10 Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2024

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A woman snuggled up in the Exped MegaSleep 25/40 sleeping bag inside of a camping tent with a view of the high desert in the background
Exped MegaSleep 25/40 – Photo credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)

A quality sleeping bag will keep you warm and comfy so you can catch those blissful Z’s while you snooze in the trees. Our team of experts has spent thousands of nights in the woods and slept in over 40 bags to find the best bets for your next frontcountry adventure.

We’ll help you navigate the labyrinth of temperature ratings, down versus synthetic fill, double versus single bags, and other important considerations so you can find your new favorite for your next camping adventure.

To complete your sleep system, take a look at our guide to the best sleeping pads. And if you want to camp in luxury, opt for one of our favorite camping mattresses instead (and pair it with a plush pillow) so you can wake up fresh and ready to seize the day.

Quick Picks for Sleeping Bags

Check out this quick list of our best-of-the-best camping sleeping bags if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best camping sleeping bag overall: REI Siesta Hooded 20 ($139)

Best heavyweight synthetic sleeping bag for car camping: NEMO Jazz 30 ($300)

Most inclusive & accessible camping sleeping bag for all shapes & sizes: REI Trailmade 20 ($100)

Best 2-person camping sleeping bag: Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide ($210)

Best sleeping bag for different temperatures: The North Face One Bag ($350)

Lightweight sleeping bag with temperature options: Exped MegaSleep 25/40 ($100)

Best crossover sleeping bag for camping & backpacking: Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 Men’s / Women’s ($285)

Versatile bag for summer camping & backpacking: NEMO Disco Endless Promise 30 Men’s / Women’s ($280)

Roomy & affordable cold-weather sleeping bag: Teton Sports The Celsius Grand XXL 0F ($110)

Best budget sleeping bag: Coleman Brazos ($47)

What’s new

Night after night, our team has been testing new sleeping bags to see how they stack up against our trusted favorites:

  • The NEMO Jazz 30 earns a spot near the top of the list for its bed-like feel, roomy fit, and integrated blanket.

  • We added the REI Trailmade 20 as an ultra-affordable, practical, and comfy mummy bag with inclusive sizing.

  • The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 (Men’s / Women’s) earns its keep as a lightweight and warm sleeping bag for both camping and backpacking.

  • We added the ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood -10 as a heavyweight, classic, flannel-lined sleeping bag with excellent warmth and comfort to our honorable mentions.

REI Siesta Hooded 20

Best camping sleeping bag overall

Price: $139

Temperature Rating: 20°F

Weight: 3 lb. 10.7 oz. (single) / 7 lb. 13 oz (double)

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Hood adds warmth
  • Spacious
  • Smooth, non-intrusive wrap-around zipper
  • Accurate temperature rating
  • Hood holds full-size pillow in place
  • Comfortable material

Cons

  • A bit bulky
  • No mesh storage sack included

When it comes to the best sleeping bags out there, the REI Siesta Hooded 20 takes the top spot. It represents what we love about a quality camping sleeping bag: outstanding warmth, a spacious and comfy interior, stellar durability, and all for a value price.

It’s easy to love this sleeping bag from the get-go because it’s just so comfortable. The rectangular hood adds extra warmth on chilly nights and it’s wide enough to hold a regular pillow securely in place. The Siesta’s soft draft collar and wide zipper draft tubes prevent cold spots and chilly air from seeping into the bag. The wide zipper is smooth, doesn’t easily catch on the material, and wraps around to the opposite corner, so you can transform it into a comforter if you prefer.

We especially love the hefty feel of this bag. It has great loft and is made of a durable material that settles around the body like a heavy blanket. The Siesta is much wider compared to most mummy bags, so regardless of your body shape, favorite sleeping position, or if you toss and turn in the night, you’ll have plenty of room to sprawl out.

Other smart and well-thought-out touches like a built-in stash pocket to keep your headlamp close and an extra, short zipper on the right side that allows you to fold the top down like a blanket make it even more user-friendly. The cinch tabs for tightening the hood are small and non-obtrusive, and the Velcro closures work well to keep the hood close to the bag on cool nights when retaining heat is a priority.

The only complaint we have about this model is it packs a bit bulky into its stuff sack, so it takes up some room to store it. And, it doesn’t come with a long-term storage bag – so we recommend grabbing a cheap mesh bag to help retain the integrity of the Siesta’s warm synthetic loft.

Overall, we love the REI Siesta for its very affordable price point and dialed-in details that make it easy to get a great night’s rest on cool summer nights.

Stock image of NEMO Jazz 30

NEMO Jazz 30

Best heavyweight synthetic sleeping bag for car camping

Price: $300

Temperature Rating: 30°F

Weight: 6 lb. 6 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Hood adds warmth
  • Spacious
  • Can zip two bags together
  • Integrated polyester bedsheet
  • Accurate temperature rating
  • Hood holds full-size pillow in place
  • Comfortable material
  • Oversized, plush draft collar
  • Integrated sleeping pad sleeve

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Expensive
  • Very large packed size
  • Bedsheet can detach if you toss & turn a lot

The NEMO Jazz 30 is a warm, roomy, top-quality bag. If you’re looking for a premium option that has the most important elements of your bed at home, but in a colorful, portable, package – you’ve found it.

