(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best camping sleeping bags

I'm excited for you. Yet, I would love some more details on what type of gear you have. Since I don't I'm going to cover everything at once. If you have a REI or Bass Pro Shop, you should be able to find most of these items, or you can get them overnighted to you pretty quickly from campmor.com, REI.com, backcountry.com or Amazon.com.

I'm assuming you already have some shoes that are comfortable and broken in from your other day hikes. Stick with these, even if they are just tennis shoes. DO NOT buy a pair right before this trip, you do not have time to break them in. Your feet are essential to your enjoyment of this trip and having unfamiliar shoes that aren't broken in will lead to painful, even debilitating blisters. One thing though I would recommend is picking up two pairs of light wool socks, like these. They will keep your feet dry and comfortable. Try them on with the shoes you have to make sure they don't squish your feet since they are thicker than normal socks.

As far as clothes. Try to avoid cotton. It doesn't dry well, tends to be heavy and stains easily. There is a reason hikers say "Cotton Kills". That moisture retention can lead to hypothermia very quickly. For shorts, if you have some comfortable swimming trunks or other nylon type material, wear those. I personally love nylon pants with zip off legs. Again, I'm assuming that since its summer that you will be in a pretty warm climate this time of year. Also wear an athletic t-shirt that specifies that it "wicks" sweat away. If you expect cooler temps at night I would pack along a fleece pull over for warmth.

Your big 3 items for overnight camping are Backpack, Sleeping Bag and Tent. Again I'm not sure what you have or what your budget is or if your sharing equipment with a friend, so I'm going to give you some cheap, but quality options to get you started. All of these items can be debated endlessly, but this will give you some specs to compare other things that may be more readily available to you.

Backpack: GoLite Jam

Sleeping Bag: [Kelty Cosmic Down] (http://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Cosmic-Degree-Down-Sleeping/dp/B004K1D9NA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1375119204&sr=8-3&keywords=north+face+cats+meow)

Tent: REI Camp Dome

After the big three you want to avoid packing unnecessary gear. The more weight you bring, the harder it is to hike, the less fun you have. Here is a basic gear list that we all make sure to have to one degree or another: Gear List

See what your fellow hikers are bringing so you're not duplicating gear, if you're going solo you pretty much need all of those things.

Now as far as food goes, I would personally just pack in a bunch of dry foods like granola and protein or even snickers bars. You want things that have high levels of energy packed into a small size. If you really want something hot for dinner, I love ramen noodles, or macaroni and cheese. To add some protein I dump in a packet of Tuna fish or chicken after they are cooked through. You can pick all this up at your local grocery store. I'm cheap so I don't like buying the pre-packaged trail meals, yet that is another alternative you might enjoy. All you do is add boiling water to the packs that they come in and eat after a few minutes.

Those are your essentials. Other than that, take your time, relax and enjoy the scenery and let us know how it went.

For that price you won't be getting ultralight on the big 3: backpack, sleeping bag, and tent. Unfortunately those are the largest, heaviest, and most difficult to go light weight on a budget. The majority of the other items are pretty good UL gear. You can, for example, get a lighter titanium stove. It'll save you about 2oz and double the cost. Eventually the 2oz there and a few more oz here and there on a number of pieces of gear really add up so you may want to swap it out as you upgrade your gear over time. But for right now one in the price/weight range I suggested is really good ultra light weight bang for your buck.

1. Alice Backpack $35 -- Watch some youtube videos on how to strap your tent/sleeping bag/sleeping pad to the pack safely and securely. Alternatively buy a used backpack off Craigslist for dirt cheap. This is the third thing I'd upgrade, once you have a lighter/smaller sleeping bag and tent.
   
2. Slumberjack 40 degree sleeping bag $98 -- Upgrade to down-filled rather than synthetic if you can, also make sure it's temperature appropriate for your trips. This is the first place I'd personally choose to upgrade.
   
3. Coleman Sundome $36 -- Any name brand dome tent is great for beginners. I picked a 2-person since you don't seem to know what you're doing (not an insult) I assume you'll be bringing a buddy! This is the 2nd thing I'd personally choose to upgrade to something that compacts down small enough to fit inside my backpack.
   
4. MSR Pocket Rocket butane stove $32 -- Not the greatest or the absolute lightest, but one of the more popular light weight stoves. A can of fuel is $5 at Wal-Mart or pretty much any sporting goods store.
   
5. Primus Litech 10oz kettle $25-- From this kit you really just want the pot and lid. You can leave the pan at home. According to the ad it is big enough to hold the 230g sized butane cannister previously mentioned. I suggest either eating things that require no cooking or just boiling water like any number of Mountain House or alternative meals available in the sporting goods section of Wal-Mart or any sporting goods store.
   
