Top 5 Sleeping Bag Liners for Comfort
Mannice Cotton Sleeping Bag Liner
We found this cotton liner to be incredibly comfortable, making it perfect for those who prefer a natural feel while sleeping outdoors.
- Soft and breathable fabric enhances comfort throughout the night.
- Machine washable, ensuring easy maintenance and hygiene.
- It might feel a bit bulky when packed down, which could be a concern for minimalist campers.
Osage River Microfiber Fleece Zippered Sleeping Bag Liner
This fleece liner impressed us with its warmth, making it an excellent choice for chilly nights.
- Lightweight and compact, perfect for backpackers.
- Includes a zippered design for easy entry and exit.
- Some may find it too warm for summer use, potentially leading to overheating.
Coleman Stratus Adult Fleece Sleeping Bag Liner
This liner is ideal for family camping trips, providing a comfortable extra layer for a good night’s sleep.
- Generous size accommodates most adults comfortably.
- Can be used inside a sleeping bag or as a stand-alone option.
- Heavier than other options, making it less suitable for long hikes.
OUTRY Travel and Camping Sheet
We appreciated the versatility of this travel sheet, which is great for both camping and hostel stays.
- Compact design makes it easy to pack and carry.
- Can double as a lightweight blanket for added comfort.
- Not as warm as thicker liners, which might be a downside in colder conditions.
ALPS Mountaineering Brushed Polyester Mummy Sleeping Bag Liner
This liner is specifically designed for mummy bags, providing a snug fit that keeps warmth close.
- Excellent heat retention thanks to its snug design.
- Lightweight and easy to pack for hiking trips.
- May feel a bit restrictive for those who prefer a looser fit.
Buying Guide for the Best Sleeping Bag Liners
While some sleeping bags might not provide the warmth advertised or can be too cumbersome for warm summer nights, a sleeping bag liner can effectively solve these issues.
A sleeping bag liner adds an extra layer of insulation between you and the sleeping bag, enhancing your overall sleeping experience. It’s well-known that layering is the best method for staying warm, and this principle applies to sleeping as well. In hot weather, a liner can serve as a standalone sheet. Moreover, liners are easier to clean than sleeping bags, helping to maintain the cleanliness of your primary sleeping gear.
Our comprehensive buying guide discusses key features and considerations to keep in mind when selecting a sleeping bag liner while providing insights on pricing.
Key Considerations
Types of Sleeping Bag Liners
Standard sleeping bag liners typically have a rectangular shape suitable for most sleeping bags. However, for mummy-shaped sleeping bags—narrower at the foot than at the top—you’ll need a specifically designed liner.
Material
Sleeping bag liners come in various materials such as microfiber fleece, polyester, or cotton, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Polyester liners are thin yet surprisingly warm, and they are among the lightest options, making them ideal for hiking adventures. In contrast, cotton liners offer a more familiar feel, similar to traditional bed sheets, which can be particularly comforting in hostels or motels.
Size
There’s no standard size for sleeping bag liners, so it’s essential to ensure the liner length is appropriate for your height. A common rule is to divide the size by 12 to gauge suitability. For example, a 72-inch liner is only adequate for individuals up to six feet tall.
Weight
Most sleeping bag liners weigh less than two pounds, with many under one and a half pounds. If you’re planning to hike with your liner, opting for a lightweight polyester liner might be best.
Features to Look For
Pillow Pocket
A liner with a pillow pocket helps keep your camping pillow clean and secure throughout the night.
Design
Some liners open flat like a sheet, while others may not. If having a flat opening is important, be sure to check the product description closely.
Closures
Be wary of Velcro closures, as they often indicate that the liner does not open fully. Liners with zippers, however, can generally be unzipped to lie flat, and some may even zip together for shared use.
Colour
You can find sleeping bag liners in various colours, so you can choose one that complements your sleeping bag or camping gear.
Accessories to Consider
Camping Pillows: Coop Home Goods Camping/Travel Pillow
These pillows are designed for outdoor use and are lightweight and compressible for easy transport.
Camping Sleeping Pads: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress
This inflatable sleeping pad provides essential cushioning for a comfortable night’s sleep on rocky terrain.
Sleeping Bag Straps: Coghlan’s Sleeping Bag Straps
These convenient straps securely attach your sleeping bag to your backpack, making transport easier.
Compression Bags: ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack
This versatile compression bag can fit your sleeping bag, liner, and extra clothes, optimising your packing space.
Price Range for Sleeping Bag Liners
Sleeping bag liners are generally quite affordable, with most retailing between £17 to £23. This range typically includes cotton or polyester options, while specialty liners for mummy bags may fall above £23.
Useful Tips
- Ensure to wash your sleeping bag liner after each trip, following the manufacturer’s care instructions.
- Do not store the liner within your sleeping bag; instead, fold or roll it separately.
- Sleeping bag liners can also shield you from wind while relaxing in a hammock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use a sleeping bag liner by itself?
A. Yes, many campers opt to use them alone in warmer weather, and those that open flat can serve as a top sheet.
Q. Does a sleeping bag liner made from silk exist?
A. While some liners are made of silk, most are crafted from cotton, polyester, or microfiber fleece, with silk options being pricier.
Q. Why should I consider a sleeping bag liner?
A. They help keep you warm and protect your sleeping bag from dirt, making them versatile for various camping conditions.