What charms us about the Jazz is its integrated bedsheet. While this might seem like a bit of a gimmick at first glance, this unique feature ended up being one of our favorite things about the bag. A 100% recycled polyester bed sheet snaps onto the interior at intervals, adding both comfort and extra warmth. We found these buttons do sometimes come unsnapped if you toss and turn a lot in the night, but the versatility, comfort, and flexibility to add or remove a blanket far outweigh this issue.

The NEMO Jazz features excellent build quality and attention to detail. The enormous draft collar keeps all the heat in the bag and adds even more comfort. The hood holds a full-sized pillow, and the tapered footbox retains warmth and eliminates hot spots. The Jazz’s double zippers on both sides are effortless and smooth, and allow you to open the bag for hyper-specific control over temperature and airflow at night. Plus, you can zip two bags together to share heat (or, check out the double version below!)

Additionally, the Jazz 30 is designed to integrate with the NEMO Roamer XL sleeping pad thanks to a bag-length pocket underneath. We named the Roamer one of the most luxurious and comfortable sleeping options on our list of the Best Camping Mattresses. This combination makes for a remarkably comfortable camping setup that’s tough to beat.

The biggest downside of this model is the price tag. At $300, you’ll pay a pretty penny for it. That said, the value is outstanding. We don’t think you’ll find a higher-quality or more comfortable bag for car camping, and the Jazz will last for many years with proper maintenance.

It does have one of the largest packed sizes on this list: the mesh duffel-bag style stuff sack makes it easy to pack away your bag, but takes up a lot of room. However, if you’re also using the NEMO Roamer pad – or any pad that fits – you can simply keep the pad in the integrated sleeping pad pocket, let all the air out, and roll it all up together in one unit, like a bed roll. Because the stuff sack is enormous, it can hold both pad and sleeping bag for fast, effortless packing.

At the end of the day, crawling into the NEMO Jazz offers a relaxing, comfortable, and warm sleeping solution we think you’ll love. For those who want a bed-like feel on multi-day camping adventures, this sleeping bag hits the sweet spot.

Stock image of REI Trailmade 20

REI Trailmade 20

Most inclusive & accessible camping sleeping bag for all shapes & sizes

Price: $100

Temperature Rating: 21°F

Weight: 3 lb. 4.6 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Available in six different length & width combinations
  • Lightweight
  • Smooth zipper
  • Accurate temperature rating
  • Comfortable material
  • External stash pocket
  • Recycled fill and shell materials

Cons

  • A bit narrow through the legs
  • Cinch toggles hang close to face

The durable, sustainably made, and warm REI Trailmade 20 rounds out the top of the list. If you’re a beginner, a seasoned vet, or just looking for a budget-friendly high-performance 3-season bag, this is the one for you. For only $100, this is a very accessible mummy bag with a variety of inclusive sizing options – short, regular, and long, plus wide options for each length.

The smooth zipper, familiar design, and soft material make for a great night of sleep, and an oversized, ergonomic foot box offers plenty of room for restless feet. We appreciate that the external stash pocket is big enough for a phone or headlamp for quick access. And, the Trailmade bags are a very reasonable weight – a bit over three pounds – as well as the relatively small packed size, so it’s easy to carry to a campsite that’s a bit further away from the car. 

The Trailmade bag is also made to work with other REI items that share its namesake. This is perfect for first-timers, since the Trailmade dovetails with the Trailmade Mummy Bag Pillow, and is optimized to fit in the bottom of the REI Trailmade 60 backpack. 

The downsides of this bag are few. While we think a three-pound bag is a bit heavy to take backpacking, it could certainly work in a pinch. We found it’s a bit narrow through the legs, like many similar mummy bags, so if you like to spread out when you sleep, you’ll want to consider other options. And, the Trailmade only comes in a 20℉ option, which will be overkill for warmer climates.

However, for those who want a well-made, durable, and comfortable sleeping mummy bag with a familiar design that won’t break the bank – and is built for every body – you can’t go wrong with the Trailmade.

The North Face Wawona Bed 20

High-quality & affordable sleeping bag

Price: $130

Temperature Rating: 20°F

Weight: 4 lb. 8 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Smooth zipper
  • Oversized zipper tab
  • Comfy fleece lining at the top
  • Unzips into a blanket

Cons

  • No hood
  • Heavy
  • Large packed size

The name of the game with The North Face Wawona Bed 20 is simplicity and quality. If you’re looking for a comfortable, no-frills sleeping bag for warm-weather camping and summer trips that will stand the test of time, the Wawona is worth a closer look.

We like this bag because it walks a fine line between quality and price. For $130 you get a roomy, über comfortable sleeping bag. Our favorite part of this model is the super cozy and soft fleece lining at the top that lends next-to-skin comfort and feels like warm bed sheets. The wide rectangular shape gives it a roomy feel that makes rolling over and stretching out as easy as being in bed at home. 

The Wawona features large, oversized zipper tabs that are easy to locate in the dark, and the smooth zipper track offers the freedom to vent the bag easily in the middle of the night or open it up completely to lay flat like a blanket for ventilated sleeping and staying warm around the campfire.

The Wawona is not the warmest bag in its class – it doesn’t have a hood and we also found the temperature rating felt low – we were reaching for our hats and down jackets when temperatures dropped below 40℉. That said, the Wawona is plenty warm and incredibly comfortable when overnight temps stay in the 40-60℉ range.

