Which sleeping bag?

[Jakesheridan]

Hi! Found myself hung up on another equipment question and know folks on this forum are kind and helpful so thought I'd ask you all!

Which sleeping bag should I take? I'm Frances hiking in April/early May, and decided a bag would work better for me then than a liner. I just graduated (woohoo!), so I'm trying to work on a tight budget but also get something very light and sufficiently warm (thinking around 40-50*F rating?). 6'3, by the way. Here's what I'm looking at right now:
- Kelty Cosmic 40 Down Sleeping (duck)
- Kelty Cosmic 40 Sleeping Bag (DriDown)
- AEGISMAX Urltra-Light Camping Sleeping Bag
thanks for the help!

 

[Anniesantiago]

Mine is duck down and I love it.
I have tried an ultra light and that early in the season, I got cold.
I couldn't open the duck down link to see the price.
My bag has never gotten wet, but the dridown probably would be fine, although if you look at the reviews it isn't as warm as they say.
I've frozen in June so you may want to spring for the down bag.
I bought an excellent down bag on craigslist one year - nothing wrong with a used bag if price is an issue.
I'd personally go for down.

 

[Jakesheridan]

Thanks for that! Btw, @Anniesantiago, fixed link!

 

[SeñorJacques]

I'm in the same situation as you are right now (will be walking a few weeks behind you) and have settled on a liner/blanket combo. While a sleeping bag may be necessary for the first part of my walk, I don't think I'll need one as my trip stretches into June - whereas a blanket can still come in handy for picnics, etc. even if I don't need it for sleeping. (I suppose one can always use a sleeping bag for that purpose as well, but since blankets are generally lighter than bags that feels like a better option for me.)

I've been a big fan of Kelty products for many years and am considering packing my Bestie Blanket as part of my sleep system. It's not particularly light (just over 1.5 lb.) but it's durable and snuggly.

Bestie Blanket

Finished with super-soft fabrics on both sides, the Kelty Bestie Blanket is great over rough rocks or pokey grass...around the campfire or the park...as an extra layer over or under your sleeping bag...or a gift for your BFF, IRL.

www.kelty.com

Of course, if a credit magically appears in my REI account (stranger things have happened!) I may consider a Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket, though at 52x38" it might be on the small side for you (I'm 5'10" and it would be on the small side for me, but the light weight and small volume would be a worthy tradeoff.)

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Travel Blanket - Black | REI Co-op

Trapping warmth inside small pockets of air, the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Travel blanket effectively works like down, but is lighter, water-resistant and packable for all sorts of cozy adventures.

www.rei.com

I'm also considering a generic lightweight fleece blanket, which has the advantage of being something I wouldn't mind parting with at some point if I didn't need it anymore (I'd hate to give up my Bestie Blanket - we've had some good times over the years.) Also seems like it could come in handy for the flights and train trips I'll be taking before and after my walk. Easy to wash/dry at high temps too in case a bedbug situation rears its creepy crawly legs.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B089GXHXVS/?tag=casaivar02-20

And any of the above with the Sea to Summit liner I have would keep my entire sleep system well under 2 1/2 lb., which seems reasonable.

Sea to Summit Sleeping Bag Liners | Lifetime Guarantee

Shop our range of cotton, Tencel, fleece, and silk sleeping bag liners, essential for wicking moisture, adding warmth, & keeping your sleeping bag clean. Your next-to-skin layer for extending the temperature range of your camp sleep system.

seatosummitusa.com

Since you're walking a few weeks before I am keeping warm will be more of a concern - but you could likely tweak the liner/blanket combo to find something that works for you and that will still be more versatile (and possibly lighter) than just a sleeping bag. Will be following this thread to see what you decide!

 

[J Willhaus]

I use a poncho liner (also called a woobie) for the in between seasons pinned together with some safety pins to make it like a bag. Light weight, super soft, and warm. Usually pretty cheap and you can buy them new or used from army surplus.

 

[benny aumala]

You need a quilt !
See Snugpak jungle Blanket.
A 1 meter zipper attached to form a footbox makes it.
Your garments in backpack gives margin for additional
temperature insulation.

