How Much Should My Sleeping Bag Weight for Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When you’re a backpacker, the weight of your sleeping bag is an important factor to consider. It can make or break your trip, so it’s important to find a sleeping bag that’s both lightweight and warm. The good news is that there are many options out there for lightweight and warm sleeping bags that won’t weigh you down on your next adventure.

The first thing to consider when choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking is the type of material it’s made from. Down is generally the lightest option, but it can also be more expensive than synthetic materials. Down also compresses more easily, so if you’re looking for a lightweight option that won’t take up too much space in your pack, then down might be the way to go.

Once you’ve decided which type of material you’d like your sleeping bag to be made from, the next step is to determine how warm it needs to be. This will depend on where you plan to use it – if you want something for summer backpacking trips in mild climates then something with a temperature rating of around 15-30 degrees Fahrenheit should be sufficient. For colder climates or winter backpacking trips, look for something with a temperature rating of at least 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

When it comes to weight, synthetic materials tend to be heavier than down options, but they are also less expensive and easier to find in different temperature ratings and sizes. Generally speaking, a lightweight synthetic sleeping bag should weigh between 2-3 pounds (1-1.5 kg). A lightweight down sleeping bag will usually weigh between 1-2 pounds (0.5-1kg).

Conclusion: When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking trips, it’s important to consider both the type of material it’s made from and how warm it needs to be in order to suit your specific needs. Generally speaking, lightweight synthetic sleeping bags typically weigh between 2-3 pounds while lightweight down bags usually weigh between 1-2 pounds – making them ideal for those looking for an ultralight option without sacrificing warmth or comfort on their trip.