The Best Budget Sleeping Bags for Your next Camping Trip
1. ALPS Mountaineering Blaze - Editor's Pick All Season
This “mummy style” all season sleeping bag is made from a durable polyester outer shell and features two layers of insulating material. The lower end of the temperature range for this sleeping bag goes below freezing to just 11 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, this sleeping bag won’t get you quite into the top of the ALPS as it also does just as well in warmer temperatures. The sleeping bag comes with a standard stuff sack and comes in regular and extra large sizes as well as a handful of different color variations. The Alps Mountaineering Blaze sleeping bag is available for $79.95.
2. ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag - Editor's Pick Summer
I’ve actually been using one of these off and on for the last 3 years on all my summertime camping trips. The backpack is not only perfect for hot summer months of camping but also extremely lightweight and compact. The ECOOPRO finds itself right at home whether you’re doing some camping by the lake or going on a backpacking trip and need a light and cheap sleeping bag to take along.
The ECOOPRO comes in 6 different colors and configurations and features an 86”x30” bag size which is perfect for most adults with room to spare at the bottom. In a pinch, the ECOOPRO can also be used as a comforter so you get the benefit of both the bottom and top layers of insulation. The ECOOPRO is available for $30.99.
3. Big Agnes Buell - Editor's Pick Spring
Springtime can be tricky in certain parts of the country so it is best to come prepared for anything. Rain, Sun, Wind and even Snow. Having a sleeping bag that is not only good to go no matter what the temperature and also able to wick away any moisture from heavy spring rains. The Big Agnes Buell features their Fireline pro synthetic insulation which can trap heat well but is also extremely breathable.
The sleeping bag is also very water repellent by using a DWR finish which makes it perfect for adverse conditions in the back country should you run into them. The Big Agnes Buell sleeping bag is available for $109.95 and is available in only red/navy coloring.
4. FARLAND Waterproof Compression Sack - Editor's Pick Fall
Fall brings about cooler temperatures, occasional heat spikes and in certain parts of the country, a ton of rain. That doesn’t mean your camping adventures need to stop. The FARLAND sleeping bag is rated down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and is portable and somewhat lightweight. The FARLAND compresses down into a compact size much like the ECOOPRO but this one weighs 7lbs and is more suitable for group camping trips as it can sleep two people easily. .
What makes the FARLAND compression sack unique is that it is completely waterproof and breathable which means you’ll be in the best shape no matter what the backcountry throws at you each day. The sleeping bag is available in 14 Different styles and can be had from between $39.99 to 55.99 depending on the style you pick.
5. Coleman North Rim Sleeping Bag - Editor's Pick Winter
Cold weather typically brings in a higher premium for camping gear due to the cost of manufacturing lightweight yet insulating materials that won’t let you freeze. Coleman, however, has a great budget option that won’t break the bank but will still keep you warm down to zero degrees Fahrenheit.
The bag is extra-large and can accommodate an adult up to 6’6” in height and features a semi-sculpted hood that also serves as a makeshift pillow when needed. The Zip Plow technology included in Colemans bags ensures snagging won’t occur when you’re trying to bundle up for the night. The Coleman North Rim Cold Weather sleeping bag is available for $49.99.
When you need a 0-degree bag
When it comes to cold weather performance, 0 degree sleeping bags do exactly what they say. While the temperature rating reaches down to zero, the reality is that this is just a guide and that you can probably sneak a bit below that before needing to upgrade to a different type of bag (that will no doubt cost you hundreds). Beyond that you could always just put on more layers to keep yourself nice and warm in the blizzard you just found yourself in.
A 0-degree bag will cover you for 20 and even 30 degree nights, and maybe even higher, although it is my experience that you’d need to vent more to be comfortable.
The main thing I want you to take away from sleeping bag temperature ratings is this – every person can and will be a little different. If you buy a summer-weight bag and find you get cold during the night, the next time out, you may want a warmer-rated bag.
Rectangle vs. mummy bags
Sleeping bags are generally either shaped like a coffin or a rectangle. I personally prefer the rectangular type of sleeping bag because they allow me to move around more but they are generally less warm than their mummy counterparts. The mummy style sleeping bags are best suited for people who want to be warm and like the feeling of being bungled up or don’t move around a lot.
There are bags to fit every type of season that come as a mummy bag or rectangle bag, so you can decide what you want.
Pillows
Pillows are extra bulk and can be annoying to carry around especially on backpacking trips. I would say to bring one along if you don’t have far to go (casual camping) or consider getting a blow up or compressible sleeping bag pillow for longer treks. Keeping your head off the ground is just as important as keeping your body off the ground but in a pinch you could always use a sweater or use your backpack to keep your head and neck elevated. I’m not sure about how comfortable that would be, but it’s worth a shot if you don’t want to take a pillow along.
How much should I spend on a sleeping bag?
Boy, what a loaded question. There are a ton of variables when it comes to determining how much you should spend on a sleeping bag. As we’ve covered above, you don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a good sleeping bag. Look at temperature ratings, materials used and construction to determine your budget.
Can I sleep on my side using a mummy sleeping bag?
Yes, you can sleep on your side, but it may not be very comfortable. You’ll most likely need a sleeping pad and a pillow to make it comfortable for you to sleep on your side in a mummy bag.
Can I use a 0-degree bag year round?
Of course you can. You just may need to sleep in less layers and open the zipper to vent some. On hot nights, if I’m using a 0-degree bag, I’ll leave it open and only cover up if I get cold, which can still happen at night any time of year.
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