I currently use a snug 15-degree mummy bag rated comfortably at 27 degrees, and I don’t do enough winter camping to buy a warmer one. I’m thinking about getting a quilt to use over my sleeping bag for extra warmth, probably something rated around 30-40 degrees. It needs to be roomy enough to avoid compressing the down in my sleeping bag. Any budget-friendly recommendations? I’m more concerned with the compressed size than weight, as I plan to pack it in a 35L bag for weekend trips.
You might consider using two Horizon Hound down quilts from Amazon. They are quite large, easy to pack, have good loft, and feature square baffles to prevent the down from shifting. I’ve modified mine with snaps for better fit. Individually, they’re warm into the mid-30s F, and paired they’ve worked well down into the 20s.
I’d suggest opting for a synthetic quilt to also serve as a vapor barrier.
Consider the Honcho Poncho as a versatile option.
Oaklee said:
Consider the Honcho Poncho as a versatile option.
Absolutely love mine!
Micah said:
Winter Backpacking & Quilt Layering Systems - Enlightened Equipment
They make incredible products, definitely the way to go.
Have you considered using a sleeping bag liner for additional warmth?
I use a Sierra Designs Backcountry 40. I modified the footbox for better comfort and attached it to my sleeping bag with ribbon ties to prevent slipping.
Check out the Big Agnes Camp Robber blanket. It’s lightweight and warm.
I use a basic down bag on top of my child’s bag for extra warmth.
I found a reasonably priced quilt on Amazon, the OneTigris. It worked well recently, although it wasn’t extremely cold. It’s light and didn’t seem to compress my sleeping bag too much.
Anything over the sleeping bag might compress it and reduce its warmth. I’d suggest getting a warmer quilt to compensate.
Peyton said:
Anything over the sleeping bag might compress it and reduce its warmth. I’d suggest getting a warmer quilt to compensate.
A quilt shouldn’t compress the bag significantly. There’s a common misconception about this. Even compressed, some insulation remains underneath you.
Peyton said:
Anything over the sleeping bag might compress it and reduce its warmth. I’d suggest getting a warmer quilt to compensate.
If the outer quilt is the right size, it won’t compress the sleeping bag significantly. Using a synthetic outer quilt can help with moisture management while keeping the weight manageable.