Advice On Sleeping Bag Alternative Please

[Former member 62607]

Any suggestions for a restless sleeper who can't stand the confines of a sleeping bag, yet the albergue blankets are not enough? I have a silk liner but need something more, and lighter than my bag was. Please advise where to buy online if you have a suggestion.
Thanks in anticipation!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Costco.com has Double Black Diamond duvets that are terrific. 2 for 30$ when I looked a few days ago for two pilgrims who saw mine and qanted one.

It's a bit short, as it's meant to be used while sitting, but at 5'4" it's perfect for me. I have it attached to my silk liner with snap buttons so ot doesn't fall on the floor at night.

 

[gracethepilgrim]

Hi @evanscl - although not one of the ultralight models, I have used this on my last 4 caminos and love it! http://www.snugpak.com/outdoor/travelpak-traveller It opens to a quilt and is warm enough in combination with my double silk liner. On very cold nights I zip into a sleeping bag and wear an extra layer of clothes.

 

[Former member 62607]

Costco.com has Double Black Diamond duvets that are terrific. 2 for 30$ when I looked a few days ago for two pilgrims who saw mine and qanted one.

It's a bit short, as it's meant to be used while sitting, but at 5'4" it's perfect for me. I have it attached to my silk liner with snap buttons so ot doesn't fall on the floor at night.

Thankyou

 

[Former member 62607]

Hi @evanscl - although not one of the ultralight models, I have used this on my last 4 caminos and love it! http://www.snugpak.com/outdoor/travelpak-traveller It opens to a quilt and is warm enough in combination with my double silk liner. On very cold nights I zip into a sleeping bag and wear an extra layer of clothes.

Thanks. I think my current one is about same weight but it doesn't open up to be a blanket- should have thought it through better!

 

[notion900]

I hate mummy bags too. I have seen this and am very tempted. It's only 788g but very expensive.

 

[linkster]

I have an Enlightened Equipment Revelation. It is light, high quality, but expensive.

 

[Lurch]

What about a poncho liner?? They are fairly long, have tie on the edges and have enough fiberfill to be useful. Plus they are cheap, at $30 or so and you get your choice of camo deigns! What more could you ask for? Well, they also come in a basic brown(coyote to the military trade).

cvixx (the quite elderly)

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

Any suggestions for a restless sleeper who can't stand the confines of a sleeping bag, yet the albergue blankets are not enough? I have a silk liner but need something more, and lighter than my bag was. Please advise where to buy online if you have a suggestion.
Thanks in anticipation!

I bought this down bag on ebay after buying several others on amazon and sending them back almost immediately. I bought the one with 500gms of down and it does open up flat. Bargain price of $69.00 Check it out

http://www.ebay.com/itm/23220886293...49&var=531419140374&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

 

[Former member 62607]

I hate mummy bags too. I have seen this and am very tempted. It's only 788g but very expensive.

Yes I looked at a link to that one earlier. I'm hoping for something even lighter if possible, but thanks. I think I'd be happy to invest in a good one as I sit with a blanket in winter anyway as its draughty in our house

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

If you want quality and lightness and don't mind the price too much then I would go with an Enlightened Equipment bag as someone has already mentioned. The only thing is they usually have about a one month backlog but do offer a limited selection of "off the shelf" bags. Being that this is a very busy time of year for the hiking crowd you may have a limited selection and have to order and wait. I have a 20 degree Revelation that I love and paid about $300 for it. I got the regular/extra wide.

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

I'm taking the Aegismax cheapo with me as if it gets damaged/stolen whatever then I'm not out that much. Plus I really don't think it's all that heavy... maybe 26 oz or so?? You're not going to get much less than that with one costing 3-4 times as much but to each their own.

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

I have an Enlightened Equipment Revelation. It is light, high quality, but expensive.

I second that. I have purchased a bunch of bags in the past and I believe that the EE is the best.

 

[Former member 62607]

I have an Enlightened Equipment Revelation. It is light, high quality, but expensive.

