The best sleeping bags for camping in the UK 2023

For children or adults, sarcophagus or rectangular, single or double, there are different shapes and sizes of sleeping bags for camping. 1 out of 3 English people practice this activity, in addition to hiking. Choosing a comfortable model, of reasonable weight and which protects from the cold is not so simple. To help you, we have reviewed the best sleeping bags.

Coleman Festival Double 1
9/10

Best value for money

Coleman Festival Double

Best sleeping bag in 2021

Going camping with your other half? Why not choose this double camping sleeping bag? Thanks to its 225 x 150 cm, you will be able to snuggle up to each other, nice and warm, under the stars.

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The Coleman Festival Double Camping Sleeping Bag is rectangular in shape, allowing two people to fit inside. It's roomy enough and very comfortable, and the cover bag is extra long. It has good Coletherm insulation and a polyester lining. The best part? The equipment protects up to 99% of bacteria and odor sources.

The Thermolock option reduces heat loss through the zipper. A 3-season sleeping bag, the Coleman Festival Double promises a comfortable temperature of +3°C. With the Zip Plow system, you can be sure that the zipper will not get stuck at any time.

Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey 2
8/10

Best value for money

Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey

Best entry-level sleeping bag

Available in a wide range of colors, the Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey has an excellent cotton lining. This sleeping bag is as comfortable as it is soft. It is also suitable for teenagers and adults.

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With the Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey sleeping bag, you can choose between 6 colors. The price remains within everyone's reach despite a difference of a dozen euros between the single and the double model. It comes with a 220T outer shell known for its high water resistance. This sleeping bag is also very resistant to bad weather and offers you a better comfort of use.

The Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey can accommodate 1 to 2 people. Its greatest asset is that you can transform it into 2 individual sleeping bags. The 2 parts are indeed detachable via the zipper. Ultra light, handy and easy to carry, this model comes with a carrying bag.

Hyke & Byke Eolus 3
8/10

Best value for money

Hyke & Byke Eolus

Best high-end sleeping bag

This mummy sleeping bag can only provide you with better insulation. This is the case of the Hyke & Byke Eolus, stuffed with goose down to better protect you from the cold. It adapts to different situations.

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Guaranteed for life, the Hyke & Byke Eolus sleeping bag is suitable for both children and adults. It saves space, but also weight thanks to its hydrophobic 800 FP goose down filling, making it very light. In addition, the waterproof outer fabric and 400 T 20 D nylon lining allow it to effectively withstand the winter cold.

Like any other sleeping bag, the Hyke & Byke Eolus is wide enough at the shoulders and closes with a Velcro strap. The drawstring ensures optimal comfort. You will especially benefit from its horizontal reinforcement systems and its storage bag.

Coleman Hampton 220 4
7/10

A great choice

Coleman Hampton 220

Best single cover sleeping bag

The outer cover, padding and polyamide backpack are all made of 100% polyester. With the Coleman Hampton 220, you'll have a great time while you're out and about.

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Suitable for all seasons, the Coleman Hampton 220 has only one seat. Its level of comfort reaches its peak because of the quality of its materials. Indeed, you will distinguish 2 layers, respectively in flannel and cotton. The sleeping bag measures exactly 220 x 100 cm. The storage bag is 46 x 36 x 18 cm.

The equipment weighs approximately 2.5 kg. For maximum convenience, it is equipped with a 300 g/m² Coletherm layer. Practical and versatile, it can be used as an extra bed or quilt.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best sleeping bag for camping

Any specific needs?

Best sleeping bag in 2021

Best entry-level sleeping bag

Best high-end sleeping bag

Best single cover sleeping bag

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best sleeping bags for camping

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Coleman Festival Double 5
9/10
Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey 6
8/10
Hyke & Byke Eolus 7
8/10
Coleman Hampton 220 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Coleman Festival Double
Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey
Hyke & Byke Eolus
Coleman Hampton 220
Going camping with your other half? Why not choose this double camping sleeping bag? Thanks to its 225 x 150 cm, you will be able to snuggle up to each other, nice and warm, under the stars.
Available in a wide range of colors, the Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey has an excellent cotton lining. This sleeping bag is as comfortable as it is soft. It is also suitable for teenagers and adults.
This mummy sleeping bag can only provide you with better insulation. This is the case of the Hyke & Byke Eolus, stuffed with goose down to better protect you from the cold. It adapts to different situations.
The outer cover, padding and polyamide backpack are all made of 100% polyester. With the Coleman Hampton 220, you'll have a great time while you're out and about.
Unbeatable value for money
Splits into 2 sleeping areas
Excellent durability
Comfortable and soft to the touch
Ideal for extreme use down to -17/-19°C
Water-repellent quality
Water-repellent quilt
Machine washable
Very comfortable
Soft and comfortable
Warm, cozy and reliable
Lightweight

