Best Sleeping Bags

If you’re looking for a lightweight sleeping bag for backpacking, choosing one with down insulation is your best bet. Down insulation is lightweight and helps retain heat, while synthetic insulation is heavier but works better in wetter climates. Many backpacking sleeping bags feature baffles that maximize loft and minimize cold spots, as well as adjustable hoods and collars for added warmth.

For colder climates, a sleeping bag featuring either synthetic or down insulation is a safe choice. Just remember, synthetic insulation offers better warmth even when wet, meaning it will be able to hold up in drizzly or snowy conditions. Our Experts picked this ALPS OutdoorZ rectangular sleeping bag, but a mummy-style sleeping bag with a hood is also a great option for colder weather, as the hood traps in heat around your head and neck.

A weekend at a drive-up campsite is a great way to get outside, and you don’t have to break the bank to stay warm. For family camping trips, a sleeping bag made with synthetic insulation will do the trick. Synthetic insulation is a more affordable option and can be used in wetter climates.

When choosing a kids' sleeping bag, parents should take into consideration the type of use it will get, whether it’s for sleepovers or camping, and find a bag that is the right size to keep their child warm and safe.