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Camping may be considered ‘roughing it’ by some, but spending a night outdoors in comfort is certainly possible with the right camping gear and equipment. Modern sleeping bags are designed to keep campers cozy in a variety of weather conditions. From compact backpacking bags that offer optimal warmth for their weight to roomier double sleeping bags, there are options to suit any camping style.
When selecting a sleeping bag, there are a variety of factors to consider. To help narrow your search, we tested 33 sleeping bags on camping trips around the country over the past two years to evaluate their comfort, ease of use, quality, packability, and value. Our picks for the best sleeping bags all scored highly in our real-world tests. Some stood out for specific features, while others were distinguished by performance in different weather conditions.
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Durable, comfy, and incredibly packable, this unisex sleeping bag checks the boxes for all types of camping. The mummy-style shape allows it to efficiently trap heat, as shown by a 10-20 degree Fahrenheit temperature rating and relatively low weight of 2.2-2.8 pounds (depending on size). While this design is often geared toward backpackers, car campers will appreciate the comfort and insulation it provides when temperatures drop.
The Nemo Coda Genderless Endless Promise Down Mummy Sleeping Bag comes in three sizes: short, regular, and long, effectively accommodating all heights up to six feet six inches. The bag did a great job of keeping us warm on cool fall nights. Anytime we felt like we were getting too warm, we could quickly unzip the footbox or the half-length entry to increase air flow and cool off. We appreciate how tightly the bag can fit around the head to trap out the cold and ensure swaddled comfort. We were also impressed with how compact the sleeping bag packs in the stuff sack despite how fluffy the down is. Though it retails at a higher pricepoint, we think that the quality materials, packability, and incredible amount of warmth are worth the investment.
The Details: 12 x 7 inches (regular) packed | 72 inches (regular) long | 2.4 pounds (regular) | Recycled polyester ripstop, recycled polyester taffeta, and 800-fill hydrophobic down | 10 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
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Keeping warm in cooler spring and fall weather is where the Guide Gear Sleeping Bag excels. We found the flannel interior to be soft, comfortable, and warm while camping in temperatures around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. We also appreciate that the spacious interior can accommodate various body sizes and sleeping positions without feeling constricted. Weighing nearly 13 pounds, the bag felt like a weighted blanket and was able to keep us warm in temperatures below freezing. However, it proved too warm for us when nighttime temperatures were in the mid 60s, since the sole ventilation in this no-frills sleeping bag is the two-way zipper. It doesn’t come with a carry bag: to pack up, simply roll it up and secure the three straps.
The Details: 20 x 16.5 x 16.5 inches packed | 90 x 39 inches expanded | 12.7 pounds | Polyester, cotton, and fiberfill | -30 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
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The Marmot Lost Coast 40-degree Sleeping Bag is an affordable unisex sleeping bag that doesn’t skimp on durability or functionality. We found the bag to be well made, comfortable, and easy to use. Some of the main selling points include the sturdy zipper that didn’t snag once during testing and the 600-fill down for its insulated warmth.
The mummy-style bag includes a draft collar for a snug fit, yet there was still enough room to sleep on our side and rotate. We found the sleeping bag very breathable, and there were only a few occasions when we unzipped it a bit to adjust the internal temperature. There’s an internal stash pocket that’s handy for stowing a phone or headlamp. We also appreciate that it comes with both a stuff sack and a more spacious bag to store it uncompressed between trips, which is key to extending the sleeping bag’s longevity.
The Details: 11.8 x 6.3 inches packed | 72 inches long | 2 pounds | Recycled polyester and 600-fill down | 40 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
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The Marmot Sawtooth Sleeping Bag 15F Down delivers excellent warmth and comfort for camping farther afield. The 15-degree Fahrenheit temperature rating makes it a great pick for camping at higher elevations or backpacking in early spring or late fall. We were pleased with how easy it is to unpack and repack in the stuff sack. Once out of the bag, a quick shake fluffed up the down, which was a dream to sleep on. We hardly noticed our sleeping pad underneath with the cloud-like cushion the down provided.
