Backpacking is a great way to explore the outdoors, but you need the right gear to do it comfortably and safely. One of the most important pieces of gear for backpacking is your sleeping bag.
But sometimes a sleeping bag can take up too much space in your pack and be difficult to carry. Fortunately, there are some simple tricks you can use to make your sleeping bag smaller for backpacking.
1. Choose a Sleeping Bag That Is Smaller To Begin With
The first step in making your sleeping bag smaller for backpacking is to choose one that is already small and lightweight. Down sleeping bags are typically the smallest and lightest because they compress down easily, but synthetic bags can also be small if they are designed with backpackers in mind.
2. Compress Your Sleeping Bag
Once you have the right size sleeping bag, you can compress it down even further by using stuff sacks or compression sacks.
These are specially designed sacks that allow you to compress your sleeping bag into a smaller size. Make sure you choose a sack that is rated for the size of your sleeping bag so it doesn’t get damaged during compression.
3. Roll Your Sleeping Bag
If you don’t have access to a stuff sack or compression sack, another way to make your sleeping bag smaller for backpacking is to roll it up tightly.
Start by laying out your sleeping bag on a flat surface and rolling it from one end until it’s all rolled up into a tight bundle. This will help reduce its bulk and make it easier to fit in your pack.
4. Store It In A Separate Compartment Of Your Pack
Finally, if possible, store your sleeping bag in its own separate compartment in your pack rather than stuffing it into an already full main compartment. This will help keep it from getting crushed under other items and give you more room for other gear.
Conclusion:
Making a sleeping bag smaller for backpacking doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. By choosing the right size sleeping bag, compressing it down with stuff sacks or compression sacks, rolling it up tightly, and storing it in its own compartment of your pack, you can make sure that your sleeping bag takes up as little space as possible while still providing comfort and warmth on those chilly nights out in the wilderness.