When the kids sleep well when camping you sleep well when camping. There are many options for sleeping bags for the little ones. They will love the many options available in themed sleeping bags but you also will need to make sure they will be warm and comfortable to keep them wanting to camp again and again – We hope this list helps you with your shopping and camping comfort
What to look for in sleeping bags for kids
Comfort – You want to make sure the sleeping bag you choose is not too small for your child. If the bag is too tight around them they will not sleep comfortably. There is also an issue of height that should be considered as many kids grow tall as fast as they age.
Warmth – All sleeping bags have a temperature rating – this is very important to pay attention to. Also you should know if your child tends to always need more covers and sleeps cold, or if they throw covers off all the time and sleep hot. Ratings on sleeping bags will list the coldest external temperature that the average person would be comfortable sleeping in that bag. Summer bags are lighter weight and less expensive and typically rates at 30 degrees and up. Winter tents will be rated to 15 degrees and lower. There are also multi season sleeping bags available that fall in the temperature ranges in between.
Ease of use and care – If you are only camping occasionally in milder temperatures a synthetic filled sleeping bags would be a wise purchase. These are at a lower cost, readily available in a variety or themes and styles and are easier to maintain. When they are soiled you can just throw them in the washer and they are ready for another use. Down filled bags require special detergent and treatment after cleaning. Note: If you are camping and the down bag gets wet it will no longer insulate and it will take forever to dry. You will not want to wash your sleeping after every use as over time washing will break down the loft of the bag. To extend the life of your bag use sleeping bag liners or use our #sleepingbaghack – Fold a sheet to the size of the sleeping bag and sew the seam to make your own easy to wash liner.
Price – Typically the lighter weigh synthetic bags made for warmer temperatures will be available starting at around $25 and can get well into the hundreds of dollars.
Types of sleeping bags for kids
Traditional/Rectangular – These are perfect if your child move around a lot when they sleep, they are easy to unzip, are available in different prints and temperature ratings.
Mummy bag – If your child gets cold easy and they like to be tucked in a mummy bag is best for them. When they move around in their sleep the bag will move with them, keeping them cozy. Mummy bags typically cover their head like a cap as well.
Hybrid – these rectangular bags are the same style as traditional but have added in the head covering like the mummy bag.
Our Top 5 Picks of Sleeping bags for Kids
Coleman Kids 50 Degree Sleeping Bag – Traditional
Pro s- This bag is perfect for backyard camping and sleepovers. When camping in the summer this bag should be perfect for the warmer evening temperatures, value priced
Cons –Prop 65 warning, only good for summer use, zipper can jam up if not careful
TETON Sports Celsius Jr Kids Sleeping Bag – Hybrid
Pros – This 20 degree bag is good on those cold nights and can be unzipped in warmer temps, a generous 66 inches long, available in boys and girls colors
Cons – Price may be more than you are comfortable spending if just a weekend/seasonal camper
Kelty Boys & Girls Big Dipper Sleeping Bag – Mummy
Pros – This 30 degree bag is well made, packs to a small 10×15 inch sack, extends from 4ft bag to a 5 ft bag as child grows via zipper at bottom of bag
Cons – Prop 65 warning, maximum length 5 ft, and price
Coleman Kids 30 Degree Sleeping Bag – Mummy
Pros – 30 degree bag, 66 inches, stuff sack packs up easily, value priced
Cons – Prop 65 warning, heavier than similar bags
The North Face Youth Eco Trail Synthetic 20 Degree Bag – Hybrid
Pros – Made from recycled materials, warm even when wet, wide at knees, J-zipper for better comfort and accessibility, tie down for sleeping pad, water repellant, lifetime guarantee
Cons –Only available in one color. Most expensive of those listed, but you get what you pay for…
Time to wrap it up
There are so many more kids sleeping bags on the market. These are the ones I am personally familiar with and can review fairly from experience. I tried to share items of varied pricing, but the overall winner in this case is The North Face Youth Eco Trail. For overall value for what you get – this is the bag you want if you are an active outdoors family. If you are just occasional, fair weather campers any of the other bags should keep the little campers comfortable. We hope these options help you with your shopping needs!
