The very best lightweight sleeping bag for you is going to be the one that meets all or your particular criteria. You will have to narrow down the field as there are so many different bags to choose from, it can easily become overwhelming. You can find lightweight bags in every style and temperature range. So how do you figure out what you need in a lightweight sleeping bag? Here are some tips for narrowing down the myriad of choices in sleeping bags.

First consider the weather and temperature range of the location where you will be using your light weight sleeping bag. If you’re going to be spending time in wet soggy climates, you’ll be better off with a synthetic fill bag, as it will retain some warmth even when wet. Although down is superior in comfort range, warmth and weight, you’ll be miserable if it gets wet as it takes forever to dry. Don’t rely on the manufactures listed temperature range, but look for a light weight bag that is rated lower than what you expect to encounter on your adventures. For additional warmth you can always accessorize by using a bag liner and a bivy bag as well as sleeping in your clothing. These are things that can be easily eliminated if it warms up.

Next figure out which style of lightweight sleeping bag would suit you best. If you’ll be cabin or car camping, you can go with a heavier, bulkier rectangular bag. But if you are going backpacking every ounce will count and you’ll find the lightest weight bags, as well as most compressible are mummy sleeping bags weighing in at mere ounces. On the other hand, if you feel too restricted in the cocoon like mummy bag, a semi mummy gives you a bit more wiggle room without weighing in too heavy for backpacking.

There are light weight sleeping bags specifically designed for women cut narrower in the shoulders and wider in the hips, with extra insulation in the feet and torso areas. If you are tall, look for a lightweight bag marked long as they will fit from 6 foot up to 6 feet 6 inches. The long bag is also a good choice for people with waistlines more than 40 inches.

Now you should have a good idea of what you need in a lightweight sleeping bag . As with any gear you consider purchasing, you will want to carefully evaluate a light weight bag before you buy it. Go to a store that has a wide selection of a variety of sleeping bags. You can even try them on to make sure you have ample room.

All lightweight sleeping bags are not created equal. So you will want to closely inspect the construction. Check out the stitching. A bag with small tight and secure stitching will keep the cold out and last longer as well. Look for a light weight bag with a 2 way zipper. This will enable you to easily ventilate the foot area if you usually stick your feet out of the bed when you feel too warm, yet you'll be able to keep the rest of the bag zipped.

Here’s a couple of features to look for additional warmth: A zipper draft is a tube of insulated fabric inside the bag, which hangs alongside over the zipper helping trap your body warmth in while keeping drafts from coming in between the teeth of the zipper out. Usually found on mummy bags and insulated like the rest of the bag is a draft collar. This feature fits around your neck and shoulders to help eliminate drafts and keep the rest of you warm. Some bags come with a chest-level adjustable draw cord or a baffle designed to retain body heat.

Remember, making your purchase of your lightweight sleeping bags online can save you lots of money, as well as a wealth of reviews and advice for finding the best lightweight bags.