Mummy bags typically have a ¾-length side zip that requires some wriggling to get in and out of and can’t be opened up completely should you want to zip the sleeping bag together with another compatible bag. That’s why for camping, we prefer a bag that fully unzips. Not only is it easy to create a large and comfortable space for two if you zip it to another bag, but unzipping the bag on its own opens it up for use as a blanket.
This is a great summer sleeping bag that is lightweight and easy to carry. I used this bag from February of 2002 to June of 2002 on the Appalachian Trail, and I still have it. The first night out it was less than 14 degrees F, and I had at least 50 nights under 40 degrees F. I can’t say I was warm, but I wasn’t shivering, freezing, ozark trail tent or cold either, although I did wear 2 layers of clothing. I won’t ever buy an expensive sleeping bag after carrying this cheapo, unless I can find a cheap bag that weighs a lot less. Sleeping bags inherently are barebones, but we’ve seen an uptick in available features on many mid-range and high-end models of late.
Made with lightweight mini ripstop fabric, the down-filled Ozark Sleeping Bag is soft to the touch. The interior of a sleeping bag varies quite a bit between designs, but one general rule of thumb is that comfort correlates closely with price. Comparing two of our top picks, Coleman’s cheap Brazos 20 uses a tricot lining that’s reasonably cozy but less soft than The Ozark Trail Camping Chairs North Wawona Bed (especially the smooth fleece-like panel along the top of the Wawona’s interior). For those who plan to get out a lot, opting for an upgraded design may be worth it. It introduced its sleeping bags in the 1960s and has since been a camper’s favorite. Their sleeping bags are available in a wide range of temperature ratings, designs, and colors.
The “L” shaped zipper configuration, and the fact that no hoods are involved, allow this simpler sleeping bag design to be mated easily. Your best bet for getting sleeping bags that mate together is to purchase them together, at the same time. Manufacturers sometimes change zipper styles, sizes, lengths etc. with each different model year. So, if you do not purchase your sleeping bags together there is no guarantee that your bag will mate with a bag purchased sometime down the road.
Further, when you lay on a sleeping bag, you compress the insulation, which impacts its ability to warm you (this is particularly true for down fill, but does impact synthetic as well). As a result, it’s important to choose a sleeping mattress or pad that will protect you from the ground if you’ll be camping in cooler temperatures (typically under degrees). That said, we still recommend checking the weight and stuffed size that will be listed in the product specifications to get an idea of just how large and heavy the bags are. Synthetic bags are typically made with thicker fabrics and require more insulation to provide sufficient warmth, which can add up to a surprising amount of bulk. And if you’re considering a double bag (covered in more detail below), you’re talking about packed dimensions listed in feet rather than inches.
It is important to consider the temperature rating, especially when camping in cold weather. It is advisable to understand what the temperature ratings mean for each. Trailspace’s community of gear reviewers has field-tested and rated the top warm weather synthetic sleeping bags.