Best Survival Sleeping Bags in 2024 for Your Outdoor Trips

Is your current sleeping bag showing signs of wear and tear? Or do you want to upgrade to a lighter or warmer sleeping bag that is available in today’s market? Whatever your reason for wanting to buy a new sleeping bag, you should bear in mind that you have quite a task ahead of you.

With so many different products available nowadays, choosing a bag can be quite difficult as they all come with different materials, features, prices, and so forth. If you are planning to buy a sleeping bag, there are certain things you should keep in mind to make sure that you choose the best one.

HOW TO CHOOSE A SENSATIONAL SLEEPING BAG

Here is a look at comfort-enhancing features to look for and other things to consider when you are looking for a good sleeping bag:

• Temperature Ratings: There is a recommended temperature rating in all sleeping bags, referring to the lowest temperature that is suitable for the sleeping bag. However, you have to keep in mind that there are outside factors like the sleeping pad you will use and your metabolic rate that will have an effect on how warmly, or coldly, you sleep. For this reason, it is a good idea to add roughly 10 degrees when you are searching for the right sleeping bag – meaning that you need think of a 20-degree bag as a 30-degree bag and so on.
• Filling: Most sleeping bags available in today’s market have either a down or synthetic filling. Each has its own pros and cons, so choosing between a down sleeping bag and a synthetic one depends on your personal needs and preference. Down is a popular choice as it is an excellent insulator, soft, light, breathable, easy to compress and durable, but down sleeping bags are expensive. Synthetic ones have insulation properties when wet, hypoallergenic and are easy to care for. However, they are heavy, bulky and not as durable as down.
• Shell Fabric: Shell fabric should ideally be lightweight and at least a little water-resistant – this is important especially if it is covering down insulation. A good example of an ultra-lightweight, weather-resistant shell fabric is Pertex nylon. However, you should keep in mind that when it comes to the water resistance of the fabric, it refers to its ability to repel condensation and spills and not its ability to keep you dry if you sleep in the rain without a tent.
• Mummy or Semi-Rectangular: You will find mummy-shaped and semi-rectangular sleeping bags. Mummy sleeping bags are narrower at the head and feet and more heat efficient as there is less unused space. They are made with very little material so they are the lightest and most packable shape. Mummy bags are ideal for outdoor trips in cold weather. On the other hand, semi-rectangular sleeping bags taper from top to bottom as a way to increase warmth and save weight. This may be the ideal bag shape for you if you are more concerned about having extra wiggle room than minimizing weight. Rectangular sleeping bags are available as well, with plenty of space inside. These bags are best if you are not worried about size or weight.
• Insulated Collars and Draft Tubes: The purpose of an insulated collar is to help in retaining the warm air that your body has generated inside the sleeping bag and preventing it from escaping through the head opening. Similarly, an insulated draft tube prevents heat from escaping through the main zipper. Generally, these features are only necessary for outdoor trips during winter so it is unlikely that you will find them in sleeping bags rated above 20 degrees.

You might find interesting to read our best budget sleeping bags article.

THE TOP 7 SURVIVAL SLEEPING BAGS

 #1 BESSPORT SLEEPING BAG

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) Features performance insulation
(+) Easy to compress
(+) Retains warmth even when wet
Cons:
(-) Little restrictive at the shoulders when fully zipped

Overview

The Bessport sleeping bag is perfect for outdoor trips in spring, fall, or even summer. It features synthetic insulation – which is an innovative fiber blend that is engineered to seal in warmth and make it easy to pack. The Bessport also comes with a thermal-comfort hood and a natural-fit foot-box too.

The draft tube has a well thought of anti-snag design so you do not have to worry about any problems when zipping up your sleeping bag. If you are looking for a comfortable, versatile, and affordable sleeping bag, the Kelty Tuck 22 is the perfect one.

Conclusion

If you are camping in spring, summer or fall, the Bessport Sleeping Bag is a salient choice. It is incredibly warm and made with top-quality materials to ensure durability. Apart from being warm, it is really comfortable and what we really liked is the zipper at the foot that you can unzip if you want your feet out on a warm night. It comes with a little pocket where you can keep small items.

