It’s also got a handful of features like a no-snag zipper and plush draft collar that add to its appeal. It’s a suitable choice for someone who wants to start camping but coleman cabin tent doesn’t want to shell out a ton of money for a more performance-oriented sleeping bag. The bags that surprised us the most were the Coleman Brazos and Coleman Kompact 20.
This implies a certain weight range and packed size, so they are heavy and bulky, but they are also comfortable. So these are not sleeping bags you would want to carry long distances. That said, we still recommend checking the weight and stuffed size that will be listed in the product specifications to get an idea of just how large and heavy the bags are. Synthetic bags are typically made with thicker fabrics and require more insulation to provide sufficient warmth, which can add up to a surprising amount of bulk. And if you’re considering a double bag (covered in more detail below), you’re talking about packed dimensions listed in feet rather than inches. If weight and packed size become important, a crossover backpacking/sleeping bag like the still-roomy NEMO Forte reduces both.
Most of the picks on our list are geared toward three-season use, but for campers who like to get out year-round, a cold-weather bag is essential. In this category, REI Co-op’s Frostbreak 5 stands out for its excellent warmth at a very reasonable price. Other functional additions include a well-insulated hood, draft tube, and differentiated drawcords (one round and one flat) that make it easy to adjust the aperture in the dark.
But, space is rarely unlimited, so we rated each bag according to its stowed size. The Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is the most comfortable out of the single bags, followed by the Teton Sports Deer Hunter, TETON Sports Polara 3-in-1, and Coleman Multi-Layer. The Multi-Layer has removable layers of padding and soft fabrics, as does the Polara 3-in-1. However, the two most comfortable single bags on our list are the Redwood and Deer Hunter. Both are oversized, traditional canvas bags with tons of space and padding. When comparing the two side by side, the Redwood is more comfortable because of its fabrics.
Both the Galactic and the MegaSleep can be placed in a compression stuff sack and reduced even smaller. The North Face Dolomite One comes in several packed sizes, depending on the layering system you choose. Compared to others we tested, the entire 3-in-1 system packs up relatively small. If only the top 50-degree quilt is attached, this bag’s packed size is dramatically reduced. Synthetic sleeping bags are a dime a dozen in 2023, but Coleman continues to stand out for their strong focus on value.
For instance, NEMO’s Forte 20 has a roomier fit than most traditional mummy bags, with a noticeable boost in space around the knees and elbows. This insulation is coupled with a water-repellent finish to ensure the sleeping bag stays moisture-resistant and warm throughout the night. They are also fitted with a no-snag zipper so you do not have to worry about the zipper snapping on you.
The sleeping pads in the list are ordered by weight from heavier to lighter. We also found the No-Snag patented zipper plow does an excellent job at preventing snags. We found that the manufacturer’s Fiberlock Construction really coleman tents did prevent insulation from shifting and moving after the bag had been extensively used. We feel it would be great for kids or teens, both of which tend to be hard on shoes, clothes, cars, and just about everything else.
For anything colder than that, you’ll need extra layers as well as a beanie, or you’ll want to consider another bag altogether. Most recreational campers won’t be sleeping in temperatures that low (it’s already transitioning into winter for me at that temperature), so this bag is practical for most people’s needs. There are advantages and disadvantages to both synthetic and down insulated sleeping bags. Down is more expensive, but can offer more insulation with less weight.
The one that came the closest is the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide. This bag employs a hooded design that traps heat around the head, helping it outperform hoodless bags like the Exped MegaSleep Duo handily. These are all either synthetic bags, or a combination of synthetic insulation and cotton flannel. Keeps you comfortable down to minus 5 degrees
Fits most up to 6 ft. 5 in. For the extensive sleeping bag review, I also interviewed experts who could speak to what makes a great sleeping bag and how to choose the right one for your needs. I talked to an assistant professor at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), Preeti Arya, who’s an expert in technical fabrics and sustainability.