How Big Should Your Sleeping Bag Be Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When backpacking, you need to have the right sleeping bag for your trip. The size and type of sleeping bag you choose will depend on the terrain and weather conditions you may encounter. Having a sleeping bag that is too big or too small can make for an uncomfortable night.

A good rule of thumb is to select a sleeping bag that is rated for the coldest temperature you think you may encounter. If the weather conditions will be warmer, then you can always use additional blankets or clothing layers to adjust your warmth level, but if it gets too cold, your sleeping bag won’t be able to keep up. Most backpacking bags are rated from +20°F/-7°C up to -30°F/-34°C depending on how much insulation they contain.

When determining the size of your backpacking sleeping bag, there are two main considerations. The first is the overall length of the bag.

This should be based on how tall you are so that you don’t end up with feet that stick out at the end of the bag. Most bags are available in regular (up to 6′ tall) and long (up to 6’6″ tall) sizes.

The other consideration is the width or girth of your bag. This should be based on how wide your shoulders are so that your arms and torso fit comfortably inside without feeling constricted.

Conclusion:

Choosing a backpacking sleeping bag requires careful consideration of both size and warmth rating. Select a length that fits your height and width that fits around your shoulders comfortably in order to ensure a good night’s sleep during those long backpacking trips.