For those with a wider frame, the sleeping bag may be a little restrictive on the shoulders when it is fully zipped. This a great performing bag with superb value. We definitely recommend the Bessport Sleeping Bag.

 #2 TETON SPORTS TRACKER +5F

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) Ultralight and ultra warm
(+) Added insulation in areas you need it most
(+) Water-resistant and tough diamond ripstop shell
Cons:
(-) A little heavy for backpacking
(-) Needs 2 drawstrings around the hood opening

Overview

The TETON Sports Tracker +5F is a mummy-shaped sleeping bag that is both ultralight and ultra warm. It features body mapping technology and is designed with added insulation in areas you need it the most, primarily your feet. It also comes with a three-piece hood that contours your face so that your whole head is kept warm, a durable anti-snag zipper that features a full-length zipper draft tube and also a specifically designed vaulted foot box.

The TETON Sports Tracker +5F has a diamond rip-stop shell that is water-resistant and will not tear even if you puncture or snag it. There are interior pockets with zips on both sides of the bag to hold electronics or your wallet. This is a functional, well-made sleeping bag for all your outdoor trips.

Conclusion

Lightweight, extremely warm and easy to pack, the TETON Sports Tracker +5F is a superb sleeping bag for outdoor lovers. We like the body mapping technology, which adds extra insulation in certain areas, specifically the feet, which can take longer to get warm.

We also think that the diamond ripstop shell is awesome as it is almost indestructible and highly resistant to water. While it has some issues, we think that the TETON Sports Tracker +5F is one of the best sleeping bags for your outdoor trips and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable sleeping bag.

Check out our suggested survival tents article.

 #3 RIOYALO 0 DEGREE

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) High quality zero degrees bag
(+) A lot cheaper than other sleeping bags in the same segment
(+) Suitable for all kinds of cold weather camping
Cons:
(-) Zipper tends to get stuck at times
(-) Heavy and bulky

Overview

Made from 450GSM polyester insulation that makes way for great comfort, this sleeping bag has a two-layer construction that makes it more durable and suitable for outdoor use. The bag also features an insulated chest region and zipper baffle.

The bag comes with a standard stuff sack No matter how big or small you are you, will find this sleeping bag for you. It is available in multiple colors as well.

Conclusion

Though heavy and bulky, this is a sleeping bag, you must carry on your next outdoor trip especially if you are taking your car along. Plush, thick, extra cozy, and warm, this sleeping bag is the perfect choice for those who set out on frequent camping trips.

And yes, your dog can use it so they can sleep better too!

 #4 COLEMAN NORTH RIM EXTREME WEATHER SLEEPING BAG

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) Extremely warm, thick, and plush
(+) Allows you to roll onto your side
(+) Conforms to your body contours
Cons:
(-) Zipper tends to dislodge at the bottom
(-) Too big to carry on a hiking trip

Overview

The Coleman North Rim sleeping bag is made from 100% polyester and has a fill of polyester. This is an adult sleeping bag that is perfect for camping, is suitable for most adults who are tall and up to 6 feet in height. It is suitable for camping in weather conditions as low as 0 degrees F.

The sleeping bag features a well-designed semi-sculpted hood that tightens easily via a drawstring and seals in heat. The bag also has a ZipPlow system that prevents snagging while zipping by plowing away fabric. An insulated foot box, quality quilted construction, and a Thermolock draft tube ensures better heat retention and warmth.

Conclusion

We found this sleeping bag adequate for most camping trips. Its quilting construction keeps you warm and eliminates cold spots. We tested it in cold conditions and found it ideal to use in temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 degree Fahrenheit.

The stuff sack easily accommodates the bag for easy storage. We particularly liked the box-shaped foot that allows you to move around without feeling too constricted. This sleeping bag is the best bet if you are someone who loves setting out on camping trips.

We also suggest checking out our article about the best one-person tents by clicking here.