6. Stansport Back Packing Pad $10 -- One of the simplest items to upgrade, but "nicer" ones are $30-100+.
   
7. Titanium Spork $9 -- The only cookware you'll need for most those backpacking freeze-dried meals where you just add hot water and eat out of the pouch.
   
8. 4-pack of ponchos $4 -- These are stupid small and light. They're shit quality and rip easy so they're mostly one time use.. but at $1/ea you can pack one per day, who cares? Nice rain gear is hella expensive.
   
9. Base Layer -- If you don't already own it, buy some polyester/spandex "athletic" under-shirts and pants. They're stupid light, wick away your sweat, and add lots of warmth per ounce and cubic inch of pack space. I picked up a random set from Ross yesterday (bottoms and short sleeve top) for $20 combined. Generally speaking, avoid cotton for all clothing.
   
10. Rip-Stop/hiking/tactical pants $40/pair -- I can't pick these out for you because sizing/style preference, but the fairly cheap ones are about that price per pair.
    
11. AMK First Aid Kit $23 -- This is likely way more than you need and you could probably put together a decent one in a zip-loc baggy with stuff you have around the house. Don't forget to add any prescriptions you have or anything for special needs (allergies).
    
12. Survival Whistle $6 -- You can find cheaper ones at Wal-Mart maybe...
    
13. Signal Mirror $8 -- A woman's "compact" makeup mirror could get you this for free
    
14. Aquamira water treatment drops $14 -- You may also prefer iodine tablets or a filter. You can get a basic Sawyer filter from Wal-Mart for about $25.
    
    That totals out at $365 and covers most of your bases of things you'll need to buy. Most everything else is going to be like soap, toothbrush, etc. which I'm assuming you already have. I really like the HikeLight 3-day camping checklist. You won't be able to get most (any?) of the gear on this list at your price range, but just make sure you have a comparable replacement. Yours will likely just be bigger and/or heavier than their suggested ones. http://hikelight.com/gearlist.html
    
    Happy backpacking!

Well as I suggested for another person here, the Kelty Cosmic 0 Degree DriDown bag is really good. I've heard countless people claim their good nights sleep was because of it. https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Cosmic-Degree-Sleeping-Bag/dp/B014JQA4PG?th=1 It's got DriDown in it which means that it can get a little bit wet but still stay warm. It's the cheapest good quality bag out there that I've seen. And if you store it the right way and treat it right, it'll last forever. It's cheapest on Amazon right now for $164 and free shipping. You want a regular size. Regular fits someone who's 6' at the highest. It's 3lbs 9oz.

For a sleeping pad, it's really dependent on your sleeping style and budget. If you've got money to spend, I'd get the Exped MEGAMAT 10 MW. It's $189 with free shipping. It's 72 in long x 25.6 in wide and has a R Value of 9.5 which in normal person talk, is rated to -54 degrees Fahrenheit. It's honestly my dream mat if I could ever get that much random spending money. You can sleep on it, move around, your sides will never hit the ground like with most sleeping pads, and you will just be warm. Oh, and it weighs 73oz
https://www.amazon.com/Exped-Megamat-Insulated-Self-inflating-Sleeping/dp/B01NARZKSE

You'd be looking at $354 if you got those two higher quality items. Not including the shelter I assume you have.

I hike the mountains in MT multiple times a month. Mostly day hikes but I also do 1-5 day trips whenever possible. I prefer the cold so my gear is oriented to that. I won’t give full descriptions but I’ll link you what I use very comfortably. You can check the items out up/downgrade as needed. At least you’ll have an idea of what can work.


Also, the bulk of my gear money is spent on comfort clothing, not the main items I list below. All wool. Head to toe. Can score nice wool at the good will/thrift store sometimes. Good luck!


Tent – 110.00 got mine on sale for 75.00 so look for deals


sleeping bag – ICW 84.95. I’m certain I paid less so shop around


backpack – Tenzig 2220. 149.95. Most comfortable pack I’ve owned. Currently year 2 of using it. I think I paid 200 so this might be a good deal


Boots – for day hike I use Field Blazer – 100ish bucks for above 0, and Woody Elite – 200ish bucks for below 0.


For multi day trips with no snow I use Ventilator – About 100ish bucks. They have low and mid. I own both but prefer the low.



My kit is always evolving but these are some things I always carry no matter what -


--My knife + ferrocerium rod. (I put hundreds of dollars into my knives - but you can carry a mora for 10.00)

--A lifestraw. (10 bucks?)

