Are you tired of fighting to get a sleeping bag to store compactly enough to fit in your backpack or closet? Does the tradeoff always seem to be between quality and size?
If so, read on to discover what the best options on the market are for the smallest sleeping bags when packed.
Why Do You Need a Smallest Sleeping Bag?
If you ever tried to roll a regular-sized sleeping bag into a smaller size than what it is designed for, you know the struggle. If you have pushed, shoved, tucked, cajoled, prayed, and swore at a sleeping bag that will not fit into as small a shape as you need, you already know the answer to this question.
A sleeping bag that rolls up small is worth its weight in gold, whether you are packing a storage closet, trying to fit it in a vehicle, or carrying it along a trail. It is more compact, lighter, and easier to lift and carry than a traditional sleeping bag.
If comfort and ease of storage are the criteria you are trying to meet, a sleeping bag that folds up small is the only way to go!
What Are the Best Smallest Sleeping Bags When Packed?
- Best Value: AEGISMAX Outdoor UL Goose Down Sleeping Bag
- Best Versatility: ECOOPRO Down Sleeping Bag
- Best Compactness: Naturehike Ultralight Goose Down Sleeping Bag
- Best Weight: ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag
- Best Waterproof: SOULOUT Sleeping Bag
- Best in Warm Temps: REDCAMP Ultra Lightweight Sleeping Bag
- Best Company Ethos: Hyke & Byke Quandary Hydrophobic Down Sleeping Bag
- Best All-Temp Bag: Nemo Riff Down Sleeping Bag
- Best Family-Friendly Bag: REVALCAMP Indoor/Outdoor Sleeping Bag
- Best Sleep: TETON Sports Trailhead Sleeping Bag for Adults
Comparison Chart:
| Image | Product | Technical Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Best Versatility
|
ECOOPRO Down Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Compactness
|
Naturehike Ultralight Goose Down Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Value
|
AEGISMAX Outdoor UL Goose Down Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Company Ethos
|
Hyke & Byke Quandary Hydrophobic Down Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best All-Temp Bag
|
Nemo Riff Down Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Waterproof
|
SOULOUT Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Family-Friendly Bag
|
REVALCAMP Indoor/Outdoor Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Weight
|
ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best Sleep
|
TETON Sports Trailhead Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
|
Best in Warm Temps
|
REDCAMP Ultra Lightweight Sleeping Bag |
|
Check Price |
10 Best Smallest Sleeping Bags
Often, when you want to go camping or hiking, every bit of space matters. That’s why having an extra-small sleeping bag can be a boon. Here are the top ten smallest sleeping bags, perfect for your next adventure outdoors.
1. Best Versatility: ECOOPRO Down Sleeping Bag
The ECOOPRO Down Sleeping Bag is a quality bag that adheres to the traditional design of sleeping bags but comes in a much more compact form. With a zipper closure, polyester shell, and poly-down mix for filling, it is almost impossible to top this bag when it comes to size, compactness, warmth, and standing up to the weather.
Coming in at a minuscule 1.43 pounds, this is a sleeping bag that rolls up small but packs a major punch in terms of comfort. When unfolded, it clocks in at 12.4×7 x 7.7 inches, so even unpacked, the bag is compact.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Polyester, down (600 FP white duck down comprises up to 90% of the fill)
- Shell material: Polyester coated, making it resistant to wind and water
- Temperature range: 32-59 degrees (0-15 degrees Celsius)
- Dimensions: 12.4×7.7×7.7 inches folded; 86×30 unfolded
- Weight: 1.43 pounds
Final Thoughts
As for compact sleeping bags, this one is warm, comfortable, and easily packed and stored. The downsides are universal to any sleeping bag that folds up small and compact. Overall, this bag offers the most versatility of all listed.
2. Best Compactness: Naturehike Ultralight Goose Down Sleeping Bag
Naturehike developed a lightweight, high-quality, compact sleeping bag that is waterproof and has 800 fill power pure white goose down.
Coming in at only 1.28 pounds for the regular bag and 1.74 pounds for the extra-large, this sleeping bag merges warmth, comfort, and almost-weightlessness. Plus, its compact size (4.5 inches by 10 inches) makes fitting it into a backpack or small space in a vehicle a breeze.
