Whether you prefer sailing in the summer or in the winter a sleeping bag is a must item to carry on your boat. A high-quality sleeping bag is important for your sleep because it will keep you warm during cold nights. But it will also deal with humidity and warmth. You won’t have to wear layers upon layers upon layers if you choose the proper sleeping bag for the right temps! Also, note that you should not sleep in the same clothes that you wore throughout the day. This is because you will bring the humidity into your sleeping bag with you. In this article, I will list the best sleeping bags for sailing. But, also how to choose the best one to always have on your boat. So, keep reading!

How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag for Boats

Firstly, we’re talking about lining when we refer to comfort. There are two kinds of sleeping bags on the market: natural and synthetic. The first type provides unrivaled warmth and comfort. And, a down-filled sleeping bag across long distances won’t need too much space for storing it. However, such convenience does not come without its drawbacks. The more down-filling is squeezed, the more likely it is to lose its puffiness, which is what gives the thermal characteristics. The bulk of down used in sleeping bags nowadays has been treated with a coating that makes it waterproof and water-resistant. Note that down sleeping bags take more effort in terms of maintenance than synthetic sleeping bags. Synthetic insulated linings will be less compressible than down-insulated linings, although they have the same heat input. It is, however, moisture-resistant and easier to maintain.

You have the choice of selecting a ‘mummy bag,’ a rectangular bag, or a double bag. If you don’t want to share your sleeping bag, then your options are limited to the mummy and a rectangular bag. Note that the ability to better retain heat is one of the reasons why a large number of individuals mostly prefer the mummy bag. On the other hand, the fact that the basic rectangular sleeping bag has more capacity is both good and bad. This is because it allows you to wear more layers of clothing but also to lose heat.

Note that the rectangular sleeping bag isn’t appropriate for when you’re sailing in cold climates. This is because there is more space between your body and the lining. Also, more air is exposed to heat which results in heat loss. In other words, you’ll need a sleeping bag that hugs your body. This is why a mummy sleeping bag, which is narrower at the feet and bigger at the shoulders, can be a great choice. Additionally, most mummy bags come with a wind-breaking hood and an adjustable collar to keep your head and neck warm. Warmth is mostly lost from the head and feet, so this factor is also important.

You can use a sleeping bag with a temperature range of -9°C to -12°C from October until the beginning of November. This implies that even if the temperature drops to -12 °C while you’re sailing, you’ll be comfortable and not feel the effects of the cold. Several factors, like fatigue and humidity, might alter your heat level while sailing. So, keep these in mind when buying a sleeping bag to get the most out of your winter sailing.

In addition, it’s critical to look after your sleeping bag if you want it to keep its insulating properties. Both fillings will begin to lose their thermal capabilities with each wash. It’s best to wash it as little as possible and air it out after each use. Make sure it’s completely dry by leaving it out in an elevated place for many hours.

>>Also Read: Best Boat Heaters for Your Winter Trip

So, let’s now see the best sleeping bags for sailing!

Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree Down Sleeping Bag 

This sleeping bag is a catch because it has 600-fill DriDown insulation; the greatest insulation available. It includes a silky Polyester Taffeta lining that is warm enough to offer you a comfortable 8-hour night’s sleep. The draft collar and a warm jacket-like hood ensure that you don’t get cold. In addition to this, the 60-inch dual-sliding zipper ensures a worry-free night. Make use of the electronic pocket on the sleeping bag’s outer shell as well as the stuff sack that comes with it. The Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree Down sleeping bag gets you covered down to 9°F in a variety of lengths. These can be from short to standard and long.

The Nylon shell, combined with the PFC-free water-resistant down, prevents water from penetrating. Note that the sleeping bag’s durability is ensured by the sturdy shell and lining materials. Also, among the well-known camping equipment companies, this is one of the least expensive sleeping bags. However, the sleeping bag’s manufacturer claims it can survive temperatures as low as 19 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the actual limit is in the low 30s. Check it out right here!