 

[P Steeper]

Which sleeping bag should I take?
- AEGISMAX Urltra-Light Camping Sleeping Bag
thanks for the help!

I took the Aegismax on my last Camino and I’m planning to use it again on my next. It’s very light and compresses to a small package. On one very cold night in an unheated albergue I had to wear extra clothes in the sleeping bag. I’d recommend avoiding unheated albergues!

 

[lt56ny]

I bought a really nice sleeping bag for about 40E at the Decathalon in Sevilla. It fit me well and was light and small. The brand on it is called Decathalon/Forclaz 15C I used it in November and December going up to Santiago and was never cold. I got the XL. I am 6'2'' (1.89) in height. According to the sizing the large looked like it would fit me. It was also smaller so that was the main attraction. The salesperson was a really helpful and good guy. He told me to go with the XL because it would fit me much better in length and he said it would especially be better for me as many Americans (like myself, based on his observation at least) have broader shoulders and are generally larger framed than most Spaniards and Europeans in General. Glad I got the XL. Used it just about every night and it is still in perfect shape.

 

[Former member 99942]

I have plenty of down bags and a down quilt. They are difficult to wash correctly though. And I’m worried about needing to do that in case of bed bugs. Thinking about finding something synthetic and cheap but that will mean much more volume and weight

 

[Anniesantiago]

I have plenty of down bags and a down quilt. They are difficult to wash correctly though. And I’m worried about needing to do that in case of bed bugs. Thinking about finding something synthetic and cheap but that will mean much more volume and weight

I have an expensive down bag and I've washed it on occasion with no issues.
Plus, if you DO get bedbugs, a hot dryer or putting it in a black garbage bag in the sun (or in the freezer) for several hours does the trick.

 

[lt56ny]

Thinking about finding something synthetic and cheap but that will mean much more volume and weight

The sleeping bag I just mentioned in my last post that I purchased at Decathalon is synthetic

 

[Former member 99942]

I have an expensive down bag and I've washed it on occasion with no issues.
Plus, if you DO get bedbugs, a hot dryer or putting it in a black garbage bag in the sun (or in the freezer) for several hours does the trick.

Usually when you wash a quality down bag you have to have special soap and you have to dry it on low temp for a couple hours. Hot drying won’t work as it will melt parts of my bag but I have heard of the freezer technique. All that takes time though and I’m looking to shorten that and not take up away a prized dryer for a few hours from other pilgrims. I’ll probably just bring something cheaper

 

[Anniesantiago]

Usually when you wash a quality down bag you have to have special soap and you have to dry it on low temp for a couple hours. Hot drying won’t work as it will melt parts of my bag but I have heard of the freezer technique. All that takes time though and I’m looking to shorten that and not take up away a prized dryer for a few hours from other pilgrims. I’ll probably just bring something cheaper

Using a special soap is just another way of making people spend more money, imo. It's like those "past due dates" on food. I just wash mine with a gentle detergent and put it in the dryer on low with a few tennis balls. Never had an issue. Mine was a $450 bag over 10 years ago. But something cheaper is probably a good idea if you're worried. Depending on when you're walking, you can buy inexpensive quilts online and at REI. I bought a Marmot pounder when I first started walking and it didn't keep me warm. So I bought the down bag. I prefer down, though, and have always taken it and I've walked the Frances 20+ times. I've frozen in June and my down bag is lightweight and keeps me toasty in those cold albergues. But you should do what makes your heart happy.

 

[Jakesheridan]

The sleeping bag I just mentioned in my last post that I purchased at Decathalon is synthetic

@lt56ny thanks for the bag rec! Definitely gonna give that a look!!

 

[davebugg]

I have plenty of down bags and a down quilt. They are difficult to wash correctly though. And I’m worried about needing to do that in case of bed bugs. Thinking about finding something synthetic and cheap but that will mean much more volume and weight

You do not wash clothing or gear to treat for bedbugs. They are killed using heat, so tossing a sleeping bag in a dryer set to at least 140f for 40 to 60 minutes works fine. I’ve never had my Enlightened Equipment backpacking quilt suffer damage.