--My own medkit (pieced together based on needs over the years) (10-25ish bucks?)

--Extra socks. (Good wool socks - 6-15 bucks)

--Day hike - plastic military canteen. (buck or two at thrift) Multi day - Stainless steel cup/bottle system (40-80+ bucks, or can go aluminum for short term and half the price)

--Paracord + tarp. (15 bucks or less for both and in good weather + fire the tent isn't even necessary with these. If the bears are out I always use a tent though)

--Pocket fishing kit I made with extra fishing line. (5 bucks)


What's in my pocket - Bic lighter, phone, compass, chapstick, whistle, hand warmer packx3, instant coffee.


This is for me, solo hiking in the mountains. I often carry much more depending on what i'm out to do, but these are items that in my experience will never leave my pack. I also always carry my Alaskan.

Yes. Military surplus gear is top notch, although it may be heavier. I bought a used, military surplus (synthetic, mummy, -10ºF) sleeping bag for $45 on Amazon. It isn't too heavy (≈4 lbs.) and it kept me very warm in 20 degree weather with wind (I slept outside-- but I was wearing layers). When it came in the mail, it was clean and undamaged.

The bottom line is, yes, don't be afraid to look into used gear. Definitely consider military surplus. Most resellers have standards that ensure the product is in good condition and clean.

This is the bag I bought in case you care:
http://www.amazon.com/Intermediate-Weather-Sleeping-Genuine-Military/dp/B007Z1IDC4

We actually went in late March, but Utah had a much colder winter/early spring last year. It got to the upper thirties overnight, and all three hammockers used sleeping bags and inflatable pads for warmth. I personally used a 0-degree Teton Leef bag and insulated Klymit Static V, and slept in thermals, fleece, down vest, and a beanie. I like to sleep warm, haha.

I'm confident enough about the trees that if I had a permit for #5 right now, going just off what I remember, I'd bring a hammock and maybe a bivy sack just in case. I'm like 90% sure it'd be fine. The campsites are beaten down enough that going to ground wouldn't be super difficult anyway. Note, though, that the trees in #4 are pretty low and bendy, so don't be surprised if you wake up on the ground anyway.

BTW I found a blog of someone that camped at #5 but the only picture that says it was taken from the campsite was this one.

edit: you HAVE to go see Kolob Arch; it's amazing.

Can never turn down gear chat!

At 23:59 you get a good shot of all the setups.

CraftyCari:

• Hennessey Hammock Cup Asym
  
• Full sized HH asym tarp
  
• DIY underquilt made from this.
  
• WalMart duck down bag as topquilt
  
  ZombieGirl:
  
  
• HH Asym zip
  
• HH Hex fly
  
• DIY underquilt made from this.
  
• WalMart duck down bag as topquilt
  
  BunnyFoo:
  
  
• Gathered end hammock from Amazon
  
• Grey/brown tarp as fly
  
• 20* sleeping bag as UQ and TQ
  
  FatherGoat:
  
  
• HH Asym zip
  
• Warbonnet superfly
  
• HG Incubator 40*
  
• TQ made from the same bag as the other DIY UQ's
  
  BunnyFoo aside, this setup has served us pretty well (he's had suspension problems and has awoke many mornings on the ground). We took the same kit out on a 12 mile round trip up near the 100 mile wilderness and it was a great balance of comfort (both on and off the trail). The NatureHike bags/UQ can get a bit chilly towards the shoulder seasons, but for $35 they work wonderfully in the dead of summer.
  
  I'm looking to lighten my hammock up some. I love the idea of the half-wit from Dutch but I don't if I could hang with a half net (pun intended). That sort of leaves me with the Darien from Dream Hammock for both lightweight and full bug protection.
  
  If anyone can recommend another lightweight (sub 1lb) hammock/full net setup I would love to check it out!
  
  edit: added more words

It warms my heart to hear you had a 40lbs beginning.

Ive been browsing this sub for months after moving to a new country. I want to get away, and hiking/camping this spring/summer might help me cope. I cannot navigate the local websites and don’t trust/understand eBay’s foreign policy so I just bought a Teton tent and sleeping bag that puts me at 25lbs(/12kilos?) from the jump. Luckily I found a used Mont-bell Alpine 50 for $20, so now I have the basics(big 3?) covered. Still need a ton of other shit, but I don’t, do I? That’s the point, and why I love this community so much.

