smaller size than many other bags we've tested. We love the thoughtful features, such as useful pockets, snaps, loops, and zippers, AND the excellent price point.

The Polara has synthetic insulation that simply isn't as lush or comfy as many of the premium options on the market. And while the inner liner is warm and soft, the material is grabby compared to smoother, more well-considered materials. Lastly, this bag runs a bit small for the big and tall folks, so have a gander at the Big Agnes Echo Park 20 if you know you need more space to spread out. Otherwise, the Polara is an excellent and versatile choice that we know most campers will really enjoy.

Read more: Teton Sports Polara 3-in-1 review

A nice neck baffle and well-placed drawstrings help the Polara keep you cozy and warm.
Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Two-Person Sleeping Bag


Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide


REASONS TO BUY
Spacious two-person design
Extra blanket for temp adjustment
Reasonable price
REASONS TO AVOID
U-shaped zipper limits versatility
Slippery Taffeta liner

If you would like to make snuggling part of your next camping trip, check out the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide. This two-person sleeping bag offers nearly 37 square feet of cozy sleeping space. It also includes two built-in blankets to allow either sleeper to adjust their warmth during the night. We think this is an ideal choice for couples or families looking for a comfortable sleeping system for their next car or RV camping trip.

Although we enjoyed the smooth feel of the Taffeta lining fabric, we did not like the slipperiness of this material. This isn't an issue when you're zipped inside the main bag, but it did cause the built-in blankets to slip off our bodies occasionally. We should also point out that at 8.8 pounds, this bag is too heavy for backpacking or other human-powered adventures. Nevertheless, it's a great choice for any pair seeking a nice two-person sleeping bag for camping close to the trailhead. The Nemo Jazz 30 Double is another option built for two. The Jazz stays put on the sleeping pad thanks to its pad sleeve, and the removable bedsheet provides extra warmth and comfort.

Read more: Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide review

sleeping bag - this double bag from kelty can fit two adults - or several children!
This double bag from Kelty can fit two adults - or several children!
Credit: Jason Wanlass

Why You Should Trust Us


This review is the culmination of a decade of hands-on testing by ten separate GearLab expert reviewers. These reviewers included backpacking guides, mountaineers, backcountry skiers, wilderness rangers, guidebook authors, and thru-hikers. The lead author, Jack Cramer, is a former member of Yosemite Search and Rescue and an accomplished climber who has now personally tested more than 70 different sleeping bags. Jack is assisted by Ian McEleney and Jessica Haist, both professional guides with decades of experience and Jason Wanlass, a world-traveler and seasoned backpacker and hiker.

Rolling up the Deer Hunter after another night under the stars.
Rolling up the Deer Hunter after another night under the stars.
The lead author measuring compressed volume in the 15-liter...
The lead author measuring compressed volume in the 15-liter compression sack that we used for all the bags.
The authors of the our backpacking sleeping bag reviews with a pile...
The authors of the our backpacking sleeping bag reviews with a pile of several million goose feathers.

In this review, we highlight our favorite sleeping bags from a range of sleeping bag categories. In total, GearLab has now purchased and tested more than 300 different bags in conditions ranging from convenient backyard slumber parties to miserable frigid nights on remote Alaskan glaciers. We sent bags on trips to Nepal, Bolivia, Argentina, and Tajikistan, as well as plenty of less exotic locales closer to home. All in all, our team of reviewers spent more than a thousand nights testing different sleeping bags so you can be sure the knowledge shared here is thorough, informed, and unbiased.

We hand-selected and tested each sleeping bag to find the absolute best.
Credit: Jason Wanlass

How to Buy a Sleeping Bag


Sleeping bags come in a wide array of shapes and sizes. Different bags can be made of different materials with different features, all depending on the particular application their designed for. To top it off, the prices of different bags range from dirt cheap to exorbitant. If you're struggling to make sense of it all, we suggest you begin by asking yourself a simple question: where are you planning to camp?

Where do you plan to camp?