While there’s nothing fancy about the Wawona Bed, it’s very well made, and we’re confident that it will last for years if treated with care. We recommend the Wawona Bed to those who prioritize comfort and affordability for their frontcountry trips.

Stock image of Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide

Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide

Best 2-person camping sleeping bag

Price: $210

Temperature Rating: 20°F

Weight: 9 lb. 8 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Oversized hood fits two full-size pillows
  • Top layer zips off
  • 2 extra blankets add warmth
  • Spacious for two people
  • Ventilating wrap-around zippers on each side
  • Comfortable material
  • Quality build

Cons

  • U-shaped zipper can be cumbersome
  • Heavy / bulky
  • Liner feels slippery

The impressively cozy and cleverly designed Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide is perfect for those who want to share a sleeping bag with their bae or best four-legged friend.

The Tru.Comfort Doublewide offers unique, cozy features for two people without sacrificing personal comfort. It includes two separate integrated blankets so each person can have their own, adding a warm but lightweight extra layer on chilly nights. The huge oversized hood accommodates two full-sized pillows from home so you can bring the creature comforts with you. And, this bag is the definition of roomy: it’s wider than a Queen mattress, so you can still sleep like a starfish – if your partner doesn’t mind.

We also appreciate the Tru.Comfort’s versatile wrap-around zipper system. When that game of footsie gets too hot, simply unzip the bottom of the bag to let your feet breathe. On especially toasty nights, we like that the entire upper layer can completely zip off for an airier, cooler sleeping experience.

There are a few downsides to this Kelty model. We find the Tru.Comfort’s 20temperature rating is a bit overstated. In our testing, even with shared body heat, this bag felt a little chilly on most nights below 40°F. That’s why we recommend reserving this double bag for your June to September trips.

The U-shaped zipper could feel a bit cumbersome to unzip in the middle of the night, as it got caught occasionally on the material, so we found unzipping without a headlamp for a midnight bathroom break was a challenge. And, the Tru.Comfort packs up bulky – but to be fair, this is a sleeping bag for two, so the large packed size is not a dealbreaker for us.

That said, we highly recommend the Kelty Tru.Comfort. It hits the nail on the head when it comes to a shareable sleeping bag for two and the $200 price tag is worth every penny.

Stock image of The North Face One Bag

The North Face One Bag

Best sleeping bag for different temperatures

Price: $350

Temperature Rating: 5°F, 20°F, 40°F

Weight: 3 lb. 13 oz.

Fill Type: Hybrid: 800fp down & synthetic

Pros

  • Versatile for different temperatures
  • Warm
  • Wide fit for tossing & turning
  • Comfortable material
  • Packs small
  • Durable build
  • Large draft collar

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No hood
  • Bag runs a bit short
  • Thin on the underside (warm sleeping pad required)

 If you’re a weekend warrior or car camper looking for the ultimate hybrid 3-season camping bag, look no further than The North Face One Bag. This model has three different temperature ratings of 5°F, 20°F, and 40°F that will keep you warm and comfortable on below-freezing nights, or offer just enough coverage on warm evenings under the stars. 

We’re always a bit wary of products that try to do multiple things at once. But, like its name implies, The One strives to be the only bag you’ll need from spring until fall, and it accomplishes this admirably.

Thanks to a unique layered zipper system and different types of insulation, we find The One offers outstanding warmth down to about 15°F, so you can snuggle into the depths of the comfy material and stay toasty when the temps drop. If you’re a hot sleeper, or conditions are warmer, simply zip off the top layer for comfortable sleeping in 30- 45°F. And, for thin coverage in warm conditions (>50°F), unzip the mid layer for ultimate breathability.

The One bag also stands out for its build quality and attention to detail. The wide fit allows for lots of movement, which is great if you tend to flop from belly to back in the night. The draft collar is fluffy and effective at keeping cold air out. The hood cinch pulls are located away from the edge of the hood, but still easy to access for cold nights, and the zip-off system is relatively intuitive to use.

On the downside, we could feel the stiff structure of the zippers on all sides of the bag. This wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it took a bit of getting used to. Additionally, the majority of the insulation is on top of the bag – not on the underside – so if you’re planning to camp in freezing (or below) conditions, be sure to use a warm sleeping pad or camping mattress with a high R-value.

And, for $350, this is one of the more expensive sleeping bags we tested – but its versatility makes it a value that’s tough to beat. Considering it would take at least two sleeping bags to feel cozy in such a huge temperature range, the One is a practical choice.

If your priority is a sleeping bag that handles a huge range of temperatures, offers a comfortable, wide fit, and will last for year after year – The North Face The One is the one for you.

Stock image of Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15

Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15

Best crossover sleeping bag for camping & backpacking

Price: $285

Temperature Rating: 15°F

Weight: 2 lb. 5.4 oz.

Fill Type: 650fp down

Pros

  • Outstanding value for a down bag
  • Good warmth-to-weight ratio
  • Smooth zipper that doesn’t catch on material
  • Lightweight
  • Overstuffed footbox
  • Packs small

Cons

  • Slippery / slightly loud material
  • Down requires special care
  • Internal stash pocket tough to access

For those looking to step into the world of down sleeping bags the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 (men’s / women’s) is top-tier. This excellent all-around down bag kept us warm through backpacking trips in Rocky Mountain National Park, the deep canyons of Utah, and dozens of car camping adventures. 

