Unbiased Lightweight Cold Weather Sleeping Bags Review


Our review process

We've taken a look at more than 800 sleeping bags, including plenty of different lightweight cold weather sleeping bags. We used our leading artificial intelligence engine to rank each individual sleeping bag based on a number of data parameters. These features range from the temperature rating and the number of seasons to cleaning options and designs. The following guide will discuss lightweight cold weather sleeping bags in particular, of which we found 96. We hope that this guide will help you in your choice.

We've taken a look at lightweight cold weather sleeping bags and wanted to let you know about both the pros and cons. These sleeping bags pack down to a small size, helping you cut down on the volume your bag occupies. Since extra weight can make a hike or trek more physically demanding, they are designed for people who haven't been backpacking or camping before and aren't used to carrying a big load. However, they are typically not as warm, so although they help you go light, they aren't ideal for the extreme cold. On the other hand, they are easy to carry, weighing only a few pounds.

Preventing any heat loss, these sleeping bags are critical when you're out in the cold for extended periods of time. They have draft tubes, which run the length of the bag behind the zipper to help keep warm air from escaping. Cold weather sleeping bags are commonly designed with a draft collar, keeping the warm air around your torso in and cold air out. They are more often than not made with feather down, so they can trap heat like no other material.

Our Top Ranking Sleeping Bags:
Product NameBrandShapeTemperature RatingSize
Best Overall Score
1
An image of Western Mountaineering UltraLite 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Western Mountaineering UltraLite 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Western Mountaineering
mummy
20 degree
single
Runner Up
2
An image of Western Mountaineering Caribou MF 30 Degree Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Western Mountaineering Caribou MF 30 Degree Taffeta Sleeping Bag
Western Mountaineering
mummy
30 degree
single
For Backpacking
3
An image of Marmot Ironwood 30 900925-4938 Men's 30 Degree Sleeping Bag
Marmot Ironwood 30 900925-4938 Men's 30 Degree Sleeping Bag
Marmot
mummy
30 degree
Best Affordable Option
4
An image of Abco Tech 20 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Abco Tech 20 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Abco Tech
rectangle
20 degree
single
For Sleeping Two
5
An image of Kelty Satellite 35419611DW 30 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Kelty Satellite 35419611DW 30 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Kelty
30 degree
double
Our Top Ranking Sleeping Bags
Customer Rating
Brand
Western Mountaineering
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
20 degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Western Mountaineering
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
30 degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Marmot
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
30 degree
Size
Customer Rating
Brand
Abco Tech
Shape
rectangle
Temperature Rating
20 degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Kelty
Shape
Temperature Rating
30 degree
Size
double
Best Overall Score
An image of Western Mountaineering UltraLite 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag

Get ready for your next adventure with the Western Mountaineering UltraLite 20 Degree Nylon Taffeta Mummy Sleeping Bag. This sleeping bag has a mummy shape, which is larger on top and more fitted on the bottom, keeping warm air closer to you. It features a nylon taffeta lining, and an ExtremeLite exterior, which provides a high level of insulation by using very lightweight threads. It is suitable for temperatures around 20°F and is waterproof, keeping out moisture, so you won't end up soaked if it starts raining. This sleeping bag has a compressible design, which will fold up compactly, leaving you enough room for all your other essentials. It is lightweight, so you can take it on all your adventures without feeling weighed down.

    Pros
    • Made to compress easily
    • Lightweight build
    • Mummy shape is suitable for hiking
    Cons
    • Mummy shape doesn't have extra space to move around
Runner Up
An image of Western Mountaineering Caribou MF 30 Degree Taffeta Sleeping Bag

Let's review the Western Mountaineering Caribou MF 30 Degree Taffeta Mummy Sleeping Bag, a popular choice among online shoppers. Featuring a mummy shape, this sleeping bag is fitted to prevent warm air from escaping. With a lightweight build, it is perfect if you're planning on trekking or hiking long trails by foot. This Western Mountaineering sleeping bag has a taffeta lining, which will feel very silky and has good ventilation. It is waterproof, making it a good choice for damp conditions and it also has a 30°F temperature rating, which is designed for retaining warmth, keeping you well-insulated in chilly weather. It is designed for summer for maximizing ventilation to keep you cool during warm weather. This sleeping bag features Microlite XP™ microfiber, which is highly breathable, easy-to-carry, and resistant to water, with a thread count of over 400 threads per square inch.