While camping in more temperate weather, it was a breeze to regulate the internal temperature by unzipping both sides or the vents at the foot area. The dual zippers are an ingenious feature, allowing precise ventilation and the ability to free your arms while keeping the sleeping bag otherwise zipped tight. A drawstring cinch cord further enhances the insulation of the mummy-style men’s sleeping bag. For a comparable women’s sleeping bag from Marmot, try the Teton 15F.
The Details: 7.5 x 16.1 inches (regular) packed | 72 inches (regular) long | 2.9 pounds (regular) | 20-denier recycled ripstop nylon and 650-fill-power duck down | 15 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
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The Sea to Summit Spark Down Sleeping Bag for women and men features puffy cushioning and feels very warm wherever you go. While the nylon exterior is thin and light, there is tons of down insulation that had us feeling like we were sleeping with a duvet. The mummy-style design fits close to the body to maximize the warmth of this lightweight sleeping bag, which clocks in under two pounds for the regular and long sizes. That light weight is perfect for backpackers and our tester was able to hike with it for three days throughout Wyoming without feeling weighed down.
We found the adjustable hood spacious enough to fit a camping pillow and keep it in place through the night. There’s also a draft collar for trapping out the cold. Even with the plush down insulation, the bag packs down to a compact size that’s ideal for backpacking or stowing in a carry-on bag. Though pricey, we think that frequent campers will get plenty of value (and many years of adventure) out of this investment.
The Details: 16 x 13 x 9 inches (regular) packed | 73 inches (regular) long | 1.6 pounds (regular) | 10D nylon, DWR treatment, and 850-fill Ultra Dry Down (RDS-certified) | 15 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
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The Coleman Flatlands Fleece 30-degree Fahrenheit Double Sleeping Bag is a true two-in-one deal. The unisex double sleeping bag can be zipped apart to have two single sleeping bags, making it a versatile and budget-friendly addition to your camping gear. We found the bag’s fleece lining to be very cozy and comfortable. However, it adds a good deal of weight (the double bag is nearly 12 pounds) compared to down fill. Though we found the rectangular shape gave us plenty of legroom and space for pillows, the extra room hinders insulation, so we are hesitant to push the limits of the temperature rating on a camping trip. We found the oversized zippers easy to use — they didn’t catch or snag once during testing. We appreciate that the double bag is machine washable, especially with the light blue exterior color that’s prone to showing dirt.
The Details: 20 x 13 x 12.5 inches packed | 81 x 66 inches expanded | 11.8 pounds | Polyester, Fleece, and Ecotherm fill | 30 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
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The Big Agnes Sidewinder SL 20 Sleeping Bag for men and women is an incredibly comfortable option that’s well worth the investment for side sleepers. Big Agnes calls itself ‘the Mother of Comfort,’ and we feel that the Sidewinder lives up to the claim. The extra insulation at the hips and feet enhanced our comfort and support while lying on our sides, making it a joy to sleep in. The contoured sleeping bag even moved with us seamlessly as we shifted from side to side. The materials felt rugged and of excellent quality that will last for years. We appreciate that it unpacks and packs into the stuff sack with minimal effort.
The Details: 8 x 17.5 inches packed | 72 inches (regular) long | 2.3 pounds (regular) | Ripstop nylon, polyester taffeta, and 650-fill-power DownTek/FireLine ECO | 20 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating
Others We Liked
Several other sleeping bags stood out during testing, but didn’t quite make the cut due to a few flaws. If you’re still weighing options, here are a few other sleeping bags worthy of consideration.
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Sleeping Quilt: Although we found this lightweight sleeping bag to be very packable and comfortable, its 20-degree Fahrenheit temperature rating wasn’t quite as hearty as other options.
