A good backpacking sleeping bag strikes a balance between weight and roominess. Unlike a typical car camping sleeping bag that is usually square in outline, backpacking bags feature a tapered cut and integrated hood to save weight and conserve body heat. Insulated with either lightweight and durable goose down or cost-effective and moisture-resistant synthetic fibers, backpacking sleeping bags are available in different temperature ratings to match the temperature conditions that you plan to encounter during your trip.
Lafuma Warm'n Light 950 Pro
The recipient of "Backpacker" magazine's 2010 Editors' Choice award for best all-around bag is the Lafuma Warm'n Light 950 Pro. The 950 Pro is a three-season bag, meaning that it is appropriate for all conditions except bitter winter temperatures. It utilizes a very high-quality down that insulates well and packs down into a small bundle. The editors at "Backpacker" appreciated the bag's snug hood and draft collar, and they found the bag to be comfortable down into the low teens despite it having a comfort rating of only 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Like many bags tested, however, the zipper did snag a bit, and a few feathers found their way out of the bag.
REI Expedition -20
If you plan to encounter colder weather, consider the REI Expedition -20, the winner of "Backpacker" magazine's 2010 Editors' Choice award for best all-around winter sleeping bag. Filled with plenty of high-loft down for insulation, the Expedition also features a waterproof, yet breathable, shell to provide protection from winter storms. This is especially important with down sleeping bags because down loses nearly all of its insulating properties when wet. The "Backpacker" editors were impressed with the heavily insulated hood and unique double zipper system that allowed for internal volume adjustments without sacrificing warmth. As with most winter bags, though, the Expedition is heavy and expensive compared to an average three-season bag.
Vaude Ice Peak 150
If you do not plan to confront cold weather, consider a lightly insulated summer bag, such as the Vaude Ice Peak 150, another 2010 Editors' Choice winner. Foregoing bulky insulation and other heat-retaining features in favor of low weight, summer bags are ideal for trips during comparatively balmy weather. The Ice Peak 150 distinguished itself with its high level of breathability and compact size when compressed. The editors of "Backpacking" did note that the cut was somewhat snug, so it may not be the best choice for larger backpackers.
GoLite RS 1+ Season Quilt
If you are searching for the lightest possible sleeping bag option and know that frigid temperatures are not in the forecast, it would be difficult to beat the GoLite RS 1+ Season Quilt. More of a fitted blanket than a true sleeping bag, the RS 1+ features straps on the underside to hold it securely to your sleeping pad. Insulated with synthetic fibers, the "Backpacker" editors found it to be very adequate down to about 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and they made it their 2010 Editors' Choice winner in the minimalist bag category.
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