I will be supporting the smaller companies once I know what I’m doing. I barely understand the majority of what you all are talking about(so many acronyms), but I’m sure I’ll get it sooner or later. People in this sub and r/ulgeartrade(is shipping overseas a big hassle? Most of the posts talk about only the US...) seem to be genuinely good people, and I’m learning a lot(LNT and shakedown).

Thank you all for posting and commenting, now I’m going back to lurking!

Well one way to keep your costs for tent and sleeping system down, is to plan on making your trips only at a time of year when you can expect moderate temperatures. If you can be confident in temperatures not falling below about 50 degrees, you will need a lot less protection.

Living in Florida, I've used this as a cheap bag. It only weighs about 1.5 pounds, and it might only be comfortable to about 55 degrees, but you can always sleep in warm clothing if you need to stretch it a bit further. There's also a Costco quilt some around here have talked about.

For a tent, you might be happy with something like this. I haven't tried it myself, I went with a Eureka Solitaire solo tent. Some people have found good deals on Aliexpress, basically the chineese Amazon. I've seen some good things said about 3F for tents and Aegismax for sleeping bags.

Don't skip the sleeping pad, either. You can find a thermarest ridge rest classic for around $20. There are probably even cheaper foam pads you can find.

it'll be tough to find a new one under 100 for what you want. i can't recommend hyke and byke enough ....

​

if you have an amazon prime acct or know someone that does...get one of these bags....i have one and let my buddy try it and he went and got one too. they make a great tent as well.

https://smile.amazon.com/Goose-Down-Sleeping-Bag-Backpacking/dp/B06WVHGYLS/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1539804206&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=hyke+and+byke+sleeping+bag&psc=1

​

paria outdoor products are also good and kind of in the same realm as far as hyke and byke ...decent quality product and a great price point. they make a good tent as well.

​

REI used gear store is also a great spot to look...but i don't recall seeing a lot of sleeping bags on there....

​

used gear here as well: https://lwhiker.com/

​

​

Just bought this Hyke & Byke Ultralight Down Sleeping Bag and would highly recommend it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D1O9RIC?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Don’t know what your price range is but it’s a very warm, very compactable sleeping bag. It’s super light too, like 2 pounds and change or something. I love it.

Athlete's foot cream, a good canteen, a good sleeping bag, well-fitted and comfortable boots.

By far the best deal out on sleeping bags right now is the military surplus USGI Modular Sleep System (MSS)... they are a light bag, a heavy bag, a bivvy cover, and stuff sack all in one, for like $80. Highly recommend the bivvy cover because a wet sleeping bag sucks. This thing is field-proven and is well regarded by those in the services.

I got the $70ish one from "Cincy Surplus" and it was the real deal, clean, in decent shape:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B008LIE0QS/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used

If you would be interested in a quilt instead of a sleeping bag, I just bought this one and it's amazing for the price. It's a Chinese knock-off of the Enlightened Equipment Revalation quilt. Good down to 30 degrees and super ultralight. It's got a half zipper so you can zip it around your feet, and then the top part goes over you like a blanket. I'm 6'4" and it seems big enough for me (though I haven't camped with it yet).

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074P42SKS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I suggest you first do a bit of research on the difference between down and synthetic. A 15-20 degree bag is going to be a bit bigger than your 40 degree bag, and at $100 I you're probably not going to find anything that can pack down small enough. Check this REI link out which does a good job at helping one choose a sleeping bag. Down sleeping bags will usually be more expensive than synthetics but pack down better. A good down bag for cheap is the Kelty Cosmic Down 20. It's lightweight and packs down pretty small. I have plenty extra room in my 60L bag with this packed in. Check out backpackinglight.com. For $5 you can get a year subscription to their forums where you can check out their gear swap. Well worth the $5. I have puchased two Cosmic Down 20s for less than $100 a piece so the $5 has already paid for itself.

For 3 season car camping? No way.

• Sleeping Bag - $30.25 - that'll get you down to 30-50 degrees. I saw a 5º rated bag on Amazon for under $40. Or for you, here's an extra long 30º bag for $33.99
  
• 3 person dome tent - $49.99 - plenty of space for a couple and their gear.
  
  That's literally all the specialized gear you need for camping, and it's Coleman stuff which isn't high end but it lasts just fine. Everything else you can find around the house—a knife (any will do), some matches, sunscreen, and bug repellant. OK, if you never go outside you might need to buy those last two. You don't need to buy a first aid kit. You have basic medical supplies around the house, right? Toss a few of each item in a ziplock.
  
  I've just outfitted two people for $110 without even shopping around. If you want extra comfort, add an air mattress for $40 tops (unless you can borrow one or already have one for guests). You're still at less than the cost of two nights in most hotels.
  
