When it comes to your camping gear for your ATV camping adventure, your sleeping gear has to be able to preform for the season. Some prefer to have two sleeping bags, one for spring/summer camping and one for fall/winter camping. Along with the sleeping bag is the sleeping mat for added comfort and insulation from the cold ground.
Selecting the right sleeping bag for your outdoor sleeping gear depends on three important criteria:
- Weight & Pack Size – For ATV camping you want to keep things light and compact.
- Insulation Type – There are basically two types of insulation; down and synthetic.
- Temperature Rating – Probably the most important criteria. You want a sleeping bag rated for the coldest temperature you might experience.
There are two types of sleeping bags available rectangular and mummy bags. I recommend the mummy bags as they tend to pack smaller and are more versatile. Some mummy bags have different shapes designed specifically for a man or a woman. Most are just a generic shape in a regular length and a long length.
The weight and temperature rating of a sleeping bag kind of go hand-in-hand. That is the lower the temperature rating the heavier the bag. As stated earlier the temperature rating is probably the most important criteria so choose the one that will keep you warm in the climates you will be experiencing the most. Keep in mind in the summer months you can unzip the bag and just use it as a blanket so you wont get too hot.
As for the insulation down is still very popular, has great insulation properties but is very expensive. Down sleeping bags compress very nicely into a small pack size. The only problem with down is that is loses most of its insulation properties when wet, but most down bags are fabricated with a water-repellent shell.
Modern technology has enabled the development of synthetic insulation. Synthetic insulation retains much of its insulation properties even when wet and is quick-drying. Synthetic sleeping bags are a little heavier than the same temperature rated down sleeping bag.
There are basically two types of synthetic insulation:
- Short-Staple- Features short strands of fine-denier filaments that are densely packed to minimize heat loss.
- PrimaLoft®
- Thinsulate®
- Continuous-Filament- Features thicker more continuous filaments that are lofty, strong and durable.
- Climashield®
- Polarguard®
A good sleeping mat is essential for sleeping comfortably in the back country plus provides extra insulation between the cold ground and the sleeping bag. For outdoor sleeping gear there are simple lightweight closed-cell foam mats and the self-inflating mats. The self-inflating mats provide the most comfort. In very cold weather it is recommended to use a closed-cell foam mat on top of a self-inflating mat for maximum insulation, let alone the extra comfort provided.
So make sure you are properly equipped with the right outdoor sleeping gear for your next ATV camping adventure. Getting a good nights sleep helps rejuvenate your body for the next day of camping activities. For all of your ATV camping accessories checkout CampingATV.com
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