Everyone wants to sleep on a comfortable mattress to get a good night’s sleep, especially when they are out camping. From choosing the right sort of tent, food, and cushions, down to the best sleeping bag for outdoors, can be a real trouble, especially if you want to enjoy a decent amount of sleep.
This post will help you find the finest sleeping bag to keep you warm, dry, and secured from the outside conditions for a long time to come. This post is all about sleeping bag reviews to help you choose from the best.
Being a camper for quite a while, I had conferred a few disappointments in scoring for a suitable bed, and it sucks if you have to sleep on the ground during camping just because you brought the wrong mattress. It turns out to be worse when you get up in the morning, and it is so difficult to climb and appreciate the nature in the campground with a throbbing back. So from my epic failures, I finally learned my lesson that buying a sleeping bag will help us get the required rest, and give me an active body.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Material | Shape | Dimensions | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Mountaineering Alpinlite 20 | Nylon | Mummy | 24 x 10 x 10 in | Check price on Amazon |
| Montbell Down Hugger 900 | Woven fabric | Mummy | 5.79 x 5.91 x 14.57 in | Check price on Amazon |
| The North Face Aleutian 20 | Nylon | Mummy | 8.4 x 11.6 x 14.3 in | Check price on Amazon |
| Brooks-Range Drift 15 | 15 DWR treatment | Mummy | 10 x 12 x 22 in | Check price on Amazon |
| Kelty Tuck 22 Degree | Syntetic | Mummy | 8 x 13 in | Check price on Amazon |
| Mountain Hardwear Lamina Z Flame | Nylon | Mummy | 29 x 15 x 13 in | Check price on Amazon |
| REI Igneo | Nylon, Cotton | Mummy | 72 x 60 in | Check price on REI |
Things to Consider Before Buying
It can be a daunting task to choose the best summer sleeping bag, especially if you are a first-time buyer. Summer sleeping bags come in a wide range of designs, sizes, weights and other features such as windproof and waterproof.
Some sleeping bags are thicker than the other, but can be particularly heavy. As a hiking enthusiast, you definitely don’t want something heavy on your back. Now when we said that, you have to be really careful when choosing your summer sleeping bag, so please keep in mind features mentioned below.
Size
Size definitely matters a lot when you are buying a mattress. When searching for a sleeping bag, you need to consider the quantity of people that will utilize the bed. Decide if you want a queen size bed or a single mattress. Keep in mind that the greater the size of any bag, the bulkier and heavier it is.
Also, never make two people sleep in a single bag if you don’t want them grumbling the morning after a not so comfortable sleep. You also need to consider the size of your tent while buying a sleeping bag because you don’t want any part of your bed to remain outside of the tent so visualize the size of your tent and the size of your mattress inside the tent.
Check the length of the bag when buying a sleeping bag. The longer bag can be good, but a shorter bag will do no good and you’ll have to suffer with the consequences. Mummy cut bags have standard size so you need to check if it’s too slim for you then you can choose from slim cut bags but they are mostly restricted.
Always make sure to buy a sleeping bag with a little extra width it comes handy and help you sleep comfortably.
Comfort
This is another tricky part of choosing a sleeping bag. A lot of campers cut the sleeping bag due to its low insulation, particularly during the winters.
But these days the sleeping bag is made with insulating material and more cushioning to keep you warm and to make your sleeping experience better during winters. Anyhow, the extra cushioning can make the mattress heavier and bulkier, but with the modern technology, both can be attained though it will be expensive.
The versatile sleeping bag is in demand these days, so if you see one make sure to consider buying it as it is one of the best options for camping. The type of fabric in the sleeping bag matter too, because they promise the comfort and support of the body.
Temperature rating
You can check the temperature rating of a sleeping bag to make sure that it’s suitable for the weather where you are going or not. Most sleeping bags that are has a temperature rating between 15 and 35 are compatible for three season camping and they are quite in demand these days.
Warmth
Another thing that you need to consider is that if you want to take a warm sleeping bag with you then it will also add weight to your backpack. The warmer sleeping bags mean that you’ll be carrying extra weight and probably be too hot in nights too.
You also need to consider this that you can add an extra layer to be warm enough. You can wear warm clothes that will increase the temperature and you can sleep peacefully during chilly nights.
Almost all mummy packs accompany hoods to contain warm misfortune from your head. Most exploring bed covers don’t have hoods, so you’ll need to hold that warmth another way. Wearing a warm cap or a down coat with a hood are the two most basic approaches to ensure against warmth misfortune on crisp evenings in a sew
Insulation
The insulation of a sleeping bag is a very important factor and you need to know about the type of insulation you are going to get. Usually there are two types of insulation, synthetic and down. Both have pros and cons.