  Granted, if you want to do backpacking you're going to want to invest in some lighter weight items. But for car camping? No need, the cheap stuff does fine.

I figured I'd stop in here instead of starting my own post - I have a hammock system but beyond just taking it places for carside purposes, when I go backpacking, I've still just taken my tent setup with my ~30 degree (Fahrenheit) bag. The main reason is I prefer to do a majority of my camping in Late Fall to Early spring (when its cold).


Recently, I've wanted to get an underquilt to try it out - what I've read is that something like the Outdoor Vitals Aerie 30 is apparently tested out for 30 degrees. I'd probably still bring my sleeping bag. Would that underquilt AND my sleeping bag be good for 10-15 degree nights?


If anyone has real world applications/stories on what has worked for them and the scenario that they were in, it'd be greatly appreciated. I'm also not 100% committed to that exact underquilt. I've also looked at/considered the OneTigris Underblanketas its much cheaper and, like I said, will still be taking/using my sleeping bag.

I've been really happy with the performance of my Sea-to-Summit SparkII sleeping bag, very light at 16.4oz ~ 35F lower limit. Purchased mine from REI with a 25% discount during their membership deals earlier this year which would get you under the $300 price point.

Ultimately, it will come down to understanding the versatility you need and if you want a bag vs. quilt. Also, given that you are posting in /r/Ultralight, you will receive recommendations for bags and quilts pushing your $300 max, with the weight savings and warmth of 850-950 down fill.

As already mentioned, Enlightened Equipment is worth checking out. Also, Marmot and Mountain Hardwear both make some very nice, lightweight bags.

There are cheaper alternatives while still lightweight, such as AEGISMAX and Hyke & Byke, that can be purchased on Amazon or Alibaba. You can find some decent reviews and threads of those in this subreddit. Good luck!

I bought one of these for a female family member, for this past christmas who is 6'0" tall. The width is the same as a normal bag , but a fair amount taller than a normal bag. For the price they are a really decent bag and not overly bulky. I was very happy with it and so is she. I plan to buy one for myself for next camping season. Hope that helps.

I actually have a fairly decent Aegismax summer weight down bag if you're interested. It's a Chinese made product, so you get cost-savings quirks like a sew-through design, but the price isn't bad. If you're looking for something for Texan summer nights, it'd be a great and light option.

I bought it for my significant other, and after one night in it in the early new england fall, she couldn't stand it and it's been in the closet ever since. PM me if you don't mind a used one at a good price.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BYZP96P

Cool.

The problem with 'budget' sleeping bags is that they straight up lie about their temp ratings. The quality bags will use the EN Standard. This will give you some level of confidence that they will keep you comfortable down to the low temps they advertise. The 'budget' ones will kill you if you try to sleep below freezing in them (or at least make sure you get no sleep).

There are definitely some deals out there - so spending $500 isn't absolutely necessary. Just make sure to read reviews and make an educated decision. Not just the cheapest one that says 0°F.

Kelty makes some of the best budget friendly sleeping bags. I would recommend checking it out:

• https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Cosmic-Degree-Sleeping-Regular/dp/B014JQA4PG

Thank you! I forgot to research nightly Temps but figured they couldn't be that cold that I'd need a specifically rated temperature sleeping bag. Now all I need to do is find a nice comfortable bag that folds down to a nice compact size.

Something along the lines of this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D87XB3Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_XYmkyb43X8EMS

/u/SpartanUp247 , I'm breaking this up so it's not a mega post.

Insofar as other as other supplies go... well, I could write on that for way longer than I'm going to tonight. I'll try to give a short essential list though.

• Flashlights and ample batteries. Preferably including some headlamps and lantern style lights. Candles as well.
  
  
• An emergency radio, preferably with a hand crank + solar rechargeable battery.
  
  
• Some FRS radio's in the event that cell phones die or coverage is sparse.
  
  
• Propane tanks and the ability to use them for cooking. Usually that will mean a portable burner and high pressure hose. There are other cooking options out there as well, such as Sterno, so grab whatever your situation/funding allows for.
  
  
• Appropriate weather gear. That means cold weather sleeping bags for winter and methods to cope with heat like an Arctic Tie. Maybe a propane heater as well.
  
  
• Don't forget sanitation. A 5 gallon toilet bucket is a good investment. Then stock up on thick garbage bags, baking soda/cat litter, and a mega sized bottle of hand sanitizer.
  
  
• Make sure you have the basics of first aid supplies covered. Enough stuff to treat and wrap wounds, protect blisters, protect from the sun, things like that.
  
