Sleeping Bag : What is it?
| Sleeping bags are large padded bags used as temporary beds and blankets when sleeping outdoors. A basic sleeping bag consists of pieces of padded fabric sewn together with zippers on three sides, with the closed side usually protecting the feet. Sleeping bags can usually be rolled up and stored in backpacks. Most types fold up in two or three parts and are secured with strings or cords.
Sleeping bags have waterproof fabric exteriors, called shells, which keep the body warm against the cold outdoor air and to protect against rain and moisture. Shells are usually made of cotton, nylon, polyester, or blends of these materials. The insulation is provided with soft fills, which can be down, foam, or wool, or cotton. The fill is secured between the shell and a liner, which is made from soft fabrics to provide a comfortable sleeping surface. |
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Kinds of Sleeping Bags include the following: |
Rectangle
Rectangle sleeping bags are made up of rectangular sheets of filled fabric. They are generally larger than other types of sleeping bags, and can often accommodate two people at once. They roll up to about the size of a small car, which may make them difficult to transport. They are best used for summer camping, and on trips where the camping site can be accessed directly by car. They are often thick enough for adequate insulation on cold nights, with ample room for the feet.
Barrel
Barrel sleeping bags are slightly oval shaped, which provides more warmth and breathing room. They usually offer more space inside than Mummy bags, but are less roomy than Rectangle sleeping bags. They also roll up smaller and are easier to carry.
Mummy
Mummy sleeping bags are so named because they taper toward the feet, which resembles the general form of mummies. They are designed to trap body heat at several points on the body, with the tapered end trapping heat from the heat and a head and neck hood that traps heat from the upper parts. They also come with draft tubes, which strips of filled fabric running along the zippers to keep cold drafts from entering the bag. They are much smaller and tighter than Rectangle and Barrel sleeping bags, and can usually accommodate just one person.
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Comfort: Choose a sleeping bag with a thick, soft filling to provide adequate cushioning against the hard ground. Down and wool fillings are very comfortable, although if you're after durability and portability a cotton filling may be a better choice. Make sure there is enough room inside the bag to move around and assume a comfortable position.
Insulation: Choose a sleeping bag that effectively keeps out heat. Zippers are a common weak point in a sleeping bag's insulation, so make sure the zippers are tight and will not allow any cold air in. Look for one with a good insulating interior, such as synthetic fills and foam, and a thick waterproof shell. If you need extra protection against cold, look for a sleeping bag with hoods and tight foot areas to help maintain your body heat. |
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