We Put Walmart’s Low-Cost Backpacking Gear to the Test

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.

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. The bag is machine-washable and the lightweight design fits easily in both the washer and dryer. What bothers me the most, (and the main reason I gave it 2 stars) is that the fabric is hidden and not obvious until you get it out of the package and unzip it all of the way. If they wanted to skimp on fabric, it should have been used on the outside and bottom of the bag!

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 ozark trail canopy 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.

This two-person sleeping bag offers nearly 37 square feet of cozy sleeping space. It also includes two built-in blankets to allow either sleeper to adjust their warmth during the night. We think this is an ideal choice for couples or families looking for a comfortable sleeping system for their next car or RV camping trip. The primary drawback to the outstanding performance of the Egret is its staggering price tag. However, every bag is handmade in Seattle, and the high price is somewhat offset by the longevity of the insulation, which we’ve seen outlast the lesser goose down used by many companies. The slimmer dimensions also do not offer the same generous sleeping space as some other models, like the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed 20, which is a non-mummy-shaped bag.

I was in a large tent (admittedly, a smaller tent would have been better) with one other person. We found that the Ozark Trail Mummy sleeping bag ended up being just average and no more. Day 2 …it was closer to 6 degree and I froze…I had to hike into town, replace the bag.