Down insulation is durable and compressible and its warmth and weight ratio is better than synthetic insulation. But synthetic insulation is mostly cheap and they are known to keep heat better when wet. Synthetic sleeping bags are mostly heavier than down bags.
Waterproof
It’s true that synthetic bags perform well when they are wet, but no wet bag can be comfortable to sleep in. If you sleep in a wet bag you are probably not going to get a good night’s sleep comfy.
Versatility
Versatile sleeping bags can work in three seasons. They will work on warm summer nights as well as cold winter nights.
This is an important thing that you need to consider because it will prove to be beneficial in the long run. Venting should be a must for summer sleeping bags so you must look for it when you’re buying a sleeping bag.
Performance
The performance depends directly on the features and designing of the sleeping bags. If the features of the sleeping bag include zippers, stash pockets, draft tubes, neck baffles etc. if the sleeping bag is designed smartly for summer use than its perfect choice for you.
Durability
One of the main reasons for having a sleeping bag during outdoors is its special features of giving comfort, especially to our backs. Furthermore, it gives us the comfort comparable to our own home beds, so it is perfect to sleep on, particularly in case you’re enjoying camping with children and older folks.
Anyhow, since this kind of bag is loaded with air, we should also consider the material it is made of and it won’t leak air once you lay on it and whether it can withstand the harshness of the campground.
Price
You shouldn’t need to spend a fortune to get an extraordinary sleeping bag. That is the reason we’ve given a variety of good alternatives so that you can choose one that fits within your budget.
Typically a high quality product that comes with more features might cost you more than a normal product, but you should set your priorities and buy a sleeping bag accordingly.
Best products on today’s market
After we mentioned all the features you have to have in mind when buying the best summer sleeping bag, below you can read some of the best sleeping bags on the market where you can decide on which one’s perfect for you based on their features.
Western Mountaineering Alpinlite 20
Price: Approx. $530
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 3 pounds
Dimensions: 24 x 10 x 10 inches
Fabric: Nylon
Specific features: Nylon material, easy ventilation system, coil zipper, insulated draft tube
Best use: Backpacking, hiking, camping
Description: Western Mountaineering AlpinLite 20 is available in red color and the product is priced between $550 and $570 depending on where you buy, currently you can find it on discount for approximately $530. This sleeping bag is made from high quality thread, nylon and weighs just 26g per square.
This bag is best for summer camping because it has a very convenient ventilation system that has a full length coil zipper with two locking slider pull. The product features Dacron stiffening tape which protects it from forming snags and guarantees smooth zipping.
The insulated draft tube is another feature that keeps the heat out and you can sleep peacefully during warm nights. The top collar of the sleeping bag extends from zipper across neck which prevents the escaping of warm air. This product is available in different sizes so you can choose one that suits you best.
This bag really feels luxurious and has well distributed baffles which allows the heat to be captured evenly throughout the entire bag.
Its mummy shape is a bit of a narrow cut, which means that the bag is not going to suit every body shape, so it’s something worth considering before you buy this sleeping bag.
PROS:
- LIghtweight
- Award winning sleeping bag
- Quality
CONS:
- Price
Related: If you’re more of a winter hiking enthusiast, then we suggest you opt for Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Mattress. Although a bit pricier this pad will worth every penny as it will keep you warm where other pads will leave you wishing you bought a sleeping bag for colder weather. With this mattress you’ll be able to use your summer sleeping bag even when it’s chilly outside.
Montbell Down Hugger 900
Price: Approx. $380
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Dimensions: 5.79 x 5.91 x 14.57 inches
Fabric: Woven fabric
Specific features: Woven fabric, elastic stitch technique, auto lock zippers, insulated draft tube, water repellent
Best use: Backpacking, hiking, camping
Description: The Montbell Down Hugger 900 is a great product which is available in Balsam color and fairly priced at approximately $380. This sleeping bag has a super spiral stretch system which enables the bag to stretch as you move or change sides throughout the night.
This mummy bag made from water repellent weaved fabric which makes it elastic and fluid. Coiled and crimped fibers used in the fabric to make this sleeping bag super stretchable. The zippers have an auto lock to avoid the zipper slip and you can sleep comfortably.
The single zipper insulated draft tube is for insulation and stretches stuff sack is for easy packing.
The sleeping bag uses the “bias-cut” technique to improve interior space and although the word “bias-cut” sounds a bit like a fancy-pants terms, it means that fabrics are cut in a way that are appropriate for a greater stretch in the diagonal direction, or bias of the fabric.
The stitches are also flexible, which makes them able to to extend as the bag moves with you when you change positions while sleeping.
