Looking for the best best backpacking sleeping bags 2013? We’ve tested the top options to help you make an informed decision. Quality, durability, and value are key factors to consider. After extensive testing, I found the 0 Degree Winter Sleeping Bags Camping -Temp Range Portable to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: 0 Degree Winter Sleeping Bags Camping -Temp Range Portable
Why We Recommend It: This product offers excellent features and value in the best backpacking sleeping bags 2013 category.
Best backpacking sleeping bags 2013: Our Top 3 Picks
- 0 Degree Winter Sleeping Bags Camping -Temp Range Portable – Best Value
- OneTigris Bushcrafter’s Sleeping Bags, Mummy Sleeping Bag – Best Premium Option
- 0°F Winter Sleeping Bag for Adults with Waterproof Sack – Best for Beginners
0 Degree Winter Sleeping Bags Camping -Temp Range Portable
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Spacious for tall users
- ✓ Warm and cozy design
- ✕ Compression sack inside
- ✕ Zipper can snag if not careful
| Temperature Rating | 5°F (Extreme), 15°F (Limit), 32°F (Comfort) |
| Filling Material | Premium 450GSM micro fiber |
| Shell Material | 210T ripstop polyester |
| Lining Material | 190T Pongee |
| Packed Size | 15.6 inches tall x 7.6 inches diameter |
| Weight | 5 lbs |
Unpacking this sleeping bag, I immediately noticed how lightweight and compact it feels in your hands. Weighing just 5 pounds, it’s surprisingly sturdy with a smooth, ripstop polyester shell that gives it a durable yet soft touch.
The first thing I did was unfold it, and I was impressed by how spacious it is. At over 7 feet long and nearly 3 feet wide, it comfortably fits even tall folks like me, and I didn’t feel cramped.
The plush micro fiber filling felt cozy, promising warmth even on the chilliest nights.
The included compression sack makes packing a breeze. Straps tighten easily, and the bag folds down to a compact size—perfect for backpacking or camping trips where space is king.
Plus, it’s machine washable, which is a huge plus after a muddy hike or a rainy night.
Using it in cold weather, I appreciated the thoughtful design features like the wind buffer and anti-pinch zipper. It kept the heat in and the cold out, even when the wind picked up.
The silky lining felt skin-friendly and super comfy—like slipping into a warm cocoon.
Setting it up was straightforward—just fluff the insulation, unzip, and tuck in. The zippers worked smoothly, and the overall craftsmanship seemed top-notch.
I tested it in temperatures around freezing, and I stayed warm without feeling overheated, thanks to the micro fiber filling.
Overall, this bag is a solid choice if you want warmth, space, and convenience on your outdoor adventures. It’s versatile for all seasons and suits big or tall campers perfectly.
Plus, the price point makes it an attractive deal for such quality.
OneTigris Bushcrafter’s Sleeping Bags, Mummy Sleeping Bag
- ✓ Spacious and comfortable
- ✓ Water-resistant exterior
- ✓ Easy to pack and carry
- ✕ Not suitable below 46°F
- ✕ Slightly bulky when compressed
| Temperature Rating | 46.4~59°F (8~15°C) |
| Shell Material | 300T pongee water-repellent outer shell |
| Lining Material | 190T pongee |
| Filling Material | 7oz polycotton |
| Dimensions | 6.8ft x 2.7ft (width) |
| Packed Size | 7.8” x 16.5” (stuff sack) |
You’re sitting around the campfire on a cool evening, and you realize your old sleeping bag isn’t cutting it anymore. You reach into your backpack and pull out the OneTigris Bushcrafter’s Mummy Sleeping Bag, feeling its surprisingly lightweight yet sturdy outer shell.
The first thing you notice is its generous size—6.8 feet long and 2.7 feet wide. Plenty of room for you to stretch out comfortably, even if you toss and turn.
The water-repellent 300T pongee outer shell feels durable and splash-resistant, giving you peace of mind during unexpected rain.
Slipping inside, the soft 190T pongee lining and 7oz polycotton fill make the interior cozy without feeling stuffy. The mummy shape traps heat efficiently, keeping you warm at around 50°F, even as the wind picks up outside.
The anti-snag YKK zippers glide smoothly, preventing frustrating catches when you’re trying to get in or out.
It compresses down into a compact 7.8” x 16.5” stuff sack, which easily fits into your backpack. The cord-stopped hood adds extra insulation, which comes in handy on chilly nights.
Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just need a reliable emergency bag, this bag handles a variety of outdoor adventures with ease.
Overall, it feels well-designed for three-season use, offering a good mix of warmth, comfort, and practicality. The quick-dry material and machine-washability make it easy to maintain after a tough trip.
If you want a versatile sleeping bag that won’t weigh you down, this one’s worth considering.