 

[pjacobi]

I'd recommend the AEGISMAX based on the light weight and 800 down filling.

I used something very similar on the Camino.


-Paul

 

[Former member 99942]

You do not wash clothing or gear to treat for bedbugs. They are killed using heat, so tossing a sleeping bag in a dryer set to at least 140f for 40 to 60 minutes works fine. I’ve never had my Enlightened Equipment backpacking quilt suffer damage.

My down bag (Katabatic) can’t go above 120 or it starts melting according to their web site. I’m looking at the EE apex. It’s synthetic. Is that what you have?

And I’m freezing my bag to kill bed bugs but then I’m absolutely washing it after. As well as a few other times if I’m using it every night for 30-40 days.

 

[Former member 99942]

Using a special soap is just another way of making people spend more money, imo. It's like those "past due dates" on food. I just wash mine with a gentle detergent and put it in the dryer on low with a few tennis balls. Never had an issue. Mine was a $450 bag over 10 years ago. But something cheaper is probably a good idea if you're worried. Depending on when you're walking, you can buy inexpensive quilts online and at REI. I bought a Marmot pounder when I first started walking and it didn't keep me warm. So I bought the down bag. I prefer down, though, and have always taken it and I've walked the Frances 20+ times. I've frozen in June and my down bag is lightweight and keeps me toasty in those cold albergues. But you should do what makes your heart happy.

Good stuff. Fortunately for your bag, the stuff they made it out of 10 years ago can probably take more of a beating. These days with pertex and treated down and other materials you need to be careful. This is what my bags website says

Use only detergent specifically designed for down filled products, such as Nikwax Down Wash Direct. Other typical laundry detergents strip the natural oils found in the down and will permanently damage your quilt.

 

[davebugg]

My down bag (Katabatic) can’t go above 120 or it starts melting according to their web site. I’m looking at the EE apex. It’s synthetic. Is that what you have?

And I’m freezing my bag to kill bed bugs but then I’m absolutely washing it after. As well as a few other times if I’m using it every night for 30-40 days.

My EE is their Revelation with 950 down fill and 15 denier fabric. My mountaineering bag, from a different cottage manufacturer, is a -20f with 800 fill and 20 denier. Both do get washed for dirt using nix wax product or my preference Camp Suds, which I think rinses out cleaner and is gentler to the down.

Freezing is fine. Before retiring from public health that was one of the option I gave folks as a treatment.

Me, if I’m washing for dirt and oils anyway, I would also be drying it afterwards so wouldn’t waste the time keeping it in the freezer, too.

 

[Former member 99942]

My EE is their Revelation with 950 down fill and 15 denier fabric. My mountaineering bag, from a different cottage manufacturer, is a -20f with 800 fill and 20 denier. Both do get washed for dirt using nix wax product or my preference Camp Suds, which I think rinses out cleaner and is gentler to the down.

Freezing is fine. Before retiring from public health that was one of the option I gave folks as a treatment.

Me, if I’m washing for dirt and oils anyway, I would also be drying it afterwards so wouldn’t waste the time keeping it in the freezer, too.

I’d dry mine as well Dave but I’m worried that
a. I won’t find a dryer that can dry as low as 125 (can’t go higher or it will damage my “indestructible” bag)
B. At that temp it won’t kill them right? Need to be above 150ish?
C. I don’t want to take up a dryer for a couple hours. I’d feel like an asshole.

I think I’m gonna go Enlightened Equipment for this one and get an Apex synthetic bag (40F). It can handle the higher heat and normal (but still gentle) soap. That way I can heat it like you said to kill them if I need to and wash it if/when it gets dirty. Thoughts on that strategy?

 

[davebugg]

I’d dry mine as well Dave but I’m worried that
a. I won’t find a dryer that can dry as low as 125 (can’t go higher or it will damage my “indestructible” bag)
B. At that temp it won’t kill them right? Need to be above 150ish?
C. I don’t want to take up a dryer for a couple hours. I’d feel like an asshole.

