Read: Sleeping bag buying guide / Choosing a sleeping mat
Sleeping bags are the starting point. Choose by season rating and comfort temperature, aiming for a few degrees below the coldest conditions you expect on your trips, then fine‑tune with layers or a sleeping bag liner. Lightweight sleeping bags and 3‑season models suit most campers and backpackers, offering a good balance of pack size and warmth from late spring through autumn.
Underneath, sleeping mats add both cushioning and insulation from the ground. Self‑inflating mats and inflatable camping sleeping mats pack down small but give extra depth under hips and shoulders, which many campers notice the next morning. For drive‑in sites and longer stays, a camping air bed can give a more familiar, bed‑like feel for couples and families.
Sleeping bag liners can help you adapt to different trips and seasons. A liner will add a little extra warmth, keep the inside of your sleeping bag cleaner and double as a light layer on hot summer nights. Compact camping pillows, eye masks and simple storage sacks keep things organised so your sleep space feels sorted rather than cluttered.
Choose a sleeping bag based on the season and temperature. For summer camping, lightweight bags with synthetic fill are ideal. For colder conditions, opt for down-filled mummy bags with high warmth-to-weight ratios. Rectangular bags are better for comfort, while mummy bags maximise heat retention.
Self-inflating mats offer a balance of comfort and insulation without requiring manual inflation. Air mats are lighter and more compact but may need a pump or effort to inflate. Choose based on portability and your desired level of comfort.
Sleeping bag liners add warmth (up to 15°C depending on material), improve hygiene, and protect your sleeping bag from dirt and oils. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and can be used alone in warm weather.
Temperature ratings usually list a “comfort” value for an average sleeper and a lower “limit” rating. Season ratings run from 1 (summer) to 4 (cold‑weather use), so most UK campers pick 2 or 3 season bags for typical sites.
Yes, mummy-shaped sleeping bags contour closely to your body, minimising empty space and maximising heat retention. Rectangular bags are roomier but less efficient at retaining warmth in cold conditions.
We use marketing, analytical and functional cookies as well as similar technologies to give you the best experience. Third parties, including social media platforms, often place tracking cookies on our site to show you personalised adverts outside of our website.
We store your cookie preferences for two years and you can edit your preferences via ‘manage cookies’ or through the cookie policy at the bottom of every page. For more information, please see our cookie policy.