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Buying guide - sleeping bag for camping

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How to choose your sleeping bag for camping

Going out into the wilderness doesn't mean you have to compromise on your comfort level. In fact, by choosing your sleeping bag correctly, you will be able to find a comfort similar to that of your usual bed. Here are the important factors to consider:

#1 - Comfort temperature

Due to the lack of a common standard for testing, claims have long lacked reliability. The EN 13537 standard has changed this. Now, 3 temperatures are displayed on the label of a sleeping bag: the comfort temperature, the comfort limit temperature and the extreme temperature. The comfort temperature is the most important. This is the temperature at which you can sleep without feeling cold. The comfort limit temperature is the maximum temperature you can tolerate when curled up. Finally, the extreme temperature is the one above which you will get hypothermia. The lower the temperature, the more expensive it is.

#2 - The lining

Synthetic fiber fill is very common since they are cheaper and more moisture resistant. However, a synthetic sleeping bag will be bulkier and heavier. But the weight will not matter for the person who is looking for an economical solution or a regular on short camping and hiking trips. Lighter and more compact, natural duck or goose down is also very insulating. On the other hand, it swells in the presence of humidity and cannot be machine washed. In addition, it costs up to 3 times the price of a sleeping bag with synthetic filling. Nevertheless, natural down offers better comfort in a tent or shelter.

#3 - The shape of the sleeping bag

Prefer sleeping bags with a closure on each side so you don't have to distinguish between left- and right-handed people. Depending on the shape, you can choose a blanket sleeping bag or a sarcophagus sleeping bag. The first type is simpler and has a closure that opens from head to toe. It can be used as a blanket. The other type owes its name to its shape similar to the sarcophagus of the Pharaohs of Egypt. It is particularly suitable for cold nights as it fits close to the user's body. In general, the sarcophagus sleeping bag does not have a zipper at the legs. Thus, the air is renewed little, which limits the losses of heat.

#4 - Height and weight

Some

brands are satisfied with 2 sizes for each model. Others propose 4 or 5 (S, M, L...). Others indicate the dimensions in centimeters. Butavoid models that are too small or you may feel embarrassed. On the other hand, a sleeping bag that is too big will lose heat. It's up to you to find the right balance. In addition to size,choose a sleeping bag that you can easily carry

, either by hand or attached to a backpack. The lightest ones weigh 500-700g, while the heaviest ones range from 2-3kg. Keep in mind that the weight does not only depend on the filling. The larger the sleeping bag, the heavier it will be.

#5 - Accessories

A sheet called a meat bag is the main accessory of a sleeping bag. It ensures good hygiene and keeps the bag clean while providing extra warmth. And in hot summer weather, it replaces the sleeping bag. You can also add a sleeping mat, an air mattress, a pillow, a sleeping mask or earplugs to improve the comfort of your sleeping bag.

How to maintain a sleeping bag?

The best sleeping bags for camping 9Cleaning

The polyester sleeping bag can be machine washed. Put it in the drum and add 2 or 3 new tennis balls cleaned with bleach for a better beating. Start a 30°C program without spinning and air dry. If you have a top load washer, do not use it. It can tear the seams. It is better to take the sleeping bag to the dry cleaner.

A down sleeping bag should never be put in the washing machine. You should wash it as little as possible! Always use a sheet to keep the inside clean. And keep it perfectly dry to ensure its longevity and to get rid of bad odors. But if you really need to clean it, call a professional dry cleaner. It would be a shame to waste such an investment!

Small repairs

Locate any tears and sew them up by hand. For emergencies during your time in the wilderness, don't hesitate to bring a needle and thread in your pack. This will prevent the problem from getting worse. When you get home, remove the faulty seams by hand and proceed with a more professional repair.

If you don't have a needle and thread to sew with, make do with a patch or tape. However, it's best not to use sticky tape if you plan to repair the tear later. You run the risk of making the tear worse by removing the adhesive.

Storage

When you get home, put your sleeping bag out in the open, if possible in the sun. This way, it will get rid of the moisture accumulated during your stay in the wilderness. Those who have the time can also take the trouble to iron out the filling. This will prevent cold spots from forming.

Usually a large, breathable bag is provided with the sleeping bag. Put it inside and do not put anything on it. This prevents the filling from settling. Hanging the sleeping bag will also pack the filling and spread it unevenly. Of course, such storage requires space. You can also use a large mesh bag.

