July 7, 2007
Dont get caught without a quality sleeping bag!
To take a breather from the hectic hustle and bustle of the asphalt jungle, camping is the primary choice in "get-aways". There are campers and there are the campers . Campers are those who would love the outdoors BUT need the technology and city comforts to complete their get-away. The Campers on the other hand sign-on for whatever the rough and rugged outdoors has to offer.
In both cases, the need to get a good and comfy night's sleep is prime (aside from good grub!). Whether sleeping under the stars, in a thermal tent, make-shift lean-to or on the RV floor, the sleeping bag is one of the top in the "not-to-forget" list. Waking up refreshed and warm is the best way to start the day of camping activity. In spite of the terrain you pick, a good sleeping bag makes you wake up in the right side of bed (or ground- whatever!).
There are things to consider in choosing and purchasing the best sleeping bag for you. The evolution of the sleeping bags has produced ones of quality, convenience and versatility. There are several company's researching and developing sleeping bags that provide warmth at the lowest of temperatures, light-weight and easy to store and with the thought of the campers convenience.
First to consider would be the maximum size the sleeping bag comes in. There are sleeping bags that can be especially made for very tall or big people, for a higher price though. Most sleeping bags have an average measurement of 33in. x 82 in. The sizes vary in kiddie sleeping bags though it would be a long-term investment to buy an adult sized one instead.
The next thing to look for in your sleeping bag is its thermal capacity. Some bags protect you from cold of 25° . Then again there are sleeping bags tested to protect you from the cold of 0° . A versatile sleeping bag is one that gives you warmth in the coldest of cold and just right during not so cold nights.
Materials should be considered for the purpose of the weight it will consume. The material used will support the possibility of keeping you really warm. A flimsy material cannot protect you from cold, no matter how it is advertised. The materials are crucial too for safety, since camping involves cooking outdoors, a sleeping bag MUST NOT be flammable. The materials used can be a combination of nylon and cotton or cotton flannel. The filling is to be considered too, there are companies that have developed their own filling while others use filling from retail market.
Since sleeping bags is a popular commodity to purchase, manufacturers include in their sleeping bags special features that make their bags unique from the other. Word of advice though, if its not needed drop the special feature especially if it obvious it will make your pack heavier. Some special features are practical though, like fleece lined feet covering, sewed on pillow case or the double-entry zipper.
Sleeping bag choosing and purchasing is not as difficult as it seems. Its knowing what you need and what to look for that's important.
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