Sleeping Bags
Regardless of the sleeping bag's assigned 'season', always check its comfort rating before buying. Don't make the mistake of checking only the 'extreme' rating and choose a bag that suits the coldest night you're likely to face.
A warm, well-chosen sleeping bag can be the difference between a miserable night and a solid night's rest, crucial when you've got a big day of trekking ahead.
Here are some recommendations from us.
There are no affiliate links here, we don't make any money for recommending these, we just think they are good value for money - do shop around to find the best price!
Berghaus Transition 300 - synthetic- approx £55
Fathom EV 300 - synthetic - approx £60
Rab Ascent 700 - down- approx £260
The North Face Wasach Pro - approx £75
Rab Solar Ultra 2 - approx £200
Berghaus Transition 400 - synthetic- approx £60
Latitude Pro 400 - synthetic- best for people under 5ft 8" - approx £65
Snugpack softie Antarctica - synthetic, extreme, but heavy- approx £180
Sleeping bag liners (usually cotton or silk) can add about 5°C to your bag's warmth, so your comfort rating becomes 5°C lower. Handy if you already own a sleeping bag and don't want to spend on more kit.
Lifeventure Silk Sleeping Bag Liner - approx £60
Liveventure Cotton Sleeping Bag Liner - approx £26
+ Great warmth-to-weight ratio
+ Long-lasting (with proper care)
+ Very warm, perfect for cold and dry environments
- Derived from animals
- More expensive (usually)
- Loses insulating properties if it gets wet
+ More affordable (Usually)
+ Quick drying and easier to clean
+ Retains warmth even if damp, more reliable in wet or humid climates.
- Often heavier/bulkier
- Less durable over time - synthetic insulation is likely to degrade quicker than down
+ Warmest option (body hugging, minimising dead air space)
+ Lightweight and packable
- Restrictive - less room to move
- Zipper is often shorter - making getting in and out more of a challenge
+ Plenty of room to move legs and arms
+ Usually unzip fully (can use as a blanket)
+ Typically cheaper
- Typically heavier and bulkier
- Heat retention isn't as efficient due to more air around the body
To get the most warmth and comfort from your sleeping bag:
Don't overdress: Too many clothes can reduce the bag's insulating effect. Wearing nothing, or a thin thermal base layer, works better than layering up in this instance
Use a sleeping mattress/pad: Putting a barrier between yourself and the ground prevents heat loss beneath you. These are provided on most Tribal Tracks Adventures unless otherwise specified.
Keep it dry: A wet sleeping bag (especially a down sleeping bag that could be ruined if it gets wet) is no good to anyone - always pack it in a dry bag.
Let it loft: Open and shake it out as early as you can before bedtime to ensure the insulation expands fully before it's bedtime.
Let’s get you on the right track!