sleeping bag question

[gjk5]

Thermarest all the way Stave. They make several different models based on weight, size etc. Unless you are going to be on extended backpacking trips (more than 3 days) and hiking in a long way then I would get the biggest, heaviest you can. I don't remember which I have but even the wife is comfy on hers.


I have all of the 3 season backpacking stuff (tent, bag, therm., stove, pack etc), easily into the thousands of dollars. I have never gone more than a mile from where I parked the truck. I know this is lame, but the majority of people I know are the same way.

84K5 is the exception to the rule, someone who actually does go out and climb fourteeners and pack it in 10-20 miles for an extended stay, so that extra $$$$ makes sense for him. The rest of us are mostly wishful thinkers, so keep this in mind when buying your gear. The biggest thing driving up the prices on this stuff is weight (or a North Face tag, blech) just be realistic about what you're gonna do with it.

 

[84k5]

Just about any therm-a-rest will do. They self inflate almost all the way, then you just add a couple breathes and you're good to go. They have a lightweight series, basecamp, trail, and expedition models. I would suggest getting the large size even if you're under 6', the extra width is worth it. This is the one I'd recomend for you: http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47784107&parent_category_rn=4500449&vcat=REI_SEARCH


They aint cheap, but I've had the same one for 5 years now and never had a problem with it. Probably goin ditch it for a lightweight model this season though.

 

[gjk5]

Yep, the basecamp is the one I have. I had one of those cheapie Wenzel mats before this one, no comparison. I too have had mine for about 5-6 years with no problems. The add a couple of breaths tip is an important one, makes all the difference.

 

[84gmcjimmy]

Well I'm not sure what I am going to do yet. Whether it be park the truck somewhere and hike a couple miles or so. Or go all out and travel 10+ miles in and camp.
Both would be quite the experience. Still deciding.
Thanks for the help.

 

[mciahpv]

So I know this is an old thread, but I just happen to be laying out stuff for my annual camping trip, so I thought I'd throw a few thoughts in.

Have you looked at the USMC-issue ECWS bags? They call it Modular Sleep System. Essentially, it's a lighter bag which can connect into a heavier bag, either or both of which will fit into an outer Gore-Tex liner. Crams down into a standard size sleeping bag stuff sack. Depending on which bag combination you use, you can cover all of your temp ranges within reason. I've used it down into the teens and always been comfortable. Have also slept without a tent in a very cold and steady rain with absolutely NO leaks. It runs about $400 new, but is worth every penny IMHO. (This coming from a guy who was borderline hypothermic after getting caught out without the right stuff one year...)

As far as the other argument goes, I've always had better luck with less clothing in a bag. I have found that I will shiver when in heavy clothing in a bag. The less the better, although I will cover the extremities if the temp dips really low -- head makes the biggest difference, followed by hands and feet.

Anyway, best of luck and have fun...