The biggest differentiating factor for sleeping bag selection is the location you plan to camp and, more specifically, how far you will be from motorized transportation. If your camping plans will keep you close to your car, we recommend shopping for a 'car camping' sleeping bag. This type of bag usually prioritizes comfort and cost savings. For human-powered adventures further afield, weight and packed size become paramount. Models that exhibit these characteristics we label as 'backpacking' sleeping bags. Just be aware that lighter and more compressible bags and usually more expensive.

If your plans include both convenient car camping and overnight backcountry adventures, we suggest choosing a backpacking sleeping bag. That's because you won't have any issues using a backpacking model near your car but carrying a hefty car camping sleeping bag any significant distance can quickly become a real pain.

sleeping bag - morning scene while testing bags for this review.
Morning scene while testing bags for this review.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman

Car Camping Sleeping Bags


Many of our favorite camping sleeping bags are great for family weekends at a developed campground, but they don't have to be used exclusively for car camping. Rather the name signifies a category of sleeping bags designed and built without weight or packed size constraints. This type of bag could serve equally for RVing, boating, fly-in trips, or even the simple pleasure of camping out in your own backyard. Weight and bulk are usually not big concerns for these activities, so car camping sleeping bags can optimize comfort, convenience, and price. This category of bag is often made in a rectangular shape, offering a roomier sleeping space and lower manufacturing costs. Performance among car camping sleeping bags should be far less of a concern than it is for backpacking sleeping bags. The primary consideration should be finding a bag that matches your warmth, size, and budget requirements.


We recommend most shoppers select a sleeping bag with a temperature rating of around 30° F because these models are suitable for a range of conditions. However, feel free to tailor your selection for your unique situation. Folks that live in colder climates, for example, will probably want a warmer model. On the other hand, people planning a summer camping trip in the south might be happier in a bag that has a higher temperature rating. Overall, try not to stress too much about the purchase of a car camping sleeping bag. Simply find a bag that matches your plans and budget, and it should be up to the job.

sleeping bag - we love cowboy camping under the stars, but a humid environment can...
We love cowboy camping under the stars, but a humid environment can cause dew to soak your bag. Same goes for a rainstorm!
Credit: Jack Cramer

Backpacking Sleeping Bags


When adventure takes you further from the trailhead, you'll probably want to opt for a backpacking sleeping bag. These bags utilize more expensive materials and streamlined designs to provide a sleeping system that offers greater warmth in a smaller and lighter package. These characteristics are most improved for human-powered activities, such as backpacking, sea kayaking, backcountry skiing, mountaineering, or bikepacking.


Backpacking sleeping bags are generally designed with a hood and a tapered sarcophagus shape that minimizes materials while maximizing thermal efficiency. This design is commonly referred to as a mummy bag. Keep in mind, however, that the tapered shape of a mummy bag reduces the space for your legs, so some folks may find them uncomfortable. More careful research is also a good idea when you're shopping for a backpacking sleeping bag because these models can be fairly expensive. Don't fret, though; with a little effort, it's possible to select a suitable and affordable option. Backpacking sleeping bags are often more expensive because they are frequently made with lightweight down insulation that provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, which is important when you are carrying your gear on human-powered adventures.

sleeping bag - we feel each layering configuration performed well against its...
We feel each layering configuration performed well against its listed temperature rating. We found the 30-degree, yellow quilt (seen here) was perfect for shoulder seasons when temps remain colder at night.
Credit: Jason Wanlass

Ultralight Sleeping Bags


Ultralight sleeping bags are, well, very lightweight. These bags are ideal for those following "ultralight" guidelines to keep their packs as light as possible, typically under 10 pounds. Because they are so lightweight, they are great for multi-day backcountry trips and thru-hikes. To cut back on weight, they often use a narrower cut and thinner materials. Some even skip the zippers, cords, and buckles, as every ounce counts. To keep you warm, these bags are designed to be used in unison with a sleeping pad and weather-appropriate clothing.


