Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2024

A quality sleeping bag will keep you warm and comfy so you can catch blissful Zs while you snooze at the campground. Our team of experts has spent thousands of nights in the woods and slept in over 40 bags to find the best options from brands like NEMO, REI, Kelty, The North Face, and more for your next frontcountry adventure. We test each bag for comfort, warmth, packed size, and other features to make sure we know them inside and out.

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 Overall Camping Sleeping Bag: NEMO Jazz 30 ($300)

Most Inclusive & Accessible Camping Sleeping Bag for All Shapes & Sizes: REI Trailmade 20 ($100)

High-Quality & Affordable Sleeping Bag: The North Face Wawona 20 ($130)

Best 2-Person Camping Sleeping Bag: Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide ($210)

Best Sleeping Bag for Different Temperatures: The North Face One Bag ($350)

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)

Comfortable & Durable Sleeping Bag for Two: NEMO Jazz 30 Double ($350)

Lightweight Sleeping Bag with Temperature Options: Exped MegaSleep 25/40 ($100)

Best Budget Camping Sleeping Bag: Coleman Brazos ($47)

Value Sleeping Bag with Excellent Warmth-to-Weight: Kelty Cosmic Down 20 Men’s ($160) / Women’s ($190)

Best Classic Heavyweight Sleeping Bag for Cold Nights: ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood -10 ($160)

How We Test & Methodology

We test camping sleeping bags along four different dimensions – warmth, comfort, packed size, and features – to assess and compare performance.

COMFORT

For sleeping bag comfort, we evaluate the bag’s shape and size, looking at how mummy, rectangular, and hybrid designs accommodate different sleeping styles and body types. We assess the softness of the interior fabric for its against-the-skin comfort. We also examine how roomy a sleeping bag is, particularly in the shoulders and through the foot box, to make sure there’s enough space to turn over. We test the effectiveness of the zipper system for ease of use and snag resistance, as a smooth-operating zipper enhances overall comfort.

WARMTH

For warmth, we test the sleeping bags in all sorts of conditions, from 0°F to upwards of 70°F to verify temperature ratings are accurate and a bag is reliable. Additionally, we assess the design features that help retain warmth while you sleep, like draft collars, hoods, zipper baffles, and baffle shape which are crucial in preventing heat loss. We also consider the shell material’s durability and water resistance, as these elements protect the insulation and maintain warmth in damp conditions. We also evaluate the fill loft and weight of each bag, (a higher loft and higher fill weight indicate better insulation and warmth).

PACKED SIZE

Packed size is less of a priority for camping than backpacking but size still matters for storage and transport. We look at the type of insulation and its loft, looking for high-loft down and advanced synthetic fills that compress well to save space in the trunk. Next, we measure the packed dimensions and weight and also consider if the sleeping bag uses compression sacks, straps, or a stuff sack that can dramatically reduce its volume without damaging the insulation.

FEATURES

When it comes to features on sleeping bags, we start by assessing internal and external pockets, evaluating their size, placement, and accessibility for storing small items like phones, chapstick, and headlamps. We look at the functionality of wrap-around zippers, ensuring they provide versatile ventilation options and easy entry and exit, and glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls earn extra points for visibility and ease of use in low-light conditions, adding convenience for nighttime adjustments. We also consider extra features like built-in pillow attachments, pad attachments, and torso or foot vents that contribute to the sleeping bag’s comfort and usability.

Why Trust CleverHiker

Our team at CleverHiker has collectively spent over a thousand nights under the stars, testing sleeping bags from sticky 80°F summer evenings in the Sonoran desert to -10°F winter nights in the high Rockies. Ian Krammer, Gear Analyst and lead camping sleeping bag tester, has been camping and sleeping outdoors all over the Rocky Mountains of Colorado for the last decade. With a deep love for the outdoors and years of product sales and analysis experience, he has a keen eye for quality gear. His systematic approach of putting sleeping bags through the wringer in real-world conditions, along with a critical eye towards quality, guarantees these sleeping bags will provide a stellar night of sleep in any conditions.

Analysis & Results

We outline the results of our testing process below and discuss top performers for warmth, comfort, packed size, and features.

VALUE

We look for sleeping bags that deliver top-tier performance to make sure you get the most out of your investment – regardless of the price tag. Although some sleeping bags are just downright less expensive with above-average performance, premium bags  can often pay off in the long run with extended durability and higher quality. 

We’re huge fans of the Exped Megasleep 25/40. The Megasleep stands out for its versatility thanks to a two-temperature rating design – a truly awesome value for multi-season use. This model essentially offers two bags in one: it can be used in warmer conditions at 40°F, or you can flip it over for cooler temperatures at 25°F. Its lightweight construction and packability, combined with a moderate price point, make it a fantastic choice for campers who want flexibility on a budget.

Also consider the Teton Sports Celsius Grand XXL 0°F. This is one of the most spacious and warmest bags we’ve ever tested at an extremely competitive price. The extreme cold-weather capability and incredible durability of this one offers excellent value for those needing a larger, ultra warm bag. Rated for 0°F, its massive loft is built for the coldest temperatures. Despite its large size and impressive loft, the Celcius Grand remains affordably priced for exceptional warmth.

