Top 5 Best Sleeping Bags UK 2024
It’s pretty simple - the best sleeping bags for backpacking will keep you warm and dry, and pack down into a small, light package.
We’ve chosen our five favourite sleeping bags that will do just that. They all have different strengths, but if you choose to buy any one of them we guarantee you’ll get a good night’s sleep on the trail (unless your tent buddy snores… that, we can’t help you with).
Know what you’re looking for? Get straight to it:
#5: Sea to Summit Traverse Tv3
Need the full package? Have a look through our list of the Best Backpacking Tents.
Sleeping Bags Comparison
Compare the specs or jump straight down to the sleeping bag reviews.
Score
8.4
Packed Size
17.3 x 8.3 in/ 44 x 21 cm
Weight
2.6 lbs/ 1.2 kg
Fill
700g ULTRA-DRY Down
Price
$$
Score
8
Packed Size
16.9 x 9 in/ 43 x 23 cm
Weight
2.4 lbs/ 1.1 kg
Fill
700g ProDown
Price
$$
Score
7.8
Packed Size
6 x 8 in/ 15.24 x 20.32 cm
Weight
1.4 lbs/ 22 ounces
Fill
Nikwax goose down
Price
$$$
Score
7.6
Packed Size
14 x 7.5 in /35.56 x 19.05 cm
Weight
2.4 lbs/ 1.09 kg
Fill
800- fill DriDown
Price
$
Score
6.6
Packed Size
14.6 x 7.9 in/ 37 x 20 cm
Weight
3.3 lbs/ 1.5kg
Fill
Thermolite Synth
Price
$
Sleeping Bag Reviews
A good lifestyle bag for hiking and camping.
Sea to Summit typically makes well-constructed products, and their Traverse Tv3 is yet another example. While not as warm as others we tried, the synthetic fill helps keep the price down, and it’s clearly a durable bag that will last you a long time. We also like its unique triple zipper design that helps adjust the bag for warmer or cooler nights.
Summary
Pros: Durable, lower cost, triple zipper design.
Cons: Heavier and bulkier than others, not as warm.
Verdict: A great versatile choice and something that will last.
Where to get it:
#4: Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20F
Our best value pick for a quality bag.
The Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20F is a quality bag at a great intersection of warmth, weight, comfort and cost. Though mummy shaped, it has a slightly wider foot box so there was a reasonable amount of room to move, the zips worked well and the internal pocket was conveniently placed.
Summary
Pros: Comfortable, warm, water-resistant and at the lower end of the cost scale.
Cons: We would love to see this with an improved stuff sack that allows the bag to pack down smaller - it was slightly large in our pack compared to others.
Verdict: A dependable choice for most needs at a reasonable price.
Where to get it:
Practically as light as air.
At a mere 1lb 4oz/ 600g, the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion is INSANELY light for a sleeping bag of this quality. It's been specifically engineered to be light weight so it's perfect for longer hikes - but keep in mind that does mean some compromises. It's not as warm as others, has quite a snug fit, a half-length zipper and a reasonably hefty price tag - but if you're looking for something immensely packable, this is the one.
Summary
Pros: Extremely lightweight, high quality construction.
Cons: Tight fitting, not as warm as others.
Verdict: An ideal sleeping back for long backpacking trips.
Where to get it:
Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Elite Mountain Supplies
THerm-a-rest
Facewest
Our lighter weight pick.
The North Face Blue Kazoo is a mummy-shaped bag that offers a great balance of warmth and light weight. It has great water repellency and uses soft, breathable fabrics with good warmth distribution throughout the bag. We love that it also packs in a bunch of thoughtful features including a hood drawstring, zipper pocket and draft collar.
Summary
Pros: Warm, light and well-constructed.
Cons: Quite narrow foot space.
Verdict: A great choice for hiking.
Where to get it:
The complete package.
It's warm. It's comfortable. It's an easy-to-carry package. It's got dual anti-snag zippers, a neck baffle, draft tubes, and a handy pocket to stash your cell phone in. There was really nothing to fault about the Sea to Summit Trek Tk3, and that's why it's our number one pick.
Sleeping Bag FAQs
What is the number one sleeping bag?
Determining the top sleeping bag depends on personal preferences and specific needs. We have reviewed the best sleeping bags UK and found that the Sea to Summit Trek Tk3 is the best sleeping bag for cold weather. Other popular choices include brands like The North Face, Therm-a-Rest and Kelty.
Is it OK to sleep in a sleeping bag every night?
While it's generally safe to sleep in a sleeping bag every night, using it every night may lead to discomfort or hygiene issues. Make sure you air out your sleeping bag regularly and wash it according to manufacturer instructions.
How often should you replace a sleeping bag?
The frequency of replacing a sleeping bag depends on factors like usage, storage conditions and wear and tear. High-quality sleeping bags can last for many years with proper care but you might want to consider replacing them if they lose insulation or functionality.
Is it better to sleep with clothes on or off in a sleeping bag?
Whether to sleep with clothes on or off in a sleeping bag depends on personal preference and the temperature. Wearing dry and clean clothing layers can provide additional warmth, but avoid wearing too many layers, which can cause sweating and reduce insulation. The best sleeping bags distribute the insulation evenly, but some don’t so you may need to wear clothes inside.
Why am I so cold in my sleeping bag?
Feeling cold in a sleeping bag can result from factors like inadequate insulation of the bag for the conditions you’re sleeping in, poor quality of a bag, the wrong sleeping pad, not enough clothing layers or a sleeping bag not rated for the temperature. Before heading out, make sure your gear matches the conditions and consider using additional insulation if needed. For example, the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 is one of the best sleeping bags for camping due to how lightweight it is, but is not the warmest of bags.
Do old sleeping bags lose their warmth?
Over time, sleeping bags may lose some of their insulation due to compression of insulation, wear and tear, or breakdown of materials. Some are designed poorly and frequently lose feathers, too. Regular maintenance and proper storage can help extend the lifespan of a sleeping bag and maintain its warmth.
Should you wash a sleeping bag?
Yes, it's essential to wash a sleeping bag periodically, especially after extended use or if it becomes soiled. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and drying to maintain the integrity and performance of the sleeping bag.
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.