Ultralight bags primarily come in two styles: mummy and quilt. Over the last few years, quilts have gained a lot of popularity. The reason behind this is the cutdown on materials used and, therefore, the weight. Instead of sleeping on top of the compressed down, the quilt lays over the top with straps that hold it in place on the sleeping pad. Mummy bags, as already mentioned above, are contoured around the body and are better for trapping in heat. The difference between the ultralight and backpacking models comes down to the materials used. Some ultralight bags ditch the hood and employ a full-length zipper so they can be used as either a mummy bag or quilt. Those interested in cutting back on weight, can learn more in our best ultralight sleeping bag review.

sleeping bag - because ultralight bags often cut back on materials, they pack up...
Because ultralight bags often cut back on materials, they pack up smaller than traditional bags and ultimately save space in the backpack.
Credit: Justin Simoni

Now What?


Once you know the broad type of sleeping bag you're interested in, there are several other factors to consider. These include insulation type, temperature, weight, packed size, and comfort. We'll break down these factors below to ensure you can be confident in your selection.

sleeping bag - we've been testing sleeping bags for over a decade and have tested...
We've been testing sleeping bags for over a decade and have tested hundreds of bags, giving us the expertise to tell a great sleeping bag from a dud.
Credit: Jack Cramer

Insulation Type


Sleeping bags provide warmth by insulating your body and its heat from outside temperatures. They achieve this warmth by utilizing two primary types of insulation: down feathers or synthetic fibers. Down feathers are the specialized puffy feathers that many birds, such as ducks and geese, use to stay warm. These feathers are excellent at trapping air in tiny spaces between the filaments of the feather to create an effective temperature barrier. Synthetic fibers are mankind's best attempt at mimicking this insulation strategy. They contain a matrix of fibers that are usually petroleum-based, such as polyester or nylon, to fill a sleeping bag and supply insulation.

sleeping bag - here is a photo showing the negligible differences between an 850...
Here is a photo showing the negligible differences between an 850 fill power duck down cluster (left) versus an 850 fill power goose down cluster (right). The difference is more in availability. While the duck down is slightly grayer and higher quality duck down is less common and less commonly available, for the most part, fill power is fill power and when comparing apples-to-apples there isn't a lot of difference regarding loft and subsequently insulation.
Credit: Nemo

Although synthetic fibers are cheaper to produce than down, they have not yet been able to achieve the same warmth for an equal weight of material. Synthetic sleeping bags, however, do have one performance advantage, a greater ability to insulate when wet. If down feathers get wet, they clump together and lose nearly all of their loft and insulative power. Synthetic fibers, in contrast, do not clump, so they can continue to provide considerable insulation when wet.

sleeping bag - many bags have some type of light water repellence now, but you...
Many bags have some type of light water repellence now, but you really want to avoid getting your sleeping bag wet, particularly if it has a down filling. Down loses its insulative power when wet. Here, we dry a damp bag bag out in the sun.
Credit: Jack Cramer

Despite this advantage of synthetic insulation, most serious backcountry travelers still prefer down over synthetic bags for most applications. The weight savings and differences in packed size are just that significant. But synthetic sleeping bags continue to be popular due to their lower cost. Broadly speaking, we recommend beginners and occasional backpackers choose a synthetic sleeping bag, while more devoted outdoor people splurge for a down model. You can find a more thorough discussion of our favorite down models in our best backpacking sleeping bag review.

sleeping bag - this sleeping bag's en temperature ratings are about average for a...
This sleeping bag's EN temperature ratings are about average for a 3-season model.
Credit: Jack Cramer

Temperature Rating


The warmth of a sleeping bag is often advertised as its temperature rating. It's a metric that's supposed to mean the temperature down to which a bag should be able to keep you warm enough for sleeping. In practice, however, it's not that simple. Many companies choose their own temperature ratings, so there can be limited comparison between companies. Among backpacking bags, most models are rated according to an industry-standard EN test. This provides a more consistent measure of warmth, but numerous other factors can play a role in your actual warmth beyond ambient air temperature. These factors include the type of shelter you're in, the sleeping surface beneath you, the type and quality of your sleeping pad, and even your own metabolism.

sleeping bag - this bag has loads of room to roll around and isn't a bad place to...
This bag has loads of room to roll around and isn't a bad place to be stuck in if you're tentbound due to bad weather (which isn't the case on the gorgeous day shown here!)
Credit: Matt Bento

