Best Sleeping Bags for Adults

Remember the fun of sleepovers as a child? One of the best things about them was the comfort of your sleeping bag. It used to seem like sleeping in one made you feel more rested than sleeping in your own bed! Too many people associate sleeping bags with children, when they are far more useful and versatile than a simple children accessory.

Adults need sleeping bags, too, especially for camping and outdoor activities. Of course, when it comes to things like camping, there is a lot more to consider when choosing a sleeping bag for adults, including the level of cushion and the ability to hold in heat. After all, the best time to camp and much of the hunting season occurs during cooler weather. It only makes sense to consider high-quality materials that will allow you to remain comfortable under the most difficult of conditions outside.

With that in mind, it’s easy to see why choosing sleeping bags for adults requires a bit more research and consideration to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. To help you find what you’re looking for and stay within your budget, we’ve rounded up the best sleeping bags for adults on the market today – all you have to do is pick one for your next adventure.

Best Sleeping Bags for Adults

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Why Use Sleeping Bags for Adults?

General sleeping bags are great for sleepovers, but buying a sleeping bag for adults requires some careful consideration, based on how you intend to use it. After all, it’s not the same if you’re having a backyard sleepover at a friend’s house when you’re 11 or hiking up the mountain and setting camp – in the second scenario you need reliable, heavy-duty equipment.
To begin with, most adult sleeping bags are larger to accommodate the height of a full-sized adult. That’s the first but not the most important difference. There’s also a temperature rating to look for. For example, if you’re looking for something for hiking and backpacking in the summer, a summer rated sleeping bag is rated for temperatures as low as 30˚F and will make a solid choice. You also have 3-season sleeping bags that are excellent for temperatures as low as 15˚F and can be used for the better part of the year, giving you more bang for your buck. By contrast, winter rated sleeping bags are best for temperatures under 15˚F and will keep you snug and toasty when the temperatures drop – if you are camping in colder months of the year or in regions where night temperatures drop significantly, only a winter rated sleeping bag is a good choice.

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Another reason to use adult sleeping bags is that they come in different shapes for different purposes. A rectangular sleeping bag allows for movement and stretching, so you can sleep in just about any position. A mummy sleeping bag contours to fit tight to your body, increasing warmth, heat retention and preventing restlessness in sleep. It’s also lighter to carry, especially when paired with a compression sack. A barrel sleeping bag offers a compromise between these two types, allowing you some room to move while also aiding in greater heat retention. A double sleeping bag is best for a couple and allows room for both people while still keeping you warm and cozy. As you can see, no matter the body type or preference, you can find the right design to suit your unique needs!

You also have more choices for insulation types. Typical children’s sleeping bags use synthetic insulation, which can work well for adults, too. It’s less costly, can get damp and still insulate well, and dries quickly. But if you’re not too keen on man-made materials, there are other options as well. Choosing a sleeping bag with down insulation gives you a lighter weight bag, usually has water-resistant covering, compresses smaller for easier storage and packing, and is incredibly durable with loft retention and excellent heat retention in cold, dry weather.

Some sleeping bags also have hoods to keep your head warm. Others have pockets for stashing items, such as your wallet, should you be concerned you’ll loose it. These are other properties that typically only come with adult sleeping bags and things you’ll want to consider before making a purchase decision. Some features might not be worth it for you, but others might be essential for a comfortable camping trip.

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The Bottom Line

When it comes to serious backpacking and camping, you need a sleeping bag that can accommodate weather factors and remain cozy regardless of the temperature and terrain. That means finding an adult sleeping bag that is a comfortable size and fit, offers you plenty of insulation and perhaps the availability of additional ventilation, and is durable, including perhaps some waterproof properties. You’ll also want to consider the price, since you may be on a budget and sleeping bags can get expensive fast.

Comparing different types of sleeping bags, including temperature ratings and shapes, can lead you in the right direction for what you need, and then you can simply limit your budget and start comparing features to determine which adult sleeping bag is best for you. We all love sleeping bags, and we probably have fond memories from childhood of using those sleeping bags. Continue the joy by finding one that is suited to adults so you can enjoy your indoor or outdoor adventures for years to come.