When it comes to a great night’s sleep in the great outdoors, your sleeping bag is just as important as your tent or camp stove. Whether you’re beach camping, trekking through the bush, or setting up camp by the river, the right sleeping bag can mean the difference between a cosy snooze and a chilly, restless night. But with so many types, materials, and ratings out there, how do you know which one is right for you?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the perfect sleeping bag for your camping style, climate, and comfort preferences.
A sleeping bag isn’t just a blanket you zip yourself into—it’s your portable bed, built to retain heat, resist moisture, and provide insulation against the ground. The best one will match your trip conditions and personal needs, giving you the best possible sleep no matter where you lay your head.
Camping in Australia can mean a range of temperatures and terrains—from tropical nights in Queensland to frosty mornings in the High Country. That’s why picking the right sleeping bag is crucial.
1. Temperature Ratings: Understanding the Numbers
Temperature ratings tell you the minimum temperature a sleeping bag is designed to handle. Most sleeping bags have a comfort rating and a limit rating:
- Comfort Rating: The temperature at which an average cold sleeper will feel comfortable.
- Limit Rating: The temperature at which a warm sleeper can still get by without feeling cold.
For Australian conditions, here’s a rough guide:
- +10°C and above: Ideal for summer camping or warmer regions.
- 0°C to +10°C: Great for most spring/autumn camping trips.
- 0°C and below: Necessary for winter camping, alpine areas, or cold desert nights.
Always err on the side of warmth—you can always unzip the bag or use a liner if you’re too hot.
2. Sleeping Bag Shapes: Mummy, Rectangular, and Hybrid
The shape of your sleeping bag affects how well it retains heat and how much room you have to move:
- Mummy Shape: Tapered at the legs and hooded at the head, mummy bags are designed for maximum warmth and minimal bulk. Great for colder climates or hikers looking to save space.
- Rectangular Shape: Spacious and comfortable, these are great for warmer weather and car camping when weight and space aren’t an issue.
Semi-Rectangular (Hybrid): A mix of both worlds, these bags give you extra room to move while still offering good warmth and packability.
3. Insulation Types: Down vs Synthetic
There are two main types of insulation in sleeping bags, and each has its own pros and cons.
Down Insulation:
- Pros: Extremely warm for its weight, compresses well, and lasts for years if well cared for.
- Cons: Loses insulation power when wet, more expensive, and not always ethically sourced unless labelled as RDS (Responsible Down Standard).
Synthetic Insulation:
- Pros: Performs better when wet, dries quickly, hypoallergenic, and more affordable.
- Cons: Heavier and bulkier than down, and typically less durable over the long term.
For most Aussie campers, synthetic sleeping bags are a reliable and budget-friendly option, especially if you camp near water or in humid areas.
4. Size and Fit: Get the Right Length and Width
Sleeping bags come in various sizes to suit different body types:
- Standard sizes fit most adults up to around 180cm tall.
- Long bags are available for taller campers.
- Women’s specific bags often include extra insulation in key areas like the feet and torso and are shaped to better suit a woman’s body.
Always check the dimensions before you buy—if your bag’s too short, you’ll feel cramped and cold; too long, and you’ll carry unnecessary weight and bulk.
5. Features to Look For
Modern sleeping bags come with a range of clever features that can really elevate your camping experience:
- Draft collars and zippers: Help prevent cold air from sneaking in.
- Two-way zippers: Allow you to vent from the bottom for temperature control.
- Internal pockets: Handy for storing a torch, phone, or lip balm.
- Compression sacks: Help you pack your sleeping bag down small for easy carrying.
Some sleeping bags can even be zipped together to make a double—ideal for couples or keeping kids cosy.
6. Seasonality: 1-Season to 4-Season Bags
Sleeping bags are also categorised by seasons:
- 1-Season: Suitable for hot summer nights or indoor use.
- 2-Season: Good for late spring to early autumn in warmer climates.
- 3-Season: The most versatile option for most Australian campers.
- 4-Season: Built for extreme cold and alpine use—overkill for most casual campers.
For most beach, bush, and caravan park campers, a 2- or 3-season bag will be perfect.
7. Bonus Tip: Use a Sleeping Bag Liner
A liner adds warmth, protects the inside of your bag from sweat and dirt, and can be washed more easily than the bag itself. It’s also great for hot nights when you just want a lightweight covering.
Here are some sleeping bags under $100:
Oztrail Sturt Hooded +5C Sleeping Bag 34p
A generously proportioned rectangular sleeping bag with a hood that includes more ExoTherm® X Fill for more warmth. Rated to +5°C. Two sleeping bags can be zipped together to create a double sleeping bag. |
Wildtrak Bremer Junior Hooded Sleeping Bag 170 X 65Cm 0 To -5C 49
With a Temperature Rating of 0 to -5 degrees the Bremer Junior Hooded sleeping bag will keep the kids warm and comfortable on those cold winter nights camping. Great for school camps.
Oztent Hamilton XL Sleeping Bag 89.89
A great quality, comfortable range of three sleeping bags designed to cater to the needs and sizes of the whole family. Big in size and features there is plenty of room and comfort in the Hamilton XL for the largest of sleepers.
Explore Planet Earth Comas Camper Pro Sleeping Bag 0° 78.90
The Explore Planet EarthComas sleeping bags are reliable bags designed for general camping and with the family in mind. Featuring a semi-tapered shape for increased warmth around your legs and a contoured hood for chilly nights. The twin zipper system means you can open up fully – great for warmer nights.
Wildtrak Murray Hooded Jumbo Sleeping Bag 240 X 90Cm 0 To -5C 75.90
Features breathable lining for enhanced comfort and relaxation. Auto locking zippers for easy temperature regulation. Includes sewn-in storage pocket. Sewn through construction to secure fill in place. Hanging loops for airing.
Final Thoughts: Comfort Is Key
Choosing the right sleeping bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think about where and when you’ll be camping, how much space you have, and how warm you tend to sleep. Match those needs with a sleeping bag’s shape, insulation, and temperature rating, and you’ll be set for nights of comfort under the stars.
Camping is all about connecting with nature—and that’s much easier when you’re well-rested. So invest in a sleeping bag that works for you, and sleep tight out there.