VENTURE 4TH Backpacking Sleeping Bag

This water-resistant polyester sleeping bag can keep you warm in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It will also prevent overheating in temperatures as high as 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The shell and filling are made of high-quality polyester, which feels pleasant and soft on your skin. Zippers on the top and bottom have been thoroughly tested. Like this, you will rest assured in order to have the best sleep during your sailing voyages. Moreover, this ultralight sleeping bag, including the carrying bag, weighs only 2.9 pounds. Its Compression Carry Bag makes it easy to store and pack your belongings. In addition, this sleeping bag is large enough for most men and women, as well as children. Its rectangular shape provides adequate space around the shoulders. In other words, it hugs the whole body in order to ensure the perfect sleep! You can check the bag right here.

Ocean Sleepwear Sleeping Bags for Boats

These sleeping bags are designed for offshore sailing and are always breathable and moisture-resistant, with removable layers for warm areas. The brand offers the Original Ocean Sleepwear sleeping bag and the bigger Volvo Ocean Race sleeping bag. They’re made of 4 oz Exeat Fabric with a breathable fluorocarbon coating. Also, a fully tape-sealed to prevent wicking, and a full-length flap to prevent water intrusion via the zip. The bags work as one unit, with no movement or cold areas. This is because the outer shell zips directly onto the insulating layers. They have a waterproof, breathable outer shell that protects the two warm fiber-pile insulating layers. Fibre-pile insulation performs best when wet at sea since it is nearly as warm wet as it is dry and dries quickly. As you can see, they’re designed for deep ocean sailing and boat racing. Check them out!

Sea to Summit Ascent AcI -4 Degrees Down Sleeping Bag

Anyone who spends their nights at sea needs a reliable sleeping bag. For those of us who spend the winter in the cabin of the boat, Sea to Summit’s Ascent series sleeping bags are adaptable and feature-rich 3-4 season alternatives. Ac1 (25°F), Ac2 (15°F), and Ac3 (0°F) are the three bags in the series, each rated for a different temperature. The 25oF Ac1 with the Thermolite Retractor liner features a great all-around solution for sailing to both mild and cold climates. It’s basically a sleeping bag that is objectively “well-rounded.” Note that with the use of a liner, a 2.5 season option can be prolonged to a 4 season option. The downside is that there are too many zippers so more worries in case one gets damaged. And, the mummy fit isn’t that warm for Northern climates. But, if you’re sailing in mild temperatures make your purchase right here!

Coleman Green Valley Cool Weather Adult Sleeping Bag

The Coleman Green Valley Cool Weather sleeping bag is suitable for all seasons. It can easily withstand temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit and fits most people up to 5’11 inches tall. Note that this sleeping bag is not a cocoon-like container resembling an insulated tube, as other sleeping bags are. Instead, it resembles a single bed mattress made of velvety fabric that keeps you warm throughout the night.

Its fiber-lock structure prevents the insulation from shifting, ensuring that you can use this bag for years without it losing its efficacy. The sleeping bag’s practicality is astounding — its zipper includes a no-snag function that allows fastening and unfastening the bag quickly and easily with no fabric getting in the way. Moreover, the comfort cuff feature will keep your head warm all night long. The roll control design makes it easy to fold the sleeping bag quickly. It’s worth mentioning that this is one of the most cost-effective sleeping bags available. The cons are that the sleeping bag does not come with a carrying sack and isn’t particularly compact. But, the pros outweigh the cons so check it out right here!

TETON Sports Regular Sleeping Bag

If a squishy mummy bag isn’t your thing, a big rectangular sleeping bag like this one from TETON Sports would more than suffice. From every angle, the Celcius is a bargain: it’s warm thanks to the brushed poly-flannel inner, has a mummy-style hood, and you can easily put it in its sack with heavy-duty compression straps.

After a hard day of sailing, it’s wonderful to fall asleep in a large sleeping bag that can be unzipped from either side. When you get up, the anti-snag zippers can be gently rolled up and down, and the internal pocket will keep your things safe throughout the night. TETON thought of everything, including draft tubes across the shoulders to keep the drafts out, double-layer offset stitching, and a hollow fiber material to provide warmth. The sleeping bag is designed to endure temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the lining is comfortable to the touch while still providing enough warmth so you won’t need to wear more than one base layer. And, it is also one of the most affordable sleeping bags available. If you’re a year-round sailor then this one is for you, check it out!

