The 5 Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2024
Choosing the right sleeping bag can make all the difference in your camping experience. Whether an occasional camper or a habituated adventurer, a good sleeping bag keeps you warm, comfortable, and well-rested. Here are the top five camping sleeping bags of 2024, each designed to keep you snug and relaxed under the stars.
- NEMO Disco 15 Sleeping Bag – Best for Side Sleepers
- Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 – Best for Eco-Conscious Campers
- Sea to Summit Ascent ACII – Best for Versatility and Comfort
- Big Agnes Anvil Horn 15 – Best for Backpackers
- REI Co-op Magma 15 – Best for Lightweight Performance
1. NEMO Disco 15 Sleeping Bag
The NEMO Disco 15 is designed with side sleepers in mind. It offers a spacious, spoon-shaped design that allows you to sleep comfortably on your side. It features Thermo Gills for temperature regulation, which allows you to vent excess heat without letting cold drafts in. With a 15°F rating, this bag is perfect for three-season camping.
The insulation is made from NEMO’s premium down, which is water-resistant and retains warmth even when damp. Additional perks include an integrated pillow pocket and a blanket fold for extra comfort.
- Temperature Rating: 15°F (-9°C)
- Weight: 2 lbs 11 oz (Regular)
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Comfortable and durable
- Temperature regulation system
Cons:
- Slightly heavier compared to ultralight backpacking sleeping bags
2. Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20
The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is well-known as an eco-friendly option, made from 100% recycled materials. It offers excellent warmth and comfort with its synthetic SpiraFil high-loft insulation, making it a great choice for wet conditions where down might not perform as well. Its wave construction adds warmth and minimizes cold spots. With a 20°F rating, it’s suitable for three-season use, and its affordable price point makes it a great value for environmentally conscious campers.
- Temperature Rating: 20°F (-6°C)
- Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz (Regular)
Pros:
- Made with 100% recycled fibers
- Maximum warmth and a soft feel
- Easy to pack and carry for trekking.
- Versatile design
Cons:
- Poor compression bag that doesn’t compress anything
3. Sea to Summit Ascent ACII
The Sea to Summit Ascent ACII offers a unique blend of versatility, comfort, and technical performance. This down sleeping bag features a contoured mummy shape that provides enough space for movement while still retaining heat. With its Free-Flow zipper system, you can customize ventilation to suit a wide range of temperatures, making it ideal for unpredictable weather.
Its high-loft, 750+ fill power down insulation ensures excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, and the durable water repellent (DWR) treatment keeps you dry.
- Temperature Rating: 15°F (-9°C)
- Weight: 2 lbs 4 oz (Regular)
Pros:
- Soft and fluffy for ultimate comfort
- Lightweight 20D nylon shell
- Convenient foot zipper
Cons:
- Frequent snags on the material can be frustrating
4. Big Agnes Anvil Horn 15
The Big Agnes Anvil Horn 15 is perfect for backpackers looking for a balance of weight, warmth, and packability. It features 650-fill DownTek insulation, which is water-resistant and treated to perform better in damp conditions. The bag is designed to integrate with Big Agnes sleeping pads, which ensures a secure and slip-free sleep setup.
It also includes a flex pad sleeve that accommodates various pad sizes, adding to its versatility. The Anvil Horn’s streamlined design and light weight make it ideal for backcountry adventures.
- Temperature Rating: 15°F (-9°C)
- Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz (Regular)
Pros:
- Roomy and warmth
- Superlight and easily packable
- Integrated sleeping pad sleeve
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Snag resistance
- Poor zipper quality
5. REI Co-op Magma 15
The REI Co-op Magma 15 is known for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, making it one of the best options for those who prioritize a lightweight pack. With an 850-fill power down insulation, it provides superior warmth in cold conditions while remaining incredibly light and compressible.
The Pertex shell fabric adds durability and weather resistance, and the contoured hood and trapezoidal footbox enhance comfort. It’s an excellent choice for thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, or anyone looking to shave weight without compromising on warmth.
- Temperature Rating: 15°F (-9°C)
- Weight: 1 lb 12 oz (Regular)
Pros:
- Very cozy and pleasant for sleeping
- Ideal for canoe and kayak trips
- Maintains excellent loft for warmth
Cons:
- Down may cause allergic reactions
- Noticeable poultry smell upon arrival
5 Essential Tips You Must Know Before Buying Your Next Camping Sleeping Bag!
Here are five key things you must know before buying a camping sleeping bag:
1. Temperature Rating:
This rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the sleeping bag will keep you warm. Choose a bag with a temperature rating that matches or exceeds the expected conditions of your camping trips. Bags are often rated for summer, 3-season, or winter use. Be mindful of your tolerance to cold, as ratings can be optimistic.
2. Insulation Type:
Insulation affects warmth, weight, and packability.
Down sleeping bags are lightweight, compressible, and excellent for cold, dry conditions. However, it’s expensive and loses warmth when wet. Synthetic sleeping bags are more affordable and perform better in wet conditions. They are easier to maintain but generally heavier and bulkier than down.
3. Shape and Size:
The shape affects comfort and warmth retention.
Tapered shape conserves heat, ideal for cold weather but may feel restrictive. Rectangular shape offers more room and comfort, making it good for warmer weather. Semi-rectangular (or Spoon) sleeping bag has a balance of room and warmth retention, suitable for most conditions. Ensure the bag fits your height and offers enough room for your preferred sleeping position.
4. Weight and Packability:
For backpacking trip, the weight and how small it packs down are crucial for comfort and ease of transport. Lighter and more compact options are better for long hikes, while car campers can afford to use heavier, bulkier bags.
5. Additional Features:
Extra features can enhance comfort and functionality. Look for features like hoods, draft collars, zipper placement, stash pockets, and anti-snag zippers that can make your camping experience more comfortable.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect sleeping bag can transform your camping experience. Each option on our 2024 list has unique benefits tailored to different needs, whether you’re looking for cozy comfort, eco-friendly materials, or lightweight performance. Make the choice that fits your style and enjoy every moment of your outdoor escapades!
