Camping Sleeping Bags Guide for Beginners

Camping tent with sleeping bags

Camping sleeping bags are essential gear for any outdoor enthusiast. When you’re on a camping trip or hike, having the right one can make all the difference in ensuring a good night’s sleep. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the right sleeping bag. We’ll explore factors to consider for your trip, different types of sleeping bags, and everything in between. 

First: Consider Where You’ll Sleep 

Knowing the location and temperature of where you’ll be sleeping is crucial—not just for your comfort, but also your safety. You’ll need the right sleeping bag. Winter’s cold, harsh nights will require warm liners or even a winter sleepsuit. If you’re camping in the summer or in a hot environment, you can get away with using a lightweight sleeping bag.

Choosing the right insulation is also important. If you’ll be near your car or lodgings, you won’t need to worry about a bag’s weight as much. But for long treks, you’ll want a lightweight but strong insulation like goose down. Synthetic insulation tends to be heavier and harder to pack away. 

Types of Camping Sleeping Bags 

Couple is seating beside the tent on mountain in sleeping bags

You might be surprised by the range of options, but there are many different types of sleeping bags. Let’s get into some of the most common you may want to consider. 

Double Sleeping Bags

Doubles are perfect for couples. Or, if you like having extra space, you can keep it all to yourself. They’re spacious enough to accommodate two people, allowing you to snuggle up and stay warm together on chilly nights. Look for double sleeping bags with zippers, so you can use them as two separate bags if needed.

Kids Sleeping Bags 

These are a must-have for any family camping trip you need to camping & hiking gear for full adventure. Kids sleeping bags are designed with children in mind. They feature fun patterned or character prints. Of course, they also come in smaller sizes to keep your little one snug and secure. When picking out a bag, try to hit the sweet spot of finding a size with enough wiggle room to accommodate growth spurts. 

Mountain Sleeping Bags 

Mountain slepping bags

For those tackling high-altitude adventures, a mountain sleeping bag is a must. These bags are engineered to withstand extreme conditions, such as sub-zero temperatures and high winds. Look for features like draft tubes and collars, water-resistance, and good insulation. These will all ensure protection and comfort, even in extreme environments.

Be prepared to pay more for mountain sleeping bags than you might a standard one. Their high quality, expensive materials, and construction all contribute to a higher price tag. 

Travel Sleeping Bags 

Lightweight and made for people on the move, these bags have a couple different uses. They’re easy to pack, carry, and take up very little space. Some can even fit in the palm of your hand when they’re rolled up! You can use travel sleeping bags for couch surfing, in hostels, or any situation where you’re unsure about the cleanliness of your bedding. 

Sleeping Bag Accessories

camping sleeping bags accessories

For those who need a little extra to sleep well at night, a sleeping bag by itself might not cut it. Luckily, there are other options to add to your camping bag. Here are some of the most useful add-ons for sleeping bags: 

1. Camping mat: Let’s face it, sleeping on the cold, hard ground isn’t exactly the best part of camping. Camping mats are simple foam mats that go under your sleeping bag. They give your back a break by serving as a soft surface for rest. 

2. Pillow: It’s easy to forget about bringing a pillow, but they’re not always included with sleeping bags. Get a separate one if you need to. Pillows support your head while you rest and prevent snoring, so they’re not something you want to leave behind. Blow-up pillows are great for family getaways. If you’re concerned about space, opt for compressible pillows instead. 

3. Liner: A sleeping bag liner does two things. First, it provides an extra layer of warmth. It also serves as a barrier between your skin and the bag, meaning you’ll have to wash it less often. Liners can also be used in a pinch if you’re worried about the cleanliness of the bag.

Selecting the right sleeping bag is crucial for any outdoor adventure. No matter what you need, there’s a sleeping bag to suit your preferences and budget. Considering factors like what type of camping sleeping bags you like best, your sleep location, and your sleep needs will set you up for a restful night’s sleep. Whether you need lightweight or warm sleeping bags, Ninefit has you covered with all the essentials. Shop our online store now to find the perfect bag for your next trip. 

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