If warmth is the issue, the 800 FP keeps the average person warm down to about 43 degrees for the regular and 32 degrees for the extra-large version. Add to that the fact that the bag is highly water-resistant, and comfort ceases to be a pre-trip concern.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Polyester, down (800 FP up to 90% of the fill)
- Shell material: 15D/400T rip-stop nylon
- Temperature range: Down to 42.8 degrees for the regular size; 32 degrees for the extra-large size
- Dimensions: 4.5×10 inches folded for the regular size; 74.8×28.35 inches for the extra-large
- Weight: 1.26-1.74 pounds
Final Thoughts
This bag comes in an extra-large size for larger people or for those adventurers simply seeking some additional room when sleeping in the great outdoors. It is very lightweight and compact, perfect for hiking and camping where storage space is an issue. None of the other bags will roll up as tight.
3. Best Value: AEGISMAX Outdoor UL Goose Down Sleeping Bag
Mummy-shaped and compact, the AEGISMAX outdoor UL goose-down sleeping bag has 800 FP and features ultrasoft fabric, which means comfort and warmth are almost guaranteed.
This sleeping bag is ultralight, weighing only 1.16 pounds, and is 4.7×8.3 inches, making it ideal for storing in a backpack and carrying during longer hikes or excursions. Its temperature limit is 43 degrees, with an extreme limit of 15 degrees.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Polyester, down (800 FP) (60-40 fill ratio)
- Shell material: Polyester and nylon
- Temperature range: Down to 43 degrees with an extreme low of 15
- Dimensions: 4.7×8.3 inches folded; 73×31 inches open
- Weight: 1.16 pounds
Final Thoughts
The AEGISMAX goose down sleeping bag is lightweight and easily stored in almost any type of space. Its weight makes it almost an afterthought on long hikes. If you’re looking to try out hiking or camping but don’t want to make a full commitment, this is a good bag to get. It’s not going to break the bank but will keep you comfortable out in the wilds.
4. Best Company Ethos: Hyke & Byke Quandary Hydrophobic Down Sleeping Bag
The Hyke & Byke Quandary down sleeping bag is a lightweight, soft, and durable three-season sleeping bag. It boasts 650 FP and only weighs 2.89 pounds, making it one of the lightest sleeping bags in its class.
This sleeping bag is water-repellent and made from rip-stop nylon and has two YKK zippers and ample room inside. It comes in two sizes: regular and long (tall/XL).
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Polyester, down (650 FP)
- Shell material: Nylon
- Temperature range: Rating is 15
- Dimensions: 10×7.5×7.5 inches folded
- Weight: 2.95 pounds
Final Thoughts
This is a heftier bag than most but has an excellent temperature rating. However, what we like the most is how the company is dedicated to helping reduce poverty globally.
5. Best All-Temp Bag: Nemo Riff Down Sleeping Bag
Whether using the men’s or women’s version, the Nemo Riff down sleeping bag is ultralight and compact. The bag’s 800 FP hydrophobic, responsibly sourced down ensures the ultimate experience in lightness and warmth. Its mummy-based, spoon shape contours to the body, allowing for sleeping in any position.
Gill technology manufactured into the sleeping bag allows for controlled venting without having to leave the bag or open it up to cool down. The Nemo Riff also has a blanket fold feature that helps control drafts as well. Finally, the bag is oriented to handle colder weather.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Mummy and spoon
- Fill: Polyester, down (650 and 800 FP)
- Shell material: Nylon
- Temperature range: Down to 30 degrees
- Dimensions: 11×7.5 inches
- Weight: 2 pounds, 3 ounces
Final Thoughts
The best characteristic about this bag is that a person can sleep on their side when snuggled inside. The vent system is also great for keeping things warm but not overheated. If you’re looking for a bag that does well in the cold and the heat, this is a solid option.
6. Best Waterproof: SOULOUT Sleeping Bag
Besides standing up to extreme weather, the SOULOUT sleeping bag can accommodate about any size person. Its exterior lining is treated to be waterproof to prevent dampness and reduce humidity. It is easy to pack, lightweight, and comes with a rugged compression sack.