    Pros
    • Lightweight build
    • Ventilated properly for summer weather
    • Mummy shape has great insulation
    Cons
    • Mummy shape does not have extra space to move around
For Backpacking
An image of Marmot Ironwood 30 900925-4938 Men's 30 Degree Sleeping Bag

If you're looking for a sleeping bag, you might want to consider the Marmot Ironwood 30 Men's 30 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag. This Marmot sleeping bag is lightweight and is made for backpacking, so if weight is your priority this could be a great option. With a mummy shape, it is made with excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is cut closely so there isn't excess fabric, cutting down on the weight and making it easier to carry on your back. It is ideal for temperatures around 30°F and is waterproof, keeping out moisture, so you won't end up soaked if it starts raining. Equipped with an interior pocket, this Marmot sleeping bag has a convenient spot to stash essentials. It is easy to pack and has a two-way zipper and a stuff sack, designed for conveniently fitting your sleeping bag into your backpack along with the rest of your equipment. This sleeping bag features Down Defender, which protects down from losing loft when exposed to moisture.

    Pros
    • Easy to pack sleeping bags roll up compactly
    • Two-way zipper provides airflow at the bottom of the sleeping bag
    • Lightweight construction
    Cons
    • Mummy shape doesn't have extra space to move around
Best Affordable Option
An image of Abco Tech 20 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

With the Abco Tech 20 Degree Polyester Rectangular Sleeping Bag, you can experience a great night's sleep while on your weekend away. This Abco Tech sleeping bag features a polyester exterior, which resists UV light, shielding you from harmful sun rays, and a polyester lining, which is light and comfortable on your skin and doesn't heat up as much as other fabrics during the night. It has a rectangular shape, allowing you to sleep on your side, back, or stomach without feeling restricted. This Abco Tech sleeping bag is perfect for backpacking and is lightweight, making long days out on the trail easier to tackle.

This Abco Tech sleeping bag can be machine washed, so you can easily clean it at home to ensure your bag stays in the best condition. It can withstand 20°F temperatures and is waterproof, resisting moisture and keeping you dry in damp conditions. This 4 season sleeping bag can handle very low temperatures or areas with harsh winds. This Abco Tech sleeping bag has a compressible design and is made to be compact, helping you get rid of bulk. It is easy to carry, has a compression bag, and is easy to clean, so you do not need to send it to a professional to maintain its quality and warmth.

    Pros
    • Can be machine washed
    • Designed to be compact, getting rid of the bulk
    • Compresses easily
    Cons
    • Polyester absorbs grease
    • Rectangular shape is bulkier than other shapes
    • Polyester exterior is not so durable
For Sleeping Two
An image of Kelty Satellite 35419611DW 30 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

With the Kelty Satellite 30 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag, you can experience a great night's sleep while on your weekend getaway. This sleeping bag has Cloudloft™ insulation, which will retain warmth by combining hollow core and solid core fibers to create a unique insulation type. It has a polyester exterior and a polyester lining, which is a synthetic material that is very strong and colorfast. This sleeping bag features a 30°F temperature rating, which is designed for retaining warmth, keeping you well-insulated in chilly weather. It has a double size, which fits two campers, helping keep you warm through shared body heat. It is lightweight and is designed for camping, giving you insulation to comfortably sleep outdoors after the temperatures drop at night.

    Pros
    • Lightweight construction
    • Polyester lining is durable and colorfast
    • Polyester shell resists UV rays
    Cons
    • Polyester is not a recyclable material
    • Camping sleeping bags are not suitable for backpacking
    • Polyester shell is not suitable for extreme weather conditions
Additional Picks
An image of Western Mountaineering HighLite 30 Degree Sleeping Bag

Looking for your next backpacking sleeping bag? You'll want to know about the Western Mountaineering HighLite 30 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag. Featuring a mummy shape, this Western Mountaineering sleeping bag is fitted to prevent cold air pockets. It features an ExtremeLite shell, which provides a high level of insulation by using very lightweight yarn. This sleeping bag has a 30°F temperature rating, which is designed for retaining warmth, keeping you well-insulated in chilly weather. It is perfect for backpacking and is lightweight, making long days out on the trail easier to tackle. It has a compressible design, which packs easily into a hiking backpack or overnight bag.

