For the folks seeking the absolute best sleeping bag, we recommend the Western Mountaineering MegaLite. This ultra-premium model utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power down to create a cozy cocoon of outstanding comfort. Our testers appreciated the more generous dimensions of the MegaLite compared to other products at its price point. We’re also fans of its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, which should make this bag especially appealing for diehard backpackers or long backcountry trips. Keep children comfortable during nights in the tent inside the Ozark Trail Kids 2-lb Sleeping Bag.
These bags are ideal for those following “ultralight” guidelines to keep their packs as light as possible, typically under 10 pounds. Because they are so lightweight, they are great for multi-day backcountry trips and thru-hikes. To cut back on weight, they often use a narrower cut and thinner materials.
I used this bag two nights last weekend and found it was too cold on its own—lowest temp was 51 ozark trail chair degrees each of those nights. We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that’s designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
The primary consideration should be finding a bag that matches your warmth, size, and budget requirements. Backpacking sleeping bags are generally designed with a hood and a tapered sarcophagus shape that minimizes materials while maximizing thermal efficiency. Keep in mind, however, that the tapered shape of a mummy bag reduces the space for your legs, so some folks may find them uncomfortable. More careful research is also a good idea when you’re shopping for a backpacking sleeping bag because these models can be fairly expensive.
The roomy bag, 33 inches wide by 75 inches long, rolls up to a compact 14 by 8 inches. Made with soft polyester, the outer layer being a diamond ripstop material, the bag is both comfortable and durable. The zippers are sturdy, with no problems in the two years we have used them. Browse Ozark Trail’s top-rated sleeping bags and pads and more. The zipper broke on my warm weather bag on the second night out. Too bad too because overall I’ve had good luck with Ozark Trail stuff.
It’s a bit pricier, but you’re guaranteed a super cozy night’s sleep. The standout feature of this bag is its warmth, earning one of the highest scores in what is arguably the most important metric for a sleeping bag. It has a -10° F rating provided by loads of TechLoft insulation encased in canvas shell and cotton flannel lining. Although we wouldn’t recommend it down to quite that frigid of temps, it proved capable down to the single digits. On our first overnighter with the OutdoorZ Redwood, temps dropped to a chilly 25 degrees, but we stayed toasty warm. Details like double draft tubes and off-set stitching pattern reduce heat loss from even the tiniest of cracks.
For these folks, we suggest selecting a better value, such as the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15. This is our favorite budget bag because it combines 650-fill power down in a simple mummy design that offers a solid balance of performance characteristics. The warmth-to-weight ratio is impressive for an affordable option, and it packs smaller than other models that provide similar warmth. Its comfort and versatility may not be otherworldly, but they should be high enough to satisfy most shoppers.
Serious backpackers, however, should really consider spending extra for the MegaLite, or another bag from Western Mountaineering or Feathered Friends. Bags from these specialty manufacturers usually cost more than high-end models from other companies, but in our opinion, they greatly outperform premium models from their competitors. Bought this for backpacking because it is lightweight and packs small, but it is a complete waste of $45. Even with clothes, a thin liner and a fleece liner inside it, the bag could not dispel the cold.
This is definitely a budget bag, but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. If you are outfitting an entire household for your first family camp trip and just want something to get everyone out the door, then the Brazos is a great option to consider. We think it would also be a good choice for backyard campers or for use in an RV or camper where you don’t need as much protection. When it comes to classic sleeping bags, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a step above the rest.