For anyone who has been camping before, you already know how uncomfortable some sleeping bags can be. Camping isn’t really an activity for the faint of heart. There are bugs, extreme temperatures, long trails and many times sleeping on the ground is just brutal, even with a sleeping bag. In this case, a sleeping bag liner is the place to go. Similar to your bed sheets, sleeping bag liners provide protection and warmth in the roughest of places. Sleeping bag liners also keep your sleeping bag clean. In other words, sleeping bag liners are essential tools for those who want to cushion the harsh effects of the great outdoors. But, how are you supposed to determine which sleeping bag liner is the best for you? Here is the ultimate guide on how to find the best sleeping bag liner in 2017 and here are the factors of deciding which sleeping bag liner will be the best for you.
The Climate Determines Everything
Sleeping bag liners are made with different types of materials for distinct climate patterns. Therefore, it will be prudent to select a sleeping bag liner depending on the climate of where you decide to camp. There are actually two main types of sleeping bag liners for summer and winter conditions. Silk liners are for summer conditions. They are lightweight and are usually made from quality ripstop silk. Silk sleeping bag liners are conditioned to block out extra heat while you are sleeping, so you won’t sweat in your sleep. With a silk sleeping bag liner, you will be comfortable, even in overbearingly hot temperatures or seriously cold weather. From sea to summit, you will never go wrong with a sleeping bag liner to add insulation and your “sleep sack” to ensure a good night.
On the other hand, fleece liners are specially made for winter climate. Fleece liners are insulated to trap warmth inside of your sleeping bag during cold climates. Some fleece liners can add more than 25 degrees Fahrenheit to your bag’s temperature. Ultimately, no matter what climate you choose to camp in, there are sleeping bag liners specially made to keep you comfortable—no matter what nature throws at you.
Be Sure to Get the Right Fit
Sleeping bag liners are designed to come in different shapes and sizes. There are some sleeping bag liners that are designed to accommodate men and women who may not be of average height. Essentially, all sleeping bag liners will almost always fit the size of the sleeping bag. In any case, there are two main types of sizes that sleeping bag liners come in. One type is the mummy liner. The mummy liner is designed to form to the shape of your body, thus trapping is necessary heat to keep you warm. However, this may not be ideal for those who want to camp this summer or those who may move around in their sleep. Actually, if the climate is too hot, you can forego the sleeping bag altogether and sleep on the sleeping bag liner.
In this case, rectangular-shaped sleeping bag liners, also called travel sheets, will suffice. These liners will fit to the size of your sleeping bag and give you more freedom while you sleep.
Be Wary of the Liner Material
Packing for a camping trip can be a tedious chore. No one wants to carry a lot of weight on a camping trip, so it will be in your best interests to consider the material of your sleeping bag liner before you pack for your camping trip. For silk liners, they are composed of lightweight ripstop or synthetic silk. Being more compact, silk liners won’t take up much space in your backpack or car and they aren’t as heavy either.
Conversely, fleece and insulated liners are many times heavier and thicker. These materials will definitely take up a lot of space. Also, be wary of the liner material if you are camping in a wet climate. While silk isn’t ideal to get wet, fleece is usually quick-drying. Keep this in mind, campers!
Furthermore, there are also other types of liner material such as cotton, microfleece, and synthetic. While cotton is absorbent and durable, it’s not compact and lightweight. For restless sleepers, synthetic material is the way to go. It is stretchy for all sleepers, as well as moisture-wicking and breathable.
Consider the Bugs
If you are going camping just for the bugs—or to eat them—then you should probably skip this section. Still, both of the latter are very unlikely for campers who just want to have a great time outdoors. So, if you want to get some sleep and not worry about any insects getting in your hair and your tent, you may want to consider getting a bug-repellant liner. A bug-repellant liner will repel pesky insects such as mosquitos, flies, fleas, ticks, ants, and even spiders.
Equipped with an odorless insect shield repellant, you will get constant protection without smelling the pungent odor of a common insect repellent. Also, bug-repellant liners are still as comfortable and cozy as other sleeping bag liners. Now, there should be no excuses to go out camping and having a great time.
Protect Your Head Too
In addition to the different types of sleeping bag liner, there are also some that can extend out for your pillow. These will protect your pillow from dirt and other debris that will save you time cleaning your pillow and will prevent anything in your nose or your ear while you sleep. In addition, this type of sleeping bag liner is ideal for long camping trips where you won’t be able to bathe for a while. While this isn’t required, it would be nice to protect your head and save some time cleaning your pillow every night.
In conclusion, camping is definitely not for the faint of heart. Extreme climate, insects, long walks, and extended periods without bathing would bother most people. That is why it is imperative to purchase a sleeping bag liner for your sleeping bag to avoid all the inconveniences. Now that you know what to look for, the search will be simple.
