Our testers believe it truly lived up to its 0° F temperature rating. They were also delighted with the wider dimensions of this bag compared to many other winter bags. Its high-quality 850 fill power goose down was some of the best at maintaining excellent loft despite numerous compression cycles. For the folks seeking the absolute best sleeping bag, we recommend the Western Mountaineering MegaLite. This ultra-premium model utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power down to create a cozy cocoon of outstanding comfort. Our testers appreciated the more generous dimensions of the MegaLite compared to other products at its price point.
It has a -10° F rating provided by loads of TechLoft insulation encased in canvas shell and cotton flannel lining. Although we wouldn’t recommend it down to quite that frigid of ozark trail canopy temps, it proved capable down to the single digits. On our first overnighter with the OutdoorZ Redwood, temps dropped to a chilly 25 degrees, but we stayed toasty warm. Details like double draft tubes and off-set stitching pattern reduce heat loss from even the tiniest of cracks. Considering its reasonable price point, the Ozark Trail sleeping bag offers okay value for money if you were to use this in a caravan or motor home for example. It would also work well indoors as a back up for when your kids friends come to stay over.
Synthetic sleeping bags, however, do have one performance advantage, a greater ability to insulate when wet. If down feathers get wet, they clump together and lose nearly all of their loft and insulative power. Synthetic fibers, in contrast, do not clump, so they can continue to provide considerable insulation when wet.
It has ClimaTech fiber for added warmth, comfort, and durability. The zipper broke on my warm weather bag on the second night out. Too bad too because overall I’ve had good luck with Ozark Trail stuff. Too bad the buyer at Walmart has gone to sleep on quality control on this product.
We’re also fans of its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, which should make this bag especially appealing for diehard backpackers or long backcountry trips. This is our overall favorite sleeping bag for camping near civilization, but it’s not suited for backpacking or any sort of human-powered excursions. With an enormous packed size and at 11.7 pounds on the scale, it’s far too bulky and heavy to carry any significant distance. Instead, the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 is another option that is lightweight, packs up into a stuff sack, and is a bit easier to transport. At full list price, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is also a poor value compared to many other camping bags. Still, if you want the best classic sleeping bag, this is our suggestion.
The lead author, Jack Cramer, is a former member of Yosemite Search and Rescue and an accomplished climber who has now personally tested more than 70 different sleeping bags. Jack is assisted by Ian McEleney, an AMGA-certified alpine guide who has lent his expertise in sleeping bags and other backpacking gear to over 1,000 clients over the years. Jessica Haist is also a professional guide with decades of experience and heads our women’s sleeping bag review. Rounding out the team is Jason Wanlass, a world traveler and seasoned backpacker and hiker. Whether it’s car camping or canyoneering, Jason will take any excuse he gets to sleep outside. If you would like to make snuggling part of your next camping trip, check out the Kelty Tru.Comfort 20 Doublewide.
Your own preferences and uses may push you towards another rating. Summer campers, however, will probably be happier in a 40° F model. If you find that your sleeping bag doesn’t seem to be living up to its temperature rating, the issue is most likely your sleeping pad.
Backpacking sleeping bags are generally designed with a hood and a ozark trail backpack tapered sarcophagus shape that minimizes materials while maximizing thermal efficiency. Keep in mind, however, that the tapered shape of a mummy bag reduces the space for your legs, so some folks may find them uncomfortable. More careful research is also a good idea when you’re shopping for a backpacking sleeping bag because these models can be fairly expensive. Don’t fret, though; with a little effort, it’s possible to select a suitable and affordable option.