Sleeping while hiking – our favorites
Are you deep into planning your big summer hike? Exciting! A warm sleeping bag and a cozy sleeping pad are crucial for a good night's sleep. Below we've listed our top picks.
Tips for choosing a sleeping bag!
- The length and size of the sleeping bag are important – it won't keep you as warm if it's too big or too small.
- Comfort temperature indicates the suitable temperature range for using the sleeping bag.
- Down sleeping bags are compact and lightweight, while synthetic bags are bulkier and heavier. However, synthetic bags handle moisture better than down.
- Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are ideal for hiking, while rectangular ones are good for camping.
Urberg 3-season Sleeping Bag G5 – Affordable bestseller
If you're looking for an economical sleeping bag that delivers, this is a great option. This synthetic sleeping bag is perfect for spring, summer, and fall use, offering all the features you might need. Available in three different lengths, it's straightforward to find one that matches your height perfectly!
- Weight: 1974 grams (regular)
- Filling: Synthetic
- Women's comfort temperature: -2.3 degrees C
- Men's comfort temperature: -8.5 degrees C
- Extreme temperature: -26.8 degrees C
Pajak Radical 4Z – Top-notch sleeping bag
Pajak crafts some of the world's best down sleeping bags, making this a truly standout choice! This is a 3-season sleeping bag that'll keep you warm through most of the year, handling temperatures slightly below freezing. The down fill reduces its weight to just 720 grams—making it a super lightweight travel mate!
- Weight: 720 grams
- Filling: Synthetic
- Women's comfort temperature: -1 degrees C
- Men's comfort temperature: -7 degrees C
- Extreme temperature: -25 degrees C
What's the difference between down and synthetic?
Down is lightweight and offers superior warmth-to-weight efficiency. It packs smaller, weighs less, and provides excellent cold resistance. However, down can be pricey and doesn't do well with moisture. Once wet, down barely insulates. Synthetic bags are more affordable but are heavier and bulkier. Yet, they handle moisture much better.
Tip! Consider using a sleeping bag liner. Not only does it add warmth, but it's also easier to wash than the sleeping bag itself!
Urberg Airmat Nova – The Lightweight
The Urberg Airmat Nova is perfect for those looking to shed some weight, with its ultra-light inflatable design. Best for spring and summer, you can use it in cooler months paired with a foam pad for extra warmth.
- Suitable for: Spring/Summer (above 0ºC)
- R-value: 1.6
- Weight: 407 grams
- Length: 187 cm
- Shoulder width: 56 cm
Sea To Summit EtherLight XT Extreme – King of Comfort!
A large, thick, and very well-insulated sleeping pad from Sea To Summit, perfect for year-round use. This sleeping pad is a hefty 10 cm thick with an R-value of 6.2, ensuring you stay warm and cozy even in extremely cold conditions.
- Suitable for: Winter (below -25ºC)
- R-value: 6.2
- Weight: 1050 grams
- Length: 201 cm
- Shoulder width: 64 cm
