Going hiking is an adventure that can help you clear your mind, reduce stress and be in touch with nature. In the midst of our hectic and stressful lives, finding the time to go hiking or camping can help us improve our relationship with nature. However, no matter how lovely, nature can be harsh and challenging.
If you're an adventurer who would rather stay outdoors and sleep under the stars, you will need to get suitable equipment so you can have a restful, warm and comfortable sleep. No matter if you're carrying a tent or sleeping under the stars, you will need a sleeping bag. Light sleeping bags for hiking are excellent if you're going to walk a lot. Choose a model that will not put too much weight on your shoulders and feels comfy and warm enough. Here's what you need to know.
Camping vs Hiking Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags might not look any different to a beginner's eye, but there are different types. There is a big difference between hiking and camping sleeping bags. Hiking sleeping bags are more lightweight, and when you pack them they are smaller. Also, they provide more warmth even if they don't weigh too much.
If you're looking for a hiking sleeping bag, you'll be easily able to tell the difference from a camping model. It's essential to know where you'll use it - hiking or hiking and camping. If you're doing both, go for a hiking bag since it's more lightweight and won't add weight to your back. This will ease the walking on long distances.
Consider Sleeping Bag Temperature Ratings
The temperature ratings show the lowest temperature at which you can use the bag and feel warm. If you aren't sure about your next sleeping bag, always go for a lower temperature rating. This way you can be sure that you'll never feel cold. If the sleeping bag feels too hot, you can always open the bag to cool down.
Insulation Types
When looking for light sleeping bags for hiking, it's essential to check the insulation. There are various types and you should consider getting the right one based on the area and climate where you will use the sleeping bag.
Synthetic Insulation
Synthetic is a great insulation for a sleeping bag and has a great price. This insulation will keep you warm even in damp climates. Most of the synthetic insulation is made of polyester and almost all well-known brands and manufacturers offer this material.
Down Insulation
Down is a more expensive version than synthetic insulation. Its good side is that it's much lighter and more compressible. Down is more durable than synthetic insulation, which means it will maintain a consistent level of warmth for a longer time. With proper maintenance, it will last for decades.
Down/Synthetic Blends
Many manufacturers go for down and synthetic blends. The synthetic insulation usually goes at the bottom, where it will compress less and the down is added to the top. Such a blend has a primary factor in the size of the sleeping bag. If you need a compressed volume, then a down and synthetic blend will serve you well. If you need light sleeping bags for hiking, then seek this blend.
Sleeping Pad and Bag
Your comfortable sleep isn't given only by the sleeping bag, but by the pad as well. A sleep system has three basic components: the sleeping bag, the sleeping pad and your clothing. A sleeping bag that has less insulation won't keep you warm in colder climates. You will have to get a sleeping pad as well.
The testing of sleeping bags is done on a fully clothed person who wears long underwear and socks. The testing is done by sleeping on an insulated pad with an R-value of 5.5. If a sleeping bag is rated that it should provide you warm even in colder climates but fails to do that, maybe it's well insulated for the area where you hike or camp. Chances are, you probably will have to get a sleeping pad and wear comfortable and warm clothes (underwear and socks including).
Weight and Shape
The weight matters, especially if you're going hiking. You will carry the bag on your back, so the heavier it is, the more challenging walking will be for you. Heavier sleeping bags will make you feel tired quicker. This is why you should consider how much the sleeping bag weighs. Heavier bags add to the warmth, but then again, you should consider the climate. If it's a mild climate, then you won't need to get a sleeping bag that is too heavy. Check the temperature rating so you can get the right model for your needs.
When it comes to shape, you should get a sleek shaped bag that has a snug fit and feels lighter. There are three shapes of sleeping bags - mummy, semi-rectangular and rectangular. The mummy has a slim cut and contoured hood that gives more warmth. The semi-rectangular one is a modified mummy shape, while the rectangular one gives the most space.