Unbiased Winter Backpacking Sleeping Bags Review


Our review process

We have collected, researched, and analyzed information on more than 800 different types of sleeping bags in order to recommend our top rated sleeping bags on the market. We then further sub-categorized them and looked more specifically at 5 different winter backpacking sleeping bags. In our research, we considered a large variety of different key features among the 28,000 different data entries and combined it with customer reviews to inform you of the top winter backpacking sleeping bags available. But don't just take our word for it, check out some of the pros and cons of some of the main specs.

We've taken a look at winter backpacking sleeping bags and wanted to share some information with you. These sleeping bags are especially designed to be lightweight, making long days out on the trail easier to handle. They pack down smaller, so they are excellent for portability. They feature superior warmth, performing well in a variety of conditions. Backpacking sleeping bags are designed to withstand a variety of climates and terrains, standing up to wear and tear for those extreme outdoor trips. They feature higher grade insulation, providing enough warmth to keep you comfortable on chilly summer nights, cold spring and fall conditions, and freezing winter temperatures. They have a waterproof coating, so if you plan on sleeping out in snow, they will keep you warm and dry throughout the night. Winter sleeping bags are for serious cold and snow conditions, so you shouldn't consider them if you want something suitable for all four seasons.

Our Top Ranking Sleeping Bags:
Product NameBrandWeightShapeLiner MaterialSize
Best Overall Score
1
An image of Slumberjack Country Squire 51731412LR Sub Zero Degree Poly Cotton Sleeping Bag
Slumberjack Country Squire 51731412LR Sub Zero Degree Poly Cotton Sleeping Bag
Slumberjack
13
rectangle
poly cotton
single
Runner Up
2
An image of Naturehike Nylon Ripstop Sleeping Bag
Naturehike Nylon Ripstop Sleeping Bag
Naturehike
mummy
nylon ripstop
single
Best Affordable Option
3
An image of Suisse Sport Alpine 5RR4302RN Men's 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Suisse Sport Alpine 5RR4302RN Men's 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Suisse Sport
5
mummy
polyester
single
For Cold Weather
4
An image of Big Agnes Pin Ears 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Big Agnes Pin Ears 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Big Agnes
3.12
mummy
nylon taffeta
single
5
An image of Sierra Design Backcountry Bed 70602714R Women's Polyester Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Sierra Design Backcountry Bed 70602714R Women's Polyester Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Sierra Design
3.13
mummy
polyester taffeta
single
Our Top Ranking Sleeping Bags
Customer Rating
Brand
Slumberjack
Weight
13
Shape
rectangle
Liner Material
poly cotton
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Naturehike
Weight
Shape
mummy
Liner Material
nylon ripstop
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Suisse Sport
Weight
5
Shape
mummy
Liner Material
polyester
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Big Agnes
Weight
3.12
Shape
mummy
Liner Material
nylon taffeta
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Sierra Design
Weight
3.13
Shape
mummy
Liner Material
polyester taffeta
Size
single
Best Overall Score
An image of Slumberjack Country Squire 51731412LR Sub Zero Degree Poly Cotton Sleeping Bag

Let's review the Slumberjack Country Squire Sub Zero Degree Poly Cotton Rectangular Sleeping Bag, rated highly by online shoppers. This sleeping bag works well for backpacking trips, so if weight is your priority this could be a great option. It has a rectangular shape, which is non-tapered, allowing you to comfortably move around in your sleep. It features a poly cotton lining, which is highly durable and does not tear easily, making it compatible for rougher conditions, and a cotton exterior, which will take a lot of time to dry. This Slumberjack sleeping bag is washable, so you can clean it to ensure your bag stays in the best condition. Great for winter, it can withstand harsh temperatures and still keep you warm. It has a sub-zero degree temperature rating, so cold air won't make it past the collar of the sleeping bag.

    Pros
    • Washable
    • Poly cotton lining is very durable, and fast-drying
    • Cotton shell doesn't absorb heat
    Cons
    • Poly cotton is not good for warm temperatures
    • Rectangular shape is not the warmest option
    • Cotton shell is hard to carry
Runner Up
An image of Naturehike Nylon Ripstop Sleeping Bag

Get ready for your next trip with the Naturehike Nylon Ripstop Mummy Sleeping Bag. This Naturehike sleeping bag has a mummy shape, sealing in your body heat since it is very fitted. It is made with a nylon ripstop exterior and features a nylon ripstop lining, resisting tearing due to strong reinforcement fibers that are woven through the fabric. Suitable for winter, it can withstand harsh weather and continue to keep you warm and comfortable. With a hammock design, it fits around the entire hammock, keeping you warm and comfortable.

This Naturehike sleeping bag features a compressible design, leaving you enough extra space to take along your other essentials. It works well for hiking trips and is lightweight, so it won't hurt your shoulders to carry. This Naturehike sleeping bag has a zipper guard, preventing the fabric from snagging when opening and closing the zipper. Its hood has drawstrings, which allows you to adjust the tightness depending on the weather and your own preference. This Naturehike sleeping bag features a stuff sack and a compression bag, which will make packing up your bag very easy.

