Sleeping Bags: The Ultimate Buyers Guide

Whether you’re hiking the high country, car camping with the family, or prepping for a snowy alpine expedition, choosing the right sleeping bag is essential. Your sleeping bag isn’t just another piece of gear—it’s your portable bed, your shelter from the cold, and your key to getting solid rest in the wild.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before investing in a sleeping bag, from temperature ratings and insulation types to fit, weight, and packability. No matter your adventure style or budget, this is your complete guide to finding the perfect bag.

Check out our article: how to build a winter sleep system

Sleeping Bags for Camping: What You Really Need

When it comes to sleeping bags for camping, comfort and versatility are top priorities. Unlike ultralight sleeping bags designed for backpacking, camping bags can afford to be a little heavier and roomier—because you’re not carrying them far. Here’s what to look for in a great camping sleeping bag: Shape: Rectangular or semi-rectangular bags are ideal for camping. They offer more room to move and feel more like a traditional bed.

Temperature Rating: For most Australian conditions, a sleeping bag rated between 0°C to 10°C is suitable. Look for EN/ISO temperature ratings for more accurate comparisons.

Insulation: Synthetic insulation is great for casual campers—it's affordable, quick-drying, and retains warmth when damp. Down is lighter and warmer but comes at a higher price point.

Features: Look for extras like stash pockets, draft collars, and zippered ventilation to customise your comfort. If you're camping in a tent, van, or swag, a versatile and roomy bag will keep you comfortable across a range of conditions.

The best sleeping bags: top features to look for

With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best sleeping bags for your needs. Instead of focusing on brand alone, here are the key features that separate average bags from exceptional ones:

1. Temperature Ratings that Match Your Conditions

The most important spec is the temperature rating. A bag that's too warm will cause you to sweat, while one that's not warm enough will ruin your night.

• Comfort Rating is what an average sleeper will find comfortable.

• Limit Rating is the lowest temp before you risk being cold.

• Extreme Rating is for survival—not comfort.

2. Down vs Synthetic Insulation

• Down insulation is lighter, more compressible, and longer-lasting. Perfect for backpackers and cold weather.

• Synthetic insulation is bulkier but more affordable and performs better in damp or humid conditions.

3. Weight and Pack Size

For backpackers, every gram matters. Choose the lightest bag that still meets your warmth needs. Many premium bags now weigh under 1kg and pack down to the size of a water bottle.

4. Durability and Materials

Look for tough outer shells and high-quality zippers. Some bags also come with a water-repellent (DWR) finish to keep condensation or light moisture at bay.

5. Fit and Shape

Slim mummy bags trap heat efficiently, while roomier rectangular designs provide comfort and mobility. Some brands even offer women’s-specific cuts for better thermal efficiency and comfort.

Sea to Summit Sleeping Bags Comparison

Deciding between the Sea to Summit Spark and Ascent sleeping bags? This guide breaks down the key differences to help you choose the right fit for your next adventure. Whether you need the ultralight performance of the Spark for fast-and-light missions or the comfort and versatility of the Ascent for varied camping conditions, we cover everything from temperature ratings to insulation, weight, and shape. 



Plus, we explore how adding a sleeping bag liner can boost warmth and comfort in both models. Discover which of these two premium Sea to Summit bags deserves a place in your pack.

Sleeping Bags for Winter: How to Stay Warm

If you’re heading into cold conditions, choosing the right sleeping bags for winter is critical—not just for comfort, but for safety.

Here’s what to consider when buying a winter-rated sleeping bag:

• Temperature Rating of -5°C or lower: Look for bags with EN/ISO comfort ratings below freezing. In alpine or snow conditions, a bag rated to -10°C or colder is often required.

• Draft Protection: Features like insulated draft collars, zipper baffles, and hood cinches help seal in warmth and block out cold air.

• Hydrophobic Down or Synthetic Fill: Winter conditions often mean snow and condensation. Choose insulation that resists moisture.

• Compression and Loft: A good winter bag should compress well for packing but loft up quickly for warmth when unpacked.

• Layering Compatibility: Consider pairing with a sleeping bag liner to add up to 5°C of warmth or to protect the inner shell from body oils and dirt.

Pro tip: Always combine your sleeping bag with a high-quality sleeping mat. Much of your body heat escapes into the ground without a proper insulated base layer.

Accessories that make a big difference

To get the most out of your sleeping bag, consider these handy add-ons:

• Liner for sleeping bag: Adds warmth, keeps your bag cleaner, and is easy to wash. Check out our range of sleeping bag liners

• Compression sack: Reduces packed size for travel. We have a range of compressions bags available

• Storage sack: Helps preserve the loft of your bag when not in use.

• Pillow insert: Some sleeping bags come with a sleeve to hold your pillow in place.
  
  

Choosing the right bag for your adventure

Still not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide based on activity type: