Choosing the right backpacking sleeping bag can make or break your trip. A poorly chosen bag can lead to uncomfortable, sleepless nights, impacting your overall experience and enjoyment. This comprehensive review explores five top contenders, each offering unique features and benefits to cater to different needs and preferences. We'll delve into their strengths and weaknesses, considering factors like weight, packability, temperature ratings, and insulation type (down vs. synthetic). Whether you prioritize ultralight backpacking, extreme cold-weather conditions, or luxurious comfort, we've got you covered.This review examines the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20, North Face Furnace 20, Nemo Disco 30, Marmot Ultralight Elite 20, and REI Co-op Magma 15. We'll assess their performance in various conditions and highlight key features, such as fill power, design innovations, and additional functionalities. By the end of this review, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to select the best backpacking sleeping bag to ensure restful nights under the stars, no matter the adventure.
Pros And Cons
- Ideal for side sleepers
- Plush comfort
- Spoon shape with generous cut at elbows and knees
- Thermal gills for temperature regulation
- Blanket fold for comfort
- Waterproof and breathable footbox
- Left-sided zippers on men's and right-sided zippers on women's allow for zipping together
- Integrated pillow pocket
- Lightweight and cozy
- Highly compressible
- Made with HL Elixir Micro synthetic insulation
- 3D hood construction
- Internal stash pocket
- Snag-free insulated draft tube
- Drawcord
- Super guards
- Under two pounds
- Super lightweight and compressible
- Generous knee and foot space
- Feathered baffle construction for efficient warmth-to-weight ratio
- Down-proof products shell
- Water-resistant 850 fill power down
- Trapezoidal footbox
- Toe box baffle positions down
- Variable baffle spacing for thermal efficiency and weight reduction
- Contoured hood retains warmth
- Packs down small
- Keeps you cozy and comfortable
- Minimal weight
- 900 fill power Nikwax hydrophobic down resists moisture and maintains loft
- Ergonomic shape and long zipper
- Synergy Link connectors integrate with mattress
- Zoned insulation maximizes warmth and saves weight
- 2019 Backpacker Magazine Editor's Choice Award
Read more: Best Mummy Camping Sleeping Bags: Top 5 Picks
Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20: Ultralight Comfort
The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 is a top contender for ultralight backpacking. Its 900 fill power Nikwax hydrophobic down resists moisture, maintaining loft and warmth even in damp conditions. This sleeping bag packs down remarkably small, making it ideal for minimizing pack weight without sacrificing comfort.
The ergonomic design and long zipper enhance usability, while the SynergyLink connectors integrate seamlessly with a sleeping pad for maximum comfort and efficiency. Zoned insulation maximizes warmth where you need it most, further contributing to the bag's impressive warmth-to-weight ratio.
This sleeping bag received a Backpacker Magazine 2019 Editor's Choice award, a testament to its performance. It comes with both a storage sack and a compression stuff sack.
The North Face Furnace 20: Reliable Warmth for Cold Climates
The North Face Furnace 20 is a mummy-style sleeping bag designed for cold-weather backpacking. Its 550 fill power ProDown offers reliable insulation down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, keeping you warm even in frigid temperatures.
The water-resistant down construction means it absorbs less moisture and dries faster than traditional down, making it a practical choice for unpredictable weather. The addition of a synthetic heat seeker Eco insulation layer on the underside adds extra thermal protection.
Features like a shaped footbox for added warmth and comfort, and an anti-compression layer enhance its performance. This is a great choice for high-altitude backpacking where temperatures can plummet.
Nemo Disco 30: Plush Comfort for Side Sleepers
The Nemo Disco 30 is a unique backpacking sleeping bag ideal for side sleepers. Its spoon-shaped design and generous cut at the elbows and knees offer unparalleled comfort throughout the night.
Features like thermal gills for temperature regulation, a blanket fold for a snug feel, and a waterproof/breathable footbox for protection from condensation enhance its usability. Left and right-sided zippers allow two bags to zip together for couples.
An integrated pillow pocket adds convenience. Overall, this bag prioritizes comfort and features without sacrificing packability, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing a luxurious sleep on the trail.
Marmot Ultralight Elite 20: Lightweight and Warm Synthetic Option
The Marmot Ultralight Elite 20 is a lightweight, compressible sleeping bag ideal for backpacking. Its HL Elixir Micro synthetic insulation provides warmth and comfort, even in cold conditions, while remaining surprisingly lightweight.
Features like a 3D hood construction, an internal stash pocket, and an insulated draft tube contribute to its performance. Despite using synthetic insulation, it maintains a low weight, minimizing pack burden.
The bag offers excellent warmth-to-weight performance and a comfortable sleep experience even on very cold nights. Its design is optimized for backpacking and comfort.
REI Co-op Magma 15: Warmth and Compressibility for Backpacking
The REI Co-op Magma 15 is a super lightweight and compressible down sleeping bag built for warmth and comfort on backpacking trips. Its 850 fill power down, water-resistant shell, and 15-denier lining contribute to its superior performance.
Features like a trapezoidal footbox, toe box baffle, and variable baffle spacing optimize warmth and reduce weight. The contoured hood and low-profile pillow space further improve comfort and packing efficiency. It also comes with a stuff sack and a breathable storage sack.
This bag offers a great balance of warmth, compressibility, and comfort, making it ideal for a variety of backpacking conditions. Its lightweight design minimizes pack weight without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Backpacking Sleeping Bag
The best backpacking sleeping bag depends on individual needs and preferences, including budget, weather conditions, and personal comfort levels. The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 stands out for its ultralight design and excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, while the North Face Furnace 20 is a reliable option for cold climates.
The Nemo Disco 30 prioritizes comfort for side sleepers, while the Marmot Ultralight Elite 20 is a solid synthetic choice. The REI Co-op Magma 15 provides a superb blend of warmth, compressibility, and comfort.
Consider factors like fill power (down or synthetic), weight, packability, and temperature rating when making your decision. Each of the reviewed sleeping bags offers excellent value and performance in its respective category.