The different types of sleeping bags for camping

Depending on the shape and size, sleeping bags can be classified into 4 main types. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Sleeping bag blanket

The main advantage of this type of sleeping bag is its width at the feet

. You will have no difficulty turning around. It can also open completely to become a blanket. However, it depends on body temperature to heat up, which limits its thermal insulation.

Most of the time, it does not have a hood. The blanket or rectangular sleeping bag is best suited for camping in the summer, when conditions are mild. For the cold seasons, you will have to find something else.

Sleeping bag sarcophagus

This

type of sleeping bag adopts the silhouette of the human body

. In this way, the amount of air and surface area to be warmed is reduced, which provides better protection against the cold. On the other hand, the sarcophagus sleeping bag is lighter and more compact than the blanket bag.

However, it is more expensive and offers less freedom of movement. Although it is the most popular sleeping bag for camping and hiking, it is difficult to turn around. If you like to sleep in a tent or under the stars, the sarcophagus sleeping bag will protect you better against the cold than a blanket bag. A must-have despite the higher price.

Double sleeping bag

As

its name suggests, the double sleeping bag can accommodate 2 people, or even 2 adults and 1 child

for the larger models. Its exceptional dimensions offer a high level of comfort. But this type of sleeping bag is heavy and bulky. Not to mention that there is no such thing as a sarcophagus! It can open up and become a giant blanket.

With a filling that is rarely at its best, this type of sleeping bag is suitable for summer camping or as a spare blanket at home. You can also pair 2 single sleeping bags to make a double sleeping bag.

Sleeping bag for children

This

type comes in 2 variations. On one side, we have the junior sleeping bag. This is a shortened version of the adult sleeping bag that measures 140 to 170 cm. On the other side, there is the sleeping bag called evolutionary

. The latter can accompany the child throughout his growth. In both cases, the operation remains simple.

Easy to access and often comfortable, it is offered at a reasonable price, including models of big brand. For family camping, each member must have his or her own sleeping bag. Younger children will be delighted to have a model that fits them! As it does not tolerate extreme conditions, it should only be used in average temperatures.

What about the sleeping suit?

It is also called a portable sleeping bag. It is a mix between a comforter and a standard sleeping bag. Its main advantage is the total freedom of movement it provides. You can walk with it! However, its use is limited to mild temperatures. Avoid the sleeping suit when it is very cold.

Down or synthetic sleeping bag ?

Down sleeping bag

The main advantage of the down sleeping bag is its lightness. At the same time, it provides comfort and is just as soft as a real bed. Its insulation capacity is among the best on the market. With this equipment, you will enjoy excellent protection like a bird under its feathers.

When hiking or camping, the down sleeping bag is relatively easy to compress. You will be able to carry it without difficulty in your backpack. All these qualities make it worth the higher price compared to the synthetic sleeping bag.

Synthetic sleeping bag

The term "synthetic material" includes all chemically produced materials such as nylon and polyester. In general, the synthetic sleeping bag offers very good insulation, although less than down. The use of such equipment is very advantageous to you, especially in cold, wet weather.

Indeed, it is ultra resistant to water, which allows you to enjoy a dry and warm sleeping bag. The synthetic sleeping bag is quite light. If you are on a tight budget, this is a great option as it is accessible to all budgets.

Verdict

After evaluating your needs, it is up to you to find the most suitable model. Your choice will depend on your habits, your budget and the environment where you plan to sleep. In fact, the synthetic model is perfect for small budgets.

The same is true if you are looking for a light weight and water resistant equipment. Otherwise, a down sleeping bag is a good choice if the weather is bad when you go camping.

Why buy a sleeping bag?

For a restful sleep

The main role of the sleeping bag is to provide comfort and warmth during your nights spent in the open air. Depending on your needs, the camping equipment should help you get back on your feet after a hard day's walking.

To spend time in the warmth

During your stay in the wilderness, you will spend about 1/3 of your time in your camping sleeping bag. You should also know that a night in the wilderness is longer than a night in your warm bed. This is the perfect camping accessory to get a good night's sleep without feeling the cold or dampness of the ground.

For ease of care and storage

While the synthetic sleeping bag is very easy to care for (it can be easily washed), the down sleeping bag offers you unrivalled warmth and softness. The sleeping bag is easy to store thanks to the compression bag included in the purchase.

The sleeping bag fits the body perfectly

The volume of air that your body needs to warm up increases with the size of your sleeping bag. The smaller the sleeping bag, the better it will fit your body. This is the case with the sarcophagus or mummy sleeping bag. There is less heat loss due to the hood.

For the cushioning effect

If you want to sleep soundly at night, the sleeping bag will be your best ally. It provides optimum protection against cold and precipitation. Poor cushioning can lead to back pain and prevent you from carrying out your day's activities.

