I’m hoping someone can guide me here. I’m prepping for 20°F overnights in the Northeast.
I have two oversized REI Magma 30 quilts and a Rapide pad. While I could stick with this setup, I’m wondering if it might be better to get an enclosed Disco bag and pair it with a quilt for extra warmth when necessary.
I’m a side sleeper, and the Disco bags are currently on sale for $160-$180.
Do any of these options sound like a good solution? Or am I overlooking a better setup? Warmth is my priority (I tend to sleep a bit cold), but keeping weight down is also important. For reference:
I can’t comment on the quilts, but my Disco 15 has been one of my favorite purchases ever. I’m also a side sleeper, and the comfort it provides outweighs any need to shave off a few ounces.
The Disco does run a bit cold, so if you go that route, I’d suggest the 15. Shake it out well and make sure the down is evenly distributed. Even with the Disco 15, you might still feel chilly at 20°F unless you layer up and use the hood.
@Blake
I use the Disco 15 and generally prefer colder weather, but I wouldn’t trust it below 30°F. The roomy shape is nice for comfort but doesn’t hold heat as well.
Dezi said: @Blake
I use the Disco 15 and generally prefer colder weather, but I wouldn’t trust it below 30°F. The roomy shape is nice for comfort but doesn’t hold heat as well.
Try filling a Nalgene bottle with hot water and tossing it inside with you. It can make a big difference in warming things up.
I recently got the Disco 15 and used it during a motorcycle trip. It packs up really well and kept me warm down to the low 30s. Below that, I started feeling a bit cold, so I’d throw in a hot water bladder at night to stay cozy. If you’re camping often at 20°F, you might want to consider a zero-degree-rated bag or layer up with a high R-value sleeping pad and a quilt.
I’d go with the Disco, but it depends on which one. As a side sleeper, I find Nemo’s spoon-shaped bags spacious and comfy. For context, I’m 5’8" and 150 pounds.
I recently tried out my new Disco 15. I’m a side and stomach sleeper, and it was perfect for me. It was around 38°F, and I was warm and snug all night.
If you’re expecting temps around 20°F, I’d recommend the Disco 15. Keep in mind the women’s version uses the comfort rating in its name, so it might be warm enough without a quilt. That said, the Disco 15 is a bit bulky and heavy for backpacking. I ended up exchanging mine for a Disco 30 since I rarely camp in temps below 38°F.
I used my Disco 15 last weekend, and it was the best sleep I’ve had in a bag. It’s warm and cozy, but keep in mind that women’s bags tend to be warmer than men’s. The men’s comfort limit is 27°F, while the women’s is 17°F. Nemo explains the difference here: https://placehold.co/600x400.png
I’ve got broad shoulders and sleep on my side, so the Disco 15 works well for me. Sometimes I pair it with my partner’s bag to make the ‘Mega Fartbag,’ but otherwise, I prefer quilts. If it’s in the 20s, even with an R6 pad, the Disco can feel a bit chilly off the ground.
You’ll probably do fine with the women’s Disco 15. As a side sleeper, I love mine. Bring an extra quilt if needed, but a good sleeping pad with a high R-value can help a lot at 20°F. Remember these ratings assume you’re wearing socks, base layers, and a hat.
If you’re doubling up quilts, use a synthetic one on top to prevent condensation issues. Enlightened Equipment has some great 20°F synthetic quilts on sale now.
I wouldn’t go with any of these. REI makes decent gear, but their warranty is limited, and they don’t repair or sell parts. Instead, go for a cottage brand quilt. They’re cheaper, customizable, better quality, and come with a much better warranty. Check out Hammock Gear, Enlightened Equipment, or Katabatic. Both Hammock Gear and Enlightened Equipment have solid sales right now. If you’re on a budget, Paria Outdoor Products has great options too.