We love the lightweight compressibility of the Bishop Pass. With a packed size that easily fits in any pack and a weight under 2.5 pounds, the Bishop Pass represents one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios on this list. It is easy to carry over long distances when keeping your pack weight down is a priority. This model packs up small and doesn’t take up much space, so it’s also perfect for quick weekend trips.

This mummy bag is simple but it does simple very well. The Bishop Pass’ smooth zipper rarely catches on the bag material. The draft collar is wider on the sides and a bit more narrow in the middle to wrap naturally around your neck and prevent cold drafts. And, the footbox has an ergonomic shape with a bit more down filling on the underside so you won’t experience cold spots.

The main issue we encountered with this bag is the slipperiness and sound of the material – both qualities more noticeable than in previous versions, but ultimately we got used to it pretty quickly. We also find the comfort range of this bag is closer to 30°F than  15°F, so for truly cold nights, we found an extra base layer made a world of difference.

The Bishop Pass is an affordable, durable, and practical mummy bag for beginners or seasoned veterans looking for a down bag for backpacking, car camping, and everything in between. Plus, it comes in 0° and 30° versions, so wherever you’re headed next, this bag will keep you warm and comfortable.

Stock image of NEMO Disco Endless Promise 30

NEMO Disco Endless Promise 30

Versatile bag for summer camping & backpacking

Price: $280

Temperature Rating: 30°F

Weight: 2 lb. 0.2 oz.

Fill Type: 650fp down

Pros

  • Manufactured with recycled / recyclable materials
  • Lightweight
  • Wide fit for side & belly sleepers
  • Vents to assist breathability
  • Men’s and women’s versions zip together
  • Built-in pillow sleeve
  • Compression sack & stuff sack included
  • Good for both backpacking & camping

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Larger packed size
  • Down requires special care when washing

If you’re on the hunt for a backcountry-worthy camping bag that’s wide enough to accommodate belly sleepers and side sleepers, the NEMO Disco 30 (men’s / women’s) is for you. Those who prioritize comfort and tons of legroom at a decently low weight will love the Disco for its roomy and unrestricted interior.

We love the Disco for its unique, spacious spoon shape, offering tons of room around the elbows and knees but still keeping the weight down. At just over two pounds for the regular size, the Disco is a solid choice for most backpacking adventures. The packed size is also impressively small, so we would recommend the Disco as a great backcountry bed for most backpackers.

When it comes to temperature control, this bag is tough to beat. The outstanding feature is the two super-functional ThermoVent “gills” – a compartment with an internal and external zipper and mesh in between – located on top. When open, these vents allow for impressive breathability and ventilation without needing to unzip the bag lengthwise. On the other side of temperature control, the massive oversized draft collar completely blocks cool air from getting into the bag on cool nights.

NEMO is also leading the pack with its Endless Promise program – NEMO’s commitment to keeping materials out of a landfill by using recycled resources to make fully recyclable products. The newest version of the Disco is made with a shell from 100% recyclable PET. When the days of your Disco are done, send it back to NEMO – they take full responsibility for recycling all parts of this bag, from fabric to the zipper.

As with all bags, we found the listed temperature rating is more like the tolerable minimum, not a comfort rating. We tested the 30°F model, which has 650-fill-power down. Though the Disco kept us warm to around 45°F, we found there was a sharp drop off in comfort below that. For chilly nights deep into the 40s and below, we recommend sleeping in your base layers. If you’re generally a cold sleeper, we’d recommend the 15°F model instead. Or, if your camping partner has a Disco, the two bags can be zipped together to maximize heat retention.

But, if you plan to do a mix of backcountry and frontcountry trips, and want a roomy bag, it’s worth paying a bit more for an excellent quality option like the NEMO Disco 30. It offers the best of both worlds for car camping and backpacking.

Teton Sports The Celsius Grand XXL 0F

Roomy & affordable cold-weather sleeping bag

Price: $110

Temperature Rating: 0ºF

Weight: 6 lb. 7 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Wide & roomy
  • Poly-flannel lining feels like bedsheets
  • Affordable
  • Fully unzips to turn into blanket
  • Very warm
  • New mummy hood adds warmth
  • Durable shell

Cons

  • Heavier/bulkier
  • Hood cinch cord is long
  • Hood is small

The Teton Sports Celsius XXL continues to earn its keep as a classic, thick sleeping bag for cold-weather camping at an extremely affordable price. The Celsius recently got some meaningful updates including a hood, refreshed liner material, and a new baffle design for better insulation distribution – and this bag is better than ever.

We love sleeping bags that more closely replicate the feeling of a bed at home, and the Celsius XXL delivers. The interior is a polyester and flannel lining that’s ultra-soft on the skin and imitates your favorite cold-weather bed sheets for a comfortable night of sleep. The wide, rectangular shape of the Celsius has a ton of room for big and tall folks, or ample room if you like to sprawl and spread out without the restrictions of a narrower model, like a mummy bag.

The refreshed Celsius adds some nice upgrades. It includes a hood – which is a little small for our taste, and has a long cinch cord – but we like it nonetheless because of its added warmth. The diagonal baffles offer a modern aesthetic and more even insulation distribution. And, the huge L-shaped zipper transforms the bag into a giant, cozy blanket for lounging around camp or maximum ventilation when sleeping.