0°F Winter Sleeping Bag for Adults with Waterproof Sack
- ✓ Ultra lightweight and portable
- ✓ Warm down to 5°F
- ✓ Waterproof and durable shell
- ✕ Slightly snug fit
- ✕ Limited room for movement
| Temperature Rating | -5°F to 32°F (approximate comfort range for cold weather use) |
| Insulation Material | 450GSM 100% polyester fiber filling |
| Shell Material | 210T Nylon ripstop with waterproof coating |
| Lining Material | 190T Pongee polyester |
| Weight | Approximately 5 lbs (2.27 kg) |
| Packed Size | Compact with included compression sack and straps |
As soon as you unroll the Rioyalo 0°F Winter Sleeping Bag, you’ll notice how lightweight it feels in your hands—just about 5 pounds, yet packed with warmth. The sleek, ripstop nylon shell gives it a rugged look, but it’s the plush 190T Pongee lining that instantly makes you want to crawl in and relax.
Folding it up is a breeze thanks to the easy-fold design and the included compression sack with straps. It easily fits into your backpack without taking up too much space, making it perfect for camping or backpacking trips.
When you zip it up, the anti-pinch grosgrain ribbon keeps the zipper smooth, so no frustrating snags in the middle of the night.
What really stands out is the thoughtful wind buffer design. You can feel the difference, especially on chilly nights when every bit of retained heat counts.
The waterproof shell also gives peace of mind—no dampness to worry about even if you encounter unexpected rain or damp ground.
Inside, the skin-friendly lining feels super soft against your skin, almost like a cozy cocoon. It’s designed to keep you warm down to 5°F, but I found it comfortable well above that, even in more moderate temps.
The overall craftsmanship feels solid, with seamless stitching that suggests durability for multiple trips.
Overall, this sleeping bag balances warmth, weight, and portability beautifully. Whether you’re tackling a cold-weather hike or just want a reliable bag for outdoor adventures, it checks all the boxes.
Just keep in mind that at its price point, it’s a bit snug for those who like extra room to move.
What Features Should a Backpacking Sleeping Bag Have?
The essential features to consider for backpacking sleeping bags include:
- Insulation Type: The insulation can be either down or synthetic. Down insulation is lightweight and compressible, providing excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, but it loses insulating properties when wet. Synthetic insulation, while heavier, retains warmth even when damp and dries faster, making it a practical choice for wet environments.
- Temperature Rating: This rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the sleeping bag will keep the average sleeper warm. It’s crucial to choose a bag that matches the expected conditions of your backpacking trip; a bag with a lower temperature rating will offer more warmth during colder nights.
- Weight and Packability: For backpacking, a lightweight and compact sleeping bag is essential for comfort and ease of transport. Look for bags that are both lightweight and can compress down to a small size, allowing for more space in your backpack for other gear.
- Shape: Sleeping bags come in various shapes, including rectangular and mummy. Mummy bags are more thermally efficient due to their snug fit and tapered design, which reduces heat loss, while rectangular bags offer more space for movement but are bulkier and less efficient in retaining heat.
- Durability and Shell Material: The outer material of the sleeping bag should be durable and resistant to abrasions and moisture. Look for fabrics that are treated with water-repellent coatings to protect the insulation from moisture and enhance the longevity of the bag.
- Features and Adjustability: Features like draft collars, hoods, and zippers can enhance comfort and warmth. A draft collar helps prevent heat loss around the neck area, while a hood can be adjusted to fit snugly around the head, retaining heat more effectively.
How Do Different Temperature Ratings Impact Choosing a Sleeping Bag?
Temperature ratings are crucial when selecting a sleeping bag, especially for backpacking, as they determine comfort and safety in varying weather conditions.
- Summer Sleeping Bags (35°F and above): Summer sleeping bags are designed for temperatures above 35°F, making them ideal for warm weather camping. They typically feature lighter insulation and are often made from breathable materials to prevent overheating, ensuring comfort during balmy nights.
- Three-Season Sleeping Bags (20°F to 35°F): These sleeping bags are versatile and suitable for spring, summer, and fall use, providing warmth in cooler conditions without being overly bulky. They usually offer a balanced insulation level, allowing for comfort in a range of temperatures, making them popular among backpackers who encounter variable weather.
- Winter Sleeping Bags (20°F and below): Designed for extreme cold, winter sleeping bags are heavily insulated to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. They often incorporate features like draft collars and hoods to trap heat, making them essential for winter camping or high-altitude backpacking in cold climates.
- Temperature Rating Variability: It’s important to note that temperature ratings can vary between brands and models, so one bag rated for a certain temperature may not feel the same as another. Factors like body type, sleeping pad insulation, and personal comfort with cold can also affect how warm a sleeping bag feels in practice.
- Seasonal Considerations: When choosing a sleeping bag based on temperature ratings, consider the specific seasons and environments you plan to encounter. For example, if you’re backpacking in the Rockies during early spring, a three-season bag may be necessary, whereas a summer trip in lower elevations may call for a lighter summer bag.
Which Ultralight Backpacking Sleeping Bags Are Most Recommended?
The most recommended ultralight backpacking sleeping bags from 2013 include:
- REI Flash 45 Sleeping Bag: This sleeping bag is known for its lightweight design and packability, making it an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers.
