Most sleeping bags display their temperature range through three temperature categories: Comfort, Transition, and Risk. Below, we’ve outlined what each means:

Comfort: Based on a ‘standard’ adult woman having a comfortable night’s sleep, wearing one base layer.

Transition: The lowest temperature at which a ‘standard’ adult male is deemed to be able to have a comfortable night’s sleep. Also, in one base layer.

Risk: The survival-only rating for a ‘standard’ adult woman. This is an extreme survival rating only and it’s not advisable for anyone to rely on this rating for general use.

If you’re a cold sleeper, it’s best to go with the Comfort rating for a good night sleep. This is where checking that forecast comes in handy, you should always base your purchase on the coldest temperature you expect during your trip.

If you feel like you need extra warmth, you can always add a sleeping bag liner for an extra boost. More on those, below. Here’s a comprehensive guide to choosing the right sleeping bag.

While the shape of your sleeping bag is up to your personal preference, it also effects your bags warmth rating and insulation qualities. Mummy bags are great for the coldest of nights, while semi-rectangular bags are great if you need a bit more space to roll around throughout the night.

Note: Make sure you pay attention to the max sleeper height of your sleeping bag as well. Generally, you should add 25–30cm on top of your height for maximum comfort. To learn more about sleeping bag shapes, check out our article Sleeping bags 101.

Kathmandu sleeping bags are available in a large range of temperature ratings so you can choose the best bag for your planned adventure. The Navigator Women’s Down Sleeping bag features a -7°C comfort rating, the lowest in our range, while the Icarus Hybrid Sleeping Bag features a -5°C rating and is gender-neutral. We have ranges that suit most temperatures, whether it be a leisurely summer hike to a cold, alpine trek.

This depends a little on the material your sleeping bag is made from but handwashing your sleeping bag in a bathtub filled with warm water and a mild soap or detergent is generally the safest option.

To clean the bag, gently massage the water into the bag by adding pressure from above with your open hands until the bag is saturated. When your bag is saturated with water, do not attempt to lift it out because the heavy, wet down may tear the baffles.

Leave to soak for 1-4 hours, depending on how dirty your bag is. And repeat the process with fresh water until the water stays clear. When the bag is squeaky clean press the water out of the bag, fold the ends of the semi-dry bag in towards its centre and press firmly until all water is expelled.

To fully dry the sleeping bag, it can be placed in a tumble dryer set on a low setting or air-dried lying flat. For more information and helpful how-to videos check out our articles:

How to wash a down sleeping bag

How to wash a synthetic sleeping bag

The two best types of fill for sleeping bags are down or synthetic, and each type offers different advantages. A down sleeping bag can be appropriate for multi-day overnight hikes, cold camping conditions, world travel, or alpine adventures. It offers great warmth to weight ratings and can be compressed to a smaller size. However, once down is wet it loses its ability to insulate.

A synthetic sleeping bag can be appropriate for a wide range of activities, including an overnight hike, camping, and travel across a range of climates. Synthetic fill performs well even in damp conditions, but the bags are heavier and bulkier. To compensate for this, you might want to take something else out of your pack if you are planning to go on a longer trek.

Sleeping bag liners offer an extra layer of warmth and help keep your bag cleaner for longer. Silk liners are great for warmer climates while Merino and thermal liners are great for cooler temps. While it’s not necessary, once you sleep with one you won’t want to be without it!

Well, you don’t need a pillow, but you don’t need an extra scoop of ice cream or comfy insoles in your shoes. You can certainly sleep on a bunch of rolled-up clothes, but a pillow, like ice cream and comfy insoles, will make your sleep much more comfortable and fun. Plus, they blow up, so they don’t take up too much space in your pack.