 #5 KAMPKEEPER SLEEPING BAG

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) Packs down great
(+) Suitable for tall guys and girls
(+) Highly affordable
Cons:
(-) Zipper gets jammed on the fabric occasionally
(-) Need a liner if you are using to under 40 degrees Fahrenheit

Overview

Whether you are a casual camper or an avid outdoorsman, you will do good in investing in a Kampkeeper sleeping bag. This bag is perfect for beginners or someone looking for a quality sleeping bag on a shoestring budget.

It easily compresses to become small and can be easily stowed away when not in use. The bag does well, even without a liner and keeps you warm even in cold temperatures. The sleeping bag easily accommodates one and is certainly value for money.

Conclusion

We found quite a few things to like about the Kampkeeper. It is light, compact, and packs down very well. But no, you cannot put it in your pant’s pocket! Plus, it comes with one of the best compression sacks we have seen. The sleeping bag is made with premium-quality materials, including the filling.

This Kampkeeper is a well-constructed bag, designed to last a long time. It is functional and versatile, making it great for all your outdoor trips. The zipper gets stuck on the fabric, sometimes, but you can easily fix it so it is not a major issue. All in all, it’s is a superb sleeping bag for its price.

 #6 The North Face Wasatch

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) Features anti-snag zipper protection
(+) Has a flip over hood that keeps you warm
(+) Outside material is soft and durable
Cons:
(-) Bag can be hard to roll and stuff
(-) Poor bag sleeve quality

Overview

Looking for a sleeping bag that will allow you to sleep like a baby even on your camping trip? Pick the The North Face Wasatch that will keep the chill off your back thanks to the insulation coupled with a draft tube and a sturdy zipper that doesn’t allow for cold air to seep in.

This sleeping bag as a soft and slippery polyester taffeta lining that allows you to feel snug as a bug, even in harsh conditions. Its off-set construction, two layers, and differential cuts prevent any cold spots.

Conclusion

The North Face Wasatch is a wonderful sleeping bag for outdoor use. It is not too heavy and can be carried on most camping trips with ease.

No worries, you can use this amazing sleeping product in your own bed at home. You have to wash your sheets and blankets right? With this, you don’t need to buy more sheets and blankets when you are washing your normal set. Nothing wrong with being resourceful!

Though we found the zipper a tad bit hard to operate it has a full-length draft tube that helps prevent heat loss.

 #7 COLEMAN BIG BASIN EXTREME WEATHER 15 SLEEPING BAG

Specifications:

Pros:
(+) Ideal for camping in low temperatures.
(+) Provides great heat retention
Cons:
(-) Vent zipper is hard to operate
(-) Bag is big and bulky

Overview

If you are on the lookout for a sleeping bag that can be used in temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit, look no further than the Coleman Big Basin Extreme Weather Sleeping bag.

This sleeping bag has a big and tall design and can easily sleep people up to 6 feet and 6 inches. It has Coldtherm hollow polyester insulation that renders extraordinary heat retention. Built to keep you warm through the coldest of seasons, this is a rugged sleeping bag that is machine washable and features a rip-stop polyester cover that is tear resistant.

Conclusion

If you are a tall person and are finding it hard to find a comfortable and cozy sleeping bag, you may want to consider the Coleman Big Basin sleeping bag. Like the name suggests it is ideal for tall people and provides wonderful warmth in low temperatures.

We loved the adjustable hood that allows you to personalize both ventilation and warmth. The zipper may take some time getting used to, but all in all, this is a sleeping bag worth every penny spent. And in the age of tax cuts and a growing economy, you have more dollars to spend which is awesome.

KEY CONCEPTS

A sleeping bag is a lot like a cooler. You put hot things in it, and it remains hot. You put cold things in, and they remain cold. If you buy the right sleeping bag, you can rest assured that you can sleep warm and cozy even on a cold night in the wilderness. But, buy the wrong one, and you will spend your night tossing and turning in your tent. It is therefore important that you carefully choose your sleeping bag.

Check its fill, temperature rating, and its shape. Also, shop for a sleeping pad that will insulate the heat and keep you warm. You may read up reviews on the sleeping bags you shortlist, and invest in one that has a good warranty if you are on the lookout for a sleeping bag you can carry for most camping trips.