PROS:
- Price
- LIghtweight
- Stretchable
CONS:
- Stuff sack is not waterproof
- No internal pockets for storage of small things
Related: This product is also available in sunrise red color, but the price of this color is quite expensive. If you decide to buy this sleeping bag, we suggest you also opt for this brand’s Comfort System Air Pad 90 that will provide you additional stable surface for comfortable sleeping.
The North Face Aleutian 20
Price: $180 – $190
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 1 pound
Dimensions: 8.4 x 11.6 x 14.3 inches
Fabric: Nylon
Specific features: Nylon fabric, anti-compression layer, comfort oriented, water resistant
Best use: Camping, backpacking, hiking
Description: The North Face Aleutian 20 is available in sticker blue and asphalt gray color. The product is made of nylon and has 550 fill water resistant Pro down for thermal warmth in wet or cold conditions with the temperature down to 20°F.
This is a three season product which means you can use it for both summer and winter camping both. To make the product extremely comfortable an anti-compression layer is added that is composed of heat seeker Eco synthetic insulation. The product has got some really good feedback from its users so there’s no concern about quality or durability.
What is also great about this sleeping bag is the design and how the footbox was made, it’s pretty roomy without being cold, not to mention that the hip and shoulders sections are pretty spacious so it’s perfect for restless sleepers and those who like to sleep on the side.
This bag was also used in a movie A Walk in the Woods where Bill Bryson, played by Robert Redford decides to hike the Appalachian Trail.
PROS:
- Waterproof
- Can be used for winter and summer camping
- Price
CONS:
- Low quality insulation
- Zipper
- Velcro
Related: This brand also offers another sleeping bag in this price range, it’s The North Face Cat’s Meow Sleeping Bag with shaped hood for more comfort and warmth.
Brooks-Range Drift 15
Price: $460 – $580
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 3.1 pounds
Size: 10 x 12 x 22 inches
Fabric: 15 DWR treatment
Specific features: Mummy shape, light weight, halo collar, baffled draft tube
Best use: Aid climbing, belaying
Description: Brooks-Range Drift 15 is made of 15 DWR treatment material. The product has 850+ fill downtek insulation, which keeps the moisture outside and ensures that you stay warm during the nights.
Summer nights can get chilly at times, the halo collar in this sleeping bag and baffled draft tube makes sure to keep the cold wind away. This sleeping bag also comes with an internal storage pocket so that you can keep a headlamp or other gadgets with you.
For most campers, weight is one of the most primary concerns when it comes to sleeping bag selection and the Drift 30 does very well. Although there are lighter sleeping bags, at only 3,1 pounds, this is certainly an ultralight summer sleeping bag.
The price of this product is priced between $460 and $580 depending on where you are getting it from. This sleeping is durable and easy to use so it’s a great choice for summer camping.
PROS:
- Durable
- Internal storage pocket
- 850+ fill downtek insulation
CONS:
- Price
- Roomy
- Big draft collar
Related: Brooks-Range Mountaineering has in their offer Cloak 30 Sleeping Blanket that is designed as part of their lightweight, efficient sleeping system collection that can also be used with any sleeping pad.
Kelty Tuck 22 Degree
Price: $60 – $80
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 3.1 pounds
Dimensions: 8 x 13 inches
Fabric: Synthetic
Specific features: Perfect for three season camping, synthetic insulation, zipper draft tube, stuff sack
Best use: Hiking, backpacking, camping
Description: Kelty Tuck 22 Degree sleeping bag is reasonably priced between $60 and $80 depending on where you buy from. Ken Tuck 22 Degree Sleeping Bag is made for three season camping spring, summers and fall so you don’t need to buy another one for a different weather.
This sleeping bag features ThermaPro insulation, which will give you warmth in cold nights and a comfort tuck to put your feet out if it gets too hot. The zipper of the bag works properly and this product has a lot of positive feedback too.
It is one of the best summer sleeping bags on the market for under $100, it’s still a less packable and a bit heavier than other sleeping bags in this price range, but if you’re on a tight budget this sleeping bag won’t let you down.
This product is perfect for a summer camping trip. It provides you warmth and compressibility to make your nights as comfortable as possible.
PROS:
- Three season
- Compressible
- ThermaPro insulation
- Price
CONS:
- Low quality zipper
- Durability
Related: The Kelty brand offers many sleeping bags that have similar features, but what is most important and usually bought by the people who already bought this Kelty Tuck 22 Degree Sleeping Bag is Kelty Compression Stuff Sack. The price is approximately $18 and will increase the available space in your backpack by compressing your sleeping bag.