Finally, The North Face One Bag offers unparalleled value through its innovative modular design. While this is one of the most expensive bags on our list, it accommodates an enormous range of temperatures: 5°F, 20°F, and 40°F, which means you can replace the need for multiple sleeping bags. Its combination of synthetic and down layers can be used together or separately, providing versatility from mild to sub-zero conditions. The versatility and performance it offers make it a cost-effective investment for serious adventurers who camp year round.

COMFORT

When it comes to spaciousness and room to move, our top choices are the ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood -10, the Teton Sports Celsius Grand XXL 0F, and the NEMO Jazz. All of these bags are rectangular shaped – as opposed to more restrictive mummy bags – so they provide a ton of extra space to toss, turn, stretch out, and change positions while you sleep.

That said, the NEMO Jazz Double is the most spacious sleeping bag on our list since it’s designed for two people – or one person and a dog – who want a comfortable shared sleeping experience.

We prioritize bags with soft interior linings to maximize comfort, which is also where the ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood -10 and the Teton Sports Celsius Grand XXL 0F stand out. They all feature soft internal linings, whether from synthetic material, flannel, or brushed flannel that offer a cozy, bed-like feel. The NEMO Jazz and Jazz Double take coziness to the next level thanks to a soft, removable interior “blanket” that adds a bit of extra warmth and comfort for a snuggly night of sleep.

WARMTH

You won’t find a warmer bag than the ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood -10. This model easily withstands extreme cold temperatures down to -10°F thanks to a heavy-duty cotton canvas outer shell and brushed cotton flannel liner that provides exceptional warmth. The bag’s massive size and quilted construction trap heat effectively, while the draft tubes along the zippers and around the shoulders minimize heat loss. The combination of quality materials and stellar construction makes this bag our go-to for the absolute coldest conditions.

The North Face One Bag is another outstanding choice for warmth. The modular design allows three interchangeable layers, so it can adapt to various temperature ranges, making it suitable for sub-zero conditions when fully assembled. The synthetic and down layers provide excellent warmth and versatility and perfectly-placed draft collars and a cinchable hood enhance heat retention. Plus, the ability to configure the layers based on the weather offers a customizable warmth experience.

Another of our top choices, the Teton Sports Celsius Grand XXL 0F, is built for freezing temperatures rated down to 0°F. It features some of the loftiest synthetic insulation on the market, which offers good warmth even in damp conditions. The bag’s mummy shape, oversized hood, and full-length zipper draft tubes retain heat effectively. And, we love the brushed flannel lining to add a cozy feel with double-layer construction for consistent warmth all night.

We highly recommend the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15. This bag uses high-quality 650-fill-down insulation, which provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. The bag’s mummy shape, contoured foot box, and insulated draft tube help maintain warmth, and the lightweight yet durable construction makes it ideal for sleeping in cold conditions where warmth and weight are priorities.

PACKED SIZE

If you’re looking for a bag that packs small, insulation type and fill power matter for compression. That’s why both the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 and Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 are at the top of the list. They utilize down insulation, which is highly compressible and packs down to a smaller size compared to synthetic fills.

The fill power of their down – 600 fp for Kelty and 650 fp for Mountain Hardwear – contributes to their ability to be packed tightly and small. Lightweight materials in the shells and liners also play a crucial role in overall packed size, and these ones benefit from the use of lightweight nylon, which compresses better and occupies less space than other materials.

A very close alternative option is the lightweight Exped Megasleep 25/40, which uses synthetic insulation but still packs down very small. It doesn’t quite achieve the same compact size as the Cosmic Down or the Bishop, but it’s close, and the lightweight materials and versatile design make it a practical option if you prefer synthetic fill.

FEATURES

The three most feature-rich sleeping bags we tested are The North Face One Bag, the NEMO Jazz 30, and the Jazz 30 Double. All four bags feature oversized hoods as well as large neck baffles and draft tubes that enhance warmth and comfort. The mummy-style hood of The North Face One Bag provides a snug fit, while the square pillow-pocket design of the NEMO Jazz 30, and Jazz 30 Double is big enough to accommodate a full-sized pillow from home.

The North Face One Bag has a zipper that extends all the way around the perimeter to customize temperature regulation and breathability. We also appreciate the glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls that make it easy to adjust the bag when it’s dark.

The NEMO Jazz 30 and Jazz 30 Double include extended zippers that run down the side or around the foot box for more flexibility. These bags also feature a short offset zipper pull on the opposite side so you can fold down the sleeping bag for a bed-like feel.

The NEMO Jazz 30 and Jazz 30 Double both feature large mattress “sleeves” underneath the bags that wrap around a sleeping pad to prevent sliding off the mattress at night. These bags also feature an integrated, ultra-soft polyester “sheet” that snaps on or off internally to add a bit of extra comfort and warmth when you need it.

And, all three bags have either internal or external pockets to stash small items like your phone or chapstick for fast access, a small feature that goes a long way to staying organized while camping.

How to Choose a Camping Sleeping Bag

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 NEMO Jazz 30. 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.

DOWN FILL POWER VS. SYNTHETIC

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.

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.

Conclusion

Choosing the right sleeping bag can make or break your camping experience, so we hope this guide has provided valuable insights to help you find the ideal frontcountry bed for your next camping trip. Remember to consider comfort, warmth, packed size, and features to help determine the best value and the perfect fit for you.