The best brands of sleeping bags for camping

In our opinion, the best brands of sleeping bags for camping in 2022 are :

Husky
Mammut
Millet
Ohuhu
Mountain Warehouse

Founded in 1997, Husky manufactures outdoor equipment, backpacks and sleeping bags. The Czech brand is mainly focused on meeting the needs of customers who love hiking, trekking and mountain expeditions. The Anapurna sleeping bag is undoubtedly its best known product.

The Swiss brand specializes in the manufacture of ropes, clothing, footwear and various mountain equipment. Its sleeping bags are among the best on the market, combining comfort and thermal protection. Whatever your needs, Mammut has the right sleeping bag for you.

The French brand Millet is a well-known specialist in the world of mountaineering. Its products include clothing, backpacks, shoes, ropes and sleeping bags. The brand is the creator of the Baikal series, a reference for many campers and hikers.

Ohuhu has a very heterogeneous offer which includes drawing tools or camping equipment. Its double sleeping bag justifies its presence in this ranking. We must admit that its practicality and its quality/price ratio are really impressive.

This brand comes from Great Britain. It offers outdoor equipment for hiking, camping, skiing, cycling, running, swimming and fitness. Are you looking for a sleeping bag for children? Take a look at the Mountain Warehouse models.

What is the price for a sleeping bag for camping

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
25 £ to 50 £
Mid-range
50 £ to 150 £
High-end
more than 150 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Always make sure you have at least 2 sleeping bags.

Buy at least two different camping sleeping bags suitable for different climates. Choose a down bag for colder climates and a lighter synthetic bag for warmer weather.

Wear dry clothes.

Dispose of

dirty or sweaty clothes before sleeping. Wear clean, dry underwear with long sleeves for the top and pants for the bottom with clean socks. This is the most appropriate overnight attire when you go camping.

Put on as little clothing as possible.

Don

't wear bulky clothing inside a sleeping bag. This could reduce the bag's ability to effectively retain body heat. If you need more warmth, add a blanket over your sleeping bag.

Use a hot water bottle.

Put

a warm hot water bottle at the bottom of your sleeping bag to warm your feet. If that's not enough, add another one that you can place near your back or stomach. Just make sure they're waterproof so you don't risk getting burned.

Always sleep in a well-insulated area.

Even

if you already have a sleeping bag, try as much as possible to sleep on an insulated mattress or air mattress designed for the lowest temperatures. Mats and pads with R-values between 3 and 4 are for 3-season temperatures - usually above freezing. While those with R-values above 5 are for frozen ground, with temperatures below freezing. If necessary, add a second foam pad under your main mattress if you sleep on frozen ground or snow.

FAQ

What is the best sleeping bag?

The best sleeping bag depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best at the moment.

How to store a sleeping bag efficiently?

Avoid laying it flat or hanging it up. The best way to store your sleeping bag for camping is in a well ventilated or mesh bag. The latter can be supplied with your purchase.

How do I re-waterproof a water-repellent sleeping bag?

There are specialized products that allow you to restore its water-repellent properties.

What is the difference between a camping sleeping bag and a mountaineering sleeping bag?

The camping sleeping bag is designed based on the level of comfort offered to the user, while the mountaineering model focuses more on thermal characteristics.

How to choose the right size?

You need to take off a few centimetres from the total length provided by the manufacturer: 5 cm in the case of a blanket sleeping bag and 25-30 cm for a sarco bag.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , espaces.ca
  2. , 60millions-mag.com
  3. , bestreviews.com
  4. , nytimes.com
  5. , rei.com
  6. , slant.co
  7. , switchbacktravel.com
  8. , outdoorgearlab.com
  9. , auvieuxcampeur.fr
  10. , lafuma.com
  11. , amazon.co.uk
  12. , chullanka.com
  13. , reimo.com
  14. , cdiscount.com
  15. , auvieuxcampeur.fr
  16. , intersport.fr
  17. , surplus-militaires.fr
  18. , thermarest.com
  19. , ebay.fr
  20. , campz.fr
  21. , decathlon.fr
  22. , amazon.co.uk
  23. , camping-avis.com
  24. , blog.snowleader.com
  25. , lacordee.com
  26. , fastconnect.fr
  27. , occasions.decathlon.fr
  28. , decathlon.tn
  29. , ebay.fr
  30. , decathlon.re
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Coleman Festival Double 10
Coleman Festival Double
Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey 11
Bessport Double-Zhi-Grey
Hyke & Byke Eolus 12
Hyke & Byke Eolus
Coleman Hampton 220 13
Coleman Hampton 220

Lecteurs

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