I've just looked at it online, yes it is expensive! But pretty light. Thanks for that, they are a new brand that hadn't come up before

 

[Former member 62607]

What about a poncho liner?? They are fairly long, have tie on the edges and have enough fiberfill to be useful. Plus they are cheap, at $30 or so and you get your choice of camo deigns! What more could you ask for? Well, they also come in a basic brown(coyote to the military trade).

cvixx (the quite elderly)

Where can I get them? I live in the UK so most US sites won't ship here. I've read about them on backpacking sites ( US ones).thanks for the help.

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

I like them (EE) because of the verticle baffle design. Keeps the down in place much better than the horizontal baffle designs. I had a Jacks r Better with the horizontal baffles, about the same price as the EE and hated it. I hiked here in the south in very damp weather, the bag never did get wet but even though it was treated down it compressed a lot while sleeping. That with the shifting down and I was afraid of getting hypothermic on more than one night. Another thing when looking for a bag a lot of the temp ratings are only manufacturers "guesstimates" usually very generous. To get an honest rating you really need a EN rated bag ( European Norm) google it. Now EE is not EN but I feel it is very close to what they say.

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

Where can I get them? I live in the UK so most US sites won't ship here. I've read about them on backpacking sites ( US ones).thanks for the help.

You can always have someone in the US order one for you and ship it to you. I don't think it'll add a hell of a lot to the total $$.

 

[Former member 62607]

I bought this down bag on ebay after buying several others on amazon and sending them back almost immediately. I bought the one with 500gms of down and it does open up flat. Bargain price of $69.00 Check it out

http://www.ebay.com/itm/232208862936?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&var=531419140374&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

I've just looked at it, thanks, now I'm overwhelmed with choice, but it's amazing what a great resource of purchasing knowledge is available through this forum. Thanks to everyone who has contributed.

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

Being overwhelmed by hiking equipment is the curse of the tramper. Seems like I settle on one piece, yup, that's it. That's my choice and I'm sticking with it. Only to have a cup of coffee, change my mind and get back on the computer. The amazon, no hassle return policy has been a godsend for guys like me.

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

To only confuse you more check out this Aegismax down bag on Amazon.uk.co . Amazon too, England too.If you don't like it they will email you a return label pronto.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M4PXWK6/?tag=casaivar-21

 

[Chuck Cunningham]

Okay, I'm outta here. I have exhausted/spent all my sleeping bag knowledge. LOL Good luck mate and try not to go too crazy in the selection process like blokes like me do.

 

[Former member 62607]

Being overwhelmed by hiking equipment is the curse of the tramper. Seems like I settle on one piece, yup, that's it. That's my choice and I'm sticking with it. Only to have a cup of coffee, change my mind and get back on the computer. The amazon, no hassle return policy has been a godsend for guys like me.

Your picture looks like you have everything including the kitchen sink for sure! Some of my choices have been good, some could have been better (lighter) but it's swings and roundabouts- I carried a kagoule and waterproof trousers for nine days but on the one day of freezing rain and wind All day it seemed worthwhile to have done so.

 

[Former member 62607]

To only confuse you more check out this Aegismax down bag on Amazon.uk.co . Amazon too, England too.If you don't like it they will email you a return label pronto.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M4PXWK6/?tag=casaivar-21

That's great, looks like it could be the one. Ta very much

 

[biped]

Any suggestions for a restless sleeper who can't stand the confines of a sleeping bag, yet the albergue blankets are not enough? I have a silk liner but need something more, and lighter than my bag was. Please advise where to buy online if you have a suggestion.
Thanks in anticipation!

I'm planning to walk the CF this fall (first timer) and am considering the Kelty Bestie Blanket. At 1lb 8 oz it's lighter than the sleeping bag I already have. I like the suggestion someone here made about fastening the blanket to the liner; that's very clever. I've looked at the temperature/weather data for Sept & am not sure just how much cover I'll need at night or how cold the albuerges without blankets get.

 

[Mark Lee]

What about a poncho liner?? They are fairly long, have tie on the edges and have enough fiberfill to be useful. Plus they are cheap, at $30 or so and you get your choice of camo deigns! What more could you ask for? Well, they also come in a basic brown(coyote to the military trade).

cvixx (the quite elderly)

Yes, those would make a great lightweight, warmer weather Camino sleeping setup. I have a couple of them from military days and was thinking of having one stitched up along the bottom and up the side to about 3/4 of the way up. Would make it fall into the category of in between a sleeping bag liner and a summer weight sleeping bag. I think they weigh about 624 grams.
Also their dimensions are 82"x 62".....