I think I’m gonna go Enlightened Equipment for this one and get an Apex synthetic bag (40F). It can handle the higher heat and normal (but still gentle) soap. That way I can hear it like you said to kill them if I need to and wash it if/when it gets dirty. Thoughts on that strategy?

140 is adequate and does not hurt either nylons or down; not in the amount of time needed. Manufactures have varying ‘rules for drying wet bags, but I have yet to see demonstrable evidence to the contrary when treating a dry or damp down bag in a dryer. You would not believe the stuff I threw at the high end down bags I was hired to test for QA issues.

You have a plan you’re comfortable with, so that is great The only thing I’d suggest is to have a plan to deal with bedbugs, but to not worry about it too much. The vast majority of pilgrims have no problems with the critters. Your chances of the same are excellent.

 

[C clearly]

I won’t find a dryer that can dry as low as 125 (can’t go higher or it will damage my “indestructible” bag)

You will likely not get much information about, or control over, the temperature of the dryer. There might be cool, warm and hot setting. Manufacturer's washing recommendations are always conservative, rightly so, but I would not recommend taking an expensive item that you are concerned about.

 

[dougfitz]

Many of the laundry issues raised in this thread could be solved by using a liner and washing it regularly. There was a time when anyone using shared accommodation like Hostels International or its national equivalents would never have considered travelling without a liner, but those days seem to have passed on the Camino. There is a short article here that explains the advantages.

 

[SeñorJacques]

Many of the laundry issues raised in this thread could be solved by using a liner and washing it regularly. There was a time when anyone using shared accommodation like Hostels International or its national equivalents would never have considered travelling without a liner, but those days seem to have passed on the Camino. There is a short article here that explains the advantages.

I've never considered not taking a liner on any backpacking trip for these very reasons - and it was the only thing I was planning on taking to sleep in/with for my Camino this May until I recently decided to add a lightweight travel blanket to my sleep kit as well. Didn't realize they had gone out of style but happy to know that my "classic" preference for them is shared by at least a few Camino veterans around here!

 

[Eve Alexandra]

You need a quilt !
See Snugpak jungle Blanket.
A 1 meter zipper attached to form a footbox makes it.
Your garments in backpack gives margin for additional
temperature insulation.

I just checked out your recommendation. Is this similar to the down quilt Costco sells that is popular with hikers? It looks similar to me.

I’ve got the Costco quilt which I used in March ‘17 with a S2S liner. It worked but I am on the hunt for something that is a bit cozier on cool nights but no heavier. Maybe fleece? Does anyone know if such a unicorn exists?

Also, regarding OP, I follow a lot of long distance hikers on yt that review budget gear and the Aegismax is pretty well respected. If I were to switch out from my liners/quilt to a bag, this would definitely be the one.

 

[SeñorJacques]

I’ve got the Costco quilt which I used in March ‘17 with a S2S liner.

That Costco quilt seems to be something of a Holy Grail among ultralight backpackers: Costco stopped selling them under the "Double Black Diamond" label a while back and although a Google search will turn up information on how it subsequently reappeared under different brand names here and there (including Eddie Bauer and Blue Ridge) it seems like it's pretty difficult to track down now. So consider yourself fortunate!

There are a few travel quilt options on Amazon which come close but all the ones I've found seem to be heavier and/or bulkier than the Costco. I just ordered one of these lightweight fleece blankets that I mentioned earlier in this thread to use with my S2S liner and may yet splurge on a Rumpl if finances permit ... but if anyone has the scoop on where to snag one of those elusive Costco quilts under whatever brand they're being sold these days, please share!

 

[Eve Alexandra]

That Costco quilt seems to be something of a Holy Grail among ultralight backpackers: Costco stopped selling them under the "Double Black Diamond" label a while back and although a Google search will turn up information on how it subsequently reappeared under different brand names here and there (including Eddie Bauer and Blue Ridge) it seems like it's pretty difficult to track down now. So consider yourself fortunate!

