Ozark Trail Mummy Sleeping Bag Review: Budget-Friendly Backpacking?

The Ozark Trail Mummy Sleeping Bag offers an incredible value for budget-conscious adventurers. Discovered at Walmart for under $20, this lightweight bag surprised its reviewer with its surprising warmth and performance far exceeding its price point. Initially skeptical due to the low cost, the reviewer put the bag to the test in various conditions, from breezy 45°F evenings to chillier 27°F nights with supplementary insulation. Weighing in at a mere 1 lb 8 oz, its compact size makes it perfect for backpacking.Despite its affordable price, this sleeping bag boasts several thoughtful features including a convenient chest pocket and a glow-in-the-dark zipper. While its 31°F rating might seem unusual, the reviewer found it adequately warm for various scenarios with the appropriate layering. Learn more about this surprisingly capable sleeping bag and discover if it’s the right budget-friendly option for your next camping or backpacking adventure.

Pros And Cons

Ozark Trail Warm Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag
  • Lightweight (1 lb 8 oz)
  • Roomy
  • Affordable (under $20)
  • Keeps user warm in temperatures down to 45-48°F (with wind)
  • Includes a chest pocket for phone or other items
  • Zipper glows in the dark
  • May not be warm enough for temperatures below 45-48°F without additional layers or an underquilt
  • May be too cold for some individuals (especially women) at 30°F or lower, even with additional layers.
  • User felt backside got cold quickly at 27°F even with additional layers.

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Initial Impressions and Price Point

Discovering this Ozark Trail warm-weather mummy sleeping bag at Walmart was a pleasant surprise. The price was incredibly low, under $20 in my area – a significant difference from a previous Walmart sleeping bag I reviewed, which cost only $10 but was far too bulky for backpacking.

Close-up of the Ozark Trail sleeping bag on the Walmart shelf.
Close-up of the Ozark Trail sleeping bag on the Walmart shelf.

The bag's compact size immediately suggested it could be a contender for lightweight adventures. Even the packaging highlighted its suitability for backpacking. For the price, I was skeptical of its capabilities to provide adequate warmth in cooler conditions.

The reviewer showing the compact size of the sleeping bag.
The reviewer showing the compact size of the sleeping bag.

Temperature Rating and Features

The sleeping bag's tag boasts an extreme weather rating of 31°F. While I found this a bit unusual (why 31° and not 30°?), the reviewer notes that women may need additional layers to remain comfortably warm due to differences in body temperature regulation.

The reviewer pointing to the temperature rating on the sleeping bag's tag.
The reviewer pointing to the temperature rating on the sleeping bag's tag.

Beyond the temperature rating, the bag boasts a few interesting features. It has a chest pocket ideal for a phone or hand warmers, and the zipper is a bright green that glows in the dark – a thoughtful touch for nighttime adjustments.

Real-World Testing and Performance

Initial skepticism turned to amazement upon testing. The reviewer used the bag in various conditions: sitting outside in windy 45-48°F weather, sleeping in a hammock with a draft, and even spending time outdoors in 27°F conditions (with an underquilt).

The reviewer in the sleeping bag in colder temperatures.
The reviewer in the sleeping bag in colder temperatures.

In the 45-48°F test, the reviewer remained warm for a prolonged period. Even in the hammock, with the addition of a 30° underquilt, warmth was maintained despite the lower temperatures. The 27°F test showed that while a t-shirt and shorts were insufficient to retain warmth all night, an underquilt significantly improved comfort levels.

Specifications and Final Verdict

Weighing in at just 1 lb 8 oz, this bag is incredibly lightweight for its price. The shell lining and filling are 100% polyester. Considering the low price and surprising performance across a range of temperatures, this sleeping bag provides excellent value for casual campers and budget-conscious adventurers.

The reviewer giving his final thoughts on the sleeping bag.
The reviewer giving his final thoughts on the sleeping bag.

Despite initial reservations about the temperature rating and build, this Ozark Trail sleeping bag exceeded expectations. It’s a solid choice for warm-weather camping and backpacking trips, and even acceptable for colder nights with additional insulation. Overall, it's a highly recommended budget-friendly option.