The Celsius is rated to 0°F, and we found that this rating is fairly accurate. We tested this model repeatedly in icy temperatures around 10°F both car camping and snow camping, and it performed well – it was so warm, heavy, and cozy, we didn’t want to get out in the morning. That said, this temperature rating is excessive for most summer camping trips, so you’ll want to look elsewhere if you’re camping on nights that are routinely above freezing.

The Celsius is bulky to pack up and store, even when condensed into its compression sack, but that’s exactly what we like so much about it. This is a big, traditional, comfy sleeping bag for a very reasonable price, and we recommend it to those who like a substantial bed-like bag.

Stock image of NEMO Jazz 30 Double

NEMO Jazz 30 Double

Comfortable & durable sleeping bag for two

Price: $350

Temperature Rating: 30°F

Weight: 9 lb. 5 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Bed-like feel
  • Hood holds 2 full-size pillows in place
  • Spacious for 2 people
  • Oversized storage case is easy to use
  • Integrated polyester bedsheet
  • Smooth, non-intrusive wrap-around zipper
  • Comfortable material
  • Oversized, plush draft collar
  • Integrated sleeping pad sleeve

Cons

  • Heavy / bulky packed size
  • Expensive
  • Bedsheet can detach easily if you toss & turn a lot

If you’re looking for a two-person sleeping bag that feels like your bed at home, the NEMO Jazz 30 Double is as comfortable as they come. This is the double-wide version of one of our other top picks, the NEMO Jazz 30. We rarely rank two sister products on the same list, but after dozens of nights of testing, the Jazz Double has earned its place.

It is just as comfortable as the single version but made for sharing. Featuring a massive, wide draft collar to block out cool air and a huge oversized hood that fits two full-size pillows from home, this new addition to our list is an outstanding solution for car campers and weekend warriors looking for a cozy sleep system to share.

Like the single Jazz 30, this sleeping bag has a nicely tapered footbox to reduce dead space. The double version integrates the same burly, no-snag side zippers, but on each side, so you can vent your feet when it gets hot, and enter and exit the bag without disturbing your partner.

Like the single version, the best part is the integrated bed sheet. The Jazz Double’s polyester bed sheet takes this bag to the next level, making it truly feel like a bed. We found that if both people move around a lot, this sheet tends to come unsnapped, but its plush feel and added warmth are a nice touch.

And, one of our all-time favorite sleeping mattresses, the NEMO Roamer XL Wide, integrates with the sleeping pad pocket on the bottom of the Jazz. This combination makes for one of the most luxurious nights of sleep you may ever have while camping.

The biggest downside of this bag is its price. At $350, the Jazz Double is one of the spendiest sleeping bags on this list. The Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 offers a similar 2-person sleeping bag for quite a bit less, although this one is cushier and more comfortable. And, keep in mind you’re essentially getting two very high-quality sleeping bags in one – you could easily spend more purchasing two separate bags.

Also, the Jazz Double’s packed size is huge. We love the stuff sack – it’s essentially a large duffel bag with oversized handles – because it offers a ton of room to fit the bag. But, you’ll want to make sure there’s plenty of room in the car and at home for storage.

The Jazz Double is a bed-like sanctuary for couples, families, and dog lovers who want to share a sleeping bag and are looking for the ultimate in cocoon-like warmth. This NEMO model is proof that just because you’re going camping doesn’t mean you should sacrifice comfort.

Exped Megasleep 25/40

Lightweight sleeping bag for summer nights

Price: $100

Temperature Rating: 25ºF

Weight: 2 lb. 2.9 oz.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Packs small
  • Multiple temperature options depending on which side faces up
  • Completely unzips into blanket
  • Convenient mesh duffel storage bag
  • Dries fast

Cons

  • No hood
  • Too thin for cold conditions

The Exped MegaSleep 25/40 is a top-notch choice for summer camping conditions. It’s a practical, airy, and space-saving sleeping bag that’s built for nights between 40-60°F. And, for only $100, this bag is an excellent option in warm conditions.

The MegaSleep offers a simple and clever way to moderate your temperature: use its dark blue side (with extra fill) on top to keep you warm in temperatures in the mid-thirties to mid-forties, or flip it over and use the light blue side (with less fill) facing up for more breathability on warm summer nights in the fifties and sixties.

At barely over two pounds, this is one of the lightest bags on our list. The MegaSleep is light enough for most backpacking trips, but it also offers exceptional comfort for frontcountry adventures. The quick-drying microfiber insulation gives the MegaSleep bag loft but keeps the profile very slim and awesomely easy to pack. We appreciate the mesh duffel-bag-style stuff sack as well.

We like the MegaSleep because it’s a practical and simple bag. Glow-in-the-dark zipper tabs make it easy to unzip at night, and it’s plenty wide and long enough for all body shapes and sizes. This model also completely unzips into a blanket for kicking it around the campfire, or you can open it up to get the most breathability during warm nights.

It’s also designed to perfectly fit the Exped MegaMat, which is our number one choice on our Best Sleeping Mattresses for Camping guide. Our team of testers highly recommends this combination of Exped products for a phenomenal night of sleep.

Though the MegaSleep doesn’t have a hood, it’s built as much for staying cool on warm nights as it is for staying warm on cool nights. That said, Exped also includes a drawcord at the head and a draft tube along the zipper to retain heat on brisk mornings.

