I’ll be car camping, and the temperature is forecasted to drop to around 10°F. I have a 21°F-rated sleeping bag and can bring as many blankets as needed. This is my first time trying this in such cold weather. Will I be warm enough, or is this too risky?
Edit: I’ll be sleeping in my car with the seats folded down. I noticed some comments assuming I’d be on the ground.
If you’re in a car and have plenty of blankets, you should be okay. If your bag is down-filled, consider using it as the top layer. Wear warm base layers to bed for added comfort.
Tobin said:
If you’re in a car and have plenty of blankets, you should be okay. If your bag is down-filled, consider using it as the top layer. Wear warm base layers to bed for added comfort.
So should I avoid putting blankets over the sleeping bag?
@Nyle
Actually, all insulation materials have an R-value, which measures resistance to heat transfer. Compressing a bag reduces its effectiveness regardless of material.
Skyler said: @Nyle
Actually, all insulation materials have an R-value, which measures resistance to heat transfer. Compressing a bag reduces its effectiveness regardless of material.
Even a concrete block has an R-value, so yes, you’re correct.
Skyler said: @Nyle
Actually, all insulation materials have an R-value, which measures resistance to heat transfer. Compressing a bag reduces its effectiveness regardless of material.
True, but for sleeping bags, the effectiveness lies more in the loft of the material than in its strict R-value. Still, your point about compression stands.
It depends on the quality of the sleeping bag and blankets. A lot of bags’ temperature ratings aren’t accurate. Do you have a proper winter sleeping pad?
Ziv said:
It depends on the quality of the sleeping bag and blankets. A lot of bags’ temperature ratings aren’t accurate. Do you have a proper winter sleeping pad?
No pad, just the bag and blankets, plus warm clothing like wool socks and fleece pants.
@Bennie
Even in a car, a sleeping pad is critical for insulation. Without it, the cold from the surface will seep through. Layering wool clothing and blankets will help, but don’t over-layer to the point where you sweat.
Sleeping bag temperature ratings are usually about survivability, not comfort. A 20°F-rated bag might work in milder conditions, but 10°F will be pushing it.