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A decent sleeping bag is a vital component for any off-the-beaten-track adventure, but it can be tricky to know where to start. Purchasing a new one doesn’t have to break the bank. There are many great options available, perfect for any kind of adventure you have planned.
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A good night’s sleep is essential for enjoying your adventures to the fullest, so it’s worth considering the purchase carefully. Our top pick was the MalloMe sleeping bag. It’s our winner because it is lightweight, durable, and a great value.
Coleman products are also excellent options for budget-conscious adventurers, especially for colder weather camping. The Brazos and The Mummy sleeping bags provided excellent warmth retention and benefitted from quality construction.
We’re looking at some of the best budget sleeping bags available to buy right now. Read on to learn more about how to pick the correct sleeping bag for your upcoming trips. Finally, we’ve answered some frequently asked questions about budget sleeping bags.
Also check out our list of best sleeping bags outside the budget category.
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For budget sleeping bags, the price-to-performance ratio on the MalloMe is tough to beat. MalloMe is a family-owned, American camping brand. Their sleeping bags provide great comfort after a day of adventure.
Perfect for all kinds of weather, this product is strong and waterproof. It benefits from a hex-tech design, polyester construction, high-quality stitching, and synthetic fiber fill for added warmth. At a list price of under 30 dollars, this product is great value for money.
Weighing three pounds, it’s great for backpacking trips. The waterproof outer shell can be easily wiped clean with a cloth, but it’s also machine washable. Good quality zippers are hard to find at low prices, but these are snag-free. There are drawstrings around the head space to keep the heat in.
The Coleman Brazos is loved for its soft lining and extra warmth on cold nights in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit. A popular budget option, it has several handy features for camping in cold climates.
It is durably constructed, with a stain-resistant polyester outer and a soft tricot liner, which is super cozy for sleeping in. The Brazos sleeping bag holds four pounds of proprietary ColeTherm insulation. A draft tube along the zipper keeps body heat from escaping.
A QuickCord system, with fasteners that lock the bag in place, it’s easy to roll or stuff, with no tying required. After a camping trip, throw it in the washer. Two of these sleeping bags can zip together to make a double bag, or provide extra room for one. It is suitable for campers up to 5 feet 11 inches.
The Oaskys sleeping bag is a three-season sleeping bag designed for temperatures between 50 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It ensures a comfortable night’s sleep in most weather conditions in spring, summer, and fall.
The half-circle hood is a useful addition for added insulation, with an adjustable drawstring to keep in the warmth. On warmer nights, a separate anti-snag two-way zipper at the bottom allows for an opening at both ends to help regulate temperature.
It is made from anti-tearing polyester, a fabric that is waterproof and breathable, with a tightly woven polyester pongee lining. There are four different sizes available depending on your height, so this sleeping bag will suit everyone in the family.
A mummy bag is a popular style of sleeping bag in the outdoor community. They are known for their excellent warmth retention. Their narrow shape and sculpted hood keeps in the heat.
This one from Coleman can cope with temperatures in all four seasons, even as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Made from polyester with ColeTherm insulation, the mummy bag features a non-snag zipper and a Thermolock draft tube, perfect for keeping the wind out on chilly nights.
It is a little heavier than some bags due to its insulation properties, but it is still easy to pack and carry around on trips. It is fairly spacious for this style of bag too, and it will fit campers up to six feet two inches.
The SWTMERRY sleeping bag offers great versatility for the price, with a weather-resistant design that matches the quality of some more expensive outdoor brands. Rectangular bags like this one can make excellent car camping bags, or they are perfect for sleepers who prefer a little extra room at night.
A zipper at the bottom allows it to open at both ends, and it is double-filled for extra insulation in cool weather. It has a double-filled technology, made from nylon, plush, and polyester. It packs so easily with a compression sack with carrier straps, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
At around three pounds, it is ultra-light for carrying around. These sleeping bags come in a range of colors and the bag is machine washable for extra convenience.
The Venture collection of sleeping bags offers plenty of options for campers. The XXL sleeping bag measures 90 inches long, making it suitable for the tallest of adventurers. The temperature rating is from 30 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The quality construction, which features high-grade polyester fabric for water resistance and durability, is perfect for rugged hiking and camping. It has a half-circle hood with an adjustable drawstring for warmth and comfort. There’s even a small pocket inside for your cell phone.
There are other options to consider in the collection, including a summer or 3-season sleeping bag. Or, why not choose a double sleeping bag for two? The XXL is the longest option available, the others measure 86.6 inches long, which is still roomy enough for most people.
