To assist, we need to make sure you've mastered your sleeping arrangements before it comes time to pitch your tent. All sleep-jokes aside, there are a number of factors, ratings and conditions you need to keep front of mind when selecting the correct style for you. Follow our guide below to make your nights in the outdoors is a time of rest and recharge.
- Climate
First things first, the climate. Before you do anything, ask yourself where and when you intend to go camping. The answer will directly effect the style, sizing and temperature of your sleeping bag. Just imagine heading on a three-week summer coastal trek with a bulky, over warm sleeping bag… or perhaps an inland winter trip with a lighter, cooler rated style – the thought makes you shiver!
- What type of sleeper are you?
Have you ever thought about whether you're a 'heat' or 'cool' sleeper? Not many people do. It may be a little too late to have the conversation over a campfire once you're there, right? So to find out what type of sleeper you are, consider how you would sleep at home with the temperature set to 18 degrees and if you are travelling to a warmer or cooler climate and tick off the checklist below.Did you know the more space you have in your backpack, the more heating your body has to do to keep warm? Extra leg room might be a great idea at the time, but it can work against you if you don't allow for this in your bag's temperature rating. The shape of your sleeping bag, the type of activities you'll experience on your journey and what you'll be eating during the day are all equally important in generating heat.
- How your sleeping bag works
Trust us, it's not as straightforward as it seems. Even once you pick the correct ratings, using your sleeping bag incorrectly can make you feel chilled. We also recommend storing your sleeping bag out of its carry bag during summer and as soon as you get to your campsite to assure the insulation lofts faster and isn't crushed so that you can get as much use as possible in the coming years.