 

[Former member 62607]

I'm planning to walk the CF this fall (first timer) and am considering the Kelty Bestie Blanket. At 1lb 8 oz it's lighter than the sleeping bag I already have. I like the suggestion someone here made about fastening the blanket to the liner; that's very clever. I've looked at the temperature/weather data for Sept & am not sure just how much cover I'll need at night or how cold the albuerges without blankets get.

I've looked it up online, looks good, thanks.
now, after all the suggestions, I simply have to decide which one!

 

[Former member 62607]

I have an Enlightened Equipment Revelation. It is light, high quality, but expensive.

Costco.com has Double Black Diamond duvets that are terrific. 2 for 30$ when I looked a few days ago for two pilgrims who saw mine and qanted one.

It's a bit short, as it's meant to be used while sitting, but at 5'4" it's perfect for me. I have it attached to my silk liner with snap buttons so ot doesn't fall on the floor at night.

thats a useful tip about the snap buttons. I might have found a similar duvet so could do the same. Thanks

 

[joecamino]

Yes I looked at a link to that one earlier. I'm hoping for something even lighter if possible, but thanks. I think I'd be happy to invest in a good one as I sit with a blanket in winter anyway as its draughty in our house

Here's a lighter and less expensive version (knockoff?) of the Snugpack....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/29156436027...49&var=590614422652&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

 

[Dave C.]

I hate mummy bags too. I have seen this and am very tempted. It's only 788g but very expensive.

I have the MH flip bag and used it last year on the CF (April-May). It worked perfect. It is roomier than a normal mummy bag. I leave in three days and taking it again.

 

[trecile]

And another option is the Sea to Summit Traveller bag. Only 389 grams!

 

[JillGat]

I hate mummy bags too. I have seen this and am very tempted. It's only 788g but very expensive.

My quilt is from Enlightened Equipment and I love it. However I also just bought the down quilt from Costco and I think it would be perfect. And very cheap.

 

[trecile]

The Double Black Diamond quilt is available on ebay in the UK for £12.99.

 

[Older Guy]

On my May 2016 Camino, I did not take a sleeping bag. What I took was an ultra light mountaineering bivy sack, and a set of mountaineering puffy insulated belay pants. The Belay pants were great. Warm ultra compact, extreme light weight, etc. I have done glacier mountaineering and rock climbing. Usually, the gear is ultra light weight and ultra compact. Bulk is almost as troublesome as weight. If it can keep you warm enough to survive on a glacier, it is more than good enough to comfort you inside a building.

http://www.trailspace.com/gear/msr/e-bivy/

The belay pants I have are no longer manufactured, but similar to the following.

https://www.backcountry.com/patagon...bnN1bGF0ZWQgUGFudHM6MToxOmJjc0NhdDExMTAwNDY=#

 

[Former member 62607]

I have the MH flip bag and used it last year on the CF (April-May). It worked perfect. It is roomier than a normal mummy bag. I leave in three days and taking it again.

Have a good walkthanks for the advice

 

[Former member 62607]

The Double Black Diamond quilt is available on ebay in the UK for £12.99.

Yes, am considering that one, thankyou! Everyone is so helpful

 

[Former member 62607]

On my May 2016 Camino, I did not take a sleeping bag. What I took was an ultra light mountaineering bivy sack, and a set of mountaineering puffy insulated belay pants. The Belay pants were great. Warm ultra compact, extreme light weight, etc. I have done glacier mountaineering and rock climbing. Usually, the gear is ultra light weight and ultra compact. Bulk is almost as troublesome as weight. If it can keep you warm enough to survive on a glacier, it is more than good enough to comfort you inside a building.

http://www.trailspace.com/gear/msr/e-bivy/

The belay pants I have are no longer manufactured, but similar to the following.

https://www.backcountry.com/patagon...bnN1bGF0ZWQgUGFudHM6MToxOmJjc0NhdDExMTAwNDY=#

Interesting idea, I think the bivvy sack would be the same problem with being confined for me tho but someone else reading this might take it up, so always useful to share. The trousers look good. Thanks.

