We Put Walmart’s Low-Cost Backpacking Gear to the Test

This system provides a lot of options for all kinds of sleepers and environments. The Polara also stows away into a much smaller size than many other bags we’ve tested. We love the thoughtful features, such as useful pockets, snaps, loops, and zippers, AND the excellent price point. One obvious drawback to the Flicker 40 UL is its expensive price tag. We think its quality matches its price, but that price may not be justifiable for all but the most serious ultralight aficionados.

We also appreciate the full-length zipper for added venting possibilities on warmer nights. To top it off, it packs small to leave more room for luxuries in your overnight bag. The warmth of a sleeping bag is often advertised as its temperature rating. It’s a metric that’s supposed to mean the temperature down to which a bag should be able to keep you warm enough for sleeping. Many companies choose their own temperature ratings, so there can be limited comparison between companies. Among backpacking bags, most models are rated according to an industry-standard EN test.

I used this bag two nights last weekend and ozark trail canopy found it was too cold on its own—lowest temp was 51 degrees each of those nights. We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that’s designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

This sleeping bag I always sleep in @ night @ home because I like it better than a regular blanket. It is terribly heavy for backpacking and definitely not rated correctly. If you just can’t afford a better bag…DO NOT GO OUT IN COLD WEATHER OR YOU WILL REGRET IT. The only way you would sleep well in this bag is if you are under 5’5″ and very slender and use it summer nights or maybe push it to early fall. We ranked 3 out of 5 stars across the board as we found that the sleeping bag didn’t excel in any category. For a sleeping bag that is supposed to be used for camping, it was seriously lacking and better served as an indoors sleeping bag.

For the folks seeking the absolute best sleeping bag, we recommend the Western Mountaineering MegaLite. This ultra-premium model utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power down to create a cozy cocoon of outstanding comfort. Our testers appreciated the more generous dimensions of the MegaLite compared to other products at its price point. We’re also fans of its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, which should make this bag especially appealing for diehard backpackers or long backcountry trips. Keep children comfortable during nights in the tent inside the Ozark Trail Kids 2-lb Sleeping Bag.

The Bishop Pass simply can’t match the performance of an ultra-premium sleeping bag. Its goose down isn’t as lofty, and the nylon lining isn’t as supple. There is also a roughly 30% weight disadvantage compared to the lightest high-end models. However, we think most backpackers will hardly notice these drawbacks.

Instead, they will probably be happiest settling for the Bishop Pass and using the substantial money they save to upgrade other components of their overnight kit. Likewise, the REI Co-op Trailmade 20 is budget-friendly and comfortable, though it doesn’t pack down as small as the Bishop. As is common, there are some tradeoffs with budget products. The Brazos isn’t as comfortable or as high-quality as the premium sleeping bags. It’s also got a smaller fit, so it won’t be the right ozark trail chair choice for those who are tall or broad-shouldered.

This well-made bag features a sturdy cotton canvas shell with a cozy flannel liner. Its generous dimensions and rectangular shape only enhance its comfort, ensuring a pleasant and spacious sleeping experience. Combine these dimensions with a wrap-around zipper, and you also get a bag that doubles as an excellent picnic blanket. The rugged materials make this bag heavy-duty enough to do it all without worries of rips, tears, or snagged zippers. With the return of the colder weather, it is time to pull out our winter sleeping bags. Mummy bags are very effective for keeping warm, but I am not comfortable in a confining bag.

This is definitely a budget bag, but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. If you are outfitting an entire household for your first family camp trip and just want something to get everyone out the door, then the Brazos is a great option to consider. We think it would also be a good choice for backyard campers or for use in an RV or camper where you don’t need as much protection. When it comes to classic sleeping bags, the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a step above the rest.