Bottom Line
Quilts built for two are an excellent way for couples to slash base weight. The ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt is the top choice among the doubles we tested. With 900 fill power down and a sewn-in footbox, it weighs much less than two separate bags while providing excellent warmth for the weight.
In addition to saving weight, this quilt can also provide significant monetary savings, as it costs less than two regular quilts of a similar rating. If you and your partner can sleep cooperatively, this may be an excellent value. Our only caveats are the absence of pad straps to help keep it in place, which can be an issue with two people tossing and turning, and the lack of a neck baffle to help with drafts. However, neither of these issues were deal breakers for our testers on late spring nights in the mid-Atlantic region of the Appalachian Trail.
Find all of our favorites in the best backpacking quilts gear guide.
How We Tested
Gear Analyst Heather Anderson tested the ZPacks 20F Twin on a section hike of the Appalachian Trail in the mid-Atlantic Region in late May. Overnight temperatures ranged from the mid to upper 40s Fahrenheit.
Quick Specs
ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt
Best Ultralight Two-Person Backpacking Quilt
CleverHiker Rating: 3.9/5.0
Price: $579
Weight: 1 lb. 11.9 oz.
Fill Power: 900
Pros
- Ultralight
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- Great value over separate quilts
Cons
- No pad straps
- No neck baffle
Warmth
While the ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt weighs under 28 ounces, it delivers impressive warmth. Although we didn’t test it to the bottom edge of its range on our AT section hike, we believe it would keep us fairly warm. One of the biggest advantages of a double quilt is that you can share body heat to stay warmer. Our testers found this to be true with the Twin.
We liked the sewn-in footbox that wasn’t restrictive. The roominess, which was sufficient without being excessive, also helped it stay warmer than expected. However, we missed the neck baffle found in the Enlightened Equipment Accomplice. We also think pad straps would be helpful on colder nights to prevent cold spots. We recommend using straps to keep your pads together and avoid gaps that can let in cold.
Comfort
The ZPacks Twin was more comfortable than other double quilts we tested. We found it to be roomy enough for two without being so spacious that it was hard to stay warm, which was one problem we had with the Enlightened Equipment Accomplice. However, taller hikers or those wanting a bit more space might prefer the Accomplice.
The sewn-in footbox was large enough that sharing it wasn’t an issue. The only thing that could have made this quilt more comfortable would have been a little more length or a neck baffle for better snuggling on cold nights.
Weight & Packability
At just under 28 ounces, the ZPacks Twin weighs considerably less than two separate sleeping bags or quilts. This weight reduction is often the main reason for choosing a double quilt system. Additionally, the cost is less than half of two, adding further value.
The main drawback of using a double quilt is that it occupies more space in a pack compared to a single quilt. Therefore, couples choosing this option will likely need to balance the volume by rearranging other gear. However, we found the Twin to take up considerably less room than other double quilts like the Accomplice, making it much more practical for backpacking.
Features
The Zpacks 20F Twin has few features compared to most other quilts. It has no baffles, no pad straps, and no adjustable cinches on the neck or footbox. Our testers found this simplicity refreshing.
However, those who tend to roll around a lot at night or are less cooperative sleepers with their partners will miss the straps that help keep the quilt in place. In colder temperatures, a neck baffle or cinch would be welcome for extra warmth. In warmer weather, our testers would prefer some way to vent the foot box.
Should You Buy The ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt?
Couples looking for a three-season quilt that will not only reduce their base weight but also save money will find the ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt to be an excellent value. Those considering switching to a double quilt should test it before embarking on a multi-night trip to ensure it suits them.
Sharing a quilt in the backcountry can be tricky and isn’t suitable for everyone. The Twin may present a steeper learning curve than other doubles because it lacks pad straps and baffles that help prevent cold spots from tossing and turning. However, for those who find the double system works well, the Twin Quilt offers simplicity, warmth, and functionality.
What Other Backpacking Quilts Should You Consider?
If the ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt isn’t for you, there are many other options in our gear guide to best backpacking quilts.
Enlightened Equipment Accomplice 20 Review: Couples seeking a more versatile and customizable double quilt will find this option appealing. With a wider cut and padded straps, this quilt provides a more secure fit and offers fuller coverage.
Western Mountaineering AstraLight Review: If you’re looking for a single-person quilt, our overall best backpacking quilt keeps you warm without the weight and bulk. It also packs down, making it easy to accommodate in smaller ultralight packs. Couples can utilize two of these without a significant weight penalty over the Twin.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt Review: If you’re looking for a single quilt that performs well in colder conditions and has simple, effective pad straps, this Editor’s Pick is an excellent option. Its stock model production means it’s available without a long lead time. Additionally, it’s simple to use the pad straps to make set-up in camp a breeze.
