What Makes an Excellent Sleeping Bag
As a rule of thumb, the best bag is what is right for you. The question therefore is how to choose a sleeping bag that is right for you. The answer would depend largely on your needs and preferences. You need first to identify when, for what purpose and who is going to use the sleeping bag. After identifying all these factors, then you can proceed with knowing the features of a quality sleeping bag that will fit your needs.
You need to understand the filling materials of sleeping bags like if it is goose down on synthetic. A goose down sleeping bag is generally very warm and lightweight. They are preferred by most backpackers as it can be easily compressed and yet is able to regain its original form when shaken out. One of the most popular goose down sleeping bags is Marmot Pinnacle. Synthetic filled bags are cheaper alternative and retain its warmth even when wet. They are however heavier and larger.
The manufacturer’s temperature rating should be used only as your guide on how far the sleeping bag can go when it comes to keeping you warm. Take into consideration that the temperature rating is largely based on using a sleeping pad under it. Sleeping pads are used to conserve body heat from the ground. Choosing a warmer bag will always be a better choice. Avoid sleeping bag made from cotton materials as it gets heavier when wet or when moisture starts to seep in.
As important as choosing the right material, the size and shape of your sleeping bag should be carefully chosen. Make sure that you will be comfortable with the sleeping bag even before you go to any camping trip. The best way to ensure that it would perfectly fit in you is to try it yourself in the store or if not, as soon as you get home after the purchase. The most popular choice among campers is the mummy shaped or cocoon shaped sleeping bag with a hood and draft collar. It was designed to snugly fit in the body to keep the body warm inside the bag. Some however find it uncomfortable inside due to limited space so a rectangular counterpart is an alternative. It provides more space to move inside and is excellent for shared sleeping.
Aside from the hood, it is important that you also check for other features like vents that you can open to adjust the temperature inside your sleeping bag. Draught tubes are included in an efficiently designed zipper system as this will prevent the warmth inside the bag from escaping. Consult an expert in the store which features would really fit your needs.
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