    Pros
    • Designed to compress easily
    • Zipper guard prevents the fabric from snagging
    • Drawstring hood provides added cushion by the head
    Cons
    • Mummy shape is very fitted with no extra room to move around
    • Stuff sack can damage the sleeping bag's filling after prolonged use
    • Hammock sleeping bags can be hard to zip
Best Affordable Option
An image of Suisse Sport Alpine 5RR4302RN Men's 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

Choose the Suisse Sport Alpine Men's 0 Degree Polyester Mummy Sleeping Bag to stay warm in the outdoors. This Suisse Sport sleeping bag features a polyester exterior and a polyester lining, which is light and soft on your skin and does not get as hot as other fabrics while you're sleeping. It has a mummy shape, which is larger on top and more fitted by the feet, keeping warm air closer to you. It is made to be compact and features a compressible design, so your sleeping bag will not take up a lot of room, leaving you with sufficient space to bring along your other essentials. Great for winter, it is equipped with strong materials that are highly insulated which withstand extra cold temperatures. This sleeping bag has Microtekk Z1 insulation, which will keep you warm at low temperatures by using synthetic insulation. It is lightweight and works well for backpacking trips, so if you don't want to carry a lot of weight this could be a great choice for you.

This sleeping bag is suitable for temperatures as low as 0°F, preventing any icy drafts from keeping you up at night. The hood has drawstrings, so you can adjust the tightness based on what feels most comfortable to you. This Suisse Sport sleeping bag features a stuff sack, which will keep your pack organized. With a shoulder pocket, it has a convenient place to stash small objects.

    Pros
    • Folds up compactly
    • Compresses easily
    • Drawstring hood gives added cushion by the head
    Cons
    • Polyester absorbs sweat
    • Mummy shape doesn't have extra space to move around
    • Polyester exterior is not very durable
For Cold Weather
An image of Big Agnes Pin Ears 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag

Sleep comfortably while using the Big Agnes Pin Ears 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Mummy Sleeping Bag. This sleeping bag has a mummy shape, which is wider on top and more fitted on the bottom, keeping warm air closer to you. Ideal for winter, this 3 season sleeping bag will protect you from extreme temperatures. It features a nylon taffeta lining and has a nylon ripstop shell, so it resists wear and tear. This sleeping bag is suitable for temperatures around 20°F and is waterproof, keeping out moisture, so you won't end up soaked if bad weather hits. It has Downtek, which is the leading technology engineered to repel water even in the wettest conditions. It is lightweight and is designed for backpacking, so it is compact and easy to fit in your bag, making it comfortable to carry no matter the distance. This sleeping bag has a compressible design and is made to be compact, so you can travel without bulk. It features a mummy-style hood, which fits tightly over your head, helping keep you warm by trapping body heat.

    Pros
    • Made to be compact, getting rid of the bulk
    • Compresses easily
    • Mummy-style hood gives added cushion by the head
    Cons
    • Mummy shape is close fitting with no extra room to move
    • 3 season sleeping bags can not be used all year
Additional Picks
An image of Sierra Design Backcountry Bed 70602714R Women's Polyester Taffeta Sleeping Bag

Use the Sierra Design Backcountry Bed Women's Polyester Taffeta Mummy Sleeping Bag to stay warm and cozy in the outdoors. With a mummy shape, this Sierra Design sleeping bag is tight fitting to prevent warm air from escaping. This women's sleeping bag gives more padding at the feet and torso as women usually are naturally colder than men. Great for winter, this 3 season sleeping bag will shield you from harsh temperatures. It has a polyester exterior, which will deflect UV light, shielding you from damaging sunlight, and a polyester taffeta lining, which does not retain water, and dries out quickly if it comes in contact with water. This Sierra Design sleeping bag has Dridown technology, which uses many short fibers to properly trap heat, while giving off a silky feel that is comfortable. Perfect for hiking, it won't weigh you down while you're taking on the outdoors.

    Pros
    • Women's cut has extra padding by your extremities
    • Polyester taffeta lining is naturally UV-resistant
    • Polyester shell is durable and colorfast
    Cons
    • Mummy shape doesn't have extra space to move around
    • Polyester shell is not very durable
    • 3 season sleeping bags can not be used year round
More Information to Help You Figure Out Which Winter Backpacking Sleeping Bag Makes Sense for You:
Which Temperature Rating Best Suits Winter Backpacking Sleeping Bags?
20 Degree Sleeping Bags

It's not easy deciding on the right temperature rating for your winter backpacking sleeping bag. We're here to help you think about the perfect choice for your next outdoor excursion. 20 degree sleeping bags should keep you comfortable down to 20°F, although do keep in mind that this doesn't account for variables such as layering, what you're wearing, and various other factors. They are tight fitting, reducing the amount of time that your body needs to work to heat up. They have a tight fitted hood design, which works well to seal in heat but doesn't allow for a lot of free movement of the head and neck. These sleeping bags are more affordable than sub-zero degree bags, so you can purchase one without feeling worried about going above your budget. Now that you are better informed about 20 degree rating sleeping bags, check out this great winter backpacking sleeping bag.

