Top 5 Best Sleeping Bags Australia 2024
It’s pretty simple - the best sleeping bags in Australia for hiking will keep you warm and dry, and pack down into a small, light package.
We’ve chosen our five favourite sleeping bags that will do just that. They all have different strengths, but if you choose to buy any one of them we guarantee you’ll get a good night’s sleep on the trail (unless your tent buddy snores… that, we can’t help you with).
Know what you’re looking for? Get straight to it:
#5: Sea to Summit Traverse Tv3
Need the full package? Have a look at our Best Hiking Tents review.
Sleeping Bags Comparison
Compare the specs or jump straight down to the sleeping bags reviews Australia.
Score
8.4
Packed Size
17.3 x 8.3 in/ 44 x 21 cm
Weight
2.6 lbs/ 1.2 kg
Fill
700g ULTRA-DRY Down
Price
$$
Score
8
Packed Size
16.9 x 9 in/ 43 x 23 cm
Weight
2.4 lbs/ 1.1 kg
Fill
700g ProDown
Price
$$
Score
7.8
Packed Size
6 x 8 in/ 15.24 x 20.32 cm
Weight
1.4 lbs/ 22 ounces
Fill
Nikwax goose down
Price
$$$
Score
7.6
Packed Size
14 x 7.5 in /35.56 x 19.05 cm
Weight
2.4 lbs/ 1.09 kg
Fill
800- fill DriDown
Price
$
Score
6.6
Packed Size
14.6 x 7.9 in/ 37 x 20 cm
Weight
3.3 lbs/ 1.5kg
Fill
Thermolite Synth
Price
$
Sleeping Bag Reviews
A good lifestyle bag for hiking and camping.
Sea to Summit typically makes well-constructed products, and their Traverse Tv3 is yet another example. While not as warm as others we tried, the synthetic fill helps keep the price down, and it’s clearly a durable bag that will last you a long time. We also like its unique triple zipper design that helps adjust the bag for warmer or cooler nights.
Summary
Pros: Durable, lower cost, triple zipper design.
Cons: Heavier and bulkier than others, not as warm.
Verdict: A great versatile choice and something that will last.
Where to get it:
Our best value pick for a quality bag.
The Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20F is a quality bag at a great intersection of warmth, weight, comfort and cost. Though mummy shaped, it has a slightly wider foot box so there was a reasonable amount of room to move, the zips worked well and the internal pocket was conveniently placed.
Summary
Pros: Comfortable, warm, water-resistant and at the lower end of the cost scale.
Cons: We would love to see this with an improved stuff sack that allows the bag to pack down smaller - it was slightly large in our pack compared to others.
Verdict: A dependable choice for most needs at a reasonable price.
Practically as light as air.
At a mere 1lb 4oz/600g, the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion is INSANELY light for a sleeping bag of this quality. It's been specifically engineered to be light weight so it's perfect for longer hikes - but keep in mind that does mean some compromises. It's not as warm as others, has quite a snug fit, a half-length zipper and a reasonably hefty price tag - but if you're looking for something immensely packable, this is the one.
Summary
Pros: Extremely lightweight, high quality construction.
Cons: Tight fitting, not as warm as others.
Verdict: An ideal sleeping back for long backpacking trips.
Where to get it:
Our lighter weight pick.
The North Face Blue Kazoo is a mummy-shaped bag that offers a great balance of warmth and light weight. It has great water repellency and uses soft, breathable fabrics with good warmth distribution throughout the bag. We love that it also packs in a bunch of thoughtful features including a hood drawstring, zipper pocket and draft collar.
Summary
Pros: Warm, light and well-constructed.
Cons: Quite narrow foot space.
Verdict: A great choice for hiking.
Where to get it:
The complete package.
It's warm. It's comfortable. It's an easy-to-carry package. It's got dual anti-snag zippers, a neck baffle, draft tubes, and a handy pocket to stash your cell phone in. There was really nothing to fault about the Sea to Summit Trek Tk3, and that's why it's our number one pick.
Where to get it:
Sleeping Bag FAQs
What is the number one sleeping bag?
Determining the number one sleeping bag depends on individual preferences and specific needs. From our list, we think the best sleeping bags in Australia include the Sea to Summit Trek Tk3, The North Face Blue Kazoo, the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20, Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20F and the Sea to Summit Traverse Tv3. See which is number one by reading our reviews above!
Is it OK to sleep in a sleeping bag every night?
Even though using a sleeping bag every night is generally safe, doing so could cause pain or hygienic problems. Make sure to wash your sleeping bag per the manufacturer's directions and to let it air out on a regular basis.
What sleeping bag is best for cold weather?
Sleeping bags rated for cold weather typically have lower temperature ratings and feature insulation suitable for extreme conditions. From our list above, the best sleeping bag for cold weather includes the North Face Blue Kazoo at -9oC and the Sea to Summit Trek Tk3 at -6oC.
What is the warmest sleeping bag material?
Goose down insulation is often considered the warmest material for sleeping bags. It provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility, making it ideal for cold weather conditions, but synthetic insulation also offers good warmth, especially when wet, and may be preferred for its affordability and durability.
How can I choose sleeping bag?
Consider factors like temperature rating, insulation type (down or synthetic), weight, size, shape (mummy or rectangular), features (hood, draft collar, zipper) and price when choosing a sleeping bag. Make sure the sleeping bag suits your intended use, climate and personal preferences for comfort. You might be looking for the best sleeping bags for backpacking or for your temperature requirement, so start there, or look at our reviews above!
Why are sleeping bags expensive?
The cost of sleeping bags can vary due to factors like the quality of materials, construction techniques, brand reputation and technological innovations in their design. High-quality insulation, durable fabrics and advanced features all come into the higher price of premium sleeping bags. If you’re looking for the best budget sleeping bag, read our review of the Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20F above!
Should you wear thermals in a sleeping bag?
Wearing thermals or base layers inside a sleeping bag can help retain body heat and provide extra warmth, especially in cold weather, just make sure the layers are not too tight, as this can restrict blood circulation and reduce overall comfort while inside.
Why am I always cold in a sleeping bag?
Feeling cold while sleeping in a bag can be caused by a number of things, such as a sleeping bag that isn't rated for the temperature you're sleeping in, poor quality, the wrong kind of sleeping pad or insufficient layers of clothes. Make sure your equipment is appropriate for the weather you will be camping in before you leave, and if necessary, consider adding more insulation. For instance, because of its lightweight design, the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 is among the best sleeping bags for camping; but, it is not the warmest option.
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.