For the price, this roomy sleeping bag is a great option for your next family camping trip. This kids’ sleeping bag comes in bright colorful designs that everyone will love, including blue camo, vibrant pink, or neon yellow and gray.
It’s designed for camping in temperatures of 45 degrees Fahrenheit and above, with ThermoTech insulation to keep the kiddos cozy all night long. You can even zip two of these rectangular bags together to create a double bag with more space.
The size is best suited for children up to 5 feet 5 inches tall. The materials are polyester and the inside features Comfort Cuff technology and an interior pocket, perfect for a flashlight or some small bits and pieces.
This all-season sleeping bag is a quality product, with its careful consideration for materials and lightweight packability.
The material is Taffeta, a crisp woven fabric that is smooth to the touch. It has microfiber insulation, and its soft polyester lining is double-brushed for a comfortable night’s sleep. This bag can keep you warm in chilly temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
The design features a roomy foot box to allow extra space at the bottom of the bag, and the mummy bag-style hood conceals maximum heat. It comes in a regular or short size. When packed, it weighs just under three pounds which makes it a good option for backpacking.
When you are looking for the best camping sleeping bags, it’s important to keep an eye out for a few key features. Considering the following.
Temperature Rating
To find the right sleeping bag, it’s important to check the sleeping bag temperature rating. The sleeping bag manufacturer will note the lowest temperature it should be used. It will also note whether it is an all-season or a 3-season sleeping bag.
Choose a sleeping bag with a temperature that matches or is slightly lower than the lowest temperature you will experience on your trip to ensure you stay warm enough.
Insulation Type
Sleeping bags are filled with either down or synthetic insulation.
Down sleeping bags tend to be the more expensive option, but down insulation offers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. It is easily compressed into a small size which is a particularly beneficial feature for backpacking sleeping bags. With proper care, down sleeping bags can last a long time.
Synthetic insulation is made from man-made materials, such as polyester. It is effective and can retain heat and dry quickly. If you are allergic to down, a synthetic sleeping bag can offer a hypoallergenic alternative, and it is also a more sustainable option. However, it might be heavier to carry than down.
Outer Shell and Inner Lining Material
Look for a sleeping bag with a durable outer shell that can resist tears and water. Look for materials that are durable and weather-resistant. Ripstop nylon, taffeta, and polyester are common materials for the outer shell. These materials are known for their lightweight yet robust qualities.
The inner lining is typically made from similar synthetic materials, or sometimes cotton. Polyester and nylon linings are commonly used. Cotton offers a natural, breathable option, but it is more likely to absorb moisture and take longer to dry.
Weight and Packability
It is important to take note of the weight and packed size if you are planning to use the sleeping bag on a backpacking trip, or if you will be carrying it for long periods. For a backpack that is lightweight and easy to carry, look out for one that weighs around three or four pounds.
You will also want to choose a sleeping bag that is easy to roll or stuff into a stuff sack. Check the dimensions and read reviews to find user experiences with packing the product. If you are looking to purchase a car camping sleeping bag, the weight and packed size are less of a consideration.
Size
It may sound obvious, but it’s important to choose a sleeping bag that is the correct size for you. Many sleeping bags come in several sizes depending on your height. Check the length and the width to sure it has enough space to suit your body size with room to spare.
Sleeping Bag Shape
There are a few different shapes to consider. The mummy shape is narrow in the body and tapered around the head with a neatly cinched hood. This style offers excellent warmth retention. Mummy shapes make great backpacking sleeping bags.
A rectangular bag provides more space and room to move, and it’s easier to ventilate and stay cool. Some rectangular bags can be zipped together to create double bags, but a hood is essential for the cold. If you are planning a trip somewhere cool, make sure the sleeping bag has a well-designed hood.
Zippers, Stitching, and Draft Tubes
The quality of the zippers can affect the product’s overall durability and ease of use. Check for draft tubes along the zipper to prevent cold air from entering the sleeping bag. Some bags also have draft collars around the neck area to prevent heat loss.
Good quality stitching on the seams of the sleeping bag is another important feature to look for. This will help protect you from water or cold air as well as give the sleeping bag durability and structural integrity.
Sleeping Pads and Sleeping Liners
You might also want to consider purchasing a couple of additional items. A sleeping pad and a sleeping bag liner will offer additional support and comfort for your adventure.
Sleeping bag liners add an extra layer between your body and the inside of the sleeping bag, helping keep the sleeping bag clean. This is especially beneficial for extended trips where washing the bag may be challenging.