There are a few travel quilt options on Amazon which come close but all the ones I've found seem to be heavier and/or bulkier than the Costco. I just ordered one of these lightweight fleece blankets that I mentioned earlier in this thread to use with my S2S liner and may yet splurge on a Rumpl if finances permit ... but if anyone has the scoop on where to snag one of those elusive Costco quilts under whatever brand they're being sold these days, please share!

I had no idea they are so hard to find, now! I bookmarked that fleece blanket you linked. Thank you. I may give it a try. The rumpl looks good but as I already have the Costco quilt I probably don’t need to be spending $100 on a blanket. /sigh It was warm enough in March with my S2S liner (NOT silk. This is a warmer polyester liner) on all nights but one (empty albergue with no heat). I managed with adding my base layers and just got up early to generate some body heat and find coffee.

 

[RJM]

Get the cheapest one. You're sleeping indoors every night. The Camino is not really a backpacking trip. Zero need for any technical gear, though a lot of people treat walking it like an expedition up Everest lol.
Personally I'd probably find a slightly heavier one on Amazon that's half the price, with synthetic fill.
Spend the money you saved on coffee and chocolate.

 

[pjacobi]

For long-term storage of down bags, it is recommended that they be kept uncompressed. I hang mine in a closet when not in use.


-Paul

 

[LSBPDX]

Hi! Found myself hung up on another equipment question and know folks on this forum are kind and helpful so thought I'd ask you all!

Which sleeping bag should I take? I'm Frances hiking in April/early May, and decided a bag would work better for me then than a liner. I just graduated (woohoo!), so I'm trying to work on a tight budget but also get something very light and sufficiently warm (thinking around 40-50*F rating?). 6'3, by the way. Here's what I'm looking at right now:
- Kelty Cosmic 40 Down Sleeping (duck)
- Kelty Cosmic 40 Sleeping Bag (DriDown)
- AEGISMAX Urltra-Light Camping Sleeping Bag
thanks for the help!

I had a lightweight down mummy bag - the weight worked fine - but I wouldn't use a mummy bag again - I wanted room to stretch my legs after a long day walking! Also, the mummy bag was tougher to sleep on top of on those days when it was super hot.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

Mine is duck down and I love it.
I have tried an ultra light and that early in the season, I got cold.
I couldn't open the duck down link to see the price.
My bag has never gotten wet, but the dridown probably would be fine, although if you look at the reviews it isn't as warm as they say.
I've frozen in June so you may want to spring for the down bag.
I bought an excellent down bag on craigslist one year - nothing wrong with a used bag if price is an issue.
I'd personally go for down.

Okay this is kind of being weird, we have never walked in really really cold weather. I think Wendy got a very good bag from REI I bought mine from lidl and was very happy with it, but again we didn't want to really cold weather. Wendy has gone with the down blankets which she has had trouble keeping it on her and my toesies are always warm.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Okay this is kind of being weird, we have never walked in really really cold weather. I think Wendy got a very good bag from REI I bought mine from lidl and was very happy with it, but again we didn't want to really cold weather. Wendy has gone with the down blankets which she has had trouble keeping it on her and my toesies are always warm.

My bag has a foot box. It was originally a down "bag" that I cut the zipper and hood off. So it stays on my feet and keeps me toasty.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

Okay this is kind of being weird, we have never walked in really really cold weather. I think Wendy got a very good bag from REI I bought mine from lidl and was very happy with it, but again we didn't want to really cold weather. Wendy has gone with the down blankets which she has had trouble keeping it on her and my toesies are always warm.

The foot of the bag is also a good place to store anything of value. ;-)

 

[Karl Oz]

The foot of the bag is also a good place to store anything of value. ;-)

Maybe not Scott! Enterprising thieves have been known use razors to cut-open the ends of sleeping bags and remove the contents. But maybe this is unlikely in an albergue. I put my money belt under my pillow, which I admit is scarcely foolproof either.

 

[trecile]

Enterprising thieves have been known use razors to cut-open the ends of sleeping bags and remove the contents.

I've read this, but never from anyone with first hand experience. I wonder if it really happens.

 

[c0484]

Hi! Found myself hung up on another equipment question and know folks on this forum are kind and helpful so thought I'd ask you all!

