Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags for Backpacking 2023
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Embarking on a backpacking adventure is always exciting and adrenaline-pumping.
However, ensuring that the gear you bring along is adept at tackling the conditions is crucial.
A vital piece of equipment is your sleeping bag – one that cannot handle the elements can lead to an uncomfortable night or even cause serious health conditions.
Therefore, it is important to use a quality sleeping bag and one that can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
We always enjoy using ultralight sleeping bags as it makes a backpack that much lighter.
In this guide, we will help you find the perfect best ultralight sleeping bag that fits your preference.
We will also guide you through a buyer’s guide, revealing some crucial tips you should remember the next time you buy a sleeping bag.
Best Budget Sleeping Bag
ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag
Price: $39.99
Temperature rating: 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)
Weight: 1.65 lbs (750g)
The ECOOPRO Warm Weather is probably the best ultralight sleeping bag if you are on a tight budget.
This sleeping bag is comfortable and ideal for warm weather sleeping conditions such as summer camping or just sleeping under the stars.
It offers great ventilation thanks to its two-way zipper and polyester fabric.
Benefits
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight and breathable – perfect for summer camping
Disadvantages
- Not suited for cold weather
- Durability could be better
Best Ultralight Sleeping Bag For Mild Temperatures
ZOOOBELIVES Ultralight Backpacking 32-50F Down Sleeping Bag
Price: $83.99
Temperature rating: 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C)
Weight: 1.9 lbs (860g)
The ZOOOBELIVES is one of the most versatile three-season backpacking sleeping bags.
It is highly compressible – reducing the space needed for it in your backpack.
We specifically enjoy the insulation and its durable water-repellent.
Overall, an ideal backpacking sleeping bag for warmer conditions.
Benefits
- Versatile – Perfect for mild weather
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
- Highly compressible
Disadvantages
- A bit expensive compared to the rest of the market
- Not suitable for winter or extremely cold conditions
Best Sleeping Bag For Colder Temperatures
ECOOPRO Down Sleeping Bag
Price: $99.99
Temperature rating: 20°F to 50°F (-6°C to 10°C)
Weight: 2.8 lbs (1.27 kg)
Without a doubt one of the most comfortable sleeping bags I have had the opportunity to sleep in.
This sleeping bag is ideal for three-season camping as it is filled with 600-fill power duck-down insulation – allowing for a great warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility.
The adjustable hood also adds a layer of protection against severe weather.
Benefits
- Great insulation and compressibility
- Extremely comfortable
- An adjustable hood adds a layer of protection.
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for extreme cold
- It might be too expensive for some
Best For Budget-Conscious Adults Who Want a Versatile Bag
TETON Sports TrailHead Sleeping Bag for Adults; Lightweight Camping, Hiking
Price: $64.99
Temperature rating: +20°F (-6°C)
Weight: 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg)
The TETON Sports TrailHead is perfect for adults who want a synthetic sleeping bag capable of withstanding moderate cold temperatures.
This sleeping bag features the classic mummy-style shape, which adds a layer of extra warmth retainment.
Overall, this sleeping bag is a great option for adults who don’t want to break the bank but still get value for money.
Benefits
- Synthetic sleeping bag – retains warmth when wet and dries fast
- Hood – an added layer of protection
- Value for money
Disadvantages
- Synthetic sleeping bag – not as compressible as a down bag
- Not suitable for extreme cold
- Mummy style can make some people feel claustrophobic.
Best Cheap Warm Weather Ultralight Sleeping Bag
BESTEAM Ultra-Light Warm Weather Envelope Sleeping Bag
Price: $28.99
Temperature rating: 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C)
Weight: 1.54 lbs (700g)
Most ultralight sleeping bags designed for warm weather are light, but this is extremely light – you don’t even feel it when placed in your backpack.
You can expect a spacious and comfortable sleeping bag, ideal for sleeping under the stars on a summer night. Additionally, it has a polyester shell with a liner to buff up its durability.
Benefits
- Extremely lightweight – perfect for children
- Cheap
- Spacious interior
Disadvantages
- Limited to summer and warm temperatures
Naturehike 1.26lbs Ultralight 800 Fill Power Goose Down Sleeping Bag
Price: $139.99
Temperature rating: Regular 42.8℉ to 51.8℉ and Extra Large 32℉ to 42.8℉
Weight: 1.26 lbs (570g)
The Naturehike is the most lightweight sleeping bag on this ultralight bag list. This can be accredited to the stuff sack being filled with 800-fill power goose-down insulation.
