Buying guide — Choosing your sleeping bag
How to choose your sleeping bag?
Your sleeping bag is your thermal protection at night. A bad choice can make your night uncomfortable, or even dangerous.
🌡️ 1. Comfort temperature
| Comfort rating | Use | Season |
|---|---|---|
| +10°C to +5°C | Summer camping in plains | Summer |
| +5°C to 0°C | 3-season hiking | Spring/Autumn |
| 0°C to -10°C | Mountain, cold conditions | Autumn/Winter |
| -10°C and below | Winter, high altitude | Extreme winter |
🧵 2. Filling
- Natural down: best warmth-to-weight ratio. Loses properties when wet. Slow drying.
- Synthetic (hollow cotton, Primaloft): retains properties when wet. Heavier. Cheaper.
📌 3. Shape
- Mummy: wraps the body, very warm and light. Ideal for hiking.
- Semi-rectangular: more freedom of movement. Less warm.
- Rectangular: maximum comfort, for car camping only.
⚖️ 4. Weight and compressibility
- Ultralight (< 600 g): demanding trek, high-quality down.
- Light (600 g – 1.2 kg): classic hiking.
- Standard (1.2 – 2 kg): camping, car trips.
💰 5. Budget
- Less than €80: occasional camping, summer.
- €80 – €200: 3-season hiking, good value for money.
- €200+: winter use, premium down, ultralight.