Which sleeping bag should I take? I'm Frances hiking in April/early May, and decided a bag would work better for me then than a liner. I just graduated (woohoo!), so I'm trying to work on a tight budget but also get something very light and sufficiently warm (thinking around 40-50*F rating?). 6'3, by the way. Here's what I'm looking at right now:
- Kelty Cosmic 40 Down Sleeping (duck)
- Kelty Cosmic 40 Sleeping Bag (DriDown)
- AEGISMAX Urltra-Light Camping Sleeping Bag
thanks for the help!

I always walk the Camino during April and May and bought a light weight 3 pound bag. As long as you sleep indoors, that is all you need. Weight is everything on the Camino.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

I've read this, but never from anyone with first hand experience. I wonder if it really happens.

I don't or haven't seen anyone with a razor in 45 years. I've put cross stitches up the zipper in several place to avoid the bag from opening. My feet are about the most reactionary part of my body. I've felt this a safe place to keep things for over 14 Camino's. I'm sticking with my bad habits I guess.

 

[LakeMcD]

I'm in the same situation as you are right now (will be walking a few weeks behind you) and have settled on a liner/blanket combo. While a sleeping bag may be necessary for the first part of my walk, I don't think I'll need one as my trip stretches into June - whereas a blanket can still come in handy for picnics, etc. even if I don't need it for sleeping. (I suppose one can always use a sleeping bag for that purpose as well, but since blankets are generally lighter than bags that feels like a better option for me.)

I've been a big fan of Kelty products for many years and am considering packing my Bestie Blanket as part of my sleep system. It's not particularly light (just over 1.5 lb.) but it's durable and snuggly.

Bestie Blanket

Finished with super-soft fabrics on both sides, the Kelty Bestie Blanket is great over rough rocks or pokey grass...around the campfire or the park...as an extra layer over or under your sleeping bag...or a gift for your BFF, IRL.

www.kelty.com

Of course, if a credit magically appears in my REI account (stranger things have happened!) I may consider a Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket, though at 52x38" it might be on the small side for you (I'm 5'10" and it would be on the small side for me, but the light weight and small volume would be a worthy tradeoff.)

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Travel Blanket - Black | REI Co-op

Trapping warmth inside small pockets of air, the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Travel blanket effectively works like down, but is lighter, water-resistant and packable for all sorts of cozy adventures.

www.rei.com

I'm also considering a generic lightweight fleece blanket, which has the advantage of being something I wouldn't mind parting with at some point if I didn't need it anymore (I'd hate to give up my Bestie Blanket - we've had some good times over the years.) Also seems like it could come in handy for the flights and train trips I'll be taking before and after my walk. Easy to wash/dry at high temps too in case a bedbug situation rears its creepy crawly legs.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B089GXHXVS/?tag=casaivar02-20

And any of the above with the Sea to Summit liner I have would keep my entire sleep system well under 2 1/2 lb., which seems reasonable.

Sea to Summit Sleeping Bag Liners | Lifetime Guarantee

Shop our range of cotton, Tencel, fleece, and silk sleeping bag liners, essential for wicking moisture, adding warmth, & keeping your sleeping bag clean. Your next-to-skin layer for extending the temperature range of your camp sleep system.

seatosummitusa.com

Since you're walking a few weeks before I am keeping warm will be more of a concern - but you could likely tweak the liner/blanket combo to find something that works for you and that will still be more versatile (and possibly lighter) than just a sleeping bag. Will be following this thread to see what you decide!

The Rumpl you mentioned caught my attention. Looked it up and found it was really short at 52 inches

 

[SeñorJacques]

The Rumpl you mentioned caught my attention. Looked it up and found it was really short at 52 inches

Yes, I realized that too and thought it wouldn’t be as much of a problem if I put the blanket inside my sleeping bag liner instead of on top. It would still cover my feet and come up to my chest (I’m 5’10”). But I decided to go with the travel fleece blanket I mentioned elsewhere, which is longer and plenty warm enough for me - and less than half the cost of the Rumpl.