COMPACT SLEEPING BAGS

Light in weight but among the warmest bags, compact mummy bags resemble the shape of an ancient Egyptian mummy. This design minimizes the size, and hence the weight, of the bag, while maximizing its warmth, both critical factors for backpacking. The drive to find the lightest bag possible has led to advances in insulation materials that still provide needed warmth. In addition, the mummy shape keeps the bag close to your body, cutting down on heat loss. While some mummy bags are intended for extreme conditions, such as high-altitude mountaineering, others are geared for more moderate climates and are perfect for summer backpacking trips. Three bags from this range are featured here.

High Peak E-Z Pak 1000

This extra-long (more than seven feet) but lightweight (2.5 pounds) sleeping bag is good for backpacking trips in moderate climates. The ripstop nylon taffeta shell and breathable nylon liner enclose one pound of synthetic insulation, which will keep you warm down to +30 degrees F. The bag also includes a draft tube and an adjustable hood with a barrel lock on the drawstring closure.

Lafuma Pro 650 Down Sleeping Bag

Lafuma packs this extremely popular bag with 750-fill down. The result is a compact, ultra-light, yet very warm sleeping bag. A good three-season bag, it will keep you warm down to +30 degrees F. and at just one pound, seven ounces you can easily take it anywhere. The nylon shell and liner are treated with water repellent making this a good bag to consider for damper climates. Other features include a hood with drawcord and a draft tube, both filled with down, two-way auto-lock, snag-free zipper, and interior pocket with hook-and-loop closure. Restless sleepers will appreciate the roomy, trapezoidal footbox.

Coleman 30-Degree Mummy Bag

Weighing in at 2.66 pounds, the Coleman mummy bag provides a warm sleeping experience for campers and hikers. Both antimicrobial (fights bacteria and odor) and wicking (pulls moisture away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable) fabrics are used in the construction of this bag filled with Coletherm micro insulation. Long enough for a six foot, two inch sleeper, it also includes a hood and roomy footbox.