Camping in the UK’s mountains is an excellent way to have an adventure. From the glorious mountains of Eryri to remote corners of the Scottish Highlands, the scenery and landscape are glorious – but the weather is pretty much always unpredictable.
One moment, you’re basking in sunshine; the next, you’re battling the wind and a sudden downpour. That’s why your sleeping bag is a really important piece of gear. It’s not just about being comfortable, it’s about staying warm, dry, and safe while you’re in the mountains.
A crap nights sleep means you’ll be less switched on the next day, which makes things more dangerous.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know to choose the best sleeping bag for mountain camping in the UK during spring, summer, and autumn.
Let’s dive in…
Why Your Sleeping Bag Matters
When you’re camping in the mountains, temperatures can plummet fast, even in summer. A good sleeping bag isn’t just a luxury it’s one of the most important tools to keep you safe on multi day trips.
There are LOTS of sleeping bag options out there, how do you pick the right one? Let’s start with the basics.
Mummy vs. Rectangular: Which Shape is Best for Mountain Camping?
Sleeping bags come in two main shapes: mummy and rectangular.
- Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are tapered, snug, and designed to hug your body. They’re lightweight, compact, and excel at trapping heat – perfect for chilly mountain nights.
- Rectangular sleeping bags are roomier and more comfortable for those who like to move around, but they’re not amazing at retaining heat.
For UK mountain camping, a mummy-shaped sleeping bag with a hood is your best bet. It’ll keep you warm and cozy, even when the temperature drops.
Down vs. Synthetic Insulation: What’s Best for the UK?
The insulation in your sleeping bag determines how warm it keeps you and how well it handles damp conditions. Here’s the lowdown…
- Down insulation (made from goose or duck feathers) is lightweight, ultra-warm, and packs down small. However, it loses its insulating power when wet and is a pain in the bum to dry out.
- Synthetic insulation is slightly bulkier and heavier, but it performs much better in damp conditions and dries faster. Synthetic sleeping bags are also, generally cheaper.
Verdict: For UK mountain camping, where rain is always a possibility, a synthetic sleeping bag is ideal. It offers the best balance of warmth, weight, and weather resistance. If you’re planning on camping out in the Winter it’s defo worth thinking about a down sleeping bag.
But for Spring, Summer and Autumn a high-quality synthetic bag is brilliant.
Temperature Ratings: How to Stay Warm in Every Season
Sleeping bags come with temperature ratings to help you choose the right one for the conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
- Summer (above 5°C): A two-season sleeping bag is sufficient.
- Spring and Autumn (0°C to 5°C): Opt for a three-season sleeping bag.
- Winter (below 0°C): A four-season sleeping bag with a comfort rating of at least -5°C is essential.
Pro Tip: Always check the Comfort Rating – this tells you the lowest temperature at which you’ll sleep comfortably. Don’t rely on the “Extreme Rating,” which is the survival limit, not the comfort zone.
Emma’s top tip – even comfort ratings should be considered on the ‘optimistic’ end of things. Some people sleep cold, if that’s you – buy a warmer sleeping bag.
Don’t Forget Your Sleeping Mat!
Your sleeping bag is only as good as the mat beneath it. A good sleeping mat is essential, it insulates you from the cold ground and adds a layer of comfort. Here’s what to look for:
- Foam mats: Affordable and durable but bulky.
- Inflatable mats: Lightweight and comfortable but prone to punctures.
- Self-inflating mats: A great middle ground—comfortable, warm, and durable.
For UK mountain camping, choose a mat with an R-value of at least 3 to ensure proper insulation.
How Much Should You Spend on a Sleeping Bag?
The cost of a sleeping bag depends on its insulation type, brand, and features.
- Budget-friendly (£100): The Alpkit Cloud Peak 300 is a reliable down sleeping bag for three-season use.
- Mid-range (£200-£400): The Rab Ascent 700 offers high-quality down insulation with water-resistant treatment.
- High-end (£400+): The Criterion Quantum 450 is an ultralight, premium option for extreme conditions.
Verdict: If you’re a frequent mountain camper or plan to camp in colder conditions, investing in a higher-end sleeping bag is worth it for the warmth, durability, and peace of mind.
Owen’s top tip – a set or clean, dry base layers can make a massive difference to how warm a sleeping bag feels – the weight of a spare base layer set can come in at less than 400 grams and means you can buy a lighter, cheaper sleeping bag.
Top Tips for Caring for Your Sleeping Bag
A good sleeping bag is an investment, so take care of it. Here’s how:
- Store it loosely in a breathable sack—never compressed.
- Air it out after every trip to prevent mould and odours.
- Use a sleeping bag liner to keep it clean and add extra warmth.
- Wash it properly: Down bags need special detergent, while synthetic bags can usually be machine washed.
FAQs About Sleeping Bags for UK Mountain Camping
1. What’s the best sleeping bag for wild camping in the UK mountains?
A lightweight down sleeping bag with a comfort rating of around -5°C is ideal for most conditions.
2. How do I stay warm in a sleeping bag when camping in the mountains?
Wear dry base layers, use a high-quality sleeping mat, cinch the hood tightly, and eat a warm meal before bed to generate body heat.
3. Can I use a summer sleeping bag in the mountains?
Not recommended – temperatures can drop below freezing, even in summer. Always opt for a three-season bag or better.
4. How long do sleeping bags last?
With proper care, a good sleeping bag can last 10+ years. Down bags generally outlast synthetic ones.
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Wild Wales helps people have brilliant adventures in North Wales.
We specialise in Mountain Walking and Wild Swimming.
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