The bag on its own is very comfortable down to the 30-degree range. Comfort was assessed by sharing each sleeping bag with multiple testers to garner diverse opinions. We also conducted specific tests involving ease of movement, bag dimensions, and natural padding. For warmth, we got more scientific with an ice-block test, a laser thermometer, and side-by-side timed tests on the same chilly night. Features and packed size were the final performance areas of interest, and we broke features down into a list and rated each one.
Weighing just 2.9 pounds for a size long, the Galactic is very lightweight among the rectangular, traditional car-camping models. It’s not exactly built for backpacking, but it also packs down small enough that we would certainly consider it for short hike-in campsites if we didn’t have another option. Finally, the Kelty Galactic 30 is a more basic bag that offers a stand-out feature worth mentioning. The Galactic’s 550-down insulation sets it apart from the other bags on our list. Our two double-person bags scored almost evenly in this metric.
Many double bags are simply extra fabric, resulting in little more than a super large sleeping bag. However, the Tru.Comfort offers cuddlers an array of features aimed at providing more of a well-designed sleeping system. Individual, built-in blankets allow sleepers the ability to customize personal warmth preferences. A U-shaped, top-side zipper bypasses ozark trail canopy the foot box, keeping toes warmer, while a massive hood keeps pillows in place and helps trap heat escaping from the top of the head. These features and other add-ons create one of the best systems we have seen to allow two sleepers independent customization of their temperature. We have stayed nicely warm while sleeping in the cold in this bag.
It’s our favorite hooded bag because it offers more features than the other single-person hooded bags on our list at nearly the same price. It also weighs less, packs up smaller, and is more portable. For six years running, the Coleman Brazos has reigned supreme as our favorite low-priced model. We are consistently impressed by this bag’s ability to perform adequately against a long list of competitors despite its simple design and cheaper price tag. When it comes to warmth, the Brazos can hold its own against bags that cost far more.
The Deer Hunter simply cannot provide the same comfort level as cotton materials found on the Redwood. As anticipated, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood handily outperformed all the rest, followed closely by the Teton Polara 3-in-1 and REI Siesta Hooded. When comparing the warmest bags side by side, the Redwood led in warmth. It is incredibly cozy, and we found it a challenge to want to unzip and get up for the day after sleeping in it — so consider yourself warned.
Lastly, the Teton Celsius XXL, Kelty Catena, and Coleman Brazos all packed up well enough to get on the board with above-average scores for this metric. Of the three, the Kelty is the easiest to pack, thanks to its larger stuff sack. It is easy to get in and out of, since the zipper runs down to your feet. It is water resistant, but not waterproof, and it stores extremely well. When it’s in the compression sack it comes with, it’s about 12 inches tall and 5 inches wide. Your order should arrive by this date if you buy today.
It also packs up much smaller and lighter than many of the sturdier bags in our review. The Polara is warm, has lots of features and options, and, importantly, it’s reasonably priced. Other advantageous features are useful loops, snaps, zippers, pockets, drawstrings, and a detachable fleece liner. The Polara is a combination of your favorite on-the-couch movie blanket and a hardcore, cold-weather camping bag.