SOULOUT specializes in affordable, dependable equipment and backs this product with a 100% satisfaction guaranteed warranty. This sleeping bag is on the heavy side, but the compression bag helps reduce its size.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Polyester fiberfill
- Shell material: High count nylon
- Temperature range: Down to 32 degrees
- Dimensions: 87×59 inches
- Weight: 6.6 pounds
Final Thoughts
This bag can be used in about any situation. The ability to be seamlessly paired with another bag to make a bed-sized blanket is great for staying in a non-camping setting. If you’re looking for something to keep you dry in rain or dew, this is a solid choice.
7. Best Family-Friendly Bag: REVALCAMP Indoor/Outdoor Sleeping Bag
The REVALCAMP indoor/outdoor sleeping bag is lightweight and easy to pack and store. It’s a great fit for anyone shorter than 6-foot-1.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Polyester
- Shell material: Treated nylon
- Temperature range: Down to 40 degrees
- Dimensions: 71×30 inches
- Weight: 2 pounds
Final Thoughts
This is one of the most affordable sleeping bags on the market. Its lighter weight means it would be no problem storing or carrying. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike, making it our choice for the best family option.
8. Best Weight: ECOOPRO Warm Weather Sleeping Bag
This ECOOPRO sleeping bag is made for warmer weather and only keeps a user warm to about the mid-40s. The filler is cotton. The sleeping bag’s size lets it accommodate just about anyone. It is also lightweight and easy to roll up.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Cotton
- Shell material: Treated nylon (lining is 100% polyester)
- Temperature range: mid-40s to 60-plus degrees
- Dimensions: 83×20-inch spread; 7.5×11 inches folded
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
Final Thoughts
The best thing about this bag is that it’s extremely lightweight. It is so light that when packed, it is hard to detect, so you won’t feel weighed down by excessive luggage during an extra-long hike. Additionally, it can easily accommodate any size person.
9. Best Sleep: TETON Sports Trailhead Sleeping Bag for Adults
The Teton Sports Trailhead sleeping bag for adults is lightweight, water-resistant, and very warm. It also folds up nicely by being stuffed into a bag attached to the feet.
Depending on the model, this sleeping bag can keep a person warm down to 20 degrees (some models feature temperature ratings for even colder weather). The filler is microfiber and extremely warm.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Microfiber
- Shell material: Nylon
- Temperature range: Depends on the model, but in the 20s is standard
- Dimensions: 42×30-inch spread; 13x7x7 inches folded
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
Final Thoughts
This sleeping bag is superb for use in cold weather. It is also very lightweight and has additional foot room, avoiding feeling cramped. However, what makes it stand out is how roomy and comfortable it is, despite being able to roll up into such a small size.
10. Best in Warm Temps: REDCAMP Ultra Lightweight Sleeping Bag
Redcamp’s ultra lightweight sleeping bag is durable and warm-weather oriented. It has a two-way reverse zipper and can be attached to another sleeping bag.
This lightweight backpacking sleeping bag folds to a very small size and takes up almost no room in your backpack or luggage. The bag is ultra-comfortable when used in the recommended temperature range.
Technical Specifications
- Shape: Rectangle
- Fill: Spinning cotton
- Shell material: 210D polyester
- Temperature range: 59-77 degrees
- Dimensions: 87×32.5-inche spread; 13x7x7 inches folded
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
Final Thoughts
This is another very light sleeping bag. It is meant for use in warmer weather, so the sleeping bag’s design also helps curb overheating. Its size is also impressive.
How to Pack a Sleeping Bag
Finding a sleeping bag that is lightweight and compact is just a matter of doing some research, narrowing options, and selecting the sleeping bag that best meets your needs. Often overlooked, however, is folding the sleeping bag back to its original compact condition.
Here are tips on the best way to do that.
Follow Directions for Specialized Bags
Not all sleeping bags fold up in the traditional manner or fold up and get put into a compression sack. Some fold into themselves. Others have bags attached to the feet, and the bag is “stuffed” back into the bag when the occupant is done using it.
Some sleeping bags also come with specific directions. If those directions are not followed, the bag will not fit back into the compression sack in which it came. Forcing the issue risks tearing the sack or sleeping bag, or damaging the sleeping bag.
