That said, we still recommend checking the weight and stuffed size that will be listed in the product specifications to get an idea of just how large and heavy the bags are. Synthetic bags are typically made with thicker fabrics and require more insulation to provide sufficient warmth, which can add up to a surprising amount of bulk. And if you’re considering a double coleman canopy bag (covered in more detail below), you’re talking about packed dimensions listed in feet rather than inches. If weight and packed size become important, a crossover backpacking/sleeping bag like the still-roomy Nemo Disco 15 reduces both. We covered Nemo’s Disco above, which is a nice crossover option for those who like to get out into the backcountry on occasion.
Below we rank our top picks for 2023, and if you need some background information, our comparison table and buying advice dive into topics like fill type and temperature rating. To complete your coleman sleeping bag camping kit, we’ve also tested and written about camping mattresses and camping tents. I love my memory foam mattress at home so I knew I would love the Coleman memory foam sleeping bag.
This bag will stand up to their spills, mistakes, and overall mistreatment. In some models, there are gaps in the foot area which allow heat to escape. There are a lot of zippers in the layered versions, which can sometimes hinder its functionality. The Coleman Limited Warranty All Coleman products have a warranty against defects in material and workmanship, and the Brazos Cold-Weather Sleeping Bag includes a limited five-year manufacturer’s warranty. Based on our most recent testing, it appears the latest version of the Brazos is significantly more watertight. We poured a cup of water directly onto our bag’s shell, and it stayed pooled on top without permeating the interior during the entire 5-minute test.
Featuring a cozy, lightweight design and vibrant pink and purple color, the Coleman Plum Fun 45 Youth Sleeping Bag keeps kids warm and comfortable when they’re sleeping under the stars. This fun sleeping bag has a convenient interior pocket where kids can store a flashlight or other small item. A two-way patented Zip Plow zipper system plows fabric away from the zipper to prevent snags and frustration. When it’s time to pack up, this youth sleeping bag rolls up quickly thanks to its Roll Control design. And with the included stuff sack, this sleeping bag is easy to tote or store. The Plum Fun Youth Sleeping Bag can accommodate kids up to 5 feet 5 inches tall.
Synthetic sleeping bags are a dime a dozen in 2023, but Coleman continues to stand out for their strong focus on value. The Kompact 20 here is no exception, combining the affordability that Coleman is known for with many of the features we look for in a quality three-season bag. These include soft yet durable fabrics, an insulated draft tube to seal in warmth, and a roomy rectangular shape that’s comfortable and not restrictive. For campers looking for a sleeping bag that can pull double duty on the occasional backpacking trip, we like Nemo’s Disco.
However, that bag doesn’t come cheap at $320, and car campers uninterested in roughing it can save a considerable $100 with the Forte Endless Promise 20. In this case, Nemo opted for synthetic rather than down fill, which translates to a higher weight and bulkier packed size. All told, it’s another thoughtfully made Nemo bag that’s high on comfort and quality.
If you find yourself at higher elevations or in colder temperatures, a mummy bag is a great option. Similar to The North Face’s One Bag above, Big Agnes’ Lost Ranger 3N1 uses an innovative layering system for adapting to shifting conditions. In this case, you get two down-filled bags (the One Bag has a synthetic outer bag and down midlayer) that can be paired together on cold nights or separated in warmer temps. At 2 pounds 13 ounces all in, it adds up to a highly versatile system that crosses over nicely for backpacking, too.
There’s no fumbling in the night for the zipper pull, and you don’t have to worry about snags or heat loss (if the bag lacks a good draft tube). But in the end, we don’t see the zipper-less concept completely taking over the market. Put simply, the in-and-out convenience and ability to use the bag as a blanket with a full-zip sleeping bag is the better answer for most campers. A final shape worth mentioning is the semi-rectangular bag, which—as the name implies—shares commonalities with both rectangular and mummy designs. In terms of dimensions, they’re typically roomier than standard mummy bags (particularly at the shoulders and hips) but not overly generous like some rectangular models.