How to choose the right sleeping bag for you

How do you know if you have the proper gear for camping? It starts with selecting the right sleeping bag. Having the knowledge of the right sleeping bags will making your camping trip that more enjoyable for you. 

​Sleeping Bag Temperature Ratings

The first basic rule for picking a sleeping bag is to pick a sleeping bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect where you plan to camp. That way if you get too hot, you can always unzip a bad to cool off. If you plan to use your bag in lower months, look at bad that can handle lower temperatures:

Bag Type                                                   Temperature Ratings (◦F)
Summer Season                                           +30◦ and higher
3-Season                                                         +15◦ to +30◦
Winter                                                             +15◦ and lower

After reviewing chart, please be aware that temperature ratings are based on an “average sleeper”. Also, a wide range of other factors will affect how you feel once you are in your bag outdoors: your sleeping pad, what you wear while sleeping, humidity and wind, your metabolism, and more. 

Sleeping Bag Shapes

When choosing a bag, you want a bag that offers ample room to stretch out and roll over. Therefore, many camping bags have a simple rectangular design. The only way to really predict if you feel a bag is roomy enough is to zip yourself in. When shopping, it is a clever idea to “try on” your bag if allowed. Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes:

• Rectangular: a rectangular bag allows plenty of room for both leg and arms to stretch out. Some bags can be completely unzipped and used like a comforter.
• Semi-rectangular: This is also known as a “modified mummy” or “barrel” shaped bag. This design covers a variety of shapes, all of which offers a compromise between warmth and roominess.
• Mummy: A mummy bag boosts warmth and cut weight. To do this, the bag has a snug fit which allows you to roll over with your bag rather than inside of it.
• Double bags: This bag made for two is best for couples who plan to sleep together. Another option is a bag that can be zipped together. These bags need to be the same model and brand.
• Kid-sized sleeping bags: These are simply shorter, smaller, and more affordable versions of adult sleeping bags.

Sleeping Bag Insulation Types

Sleeping bags are either insulated with down fill or synthetic fill. Below is a char on the benefits of each insulation:
Insulation Type                Key Benefits
Synthetic Insulation          Affordable
                                               Continues to insulate when damp
                                               Dries fast
                                              Non-allergenic

Down Insulation               Lightweight
                                             Performs well in cold, dry weather
                                             Often has a water-resistant treatment to protect it in damp
                                                      conditions
                                              Compresses small for easy packing
                                              Is durable, it retains loft and warmth well over the years

At Black Bag Resources, we offer a range of sleeping bags needed for your outdoor adventure. We can assist you in choosing the right sleeping bag as well as offer any guidance needed for your camping trip.