Kelty Catena 30 Sleeping Bag: While we appreciated the roomy space to stretch out in this sleeping bag, we have concerns about the synthetic insulation providing ample warmth in colder temperatures.
Mountain Hardwear Phantom Gore-tex 0 Sleeping Bag: We were impressed with the quality construction and the loft of this sleeping bag, even going so far as to compare it to sleeping in a warm cloud. However, we felt the performance and price are a bit much for most car campers, backpackers, or anyone that isn’t mountaineering.
John Somerall / Travel + Leisure
Our Testing Process
To compile this list of the best sleeping bags, we sent 33 sleeping bags out with our camping experts on a series of overnight trips over the past two years. Before heading outdoors, our testers began by inspecting the quality of materials and construction, noting any unique features, number of entry points, and the overall durability for each sleeping bag. Our testers also assessed how easy it was to unpack and repack the sleeping bags, plus the functionality of the zippers and any other features.
Next, we spent a minimum of two nights sleeping in the bags while camping, though our testers will continue using these sleeping bags and collecting their insights for the next six months. On our camping trips, we evaluated the ease of setup, warmth, quality of materials, packability, and value of each sleeping bag.
Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox
Tips for Buying a Sleeping Bag
Look at temperature ratings
Choosing a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that meets your camping needs is a top priority. It’s helpful to think about when and where you plan to camp to determine the coldest weather you might encounter. Once you have an idea, you can focus your search on sleeping bags with a temperature rating at or below that threshold. I recommend choosing a bag that has you covered to go at least a few degrees colder, so you have the option to broaden your camping adventures. Pairing your sleeping bag with a sleeping pad that has sufficient insulation (measured as the R-value) is essential to getting the maximum warmth and performance from a bag.
Consider weight
Sleeping bag weight is usually a key factor for backpackers who are trying to lessen their packed load on the trail. But if you’re car camping, weight may not be top of mind with a sleeping bag. If you’re planning to stick to camping in summer or embark on a backpacking trip, then a sleeping bag that weighs two pounds or less should fit the bill. For a plusher option that’s suited for three-season use, you’ll probably be looking at a sleeping bag that’s three pounds or more.
Don’t forget accessories
Don’t overlook the benefits of accessories and extra features included in a sleeping bag. Some are designed to accommodate a pillow or connect to a sleeping pad — helping keep you and your gear in place for a sound night’s sleep. Other accessories to look out for include pockets and removable liners, depending on your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What style of sleeping bag is best?
The best style of sleeping bag depends on your body type, preferences, and the type of camping you’ll be doing. Mummy sleeping bags, for instance, excel at trapping heat efficiently with a lower weight to warmth ratio, making them ideal for colder weather or weight-weary backpackers. Other campers may prefer a rectangular sleeping bag design for more room to move around.
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Is it better to roll or stuff a sleeping bag?
Both synthetic and down fiber sleeping bags can be stuffed. If a stuff sack is provided, you’ll likely have better luck stuffing than rolling your bag to fit it back in. Note that down sleeping bags shouldn’t be compressed when storing long-term to avoid the down losing its loft, or in other words, insulating abilities.
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How long should a sleeping bag last?
A sleeping bag’s lifespan is impacted by how often it’s used, as well as the types of materials and insulation. Campers can expect synthetic sleeping bags to last for around five years, while down sleeping bags can stay in use for more than 10 years if cared for properly (for example, storing uncompressed).
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Do you put anything under a sleeping bag?
Sleeping bags are designed to be used with a sleeping pad. If you don’t match your sleeping pad to the temperatures you’re camping in, your sleeping bag may not provide the level of warmth listed on the temperature rating. Using a sleeping pad also helps extend the life of a sleeping bag by protecting it from wear and tear.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Kevin Brouillard is a commerce writer specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. He is an avid camper and used his firsthand experience as well as testing insights from T+L’s camping experts to compile this list of the best sleeping bags. His work has been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years.
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