Sleeping pads provide insulation from the cold ground, preventing body heat from being conducted away. In cool weather, a sleeping pad is essential for staying warm and comfortable during the night. A sleeping pad also provides an extra layer of cushioning for a better night’s sleep.
Budget Considerations
Set a budget before you start shopping and try to find the best balance between cost and features. There are quality budget sleeping bags available, especially if you can compromise on a few high-end extras. Factors like materials, construction, and brand can make a bag more expensive.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Research brands and read reviews from other campers to get an idea of the overall quality and performance of the product. Established brands such as Coleman or Teton often have a reputation for producing reliable gear.
You can also purchase in-store, which is a good way to investigate important details such as stitching, fabric quality, and lining. Go to REI Co-Op or Dick’s Sporting Goods to shop their range of the best budget sleeping bags in store.
These stores may be on the expensive side since they sell a range of premium outdoor brands and gear. Look out for sales and discounts at these stores to see if you can find a bargain. You can also find great deals online, or shop at online retailers such as Backcountry or Amazon.
Warranty and Return Policy
Check the warranty and return policy of the sleeping bag. A good warranty can give you confidence in the product’s durability, and a flexible return policy allows you to make adjustments if the bag doesn’t meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal temperature rating for a budget sleeping bag?
Understanding the temperature rating is crucial for staying warm during camping. Think about the weather conditions you will likely experience before making the purchase.
All sleeping bags will note a temperature rating. The rating indicates the range of temperatures in which the bag is designed to provide adequate insulation. Choose an all-season bag for cooler temperatures or a 3-season bag for warmer weather camping.
Are sleeping bags waterproof?
In general, sleeping bags are not designed to be fully waterproof like rain jackets or tarps. Instead, they focus on water resistance to protect against condensation, light rain, or accidental spills.
Many sleeping bags are treated with a Durable water-repellent (DWR) finish on the outer fabric. DWR coatings create a hydrophobic surface, causing water to bead up and roll off rather than soaking into the fabric.
Common outer shell materials for sleeping bags include nylon and polyester. These synthetic materials inherently offer some level of water resistance. When combined with DWR treatments, they enhance the overall ability to repel moisture.
It’s important to note that while these features enhance a sleeping bag’s ability to resist moisture, they do not make the bag completely waterproof. In heavy rain or submersion, a sleeping bag can still become wet.
What is the best type of insulation?
Budget sleeping bags usually feature synthetic insulation, made from polyester fibers. Synthetic insulation is water-resistant, durable, and quick-drying, which is useful for camping outdoors.
Down insulation keeps you very warm, but it can be a little more expensive. A down sleeping bag is lightweight, compressible, and suitable for backpacking.
Are mummy bags better than rectangular bags for budget-conscious buyers?
Both sleeping bag designs are effective, so it depends what kind of camping you plan to do.
Traditional mummy bags are compact and lightweight, which makes them ideal for backpacking. They are well-suited for cold weather with a tapered design that fits close to the body. Slim, narrow and versatile, the mummy bag is a popular style for outdoor activities.
Rectangular sleeping bags are often preferred for car camping, or situations where you don’t need to carry the sleeping bag around. They are roomy and spacious, with good air ventilation to keep you cool in warm weather. They are usually a more budget-friendly option.
How much should I spend on a sleeping bag?
All the bags on this list are all under $100. It’s very possible to buy a quality sleeping bag in this price range. If you are looking for a sleeping bag for mountaineering, longer trips, or camping in extreme conditions, it makes sense to invest more money in a sleeping bag that will meet these requirements.
The more expensive sleeping bag options are likely to include premium materials, down insulation, advanced construction, and specific features for cold weather.
How do I clean and maintain a budget sleeping bag?
Depending on the materials, most budget sleeping bags are easy to take care of. The outer shell should be easy to wipe clean. Always check if the item is machine washable. If you are storing a sleeping bag for a long period of time, it’s advisable to hang it in a closet so it doesn’t lose its insulating properties.
Conclusion
A sleeping bag offers great comfort to your evenings in the outdoors, and a cozy night’s sleep will help you make the most of your trip. However, it’s one of the few outdoor gear purchases that does not have to break the bank.
There are plenty of options available in your budget. Whether you’re car camping or backpacking, there’s a product to suit your needs. Consider the temperature rating, style, and weight. It’s also worth researching the durability of the materials if you are looking for one that will last a few adventures.
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