 

[Former member 62607]

And another option is the Sea to Summit Traveller bag. Only 389 grams!

These look the business, I need to buy two so will carefully consider. Thanks very much.

 

[Former member 62607]

My quilt is from Enlightened Equipment and I love it. However I also just bought the down quilt from Costco and I think it would be perfect. And very cheap.

I'll look at that option, cheers!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

thats a useful tip about the snap buttons. I might have found a similar duvet so could do the same. Thanks

You simply have to reinforce the material where the snaps are inserted.

 

[t2andreo]

After toting a sleeping bag on my first two Camino's, I switched to carrying a microfiber liner instead. It is smaller, lighter, machine washable and provides the warmth I NEED in May.

After several experiments, my solution was an Alps Engineering rectangular sleeping bag liner. It has a full separating zipper and can be mated to a second, identical, liner to form a two-person sleep sack.

It is VERY small and light. Once I learned to fold it and stash it in a one-gallon ziplock bag, it rides nicely in my rucksack for when I need it.

I prefer to be slightly cool when I sleep. Also, needing to use the toilet several times during the night, I need the quick opening full zip feature...

This liner is also available in a mummy-shaped version.

I hope this helps.

 

[Former member 62607]

Than

After toting a sleeping bag on my first two Camino's, I switched to carrying a microfiber liner instead. It is smaller, lighter, machine washable and provides the warmth I NEED in May.

After several experiments, my solution was an Alps Engineering rectangular sleeping bag liner. It has a full separating zipper and can be mated to a second, identical, liner to form a two-person sleep sack.

It is VERY small and light. Once I learned to fold it and stash it in a one-gallon ziplock bag, it rides nicely in my rucksack for when I need it.

I prefer to be slightly cool when I sleep. Also, needing to use the toilet several times during the night, I need the quick opening full zip feature...

This liner is also available in a mummy-shaped version.

I hope this helps.

Thankyou, I'll look that one up

 

[nickymd1]

My plan is to sew poppers onto the inside hems of my silk liner and sew the other side onto a decathlon microfibre blanket such that I can add an extra layer if I need it.

 

[t2andreo]

Oops, slight correction to my previous post. The brand is not Alps Engineering. It is Alps Mountaineering...

Anyway, here is the direct URL to the page about the rectangular microfiber bag liner. Note, it is also available in micro-FLEECE.

http://www.alpsmountaineering.com/products/bags/sleeping-bag-liners/rectangle-liner

I hope this helps. Sorry for my oopsie...

 

[t2andreo]

Dang, I misspoke again! The alternative to microfiber is poly cotton. This is not recommended for Camino use as it gets wet and stays wet longer.

But, if you play with the above link, you can also find the mummy shaped liner...

Again, sorry for the mistake.

I hope this helps.

 

[Former member 62607]

Dang, I misspoke again! The alternative to microfiber is poly cotton. This is not recommended for Camino use as it gets wet and stays wet longer.

But, if you play with the above link, you can also find the mummy shaped liner...

Again, sorry for the mistake.

I hope this helps.

Thankyou

 

[Anemone del Camino]

My plan is to sew poppers onto the inside hems of my silk liner and sew the other side onto a decathlon microfibre blanket such that I can add an extra layer if I need it.

That's what I have done with my liner and duvet and it worked beautifully.

 

[MichaelC]

I hate being confined in a bag too, and it's been challenging finding equipment that's affordable and lightweight. I've been looking at a snugpak jungle blanket. It's 25 ounces (.7 k), ultra compact, and under $40. The reviews are good.

 

[Former member 62607]

I hate being confined in a bag too, and it's been challenging finding equipment that's affordable and lightweight. I've been looking at a snugpak jungle blanket. It's 25 ounces (.7 k), ultra compact, and under $40. The reviews are good.

Thanks for that, I'm still considering my options as won't need one again until October so all suggestions will get followed up as I'm in no hurry.