Mountain Hardwear Lamina Z Flame
Price: $130 – $200
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 4.7 pounds
Dimensions: 29 x 15 x 13 inches
Fabric: Nylon
Specific features: Compressible, lightweight, thermally zoned insulation, mummy cut, Lamina construction
Best use: Backpacking, hiking, camping
Description: After the Mountain Hardwear brand revamped their line of sleeping bags, women shoppers were given some budget options as their new Mountain Hardwear Lamina Z Flame, which is available in woodland color is fairly priced between $130 (on discount) and $200. This sleeping bag is made of nylon, its proprietary welded Lamina construction adds to the loft and removes cold spots and is the greatest and latest synthetic bags to hit the market.
The product also has zoned insulation, which means it will provide warmth where it’s needed most. The mummy cuts enables it to maximize weight without constriction.
Another unique feature of this sleeping bag is the footbox that allows you to put your feet in a natural position and keep them warm and comfortable, not to mention a draft collar that will help keep in hard-won body heat. You can take it with backpacking and hiking trips and it’s durable and reliable, making it a great choice.
PROS:
- Compressible
- Thermally zoned insulation
CONS:
- Weight
Related: The same brand offers special sleeping bag designed for women only. It’s Mountain Hardwear Laminina Z Flame 21F women’s sleeping bag that maximizes the insulation loft, thermally maps insulation to areas your body needs warmth the most and eliminates cold spots.
REI Igneo
Price: $300 – $320
Shape: Mummy
Weight: 13 Oz
Dimensions: 72 x 60 inches
Fabric: Nylon, Cotton
Specific features: Double protection design, water repellent, nylon, lightweight, differentiated hook and neck, stuff sack
Best use: Backpacking, hiking, camping
Description: REI Igneo is suitable for 3 seasons use and is made of ripstop nylon shell which is water repellent to protect you from moisture and cold. The product is mummy cut, which makes it breathable and comfortable.
The double protection design means it has a waterproof footbox and sides that can catch moisture easily. This product is lightweight and works efficiently in all conditions. The product comes with a big cotton storage bag and stuff sack.
Neck and hood are differentiated for better adjustment. The contoured hood also has a full length a draft tube for keeping the warmth in the bag.
This is a solid sleeping bag that offers almost the same performances to other sleeping bags that are usually much more expensive and is a great choice if you are looking for a reliable product. When you compare the Igneo sleeping bag to other bags in its price range, it is a pretty clear cut winner.
The 700 fill-power down sleeping bag uses mid-range quality of down, but features a high-quality, down proof and shell fabric that feels nice against our skin.
PROS:
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- 3-season sleeping bag
CONS:
- Price
- Unavailable compressed volume
Related: REI brand is one of the most popular sleeping bag brands on the market. They offer a wide range of sleeping bags, so if this one from our list is maybe a bit expensive for your budget, REI offers sleeping bags that are less pricey, for example, Marmot Never Winter Sleeping Bag that comes in a price range from $200 to $220 with similar characteristics such as REI Igneo.
Wrapping It Up
The choice is ultimately going to be yours, which will depend on your personal preference and budget. Also, you need to decide according to the conditions of the place where you are going. If you’re hiking or backpacking then you must take into consideration that you will roll and stash your bag after every time you use it so make sure you are able to do it yourself.
Always check out the sleeping bag before buying it. In case that you are going on a long trip, then you should take repairing tools with you for emergency situations. Always make sure that the sleeping bag has all the qualities you require before buying.
As always, if you think that we missed to mention something important in this article, or if you have some questions regarding this topic, feel free to leave a comment or a question in the comments section below.
So far so good. Since buying it, I have slept outside for 4 nights in a hammock. Awesome experience! have got lot of usage with no damage. The zippers are made of high quality and the entire bag seems to be well-made. Nifty product to buy and very easy to use.
Last year we decided to get some new sleeping bags – four in total – and after a lot of consideration and research, we decided to go with the Kelty brand. This was our first time buying this brand but we were not disappointed. The bags are strong, warm, comfortable and very easily compressed for ease of carriage.
Thanks for providing valuable input on your experience with the Kelty brand. It’s a steal at less than a hundred dollars. You can sleep soundly after a day of activity and wake up refreshed! Its roomy interior is also a big plus!
I am in the process of revamping my camping gear, most of which I have had for way too many years. A winter sleeping bag is on the list of items that need replacement and I think this Brooks-Range Drift sleeping bag would be a good addition to my gear. I just wonder how durable it is. The last one I had served me for many years and I want a replacement that will match that.
This sleeping bag is very durable and the manufacturers have made use of DWR or Durable Water Repellent coating. This makes the fabric water resistant and hardy in cases of bad weather condition. You can be sure that this sleeping bag will ensure years of service to you.