Sleeping Bag Buyers Guide

What season?

• 1 Season – Summer bags. Good for keeping in the car, or using for sleepovers.
• 3 Season – Rated for spring or autumn, these bags are also a warmer option for summer camping however not warm enough for the winter.
• 4 Season – These bags will keep you toasty in the winter months, and comfortable all year round. Consider less clothing layers when using these sleeping bags in the summer.

Temperature ratings appear on some sleeping bag, displaying the minimum temperature for use. Keep in mind, the minimum rating is an extreme comfort rating; if your sleeping bag is rated for -7ºC you’ll be in for a cold sleep if it’s actually -7ºC out.

As a rule, when buying a sleeping bag choose one that will keep you comfortable in the conditions you’ll be using it. A three season bag can be used for most conditions, just use an extra liner if it’s cold, and don’t wear your wooly PJs when it’s warm.

What materials?

• Shell - Made out of either Cotton & Canvas, or Nylon.
  • Cotton & Canvas shells are well suited for RV and cottage use. They are bulky and difficult to compress, but offer good warmth.
  • Nylon shells are light and compressible, and make storage and transportation easier.
• Insulation - Bags are filled with either Synthetic or Down insulation. 
  • Synthetic is bulkier, but will stay warm and maintain loft even when wet. 
  • Down bags cost more, take longer to dry, but are lighter and more compressible. 
• Lining - Flannel, fleece, or synthetic. 
  • Flannel and fleece are warm and cozy, but bulky. These linings are more suited to car and cottage camping.
  • Synthetic linings are light, breathable, and wick moisture.

What shape?

There are Mummy, Rectangular, and Semi-Rectangular sleeping bags.

• Mummy Sleeping Bags – The warmest, can be constrictive, and often come with hoods. These sleeping bags are a good choice for backpacking because their reduced shape reduces weight and saves space.
• Rectangular Sleeping Bags – Roomy, and can be zipped together to create a larger sleeping bag that two people can share. A great choice for car and RV camping.
• Semi-Rectangular Sleeping Bags – A compromise; mid range for warmth and room.

What size?

Sleeping bags come in different lengths and sizes. Many are available in men’s, women’s and kid’s sizes, as well as regular and tall lengths. If you are tall, or would like to keep extra gear warm during the night, a longer sleeping bag will come in handy.

Choose a sleeping bag that fits you best. When in doubt, come down to the store. Our friendly staff will happily pull a sleeping bag off the wall, and let you get in and try it out. This way you’ll be sure you have a sleeping bag that works for you.