We think the most useful temperature rating for a sleeping bag is around 30° F. At this rating, a sleeping bag should be warm enough for most spring and fall conditions while also not being too stifling in the summer months. Your own preferences and uses may push you towards another rating. For winter camping, 0° F seems to be a better starting point. Summer campers, however, will probably be happier in a 40° F model. If you find that your sleeping bag doesn't seem to be living up to its temperature rating, the issue is most likely your sleeping pad. Check out our Best Sleeping Pad review for more info about why your overnight warmth can be dependent on how well you're insulated from the ground.

sleeping bag - the difference between an ultralight premium bag, like the...
The difference between an ultralight premium bag, like the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 (left), and a light budget bag, such as the Kelty Cosmic (right), can be hard to identify by hand. Our digital scale, however, accurately measured the difference to be 1.49 pounds.
Credit: Jack Cramer

Weight and Packed Size


A sleeping bag's weight and packed size should be major considerations for any type of human-powered overnight trip. An extra pound or two might not seem like a lot, but that weight can become significant on an extended backcountry sojourn. Larger packed size can also be an issue because it increases the size of your backpack, which can end up placing the weight you're carrying farther from your center of gravity. Keep these realities in mind when searching for the right sleeping bag.

Weight and packed size generally correspond closely to one another, so you don't need to spend too much time trying to consider them separately. However, it's important to recognize that warmer bags are generally bulkier and heavier than colder bags. Therefore, try only to analyze weight and packed size between bags with similar warmth. Don't be afraid to spend a little more for a lighter or more compressible sleeping bag if you plan to venture deep into the backcountry. After all, your knees and back are more valuable than even the priciest sleeping bag.

sleeping bag - double sleeping bags come the closest of any zippered sleeping bags...
Double sleeping bags come the closest of any zippered sleeping bags to approximating the feel of snoozing with an ordinary blanket.
Credit: Jack Cramer

Comfort


A bag's comfort is largely dependent on its dimensions and the type of materials used. More expensive insulation like goose down is often perceived as more comfortable because it's lighter and weighs down on your body less. Among budget models, the lining material can also influence comfort. Our testers generally found flannel feel cozier than the other linings commonly used in budget car camping sleeping bags.

Transitioning from an ordinary blanket to an enclosed sleeping bag can be a claustrophobic experience for some folks. If this sounds like you, we recommend a sleeping bag with roomier dimensions. Be especially careful about the length of a hooded mummy bag — stuffing your head inside the hood of a too-short bag can be a literal pain in the neck. Most manufacturers categorize the length of men's sleeping bags as follows: short equates to 5'6" in length, regular is 6'0", and long is 6'6".

sleeping bag - our team has spent hundreds of nights in the backcountry testing...
Our team has spent hundreds of nights in the backcountry testing gear to find the perfect bag for you.
Credit: ian McEleney

Women's Sleeping Bags


The length of a sleeping bag is unquestionably important, but the horizontal measurements should also be considered. Women's sleeping bags incorporate design features to meet women's unique anatomy. Often, women's bags are designed with wider hip dimensions and narrower shoulder dimensions. Women typically sleep colder than men, so sleeping bags marketed toward women usually have more conservative temperature ratings. This can also translate into a bargain when women's bags incorporate extra insulation but are sold at the same price. See the Best Sleeping Bags for Women review to read more about our top sleeping bags in this category.

sleeping bag - real hands-on testing is exhausting work.
Real hands-on testing is exhausting work.
Credit: Jack Cramer

Conclusion


Selecting the right sleeping bag doesn't have to be an ordeal. First, decide whether you need a backpacking or car camping model based on whether your overnights will take place far from motorized transportation. Then, determine your budget and warmth requirements. Finally, you can peruse the appropriate models that meet all of your criteria. Our detailed sleeping bag reviews are broken down according to these criteria and include lots of info to aid in your search based on our own hands-on testing.

Jack Cramer, Ian McEleney, Jessica Haist, Jason Wanlass