You can find a more thorough discussion of our favorite down models in our best backpacking sleeping bag review. The biggest differentiating factor for sleeping bag selection is the location you plan to camp and, more specifically, how far you will be from motorized transportation. If your camping plans will keep you close to your car, we recommend shopping for a ‘car camping’ sleeping bag. This type of bag usually prioritizes comfort and cost savings. For human-powered adventures further afield, weight and packed size become paramount. Models that exhibit these characteristics we label as ‘backpacking’ sleeping bags.
This system provides a lot of options for all kinds of sleepers and environments. The Polara also stows away into a much smaller size than many other bags we’ve tested. We love the thoughtful features, such as useful pockets, snaps, loops, and zippers, AND the excellent price point. Nice Ozark Trail Warmfoot 75” by 33” Polyester fiber batting insulation. The zipper broke on my warm weather bag on the second night out. Too bad too because overall I’ve had good luck with Ozark Trail stuff.
Please note, a stock image is included to provide you with a visual snapshot of this item that we could not capture otherwise. I think the expensive bags are just marketing and overengineering, unless you are going to the arctic. You can buy an expensive ozark trail sleeping bag bag if you think it will make you more hardcore, but I will gladly tell everyone how hardcore you are if you pay me to do so. We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Summer campers, however, will probably be happier in a 40° F model. If you find that your sleeping bag doesn’t seem to be living up to its temperature rating, the issue is most likely your sleeping pad. Check out our Best Sleeping Pad review for more info about why your overnight warmth can be dependent on how well you’re insulated from the ground. The primary drawback to the outstanding performance of the Egret is its staggering price tag. The slimmer dimensions also do not offer the same generous sleeping space as some other models, like the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed 20, which is a non-mummy-shaped bag.
Keep these realities in mind when searching for the right sleeping bag. We think the most useful temperature rating for a sleeping bag is around 30° F. At this rating, a sleeping bag should be warm enough for most ozark trail chair spring and fall conditions while also not being too stifling in the summer months. Your own preferences and uses may push you towards another rating. For winter camping, 0° F seems to be a better starting point.