Sub Zero Degree Sleeping Bags

If you're looking for a sub zero degree rating winter backpacking sleeping bag, then you should consider this great sleeping bag. These sleeping bags feature a tight fitted hood design, so your neck and head will be enveloped in warmth. They are closely fitted, reducing the total amount of space you have to heat up faster and keeping you warmer. With advanced technology like Thermotech insulation, they are engineered to deliver outstanding warmth. Sub zero degree sleeping bags are ideal for winter trips outdoors, so you won't have to pack tons of extra layers or blankets for those cold nights. They have a quick-drying technology, which will maximize thermal efficiency even when wet and moisture will not soak the fabric. They have an easy access design, so you don't have to struggle with the zipper while staying out in the cold. One downside is that sub zero degree sleeping bags are generally expensive, so unless you're planning on taking on very extreme weather, they might not be worth your purchase.

0 Degree Sleeping Bags

Are you looking for a winter backpacking sleeping bag that can withstand cold temperatures? With just one available, you'll want to jump on the opportunity and check it out. These sleeping bags should keep you comfortable down to 0°F, but remember that this doesn't account for variables such as layering, what you're wearing, and various other factors. They are ideal for winter trips outdoors, so they make it really easy for a person to stay comfortable in freezing temperatures. With advanced technology like Thermotech insulation, they are engineered to keep you warmer for longer. Something to keep in mind is that they are generally expensive, so if you won't be using the bag that often, you might want to think about purchasing a more affordable one. A benefit is that they feature an easy access design, so you won't have to spend unnecessary time out in the cold while trying to fuss with the zipper. Now that you know about 0 degree rating sleeping bags, check out this highly rated winter backpacking sleeping bag.

Figure Out Which Liner Material to Choose for Winter Backpacking Sleeping Bags
Polyester Sleeping Bags

The following will help you know what to look for when considering polyester sleeping bags. You can check out this winter backpacking sleeping bag if this material is what you need for your outdoor excursions. These sleeping bags are naturally hypoallergenic, so they are ideal for those with sensitive skin. They are easy to clean, so you won't have to spend money and time on dry cleaning. They are made with breathable material, so whether it's a colder or warmer night, you'll feel comfortable sleeping in a variety of outdoor temperatures. They are designed with durable materials, so they will not unravel or fray with extended use. They dry quickly, so when facing wet conditions, moisture will not soak the fabric.

Poly Cotton Sleeping Bags

There is only one winter backpacking sleeping bag that has a poly cotton liner. Poly cotton sleeping bags are extremely durable, so they will not unravel or fray after a lot of use. They are easy to clean, so you won't have to spend money and time on dry cleaning. They are made with breathable material, promoting good airflow so you don't end up overheating. They dry quickly, so when facing wet conditions, moisture will not soak the fabric. Now that you know more about poly cotton, choose the right one for you here.

Nylon Ripstop Sleeping Bags

There is only one winter backpacking sleeping bag available that has a nylon ripstop liner. Nylon ripstop sleeping bags are breathable, so heat is distributed evenly, making them suitable for unpredictable weather. They are designed with durable materials, so they will not unravel or fray after a lot of use. They are moisture wicking, keeping you dry in high humidity conditions.

Choosing the Best Shape for Winter Backpacking Sleeping Bags
Rectangular Sleeping Bags

Looking to buy a sleeping bag that will have lots of room? We have four rectangle sleeping bags available. Click here to take a look at one now. These sleeping bags have a very roomy design, so they are ideal for people who feel too confined by the tight mummy shape. They have double zippers, so you can put two bags together, making them great for colder nights when extra body heat can make all the difference. They accommodate varying sleeping positions, so if you move around a lot at night, you'll have the space and freedom to sleep in any position you choose. However, they are less ideal for cold weather, creating extra space inside which can weaken the bag's ability to keep you warm. Also, they are quite heavy, so they aren't good for when weight is the top priority.

Mummy Sleeping Bags

Deciding on the most suitable mummy sleeping bag for you? We'll help you make a more informed choice by providing you with some important information that you need. These sleeping bags weigh less than rectangular bags, so they are best when you need maximum warmth and minimal weight. Ideal for cold weather, they help trap body heat, providing maximum warmth, since their tight fitting cut is designed to trap body heat. However, they provide less space to move around, making them less suitable for sleepers who toss and turn. With this information on mummy sleeping bags, check out this winter backpacking sleeping bag if you think it could be what you want.