  
• Have whatever tools you think you might need for whatever you're prepping for. Things like a wrench to turn off the gas in your house that lives near the gas meter. For people in hurricane areas, an axe to chop through a roof to evade rising waters. Definitely multiple fire extinguishers/fire blankets. Things of that nature.
  
  
• And of course, a gun and training on how to use it is always a smart call.
  
  --------------------------------
  
  Bug out bags are cool and a good idea/place to get started, but realistically if you are forced to sincerely grab that bag and run out of the door with nothing else because things are just that screwed, you are likely pretty hosed. Chances are you'll have time to pack the car in most situations, so the best way to go is to plan on bugging in first and foremost. No point in turning yourself into a refugee if you don't need to. If you're still wanting to start with a bugout bag... see the next post for my recommendation for a cheap startup kit.

TETON Sports Celsius XXL -18 Degree C / 0 Degree F Flannel Lined Sleeping Bag (90"x 39", Black, Left Zip)
http://amzn.com/B001D6MF26

This is an amazingly comfortable sleeping bag for 0 degree weather. Fits up to 6'10" and great quality. Tenton makes a great cot as well although it is very heavy.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074P42SKS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just bought one of those and it's outright incredible considering the cost. By all accounts a fun DIY project is to take another 3-5 oz of down and overstuff it - consensus is that with another few ounces it'll keep you toasty down into the low 20s. I haven't tried it yet, but I might pick up a second as a project.

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=38930

Best deal on poles I've seen anywhere. Very comparable to the REI Flash CF poles - there's actually few features on the Monoprice ones that I prefer. The only complaint I have is that the straps are kind of middling, but for what you're paying, they're more than great.

For a bivy under $60, I'd consider sewing my own.

I'd love to take these things when go camping:

1. sleeping bag
   
   
2. waterproof bag
   
   
3. waterproof headlamp
   
   
4. portable powerbank
   
   All of these could be easily bought from amazon with reasonable prices. The customer reviews are not bad. As a first time camper, you don't need to buy too much expensive gears, just buy something affordable and see if you enjoy camping. When you decide to have more camping, you could search some advanced equipments.

I second the ultralight ultracheap list, I bought the Aegismax M2 based on the list and before I even used it roflwaffles came in with the verdict that it's mediocre. I went and bought the 30 deg Outdoor Vitals Underquilt but I also could've gone for their 20 degree bag or the tried and true Cosmic Down 20.

I recommend sierratradingpost.com for socks and baselayers, you can usually get 25-30% off.

If you're into a specific piece of gear that isn't on sale, I would go to campmor.com and get their 20% off coupon (Osprey Exos, Cosmic Down)

Brooklyncampsupply.com has a 15% off coupon on your first order and isn't limited to full price items. They usually have good sales, I got my Klymit Static V Insulated Lite for around $60 after coupon.

The Klymit ebay store lets you make an offer on their sleeping pads, you can get the Static V for $30-40.

When deciding how to choose a sleeping bag for backpacking, you should consider some features.

Temperature rating: Choose a sleeping bag rated for the typical temperature range you plan to backpack in. Like the enkeeo sleeping bag, coming with a Polyester cover that is 100% water-resistant and a polyester lining with cotton filling that is soft and comfortable, is great to use in spring, summer and early autumn, you are able to stay relatively warm between 41-60 degrees Fahrenheit on account of its soft and warm lining that made of 400g/m2 cotton.


Type of insulation: Choose from down, synthetic or a combination of the two. Each type of insulation has its pros and cons, explained below.

Well, you can spend as much as you want to on any of these items, but it's especially true with sleeping bags. For $160-$250, Golite sleeping bags seem to be the best confluence of affordability and quality. Depending on your target pack weight and climate (esp if you look into hammocks), check out their quilts.

The cheapest thing you should consider is the Kelty Cosmic series, which is as light weight as you can get for a quality, sub-$200 bag.

Glad to know you like it. I was torn between this one and the "envelope" one.

I ended up going with the envelope from aliexpress for $73 and am anxiously awaiting it's arrival. About the same shipping times on both Amazon and Ali. I bought it early last week and hope to have it by the end of the month.

I also got it for hammock camping and am debating grabbing a second to turn in to an underquilt. It'll give me an excuse to figure out the sewing machine in my basement.

Edit: I also was really happy to see how much it packed down! This is my first down purchase and I was concerned that the website pictures weren't accurate.

Thank you : )

I sleep on a large cot. Between that and my oversized sleeping bag, I'm quite comfortable. Not that I'm a big guy, I just like having extra room. Figured I'd sacrifice the extra comfort of a matress for the versatility of a larger living space.