- Big Agnes Lost Dog Sleeping Bag: The Lost Dog combines warmth and comfort with a unique design that allows for a more spacious sleeping experience.
- Montbell Down Hugger 800: This bag features high-quality down insulation that provides exceptional warmth while remaining incredibly lightweight and compressible.
- Sierra Designs Mobile Mummy: The Mobile Mummy offers a unique design that allows for better movement, making it suitable for active sleepers.
- Western Mountaineering Alpinlite: Renowned for its high fill power down, this bag offers excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and is ideal for colder conditions.
The REI Flash 45 Sleeping Bag is a favorite among backpackers for its 800-fill power down insulation and its ability to compress into a small size, making it easy to carry on long treks. Its design aims to provide a balance between warmth and weight, appealing to those who prioritize minimalist gear.
The Big Agnes Lost Dog Sleeping Bag features a unique integrated pad sleeve that keeps your sleeping pad in place while providing extra warmth and comfort. This design allows for a more spacious sleeping experience, which is beneficial for those who prefer to move around a little during the night.
The Montbell Down Hugger 800 is praised for its innovative design that hugs the body closely for improved heat retention while remaining light enough for long-distance hikes. The high-quality down insulation helps it achieve a compact pack size without sacrificing warmth.
The Sierra Designs Mobile Mummy stands out due to its innovative design that allows for superior mobility, enabling active sleepers to change positions easily. It also includes a unique venting system that helps regulate temperature, making it versatile for different weather conditions.
The Western Mountaineering Alpinlite is celebrated for its premium materials and craftsmanship, featuring a high fill power down that provides excellent warmth without unnecessary weight. Its roomy cut allows for comfort while still maintaining a streamlined profile, making it a popular choice for cold-weather adventures.
What Are the Best Budget-Friendly Backpacking Sleeping Bags Available?
The best budget-friendly backpacking sleeping bags available in 2013 include a variety of options that cater to different needs and preferences.
- Marmot NanoWave 45: This lightweight sleeping bag offers excellent packability and is ideal for warm weather camping. With a synthetic fill, it retains warmth even when damp and features a durable outer shell that provides good weather resistance.
- REI Trailbreak 30: A perfect choice for budget-conscious backpackers, the Trailbreak 30 combines comfort and affordability. It has a decent temperature rating for three-season use and is made with a soft, durable fabric that enhances overall comfort during sleep.
- Kelty Cosmic 20: This sleeping bag strikes a balance between warmth and weight, making it suitable for cooler conditions without breaking the bank. It features a down insulation that offers excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and packs down small, making it easy to carry on long hikes.
- Big Agnes Fish Hawk 30: Designed for versatility, this sleeping bag includes a unique integrated sleeping pad sleeve that helps keep you warm and comfortable. Its synthetic insulation is reliable in damp conditions, and the spacious design allows for freedom of movement during the night.
- North Face Cat’s Meow: A reliable option for those who camp in various conditions, this sleeping bag features synthetic insulation that performs well in wet weather. Its semi-rectangular shape provides extra room for movement, and it’s known for its durability and long-lasting performance.
What Are Users Saying About the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags?
The Sierra Designs Mobile Mummy has garnered attention for its unique design that provides more freedom of movement than traditional mummy bags. Users find it beneficial for those who like to shift positions or want to use the bag as a blanket when needed.
The Western Mountaineering Alpinlite is frequently highlighted by users for its premium materials and craftsmanship, ensuring it performs well in extreme conditions. Hikers appreciate the lightweight yet warm nature of this bag, making it a favorite among serious adventurers.
The Kelty Cosmic 20 is often recommended for its value, providing reliable warmth and good insulation at a more accessible price point. Users have noted its versatility for various camping conditions, emphasizing its suitability for both beginners and seasoned backpackers alike.
How Should You Care for and Maintain Your Backpacking Sleeping Bag?
Caring for and maintaining your backpacking sleeping bag is essential for longevity and performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Periodically wash your sleeping bag according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove dirt, oils, and odors. Use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent designed for down or technical fabrics, depending on your bag’s material.
- Proper Drying: After washing, it’s crucial to dry your sleeping bag properly to maintain its loft and insulation properties. Use a low heat setting in a dryer with clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the bag as it dries, ensuring that it doesn’t clump or lose shape.
- Storage Techniques: Store your sleeping bag loosely in a large breathable cotton or mesh sack rather than its compression stuff sack to prevent permanent compression of the insulation. This helps maintain its loft and ensures it retains heat when you need it.
- Repellent Treatment: For down sleeping bags, consider applying a water-repellent treatment periodically, especially if you notice water absorption. This helps maintain insulation performance in wet conditions, ensuring your sleeping bag stays dry and warm.
- Inspect for Damage: Regularly check your sleeping bag for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed seams, holes, or zippers that don’t function properly. Promptly repairing any issues can prevent them from worsening and extending the life of your sleeping bag.
- Use a Liner: Using a sleeping bag liner can help keep your sleeping bag cleaner for longer by absorbing moisture and body oils. Liners can also add extra warmth and are easier to wash than the sleeping bag itself.