With all that in mind, make sure you follow all regarding maintenance and care for the sleeping bag and how to fold it so it takes on the same size and format as when it was first purchased.
Preparation
Before you start folding anything, regardless of any special instructions, follow these tips to make sure you get the fold right the first time.
- Inspect the bag for any clothes, blankets, pillows, etc. Make sure everything left in the sleeping bag is removed.
- Unzip the sleeping bag. Inspect it for any moisture, mildew, or mold. If any of those issues are found, treat the problem before moving on to any other steps.
- Once the bag is fully inspected, shake it out. The purpose here is to shake free anything that might be clinging to the walls of the bag. Shake it vigorously, but be careful not to strain the bag itself.
- The next step is to lay the bag on the floor, zipped up in the same position as when you climbed into it the previous night. Make sure the bag is zipped. Zipping helps with folding by holding the bag in place, allowing you to make a more compact fold.
Folds
Start by folding the bag in half lengthwise. After doing so, make sure the edges line up as close together as possible. This helps keep the bag in line for folding or rolling. If your sleeping bag has straps, this step also helps ensure those straps are easily accessible.
Rolling
Follow the directions for folding your sleeping bag or start rolling it. Make sure you are rolling in the right direction. Be careful to apply the same pressure throughout the roll, as this helps the compression to function properly. It also ensures the least amount of space possible is used and that the sleeping bag will more easily fit in the compression sack.
Role the bag toward the head and the straps on the backside of the bag. Once it is rolled up, secure the sleeping bag with the straps.
Stuffing
If you folded and rolled the bag correctly, stuffing the sleeping bag will not require a lot of exertion. You will likely have to work the bag into the compression sack no matter how tightly it’s folded. Once it is folded and in the compression sack, be sure to secure the sleeping bag.
General Tips
If your sleeping bag is wet, open it up and let it fully dry if possible. Folding up a damp sleeping bag can encourage mold growth, which can damage the bag.
If the bag must be folded to get on the trail or road, make sure you can easily unfold it. This will help prevent any pesky problems such as mold from gaining a foothold. Spray down the bag lightly with a sanitizing spray. Let everything dry before attempting to fold the sleeping bag or put it in the compression sack.
Double-check edges when folding. This will help it roll more easily and neatly. Pay attention when rolling and make sure you roll even widthwise. Most sleeping bags tend to roll off one way or another and that can lead to a very uneven roll.
Always try to fold the sleeping bag on a clean surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s understandable that you may still have questions about sleeping bags beyond which are the smallest! Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions and their answers below.
What Is the Temperature Range in a Sleeping Bag?
A sleeping bag’s temperature range is the minimum and maximum temperatures a bag can withstand and still keep its occupant comfortable.
What Is a Backpack Sleeping Bag?
A backpack sleeping bag is any sleeping bag that fits well in a backpack and can keep a hiker or camper warm and protected from the elements without being prohibitively heavy or bulky.
What Is a Good Weight for a Backpack Sleeping Bag?
If all things are equal, a hiking sleeping bag should be 2 pounds or less.
Does Price Equal Quality in Sleeping Bags?
In general, yes. The more you pay for a sleeping bag, the better the quality. There are, however, sleeping bag manufacturers that provide a better product for their price and bags that are inexpensive but feature superior quality.
Do Cold Weather Lightweight Sleeping Bags Work?
Yes. The filler for sleeping bags continues to get better with time, so it is easy to find a lightweight, compact sleeping bag that can keep a hiker or camper warm down to extremely cold temperatures.
Final Word
What sleeping bag is the best value? It depends on the objective of the question (best diversity, weight, features, etc.), but the AEGISMAX outdoor UL goose-down sleeping bag stacks up against anything on the market.
Its weight is “feather-like,” and it folds down to a size that easily fits in a backpack and even in an oversized coat pocket. The range for staying warm is also impressive, as it will keep most people comfortable to temperatures down into the low 40s. It also is well-suited for warm weather excursions.
That said, any one of the sleeping bags we reviewed here can serve a hiker’s or camper’s needs if they are seeking lightweight and compact options when it comes to what they will be sleeping in during their adventures.