This ultralight backpacking sleeping bag also features high-quality craftsmanship and a little bit of innovation. If you have two Naturehike sleeping bags, you can join them together – perfect for sharing with your loved one!
Benefits
- Innovative and versatile – two Naturehike sleeping bags can be joined together to form a large bag perfect for sharing. It can also be used as a sleeping pad on warmer nights
- Best-in-class weight performance – Of all the lightweight sleeping bags on this list, the Naturehike is the most lightweight.
- High level of durability
Disadvantages
- Expensive
- Not suitable for conditions below 42 degrees
- Reduced performance in wet conditions
QEZER Ultralight Down Sleeping Bag for Adults
Price: $62.00, $79.99
Temperature rating: Min: 32°F, Normal Range: 44°F-62°F
Weight: 2.0 lbs (907g)
Most mummy bags provide a high level of protection against the elements, but this one excels in protecting you against the wind and cold, thanks to its 1.6″ cloth strips and 600-fill power.
Unlike synthetic sleeping bags, this bag allows for far easier transport in its compression sack. Overall, this is a great sleeping bag, but I would go for the ZOOOBELIVES instead.
Benefits
- 600-Fill power – Highly compressible and have high insulation properties
- The Hood provides extra protection against elements
- High level of durability
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for extreme cold
- It could be priced cheaper
KingCamp Down Sleeping Bag
Price: $94.99
Temperature rating: 10℉-45℉
Weight: 2.77lbs (1.26 kg)
What I like most about the KingCamp is its elegant and aesthetically pleasing design. Additionally, thanks to the envelope design, there is more than enough space for a person to sleep comfortably.
This 3-season sleeping bag is also stuffed with 650-fill power duck down. Like the Naturehike, you can also join two sleeping bags to create a sharing experience with your loved one. Overall, this is a great sleeping bag for a cold winter camping expedition.
Benefits
- Versatile – Can withstand a range of elements.
- Innovative – Can join two bags to create a sharing experience.
- High-quality sleeping bag with excellent durability
- Beautiful design
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for extreme wet and cold weather
- Could be lighter
Kelty Cosmic Synthetic Fill 20 Degree Backpacking Sleeping Bag
Price: $99.95
Temperature rating: 20°F (-6°C)
Weight: 3.0 lbs (1.36 kg)
The Kelty Cosmic is the ultimate synthetic sleeping bag if you want to brace yourself against the cold. It features smart thermal insulation – providing a good warmth-to-weight ratio and quick-drying capabilities.
Despite being a mummy bag, the Cosmic is also synonymous with comfort. The unique design incorporated by Kelty allows you to sleep comfortably and warm even in harsh environmental conditions.
Benefits
- Suitable for taking on the cold
- Quick drying capabilities
- Very comfortable
Disadvantages
- Heavy and not as compressible as the down bags
Hyke & Byke Eolus 0 F Hiking & Backpacking Sleeping Bag
Price: $215.99
Temperature rating: 0°F (-18°C)
Weight: 3.37 lbs (1.53kg)
No list would be complete if we didn’t include a sleeping bag ideal for subzero conditions. This is the only four-season sleeping bag on our list.
It features 800-fill power hydrophobic goose-down insulation. It has an amazing warmth-to-weight ratio and is highly compressible.
Even though it features the mummy shape design, it has a customer foot box – providing your feet with some extra room.
This sleeping bag is also protected by ripstop nylon – increasing durability and weather protection.
It is a great alternative to the more expensive sea to summit spark – providing similar performance in cold conditions.
Benefits
- Four-season design
- Highly durable
- Extremely comfortable
Disadvantages
- Very expensive
- Heavier than typical down bags
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Sleeping Bag
As you already know, a sleeping bag is an essential part of your outdoor gear.
Therefore, choosing the right sleeping bag is vital to ensure you have a pleasant and comfortable night’s rest under the stars.
We compiled a list of important factors to consider when buying a sleeping bag:
Price
First, you need to define your budget.
