Sleeping Bag

How I can find a good sleeping bag?

I usually go to the Grand Canyon in April. I borrow a sleeping bag every year, but I'm thinking to buy one now. Any suggestions?

There is a big difference between Sleeping Bags and backpacks commonly used 'camping car' bags, so you want to go with a store brand that specializes in the backpack. Apart from comfort and warmth, as a backpacker you will need to consider the weight, however small compressing and how is Water Resistant. The biggest gap right now between synthetic and down bags. Synthetic bags are usually cheaper and will keep you warm even when wet. Down bags are warmer and compress better, but usually cost more and be kept dry (now the majority come with outer waterproof shells that work in different degrees). Whatever bag you get, my experience is that the characterization of the bag (the temperature to take effect) is usually a little on the optomistic side and I would give you an extra 5 to 10 degrees to be safe (ie if the temperature is colder than you expect while camping is 35 degrees, I would like a bag rated to 25 degrees). I am currently using a Marmot Helium I recommend – is rated to 15 degrees, smaller compressing a loaf of bread and weighs less than 2 pounds. It is one of the best backpacking bags out there, but also one of the most expensive at $ 300 +. For many years, I used a saw "synthetic bag of Wild Bill ('Rosa' is the female model), which was quite comfortable and usable, and cost about $ 100. Other and well-respected brands to consider are REI, Inés Grande and Mountain Hardware. See the following web sites and even go to a store and try several to see how are filled. I would recommend going to a store that is dedicated to hiking and backpacking as opposed to general recreation or hunting and fishing (which probably will more heavy bags). REI is a great place to go to his people can give good advice as well (many are avid backpackers). REI stores are located in the western Most large cities (two in the Phoenix area.) A few other notes … you may want to obtain a sort of cushion of air. Therma-rest makes some Pads very comfortable especially for backpackers to pack fairly light and tight. You can also buy some cloth sling for them that make them a comfortable seat (With support) to sit around the camp. Note also that Backpacker magazine usually comes out with its annual guide to great gear and early spring recommendations will be good too.

High Peak PKG EVEREST 5,000 Cu In BACKPACK, and A EXTREME 0 DEG. SLEEPING BAG $167.65

Compression Stuff Sack Stap Sleeping Duffel Bag Camping $12.50

Outdoor Sport 3 Pack Dry Sack Bags Fabric Camping & Hiking Sleep Travel Soft NEW $30.99

NEW Mountainsmith El Diente 5 Degree Down Sleeping Bag $191.99

3400 cui HIKING BACKPACK &0 degree Extreme sleeping bag $145.00

Coghlan’s Sleeping Bag Carrier – Black – Style# 8814 – NEW IN PACKAGE $5.39

Backpack Camping Hiking Nex USA Pak Big Duffle Sleeping Bag Carry Camo Print $14.99

Marmot Sleeping Bag Dot STICKER Decal GLOBE $2.47

Marmot Sleeping Bag STICKER Decal MOUNTAIN NEW $3.27

Marmot Sleeping Bag STICKER Decal MOUNTAIN NEW $3.27

2 Packages 4 Handy Hook Loop Straps 2″x 36″ GREAT for Sleeping Bags FREE SHIP $7.50

Stuff Sacks Jumbo, for sleeping bag, Water Resistance Nylon Made in U.s.a. $14.00

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Sleeping Bags – 6 Questions to Ask Yourself to Find the Perfect One

Backpacking? Scouting? Planning a camping trip for the whole family? Whatever journey you decide on, it is essential to choose the right equipment before you begin your expedition. Sleeping bags should be on top of your list. It is particularly important you select one that will suit all your needs.

Like any other equipment, there are different designs and high-tech materials available. It mainly depends on your budget and how you will use it. So decide on your preferences and consider the following questions to make a smart choice before you go shopping for the perfect bag.

1. What is the coldest temperature you will expect to encounter?

Season and temperature range are often considerations in choosing the ideal bag. You will need a warmer bag if you plan to take a trip in winter than go backpacking in the summer months.

2. Is it down or synthetic insulation?

An important element of good bag is its insulation. Modern bags offer two choices; they are either down or synthetic. Both materials present advantages and disadvantages.

Down bags perform superiorly in ideal conditions because it provides tremendous warmth for just little weight. It also outperforms synthetic insulation for years and gives better comfort range as it regulates your heat inside the bag. The only problem is that if it gets wet, the value of the insulation is very poor.

On the other hand, synthetic bags provide insulation even when wet and dries up very quickly. It is also non-allergenic. But one downside of this type of insulation is that it is bulkier, and heavier.

3. How tall are you?

Height is also a big factor to consider. If you are tall, calculate the length of the sleeping bag from your toe to your neck. Then add a few inches to your height to make sure you will fit comfortably in the bag and have extra room to move inside.

4. How heavy is the sleeping bag?

A good summer sleeping pad should not weigh more than 3 pounds while a winter bag can be heavier. You should compare the bag according to their temperature ratings and total weight to have a clearer idea to the load you will be carrying in the future.

5. Is it packable?

Down bags are usually the best choice in terms of warmth, durability, weight and most importantly, compressibility. Although synthetic bags can be packed in compression sacks, this can possibly damage the filling and decrease the insulating capability of the bag.

6. Is it right for you?

All of us are different. Each person varies on how warm they sleep even under ideal circumstances. A good example is two individuals sleeping in the same type of bag having completely different night’s sleep. One may feel warm and comfortable whereas the other person will feel the cold. So it is essential to determine if you are either a cold or a warm sleeper.

No matter what type of sleeping bags you settle on, keep in mind that it can either make or break your camping experience. Careful planning and preparation is the key to a gratifying and enjoyable time in the great outdoors.

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