Nemo Forte Ultralight Synthetic Sleeping Bag

The Nemo Forte sleeping bag is designed for people who sleep on their sides and turn around frequently throughout the night. This bag provides adequate space at the elbows and knees to allow you to alter sleeping positions during the night thanks to the spoon-like shape.

As if the side sleeper-friendly form wasn’t enough, the maker added a BlanketFold, which helps you to tuck yourself in like you would at home. The PrimaLoft RISe insulation adds to a warm night’s sleep, while the Nylon shell keeps the sleeping bag dry when the weather gets really humid. If you’re worried about overheating, the ThermoGrill feature allows you to increase the temperature range of your gear on cooler nights by simply unzipping the bag and letting the hot air out without getting cold. Because of the 650-fill down, you can use the sleeping bag in the spring, summer, or fall.

The sleeping bag’s spoon-like shape allows you to sleep peacefully on whichever side you want to. And, also you can keep your electronics near to you with the zipped storage pocket. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, may not be as warm as goose down. In any case, the Nemo Forte is worth its price, you can see the bag right here!

Big Agnes Buffalo Park 40 

The Big Agnes Buffalo Park sleeping bag is a semi-rectangular piece of outdoor equipment that will offer a great night’s sleep. Because of the Thermolite polyester fill, it is wide enough to provide you the room to move around at night while simultaneously keeping you warm and cozy.

The full pad sleeve accommodates pads of various thicknesses, while the pillow barn keeps your pillow in place throughout the night. The bag is made of tough Nylon Taffetta, which ensures that it will last for a long time. The quilted construction of the sleeping bag, together with its semi-rectangular form, creates a cozy atmosphere that ensures a restful and comfortable night’s sleep. It is what you need after a long day of sailing.

The internal fabric loops prevent the liner from twisting or bunching. Furthermore, when unzipped, the bag can be used as a comforter due to the multiple zippers. But, keep in mind that it’s not suitable for sailing in low temperatures even if you put a couple of base layers. So, if you’re sailing in hot climates this is what you should opt for, check it out!

TETON Sports LEEF Lightweight Mummy Sleeping Bag

TETON Sports has released the LEEF mummy-style sleeping bag, which is ideal for any outdoor lover. It combines the features of a high-end sleeping bag with the cost of a low-cost item that will last you for years. This sleeping bag will keep warm and dry throughout the night, whether you choose the 20-degree temperature limit or the 0-degree temperature limit.

The combination of 40-denier water-resistant Ripstop Nylon, brushed PolyFlannel, and PolarLite insulation offers warmth and dryness. Moreover, the bag is moisture repellant. You can cinch down the mummy hood before sleeping, and the taped anti-snag zippers can be used to self-ventilate when needed. Pull the three-piece hood in tight around your face to ensure a pleasant sleep. In addition, the sleeping bag’s compression sack can help you minimize its size. And, the price-to-quality ratio is really favorable. However, it takes up some space as it is a bit bulky. But, it’s great for sailing if you have available space, so check it out right here!

>>Also Read: Best Jackets for Sailing

Best Sailing Sleeping Bags for Boats – The Bottom Line

So, these are the best sleeping bags for sailing year-round. Keep in mind to choose a moisture-resistant and breathable sleeping bag that will ensure quality sleep. Also, always check temperature ratings in order to adjust them according to the climates where you will be sailing. You will need a bag within the temperature range of 0 /-10 C. Remember that you prefer your sleeping bag to dry fast than being waterproof as you will be sailing and not camping. Fleece and synthetic sleeping bags are better for sailing. But, it depends on the quality and thickness of both to have adequate warmth and less humidity. Fleece might take more space to store and most of them don’t dry that fast.

Lastly, remember to change your clothes before sleeping and put as few clothes as possible. I hope that this article will help you with your research of purchasing the best sleeping bag for sailing. Wish you all warm, safe, and pleasant voyages!