REI Co-Op Trail Pod 29
$90 1 of 11
While you'll still get some features like water-resistant insulation and a full-body draft tub, this bag is built primarily for those with comfort and roominess in mind. If you do want to take it on the trail occasionally, it's not that heavy at just under three pounds, and can be packed down reasonably small. This versatility makes it one of the better buys on this list considering its sub-$100 price tag.
The North Face Aleutian
$199 2 of 11
While it might be missing a lot of the bells and whistles of more expensive sleeping bags, the Aleutian gets the job done in freezing temps. In fact, it's rated at negative 20 degrees thanks to North Face's Heatseeker Eco insulation, which is extremely warm even if it is on the heavy side. It's also plenty roomy and can unzip flat for four-season versatility.
Kelty Cosmic 0
$219 3 of 11
For a quality sleeping bag, the Kelty Cosmic 0 offers excellent bang for your buck. While it's not a featherweight, it is still lighter than most synthetic counterparts and is really warm and comfortable. Other features like the down used for insulation and the draft tube for cool and windy weather are normally reserved for higher-priced options.
Nemo Sonic
$529 4 of 11
The premium 850-fill-power duck down offers warmth protection into negative temperatures while maintaining a relatively low weight that packs down small. While this is mainly what bumps the price up, it's the design of the Thermo Gills that separates it from other cold weather sleeping bags in its class. When these side zipper "gills" are left open, the extra airflow to your core can be used to stay comfortable in rising morning temperatures up to 20 degrees.
Big Agnes Boot Jack 25
$199 5 of 11
For slightly warmer temperatures in the 25-degree range, this bag is a top option when wet weather is a possibility. In addition to a water-resistant shell, the DownTek insulation has also been treated with a water repellent for an extra layer of protection from the rain. The mummy shape makes it easy to pack it small, and the contoured hood keeps out cold air for a comfortable fit.
Slumberjack Borderland 20
$99 6 of 11
Whether you're getting toasty in the middle of the night or just need to reach for something to drink, the Borderland 20 provides superior ventilation and "arms out" dexterity without having to unzip completely thanks to its unique design. The quilted construction prevents cold spots, and the heavy duty zipper offers anti-snag protection. The Borderland 20 has a temperature rating of 20 degrees.
Brooks-Range Drift-10
$749 7 of 11
Falling into the Rolls Royce category of sleeping bags, the Brooks-Range Drift-10 has just about every feature you could ask for. The DownTek down is warm enough to be used in temperatures dipping into the negatives, and because it only weighs three pounds, it's an excellent choice for long-distance backpackers as well. It's also weather-resistant, extremely comfortable and wide enough to allow for some wiggle room. If your budget isn't in this neighborhood, check out the slightly more reasonable Drift-20.
Kelty Revival 15
$99 8 of 11
This throwback rectangular sleeping bag won't pack well and isn't exactly lightweight. With that said, it also has tons of smart features that the occasional recreational camper will appreciate; plus, it will keep you warm down to 15 degrees. Some of our favorite features include a built-in torso blanket, a pillow pocket and a durable canvas outer shell.
Teton Sports Tracker
$65 9 of 11
With a 5-degree temperature rating, a ripstop shell and an extra layer of insulation around the footbox, this bag from Teton Sports is a steal. The brushed lining is a nice addition for comfort, and though the mummy-style bag can be a bit confining for some, this sleeping bag is roomier than most. Overall weight is about four pounds and should be light enough for most moderate distance backpacking trips.
L.L. Bean Katahdin CT
$169 10 of 11
Though it can be a bit bulky and on the heavy side due to the synthetic materials, one thing the Katahdin CT excels at is superior warmth for its price. The Celliant lining and nine-panel hood construction used in most of L.L. Bean's winter jackets will keep you nice and toasty even in negative temperatures. The Prima Loft Synergy insulation doesn't absorb moisture and is excellent at preventing cold spots.
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