What are you comfortable spending on a sleeping bag – quality ultralight sleeping bags can quickly become very expensive.
Use case
Consider what scenario you will most often need your sleeping bag.
A lightweight and more compressible sleeping bag is better if it is for backpacking.
Also, if you are going to be backpacking, look for a sleeping bag with a ripstop or nylon outer shell – allowing it to withstand the wear and tear of the elements.
Size
Make sure the sleeping bag matches your body’s length and width.
Shape
Consider the shape of the sleeping bag.
We have three general shapes, each with its distinct advantages and disadvantages.
A rectangular bag has more room for movement but is bulkier.
A mummy bag is tapered at the feet and has a hood.
They are typically more thermally efficient but less spacious.
Finally, we have the semi-rectangular bag, an intermediary between the two previously mentioned shapes.
Insulation
Sleeping bags are typically manufactured either with synthetic insulation or down insulation (duck feathers).
Most sleeping bags that are synthetic usually costs less than down insulation.
However, consider the down insulation if you want the best ultralight sleeping bag with a better warmth-to-weight ratio.
Temperature Rating
When buying a sleeping bag, consider the elements and temperature you will be exposed to the majority of the time.
A sleeping bag is typically rated by its “lower limit” (for men) and “comfort” (for women) temperature.
We advise you to buy a sleeping bag rated for slightly colder temperatures than you anticipate.
Know The Actual Sleeping Temperature Of Your Sleeping Bag
It is important that you know the actual sleeping temperature of your sleeping bag.
The last thing you want is to face severe cold conditions with a subpar sleeping bag.
Therefore, do thorough research on the actual sleeping temperature rating of your sleeping bag, as it can be influenced by numerous factors, including:
- Sleeping pad: The best backpacking sleeping bags provide insulation from the cold ground.
- Weather Conditions: In addition to the cold, other weather factors can also influence your sleeping bag’s performance.
- Factors like humidity, wind, and rain can affect how adept your sleeping bag is at facing the elements. A down bag is better for a cold dry, whereas synthetic bags are better for wet conditions as it dries quicker.
What is considered a lightweight sleeping bag?
A lightweight or ultralight sleeping bag is one that has a minimal impact on your backpack’s overall weight.
But still being able to provide you with a warm and comfortable night’s rest.
When searching for a lightweight sleeping bag, you typically want one within the region of 1 to 3 pounds and ultralight sleeping bags weighing below 2 pounds.
A down-insulated bag is typically lighter than a synthetic bag, although the extent of the insulation influences the weight.
Are 0-degree Sleeping Bags Worth It?
Yes, but only if you plan to go on expeditions that involve severe cold weather, as these bags can provide sufficient insulation to keep you warm in environmental conditions as low as 0°F (-18°C).
A 0-degree sleeping bag is very expensive.
Therefore, deciding beforehand how often you will use this sleeping bag in extremely cold temperatures is important.
If your outdoor expeditions are primarily centered around mild to warm weather conditions, then a 0-degree bag will be unnecessary.
Rather purchase an ultralight sleeping bag that is lightweight and comfortable to sleep in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Ensure My Ultralight Sleeping Bag Remains Durable?
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and cleaning. Always handle your sleeping bag carefully and store it decompressed in a cool and dry environment.
Can I Use An Ultralight Sleeping Bag For Winter?
Most ultralight sleeping bags are rated for three-season use. Therefore, it is not advised to use it for winter unless your sleeping bag is rated to handle subzero temperatures.
The Bottom Line
So remember, when you want to buy a new sleeping bag, there are several factors to remember. These factors all contribute to the practicality of the sleeping bag and how enjoyable it will be for you to use it.
Also, remember that the most expensive sleeping bag won’t necessarily have the best temperature rating. Place extra emphasis on the temperature rating before buying, and ensure the rating suits your needs.
When buying a sleeping bag, you should also consider the insulation type (down or synthetic), weight, and compressibility.
Ultimately, the best backpacking sleeping bags have the perfect balance between warmth, weight, comfort, and durability.
The best ultralight bags currently on the market are listed in this article. They all have specific benefits and disadvantages you should consider before buying your sleeping bag.
In the end, whichever sleeping bag you decide to buy from this list for your use case will leave you satisfied. Happy camping
Written By David Ignatchuk
April 2, 2023
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