Our only real complaint about the MegaSleep is it isn’t warm enough for cold fall or spring conditions, so we recommend it for summer camping. Our team found this Exped model felt cold below 45°F with the “warm” side up, so you’ll want to reserve it for nights when the mercury isn’t headed toward freezing. That said, the MegaSleep is easy to love on summer night nights when it’s our go-to as a super functional and versatile option.

If you generally sleep hot, love summer camping, and prefer a bag that’s streamlined, compact, and has an airy feel, the MegaSleep is an excellent fit.

Coleman Brazos 30

Best budget camping sleeping bag

Price: $47

Temperature Rating: 30ºF

Weight: 6 lb. 14.4 oz.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Comfortable interior material
  • Durable
  • Internal stash pocket
  • Fully unzips to turn into a blanket
  • Zip two bags together for more room

Cons

  • Heavier/bulkier than some
  • Debris sticks to lining
  • Challenging to pack
  • No hood

If you’re on a tight budget, or you have a family or group camping trip and need multiple sleeping bags, the Coleman Brazos 30 is your best bet. It’s hands down the most affordable sleeping bag on this list and one of our top budget picks.

The Coleman Brazos is a minimalist sleeping bag that delivers in spades. It’s warm enough for nights in the low 40s, so the Brazos is perfect for summer conditions. The boxy and rectangular shape is well-suited for larger bodies and those who move around in the night, and the L-shaped zipper allows you to completely open up the bag into a blanket.

The biggest highlight of the Brazos is its interior. Coleman utilizes a soft, cushy lining that heats up almost immediately once you’re inside. The fabric is soft to the touch and very comfortable. However, we recommend being diligent about keeping this bag inside of your tent, because debris clings easily to the lining if it comes in contact with the ground.

For a $50 sleeping bag, you’ll make some sacrifices like with its packability – the biggest challenge is getting the Brazos back into its tight stuff sack. Despite the cords at the end of the sleeping bag – added to tighten the bag once rolled – we found the best way to get it back into the bag is bodyweight and muscle, and the durability of the cinch sack is questionable. We highly recommend using the money you save on this bag to purchase an inexpensive mesh laundry bag for storing the Brazos.

We also found the zipper tends to catch on the material, which can be challenging at night, and the exterior isn’t very water resistant, so we wouldn’t recommend it for wet or humid climates.

However, budget-friendly products is Coleman’s wheelhouse, and the Brazos offers a stellar value for the price. It’s a comfortable, practical sleeping bag that will keep you warm on cool summer nights, and is a good option if you camp just one or two times a year.

Stock image of men's Kelty Cosmic Down 20

Kelty Cosmic Down 20

Value sleeping bag with excellent warmth-to-weight

Price: $160 / $190

Temperature Rating: 21ºF

Weight: 4 lb. 4 oz. (men’s) / 3 lb. 4.8 oz. (women’s)

Fill Type: 550fp down

Pros

  • Good value for a down sleeping bag
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Hood adds warmth
  • Strong zipper doesn’t snag
  • Warm

Cons

  • Heavy for a down bag
  • Women’s bags cost quite a bit more
  • Down requires special care when washing

Whether you’re car camping in the Poconos or setting up a basecamp in the Sierras, Kelty’s über popular mummy-style Cosmic Down 20 (men’s / women’s) is a stellar choice for a sound night of sleep.

We’re big fans of the quality, fast-drying fabrics on the Cosmic Down 20. The slim-fitting mummy bag design is more efficient at retaining heat versus rectangular options, since the footbox is rounded and there are no corners for cold spots. This combination of fabrics and warmth makes the Cosmic a great choice for camping in humid, foggy, and damp conditions. Plus, it comes in 0°, 20°, and 40°F options that will work for whatever season you’re camping in.

The ergonomic footbox gives a bit of extra wiggle room for your toes, and the Cosmic has one of the larger zippered stash pockets we’ve seen – plenty big enough for your phone, watch, and chapstick. We also appreciate this bag’s slightly wider fit, so those with larger body sizes or who dislike slim or narrow sleeping bags will appreciate the bit of extra room.

The main complaint we have about this model is its weight: 4+ pounds is on the heavy side for a down bag. This is no issue for car camping since you won’t be carrying it far, but we would consider the Cosmic too heavy for backpacking. Prior versions were notably lighter, so this is a bit of a step backward for the Cosmic Down when it comes to versatility. However, we love this version as a car camping bag, and we appreciate that it packs down small. If you’re looking for a lighter option, check out the Ultralight version, which ranks well on our Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags guide.

Last, we’d be remiss to point out that this Kelty model also has one of the largest gender price discrepancies we’ve seen in any product category. The women’s bag does include more down in the chest and hips for cold nights and extra padding, but it costs $40-$70 more than the men’s version.

That said, Kelty has a real winner for car camping with the Cosmic Down that we continue to use year after year from late spring until early fall. With a price range of $150-$180, this well-rounded down bag is an accessible, affordable sleeping option for cool frontcountry nights.

Stock image of ALPS Outdoorz Redwood -10

ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood -10

Best classic heavyweight sleeping bag for cold nights

Price: $160

Temperature Rating: -10°F

Weight: 11 lb. 8 oz.

