Why Buy A Down Sleeping Bag?

There are pros and cons to any item and a down sleeping bag is no different. However, the benefits of owning a down sleeping bag compared to their synthetic alternatives far outweigh the detriments. As the name implies, a down sleeping bag is made of the warm, down bird feathers. Most avid campers and backpackers prefer them for a variety of reasons discussed below.

First, a few potential negatives must be discussed. Some people consider a down sleeping bag to be more delicate than a synthetic bag. A down sleeping bag must be kept dry. In fact, if your down sleeping bag gets wet, it can lead to dangerous sleeping conditions, such as hypothermia. Next, some people voice concern that a down sleeping bag will tear easier than a synthetic bag. However, by paying attention to your surroundings (i.e. sharp rocks, branches, and camp knives), a down sleeping bag can last for decades. Lastly, a down sleeping bag can be quite expensive. Synthetic bags are typically much cheaper.

The pros of owning a down sleeping bag make the decision an easy one. To begin, down sleeping bags are very lightweight. Bags can weight less than a pound for a warmer weather bag (i.e. 40 degrees Fahrenheit) and can weight a whopping 3 pounds for a bag that will keep you warm when it is -20 degrees Fahrenheit outside.

Next, down sleeping bags offer the best in compressibility. Compressibility means space savings which can be critical for a backpacking trip or for those with transportation issues. Down sleeping bags can pack down to the size of a loaf of bread, depending on the amount of fill.

One of the most important factors of a down sleeping bag is the heat retention. This is due to the fact that down has amazing thermal properties and great loft. This means that it traps tiny air pockets efficiently which in turn keep you warm. Loft can be maintained by storing it in a large bag or hanging it. Also, simply fluffing it in a dryer can restore loft to its original state. For those camping in cold weather, keeping warm at night can mean the difference between a great camping trip and a bad dream.

Research and conversation with backpacking and camping experts will allow you to make an informed decision about which option is right for you. Also, consider your camping conditions. Although down sleeping bags can be accompanied with a protective cover, perhaps, if you are going to be camping solely in the wettest conditions, it may not be the best choice for you. However, if warmth and weight are important, you cannot go wrong with down.

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