Blog - Camping Information

Guide to Sleeping Bags

Like most camping equipment, there are a massive number of sleeping bags out there for you to buy, coming in different shapes, sizes and materials. Unfortunately, each of these variations will impact how you’ll sleep on your camping trip, and that can make it difficult to know what to buy.

Our guide to sleeping bags takes you through the fundamentals, explaining what the various ratings and materials mean, so that you can make the right choice.

Follow the links below for guidance on materials, ratings and more.

Sleeping Bag Ratings

Sleeping bags ratings tell you how a sleeping bag should perform in certain conditions for a number of factors, such as temperature.

By knowing what these ratings you mean you will be much better prepared to pick the right one. Read our article all about it here.

Sleeping bag insulation

Insulation is one of the most important elements of a sleeping bag, making the materials used for this an important feature to consider.

Materials used in insulation generally boil down to synthetic and natural. Find out about them in this guide to sleeping bag insulation.

External and internal sleeping bag lining fabrics

The materials used for a sleeping bag's shell and lining can affect things like breathability and comfort. Read this guide to find out the pros and cons of each fabric.

Sleeping bag shape

Even a sleeping bag’s shape can affect its ability to trap heat. Bags that are to be used at particularly lower temperatures need to minimise the amount of room cool air has to move about in, which should make it easier retain heat. In contrast, a rectangular shape is fine for sleeping bags that are to be used in indoors.

If you are camping outside it is recommended that you opt for a mummy sleeping bag, which provides a warmer night’s sleep. Another option is a tapered bag, which offers a combination of the heat retaining shape of a mummy bag, and slightly more room as found in a rectangular bag.

Final words

Hopefully we've helped you come closer to a decision on which sleeping bag to purchase. Just make sure to remember to consider what conditions you will be camping in.

If you're still not sure watch out for more articles on sleeping bags, or sign up to the newsletter to get them straight to your inbox.

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