Supposedly down can be compressed up to like 50% of its ideal max fill power for the same warmth. You're only really adding an extra 2 shell fabrics and baffles directly top of the down, so it shouldn't even compress that far. (Additionally, those extra shells may attribute additional [minimal] thermal resistance.) to figure out the warmths, you should be able to at least add up the lofts and then go to a loft chart. I'm not quite sure which Aegismax bags you're referencing. If you mean this one then that's slightly different since it's sewn through without baffles (high loft channels, with 0 loft stitching meaning that their numbers don't directly correspond to loft charts).

however, if we pretended like it wasn't sewn through, took the 2C lower rating to mean it's a 35 degree bag, then it could akin to 1.6inches of loft baffled, 3.2 inches of down loft might be around a 0 degree F lower limit bag.

Loft charts are based on a historically liberal curve though. Most indicate 2.2" for 20 degree F, whereas 2.5" has been a modern rule of thumb. Similarly, Enlightened equipment puts 3" of loft for 10 F and 3.5" for 0*. 10 Degrees sounds more safe, and since your partner is female, you'd want to go by comfort ratings (female), which are rated 10 degrees more conservatively than lower limit (male).

Conclusion: Ignoring the sewn-through nature of the quilt or assuming the channels stagger and stack properly, maybe 10 or less degrees F for you, but around 20 or less degrees comfort for her. Please test this in a safe environment where you have an extra blanket or clothing to make up for the assumption.

Note: I've no idea how two bodies function as furnaces under a single quilt instead of a single body, but at that point you're going so far below freezing you're playing with fire. :)

Teton Sports has a range of sleeping bags that would fit your needs.

• Altos is a down mummy bag rated for 0°F for $170
  
• Leef is synthetic mummy bag rated for 0°F for $75, or 20°F for $75
  
• Tracker synthetic mummy bag rated for 5°F for $67
  
• They even make double bags if you aren't travelling alone.
  
  I have a Polara rectangular bag (I like the extra space for me feet) that has a fleece liner that I took on a scout camp that kept me warm down to 15°F. We picked up an Evergreen bag for less than $50 on Black Friday.
  
  I like Teton sports because they have a lifetime warranty on their stuff, and they are a local company based out of Utah. They also make decent backpacks and pillows.

I think it would be interesting to throw you into the ultralighting scene immediately, but I know in my heart it would be cruel.

Tent: [$25] (http://www.amazon.com/Stansport-Backpack-Forest-6-Feet-X4-Feet/dp/B0006V2B2I/ref=sr_1_26?ie=UTF8&qid=1418161376&sr=8-26&keywords=bivy)

Nalgene water bottles: Get 2, ~$8 = $16

Sleeping bag: $50

Backpack: $35

Stove: $18

Cookset: $11

Flashlight: $6

Knife: $8

That all comes out to around $169. These are items to get you started. Everything will eventually be upgraded as you understand yourself as an outdoors(wo)man.

Cheers, SS. Eagle Scout. 800+ nights camped.

When I was looking for a bag, I read many reviews and this one popped out as a good value - the Kelty Cosmic Down 20. Since it is down it is light and will pack small. There are way nicer bags out there but not at this price that I know of.
http://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Cosmic-Degree-Down-Sleeping/dp/B004O76YS2

I cracked and got this cheaper bag, the Eureka Silver City 30. It has some good reviews, good price. However it does not compress as much as other bags since it is synthetic. I have not gone out with it yet so I don't know how warm it is.

http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-Silver-City-Long-Sleeping/dp/B00DUMVHV6

Oh and other people are right, a sleeping pad does wonders. If you feel cold from below you are losing heat to the floor. Cold from above means your bag is too thin. You can get a foam sleeping pad at Walmart for cheap. I prefer it to a Thermarest, feels softer to me.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Stansport-Extra-Thick-Sleeping-Pad/10957723

When you do have a comfortable temp let us know. I have 3 throws that I plan on making into a modular overquilt. Add or subtract layers depending on temp like the Army sleep system. Which is what I use now, I'd just like something lighter and less bulky.

I usually sleep with the water in my bag if it gets cold like this. I had a friend whose water froze and it sucked. But I really like this Nalgene idea!

As for the bag, you're right; that's cold. The bivy is supposed to help some with heat (I'll admit this whole post is my attempt to switch away from my old hammock system) and I'm used to wearing all of the clothing I bring - the windbreaker and rain pants trap in a lot of heat - but it's probably not good to risk this. I've seen other people who simply buy another bag (like this one) and do two at once. Is there a bag/quilt that I should look into instead of what I'm doing? I'm really open to suggestions because I'm looking to get a better bag than I have now and I haven't bought anything yet.

