Because sleeping bags are available in a variety of types and styles, it is hard to choose the right one. First, you have to consider what the environment will be like that you will be using it in. Warmer weather requires a more lightweight bag, but if you will be using it in a colder climate, then you may want to decide on a thicker sleeping bag or you can opt to just wear warmer clothes as added protection. Another thing to consider is your personal tastes. Choose a bag made from a material that you like, is that appropriate size and shape, and also leaves you room to move around.

There are two basic shapes of sleeping bags – mummy and rectangular. However, many bags are sold that are slight variations of these two. The most widely used sleeping bag is the rectangular bag. It is the oldest design, offering plenty of room with a cozy feeling , even for your feet. Rectangular bags can also be multi-functional. For instance, unzip the bag on a warm night and it can be utilized as a comforter. Some bags also allow the user to zip two bags together for a larger double-wide bag.

The mummy bag is a modern version of the old rectangular sleeping bags and is designed to fit more snugly around the sleeper. This allows the sleeper’s own body heat to accumulate within the bag and keep them warm. This kind of bag is generally made from less material and so is lighter weight which can make a difference if you are hiking and carrying supplies. Mummy bags can keep a sleeper warm if outside temperatures fall to 40 degrees fahrenheit or below.

Both kinds of sleeping bags are available in three standard sizes. Bags can be purchased in junior (or child) sized, standard length and extra long. Small children fit well in the junior bags, but as children can grow rapidly, buying a standard bag will provide them with the extra space to accommodate their inevitable growth spurts without the need to purchase a new bag. If you are claustrophobic, you might opt for a larger bag anyway so you will be more comfortable as you sleep.

Traditionally, the warmth of a sleeping bag depended on prime goose down which is often used as insulation. Modern designs, however, rely on synthetic fibers which provide greater durability, less weight and easier washing than goose down. Goose down is still used to insulate top of the line mountaineering bags that are used by professionals to keep them warm in extremely cold and dry conditions. These sleeping bags can be prohibitively expensive and certainly beyond the scope of what a family camping trip might call for. Synthetic materials are perfect for most people.

More : Sleeping Bags