Finding the Best Sleeping Bags

Our Top 3 Basics You Need to Know...

It's one thing sourcing a sleeping bag for an adult but even more care and forethought needs to be given when sourcing such an item for a child. Your child's safety and comfort is front of mind and of course you want to pick a model they will love too. But some of the areas you need to consider when picking the best sleeping bags are the same whatever size you are – so first things first - make sure you've got a grasp of the basics.

Here are our top 3 things you need to consider when it comes to choosing a  sleeping bag best for you and your family.

Toasty tootsies or the Big Freeze

Sleeping bags keep you warm by trapping a layer of non-circulating air against  your body which your body then warms – then the sleeping bag creates a block between it and the outer colder ground air. However there is a big difference between snuggling up on the couch indoors versus a night under the stars.

One of the most important things to consider before you purchase is how your kid will use their sleeping bag and what temperature they will be in. It's important the bag keeps them warm at night.

Sleeping Bag Temperature (in Farhneit)

Winter -10 and lower
Cold Weather -10 to 10
3 Season Bag -10 to +35
Summer +35

Note: Most camping bags feature a temperature rating between +15°F and +50°F.

And bear in mind that every one is different when it comes to body heat – and as a general rule – girls feel the cold more than boys.

Smooth Synthetic or Daffy Duck Down 

There are normally two choices as far as the best sleeping bags materials go, most people opt for fibre or synthetic materials which are more kid friendly too. Usually constructed of polyester, these bags dry quickly, are able to insulate even when they are wet and make cheaper sleeping bags than down filled bags. They are robust enough to stand up to a bit of rough and tumble with children and pets and they are also non allergenic.

Down insulation sleeping bags are a higher quality material than synthetic materials and have the price tag to match. They compress well and are more durable than their fibre counterparts but prove troublesome when wet.

Overall we would recommend synthetic as the best material for children for its durability, and the fact that it is non allergenic.

The shell and lining of a sleeping bag is also often made with nylon or polyester. Many shells these days come with a water resistant repellent (Durable water repellent - DWR)– to see if your sleeping bag has been treated try dripping some water onto it and seeing if it beads up. This will let you know that its water resistant.

Shape, Size and Style

The most common sleeping bag size is rectangular but these offer less warmth and insulation than other tapered styles due to the amount of extra air space inside.  Mummy shapes (after the Egyptian dead – not Mommies!) are popular with backpackers and the outdoor types for their extra insulation but the design doesn't afford a lot of wriggle room. Many big name camping brands also offer the same quality adult designed sleeping bags for little people with models that have the same construction and insulation levels.