Check out the vital aerie pod. It replaces both the top and underquilt by using a zipper pod system. My friend uses this on all our trips, and I'm a bit jealous of his combination system.

Outdoor Vitals Aerie 20°F Down Underquilt / Sleeping Bag, Use As Ultralight Underquilt, Sleeping Bag, Or Double Bag (Black, Regular) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N8YH0MD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_WB0RzbTGAVFCG

What about the Thermarest Tech blanket?

edit: looks like the Tech blanket has been replaced with 3 new models for 2106:

http://www.cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest/quilts-and-blankets/tech-blankets/category

Another option is something from NatureHike, like the synthetic bag that zips open all the way.

http://www.amazon.com/Naturehike-Outdoor-Sleeping-Camping-Envelope/dp/B00IZ74B2S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454008369&sr=8-1&keywords=naturehike

I just picked one up, for less than $20 you can't really go wrong. Nice summer weight synthetic, not the lightest but for $20.

It's 550 fill power duck down, pass.

They do however sell an 800 power goose down for $170. That's worth looking into, I'm putting it on my list to save for later, I would like to test out the 15F goose down model. At 2.76 lbs for the long that's 1lb lighter and rated for 15 degrees lower than my current winter bag. I live in FL it rarely gets below freezing but last year I did go hiking and we got hit with around 35f and I was a little chilly with my current winter bag. Wouldn't mind a something rated for 15-20f "just in case" and I'm always down for less weight.

OR I could spent the $$ and get a Z-packs classic sleeping bag for $400 that weighs 1.3lb and rated for 20f. A weight savings of 1.46lb is A LOT over the hyke and byke and worth the extra $$.

Ill see if I can find it. It was recommended to me from a person on here as well! Also you can try one of these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Z77AM9A?ref=emc_b_5_t&th=1

It comes in +20 and 0F... I have the 0 bag and its crazy warm with a bag liner.

That company makes really high value stuff. Just read the reviews and you can see where people agree.

Ive heard good things about the outdoor vitals aerie.

TETON Sports Celsius XXL -18C/0F Sleeping Bag; 0 Degree Sleeping Bag Great for Cold Weather Camping; Black, Left Zip https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001D6MF26/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_6W.JybDN9GDJQ

I have this one. It's heavy and clunky, but it's warm and large. I'm 6 foot 245 and have lots of room.

A decently rated sleeping bag might be cheaper than you think: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00363V3M2/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1483820126&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=20+degree+sleeping+bag

I have a 20 degree bag (possibly REI brand, but I forget) and it's soooo much better than just a lot of blankets. Not to mention packing/stowing it away.

I'm going to echo Enlightened Equipment. But for those that are even more budget conscious:

--
AegisMax Goose Down 36 Degree F bag

These are Chinese bags with geniune 800fp goose down (ethically sourced).

528g weight w/comppression bag - 20cm x 12cm pack size.

200x78cm unpacked.

They make other models too:

• Rectangular 36 degree F bag
  
• 26 degree F mummy

Outdoor Vitals Aerie 20°F Down Underquilt / Sleeping Bag, Use As Ultralight Underquilt, Sleeping Bag, Or Double Bag (Black, Regular) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N8YH0MD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_pnBJAbJK6T7TP

You can thank me later ;D

The picture looks like it could possibly be a Naturehike envelope sleeping bag. You can get them on Amazon or Aliexpress for ~$20.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IZ74B2S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_eX3Kxb0ZDEM3Y

I use this: https://www.amazon.com/AEGISMAX-Outdoor-Urltra-Light-Sleeping-Three-Season/dp/B07BYZP96P

More often than not I'm sleeping on top of it though because I'm a very warm sleeper.

https://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Vitals-Underquilt-Sleeping-Ultralight/dp/B01HP6D8WI/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

like what this does?

A lightweight sleeping bag is necessary so as to lighten your load during your trip. Here is a blog that introduces various bags. While there is a bag that could make you stay relatively warm between 5-15 °C on account of its soft and warm lining that made of 400g/m2 cotton. It is only 1.98lbs (0.9kg) in weight.

What about this one? Can be used as a pod!

outdoor vitals

I think you also need a sleep bag

http://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Cosmic-Degree-Down-Sleeping/dp/B004O76YS2

Why stop at just a quilt when you can have a jacket quilt? A Juilt?