    Pros
    • Compresses easily
    • Lightweight build
    • Mummy shape has great insulation
    Cons
    • Mummy shape is close fitting with no extra room to move around
An image of Marmot Xenon Women's 10 Degree Sleeping Bag

You'll want to learn all about the Marmot Xenon Women's 10 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag to discover what sets it apart from all the other sleeping bags on the market. This women's sleeping bag has extra insulation at the feet and torso as women usually are naturally colder than men. Featuring a lightweight build, this sleeping bag won't be difficult for you to carry. It features a nylon ripstop exterior, which is durable and does not absorb water. With a mummy shape, it is made for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is fitted so there is no excess material, reducing the weight and making it easier to carry on your back. This Marmot sleeping bag can withstand 10°F temperatures, sealing in heat by maximizing insulation. The hood is designed with drawstrings, so you can adjust the tightness based on the temperature outside. This Marmot sleeping bag comes with a stuff sack, which will keep your backpack organized.

    Pros
    • Drawstring hood gives extra cushion by the head
    • Stuff sack provides space to stash loose items
    • Women's design provides extra padding by your extremities
    Cons
    • Mummy shape has a tailored cut which may not be comfy for all campers
    • Stuff sack can damage the sleeping bag's filling after prolonged use
    • Women's sleeping bags can sometimes be too fitted
An image of Alps Mountaineering Drifter 4500436 30 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

Use the Alps Mountaineering Drifter 30 Degree Polyester Rectangular Sleeping Bag to stay warm in the outdoors. This sleeping bag has a rectangular shape, which is ideal for those who like a bit of extra room. It has a 30°F temperature rating, which is designed for retaining warmth, keeping you well-insulated in chilly weather. It has a polyester exterior, which is light and comfortable, and a polyester lining, which is light and soft on your skin and doesn't heat up as much as other fabrics once you're inside. This Alps Mountaineering sleeping bag is made to be compact and features a compressible design, giving you sufficient extra room to bring along your other gear. It is designed for camping and is lightweight, making long days out on the trail easier to handle. This Alps Mountaineering sleeping bag detaches via zippers, so you can split it into two separate sleeping bags.

    Pros
    • Made to be compact, getting rid of the bulk
    • Designed to compress easily
    • Lightweight construction
    Cons
    • Polyester traps sweat inside the sleeping bag
    • Rectangular shape is not very insulated
    • Camping sleeping bags are heavier than hiking bags
An image of Sea to Summit Ember I 073R-Parent Men's 40 Degree Nylon Sleeping Bag

With the Sea to Summit Ember I Men's 40 Degree Nylon Barrel Sleeping Bag, you can experience a great night's sleep while on your weekend away. This sleeping bag has a barrel shape, which is tapered from top to bottom to increase heat efficiency and save weight. It has a nylon ripstop exterior, so it resists wear and tear, and a nylon lining, which is light and soft on your skin and will remain at a comfortable temperature. This sleeping bag has a 40°F temperature rating, which is ideal for warm weather nights.

This sleeping bag features a compressible design, giving you enough extra space to take along your other essentials. It is lightweight and is suitable for hiking, so it is compact and easy to fit in your pack, making it comfortable to carry no matter the distance. It is easy to pack, so it can be effortlessly folded down into a practical size to save space in your bag. This sleeping bag has a laundry bag and features a compression bag, which will make packing up your bag very easy.

    Pros
    • Features a compressible design
    • Easy to pack sleeping bags roll up compactly
    • Lightweight build
    Cons
    • Nylon can fade easily
    • Barrel shaped sleeping bags can be hard to fit into a backpack
An image of Coleman Dunnock Cold Weather SS-SMS-765711 Men's 20 Degree Cotton Flannel Sleeping Bag

Use the Coleman Dunnock Cold Weather Men's 20 Degree Cotton Flannel Rectangular Sleeping Bag to stay warm and cozy in the outdoors. This sleeping bag has a rectangular shape, which is ideal for those who like a bit of extra room. It is perfect for camping and is lightweight, making it great if your number one priority is low volume and weight. This sleeping bag has a cotton flannel lining and is designed from cotton shell fabric, so you won't overheat, as it's very strong, highly breathable, and doesn't absorb sunlight.

Suitable for winter weather, this sleeping bag is built with durable materials that are highly insulated which protect against extra cold temperatures. It features a 20°F temperature rating, providing you with the warmth you need for temperatures above freezing. This sleeping bag is machine washable and it is equipped with a zipper guard, keeping the material from snagging in the zipper. It has a plush bottom, so you can sleep close to nature without having to sacrifice a good night's rest. Featuring Thermolock technology, this sleeping bag prevents heat loss through the zipper since it has an added layer of insulation along the opening. It has roll control and is made to be easy to pack, so it can be folded into a practical size to save space in your bag.