Fill Type: Synthetic

Pros

  • Very warm
  • Heavy like a weighted blanket
  • Soft interior fabric
  • Durable exterior canvas material
  • Affordable
  • Roomy & wide fit
  • Cushy insulation
  • Completely unzips into blanket

Cons

  • Runs a bit short
  • No hood
  • Very heavy & bulky packed size
  • Absorbs water
  • No stuff sack

For car campers, hunters, bush crafters, or anyone who loves a classic, super warm sleeping bag for nights in frigid temperatures, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood -10°F is a great choice.

A night in the Redwood feels like sleeping inside of a weighted comforter: it’s heavy, huge, and very cozy. The wide orientation is perfect for any sleeping style, allowing you to sprawl out as wide as you need. We especially love the nostalgic flannel lining, which adds a bit of old-school warmth and outstanding coziness.

The Redwood is incredibly warm. Its Techloft insulation is a thick, plush synthetic layer that will keep you toasty in very cold conditions. However, this bag has a sweet spot when it comes to temperature. Despite the generous -10°F rating, we found that in temperatures below 10°F, the Redwood began to feel a bit chilly, and in temperatures above 40°F, we were sweating. It’s perfect for folks who are active outside in the coldest of the cold shoulder seasons, but it’s much too warm for summer.

The burly exterior canvas is one of our favorite parts about the Redwood. It holds up extremely well against abrasion and will last for years. However, this exterior is also a downside of the Redwood: it’s made of a cotton blend that absorbs water like dry soil. We didn’t have any issues with keeping the bag dry, but the potential is real, so we made sure water bottles were firmly sealed and condensation wouldn’t be a major issue.

And though we don’t mind a large packed size for camping – for example, the NEMO Jazz above packs large – but this Alps Mountaineering model is 11.5 pounds and packs to about three feet by one foot after using the compression straps. You’ll definitely have to account for its size when packing the car or storing it over the summer. That said, this bulkiness is a byproduct of the warmth it offers, and you’ll be getting one of the toastiest bags out there.

If you’re looking for one of the heaviest and most comfortable cold-weather sleeping bags on the market, the classic Redwood -10 is unrivaled. You’re all but guaranteed a terrific night of sleep in this thing, as long as the temperatures are well below freezing.

The REI Siesta Hooded 20 IS our top pick for a great balance of Convenience, comfort & price

What’s Most Important to You in a Sleeping Bag?

PRICE

Your sleeping bag will likely be one of the most expensive items you buy for camping, but it’s also one of the most important. Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to get a warm, high-quality sleeping bag – although we find spending a little more is often worth it for the increase in durability, versatility, and comfort.

Best value sleeping bags

Best budget sleeping bags

Best high-end sleeping bags

COMFORT

Car camping offers the luxury of bringing as much gear as you want, so make comfort a priority! The sleeping bags we use the most for frontcountry camping trips are plenty warm for the conditions, have plush features like fabric interiors, oversized hoods, and fluffy neck baffles, and have a roomy cut to stretch out and relax. Mummy-style bags generally feel more snug and warm, but they can limit your movement. However, mummy bags tend to be lighter and easier to carry, so if you want a bag for both camping and backpacking, mummies are the way to go.

Best roomy, rectangular bags

Best mummy bags

WARMTH

Summer is the most popular season for car camping, so our sleeping bag recommendations are mostly in the 20-40°F range. Remember, the number listed with the name of most sleeping bags is the lower limit, which is usually 10-15°F lower than what’s actually comfortable for most people. Be sure to consider what your lowest overnight temperature will be and choose accordingly.

Warmest bags for 3-season use

Best summer bags

SINGLE VS. DOUBLE

We generally prefer to use individual sleeping bags for camping or backpacking because they offer more versatility and individual comfort. Weight doesn’t matter as much for car camping trips versus backpacking, and double sleep systems can be an excellent solution for families, couples, and pet lovers that prefer to be close or cuddle. Single bags with a proper fit can be warmer in really cold conditions since they have less dead air space to heat up. That said, sharing body heat in a cinched-up, two-person sleep system can also have heat-multiplying benefits while still offering individual comforts like separate foot vents.

Best individual bags

Best double bags

WEIGHT & PACKABILITY

Keeping weight and bulk to a minimum isn’t critical for car camping the way it is for backpacking. But lighter, more compact sleeping bags are easier to transport, and generally pack down smaller for more storage in your car and home. If you’re looking for a sleeping bag that can work for both camping and backpacking, opt for one of the lightest options here. Or, for the lightest-weight models on the market, head over to our list of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags.

Most packable & lightweight camping sleeping bags

EASE OF PACKING

If a bag is comfy to sleep in, but a pain in the neck to pack up when you’re done, it can really take away from the experience.

Easiest sleeping bags to pack/unpack

DURABILITY

Sleeping bags designed for frontcountry camping are often made with heavier materials, wider sizes, and beefy zippers for added durability. That said, it’s always a good idea to have a repair kit that includes Tenacious Tape or nylon self-adhesive patches just in case of a rip, tear, or puncture, especially if your bag is filled with down – once the filling starts to come out, your bag will be a lot less effective at retaining heat.

Most durable sleeping bags

DOWN VS. SYNTHETIC

While down insulation comes with a higher price tag compared to synthetic options, its superior warmth-to-weight ratio and packability make it a top choice. Down bags also tend to last longer when they are properly maintained. Conversely, synthetic sleeping bags are bulkier and heavier, but they are more affordable and retain heat better when damp or wet.

