Packing your bags for hiking, trekking, etc. can be easy when you know what is to be stowed and what is to be left behind. Lightweight backpacking is an ideal thing to do. Apart from the basic gear that goes into packing, an easy-to-carry sleeping gear is essential. However, recently hikers, trekkers, and other backpackers have switched to down backpacking quilts instead of an ordinary sleeping bag. These are being preferred due to several factors which we shall discuss below.

  • Easy to Carry and Pack- Sleeping quilts are lighter in weight than their sleeping bag equivalents. This is due to the absence of hoods, which are found in sleeping bags. These quilts hence, provide better insulation on top of the sleeper, instead of underneath. Not to forget, a down backpacking quilt does not take long to re-loft. A quilt does not acquire much space and provide comfort and warmth along with having the option of minimizing the compression.
  • No Zipping- A quilt usually does not feature a zipper, unlike any sleeping bag. You don’t have to worry about anything breaking. Just slip into one of yours without getting stuck into it for hours due to zipping snags.
  • No More Body Repositioning, Body Movement Restriction & Moisture Formation- Are you a side sleeper? If yes, then quilts are appropriate for you to carry on all your expeditions and trails. These not only provide enough room to sprawl your limbs, but also secure the insides from moisture formation. Moisture is generally caused due to respiration. With quilts, you have your heads outside, hence almost no chance of getting drenched in your own sweat. Also, you always have the option of using it as a blanket and can put it loose in case it gets warm.
  • Less Expensive-You can always save a plenty of money by getting your hands over down quilts instead of traditional sleeping bags. You can pair your quilt with the correct R-value for a better camping comfort. One can even pair the quilts with the sleeping bags to experience warmth in the cold shivering night.

There is a huge variety of quilts available in the market. These vary in size, temperature rating, weight, insulation power, footbox etc. There are many quilts that have insulated hand and arm pockets, hideaway hood, loop kits, half pad sleeves, footbox etc. Switching to these is a way of skipping the use of synthetics too. Remember, that these quilts do not have a hood attached, hence you might have to carry a warm hat along. These are best, especially for side sleepers.

However, every individual has his or her own personal choice. Before investing in one of these down backpacking quilts ask yourself the following questions:

  • Are you a fidgety sleeper?
  • Do you prefer sleeping on the sides?
  • What is your tolerance level for cold, especially the head?
  • Where do you often go camping, hiking, trekking and what is the climatic conditions of the place?

Always opt for what suits you the best and not what the ongoing trend is. Down backpacking quilts do have their benefits, but if you are someone who regularly camp in the middle of winters, then mummy bags are an ideal choice.

The world outside is full of challenges. Moving out of your comfort zone and coming to terms with the elements of nature means pushing ourselves to the limits. A sound sleep amidst all this is the least you can ask for. Camping with a quilt minimises the hurdles of carrying a heavy backpack and gives you a chance to have a good night’s sleep after a long day of continuous walking.