    Pros
    • Machine washable
    • Made with a plush bottom
    • Roll control tab keeps the sleeping bag straight
    Cons
    • Rectangular shape is bulkier than other shapes
    • Camping sleeping bags are bulkier than hiking bags
    • Cotton exterior is heavy
Understanding More About the Different Types of Lightweight Cold Weather Sleeping Bags Available:
Know the Difference Between the Types of Liner Materials for Lightweight Sleeping Bags
Polyester Sleeping Bags

Are polyester sleeping bags the right choice for you? Take a look at this particular lightweight sleeping bag with a polyester liner that we highly recommend. Polyester sleeping bags are naturally hypoallergenic, so you can stay protected against irritation from allergens and chemicals while adventuring outdoors. They are designed with durable materials, so they will not unravel or tear after a lot of use. With great breathability, they won't stick to your skin and leave you feeling overheated on warmer nights. Polyester sleeping bags are easy to clean, so you can keep them in great shape with just soap and water. They dry quickly, so when facing wet conditions, moisture will not soak the fabric.

Down Sleeping Bags

Looking for a warm sleeping bag? A sleeping bag with a down liner may be the solution you need. For your convenience, we recommend one of the great lightweight sleeping bags that come with a down liner. Down sleeping bags have an easily compressible design, making it perfect if you have a lot to pack but limited space to fit everything. They are designed to be insulated, so they trap your body heat very well, keeping you cozy regardless of the weather. Perfect for chilly nights in the woods, they will keep you snug and cozy. They are breathable, allowing steady airflow so you don't wake up in a sweat. Down sleeping bags are very comfortable, so you'll wake up feeling well rested. They are designed with durable materials, so you can go years before having to replace them. Now that you know more about down, take a look here.

Cotton Flannel Sleeping Bags

The following will help you know what to focus on when considering cotton flannel sleeping bags. You can check out this lightweight sleeping bag if this material is right for your outdoor excursions. Cotton flannel sleeping bags are designed to be hypoallergenic, so they don't contain harmful substances that can cause discomfort for people with asthma or certain chemical sensitivities. They are designed for warmth, providing you with a cozy space to take on chilly nights in the outdoors. These sleeping bags are extremely durable, so they will not pill or fray after a lot of use. They are very comfy, ensuring comfort and rest, so you'll sleep happier than in your own bed.

Figure Out Which Size to Pick for Lightweight Sleeping Bags
Double Sleeping Bags

If you've been searching for a spacious and roomy lightweight sleeping bag, then you should keep reading below to find out more about them. Double sleeping bags are cozy for two sleepers, offering a warm and cozy space for two. However, they take up a lot of space, so they aren't recommended for backpacking pursuits. A plus is that they come with a design that is good for car camping, which makes them great for when you'll be reaching the campsite with your vehicle, and not by foot. With this additional information about double size sleeping bags, check out this awesome lightweight sleeping bag that we picked.

Single Sleeping Bags

If you're looking for a lightweight sleeping bag in single, then you should consider this highly ranked sleeping bag. Single sleeping bags weigh less than double sleeping bags, so if you don't need a lot of sleeping space, they are better for carrying less overall weight. They come with enough space for one, keeping one person snug and warm when temperatures drop. They are designed to be compact, making them easy to fold up and throw in your bag.

Figure Out Which Shape to Choose for Lightweight Sleeping Bags
Barrel Sleeping Bags

Looking to buy a new all-purpose sleeping bag? We have two barrel sleeping bags available. Click here to take a look at one now. Barrel sleeping bags are roomy and spacious, so they are good for people who feel too confined by the tight mummy shape. They accommodate varying sleeping positions, making them ideal for people who are particular about sleeping in certain positions such as their sides or stomach. They are cut a bit closer than rectangular bags, so they are a great choice for something spacious while not compromising warmth.

Rectangular Sleeping Bags

Looking to buy a sleeping bag that will offer tons of room to stretch out? We have 63 rectangle sleeping bags available. Click here to take a look at one now. These sleeping bags have an incredibly roomy design, so they are ideal for people who feel too claustrophobic by the tight mummy shape. They feature double zippers, so they can double as an over blanket. 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.

Mummy Sleeping Bags

Trying to decide on the ideal mummy sleeping bag for your next outdoor adventure? We can help you make your choice by providing you with some important facts. Mummy sleeping bags weigh less than rectangular bags, so they are best when you need maximum warmth for minimal weight. However, they provide less space to move around, making them uncomfortable for sleepers who toss and turn. On the other hand, they are good for cold weather, so they are designed to hold in warmth and keep out drafts. Decided on which shape is right for you? Then consider this exciting option.