How do you decide which insulation is best for your adventures? Think about how you’ll use your sleeping bag. For backpacking, we recommend down bags. They usually offer a far superior warmth-to-weight ratio versus synthetic bags, and tend to packing down smaller and lasting longer.

When it comes to car camping, though, comfort is your north star. If you don’t have to carry your sleeping bag far, we recommend buying the most plush and comfortable sleeping bag (with the correct temperature rating) that you can afford. Keep in mind the comfiest bag for you will allow  you to sleep the way you do at home: on your stomach, side or back.

Best down bags

Best synthetic bags

Critical Sleeping Bag Considerations

CHOOSING A TEMPERATURE RATING

How do you choose the “right” temperature rating? Many things contribute to how hot or cold you might feel, like clothing, hydration, nutrition, altitude, and especially the insulation of your sleeping pad/mattress

We’re confident all of the bags on this list will keep the average camper comfortable in typical temperate summer conditions, with overnight temps mostly in the 40s and 50s, with some bags rated for much lower or a little higher. However, if you already know you’re a hot or cold sleeper, take that into account when weighing your options.

  • Temperature Rating: Most sleeping bags have a number listed after their name: for example, the REI Siesta Hooded 20. As mentioned above, this number represents the lower limit of the bag, which is around 10-15°F less than what is comfortable. Look for bags with a standardized EN Comfort Rating. The EN rating gives a more practical, real-world idea of how the bag will feel to the average sleeper. That said, it’s rare to see EN Comfort Ratings on frontcountry camping bags. If you don’t see a comfort rating, just add 10-15° to the temperature rating listed by the manufacturer.
  • Increase your Temperature Rating – Remember, you can always add layers to increase the warmth of your bag. If you sleep cold or know there will be a major drop in temperature, simply throw a camp blanket over the top, use a silk bag liner on the inside, or simply wear additional layers to add warmth. We recommend sleeping in base layers and a warm hat on really chilly nights. Also consider eating food right before bed so your body has calories to burn, drinking plenty of water to keep hydrated, or even sliding a hot water bottle inside your sleeping bag a few minutes before you hop in.

WHERE DOES THE DOWN COME FROM?

Down is the soft, fine layer of feathers beneath the outermost plumage on ducks and geese. These tiny feathers help keep the birds warm, especially in very cold weather. Most down comes from birds used for meat, and a large portion of the world’s down – around 70% – is supplied by China.

the Coleman Brazos (RIGHT) is bulky & has to be rolled tightly

DOWN FILL POWER

Fill power (fp) specifically refers to the quality of down insulation in down sleeping bags – note that this rating doesn’t apply to synthetic bags. Higher numbers mean the down is lightweight, compresses better, and usually costs more. Ratings above 800-fill-power are top-notch. If the number is lower, it’ll likely cost less, but won’t be as warm for the weight.

When it comes to synthetic insulation, quality is measured by the type of material used and the steps taken in its construction. Synthetic bags may use terms like “weight” or “thickness” to describe their insulation quality. As a result, measurements are harder to compare and gauge for synthetic sleeping bags.

The EE Accomplice is light enough for backpacking & works well for frontcountry camping

BAG LENGTH & WIDTH

Sleeping bags generally aim to eliminate areas of dead heat – pockets of interior volume that your body has to expend energy to keep warm. Mummy bags, because of their tapered bottoms and more snug fit, tend to feel the warmest, although they can be narrow and restrictive for sleepers who like to spread out. Unfortunately, mummies rarely come with wide options, so you’ll want to look elsewhere if the bag is too slim.

Rectangular and wider bags may feel a bit colder in chilly temperatures due to cold spots in the corners or at the edges. However, if you’re a belly or side sleeper, or tend to move a lot at night, a wider orientation will feel more natural and comfortable. Plus, many rectangular bags have zippers that extend the entire length of one side for venting. Many have zippers that wrap around to the opposite corner so they can open up into a blanket or quilt, offering maximum versatility for ventilation and comfort.

In general, we recommend choosing the wider version of most sleeping bags, regardless of your sleeping position. In our experience, the more room you have to roll over and adjust, the more comfortable you’ll be.

DWR

DWR, or Durable Water Repellent, is a treatment for the outside fabric of your sleeping bag – down and synthetic – that adds a layer of water resistance. When this treatment is done regularly,: instead of soaking into the fabric, water will bead up and stay on the outer shell. By no means does this make your bag fully waterproof, but it adds an important bit of extra protection. Many sleeping bags already come with a DWR coating, but just like rain jackets and rain pants, it eventually wears off and you’ll need to reapply it. To learn how, check out our guide How To Clean & Wash Your Sleeping Bag, including steps on reapplying DWR.

WASHING & STORAGE

When it comes to durability, down is excellent, but it loses efficiency over time as it gets oily, dirty, and compressed. Synthetic materials may last a bit longer, but it’s lifespan also depends on proper storage and maintenance so it can last year after year of regular use. For details on how to care for your bed-away-from-bed, head over to our article How to Repair, Wash, Store, & Care For Your Sleeping Bag.

The REI Siesta Hooded 20 & TNF Wawona Bed 20 are made with durable outer material & should last for many years