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Posts Tagged ‘sleeping bags’

Because sleeping bags are available in a variety of types and styles, it is hard to choose the right one. First, you have to consider what the environment will be like that you will be using it in. Warmer weather requires a more lightweight bag, but if you will be using it in a colder climate, then you may want to decide on a thicker sleeping bag or you can opt to just wear warmer clothes as added protection. Another thing to consider is your personal tastes. Choose a bag made from a material that you like, is that appropriate size and shape, and also leaves you room to move around.

There are generally two different shapes to choose from, and each comes with different styles and features. The most popular bag, and also the one that has been used for several years, is rectangular. Due to its shape and the way is made, it can also be used as a comforter. As a sleeping bag it provides a roomy and comfortable space to rest in. And you can sometimes put two of these types of bags together and make a larger bag that can be comfortable and used by more than one person.

The mummy sleeping bag functions much like it sounds. It is a more of a recent design that encompasses the sleeper much tighter than the rectangular bag. The premise is to use much less fabric and material to produce a greater amount of heat. The lack of material (and weight) comes in handy if backpacking for long distances. A mummy bag is best suited for colder climates. If you will be camping in temperatures below 40 degrees, this bag is the best choice.

Both kinds of sleeping bags are available in three standard sizes. Bags can be purchased in junior (or child) sized, standard length and extra long. Small children fit well in the junior bags, but as children can grow rapidly, buying a standard bag will provide them with the extra space to accommodate their inevitable growth spurts without the need to purchase a new bag. If you are claustrophobic, you might opt for a larger bag anyway so you will be more comfortable as you sleep.

Traditionally, the warmth of a sleeping bag depended on prime goose down which is often used as insulation. Modern designs, however, rely on synthetic fibers which provide greater durability, less weight and easier washing than goose down. Goose down is still used to insulate top of the line mountaineering bags that are used by professionals to keep them warm in extremely cold and dry conditions. These sleeping bags can be prohibitively expensive and certainly beyond the scope of what a family camping trip might call for. Synthetic materials are perfect for most people.

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