How Do You Sleep on a Backpacking Quilt?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking quilts are becoming an increasingly popular choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers. They provide more warmth than a sleeping bag, but are much lighter and more compact. But how do you actually sleep on a backpacking quilt?

The most important thing to consider when sleeping on a backpacking quilt is insulation. A high-quality quilt will be insulated with down or synthetic materials, which trap heat in air pockets and keep your body warm.

You’ll need to make sure that the quilt is large enough to cover you completely, including your head, feet, and sides. It should also have straps or ties that can be used to secure the quilt around your body while you sleep.

Once you’ve got the right sized and insulated quilt, it’s time to get comfy! Laying out a sleeping pad underneath you will provide an extra layer of insulation between you and the ground, as well as cushioning for your hips and shoulders.

If it’s cold outside, try wearing a light hat or even a balaclava to help keep your head warm. To keep from slipping off your pad during the night, try wearing lightweight pajamas made from moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials like polyester fleece.

Layering Your Quilt: Another important factor in staying warm while sleeping on a backpacking quilt is layering. If it’s cold outside, adding an extra layer of insulation over top of your quilt can help trap heat closer to your body. Layering can be as simple as adding another blanket over top of your quilt or using one of the many varieties of camping blankets that are specifically designed for this purpose.

Staying Warm: Lastly, staying warm while using a backpacking quilt comes down to having the right clothing and staying hydrated throughout the day. Wear lightweight base layers made from moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials like polyester fleece to stay warm without adding too much bulk or weight. Additionally, keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day will help regulate your body temperature when night comes.

Sleeping on a backpacking quilt can be comfortable if you take the time to make sure that it’s properly insulated and layered properly with other blankets or camping blankets. Wearing lightweight base layers made from moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials like polyester fleece will also help keep you warm throughout the night.

Conclusion: With some careful preparation and planning ahead of time, sleeping on a backpacking quilt can be comfortable even in cold weather conditions.

It’s important to choose an appropriately sized and insulated model with straps or ties that secure it around your body while you sleep. Layering with other blankets or camping blankets can also provide extra warmth when needed while lightweight base layers made from moisture-wicking fabrics help regulate temperature.