Destinations & Things To Do
The 6 Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags
Our Picks of Ultralight Sleeping Bags
Best Ultralight Hooded Mummy Bag
Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20
PROS
Great warmth-to-weight ratio
High-quality goose down
Built-in pad straps
CONS
Not for the budget-minded
Heavier than some options
Not as versatile as a quilt
SPECIFICATIONS
| Style | Hooded mummy |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | -6.67 C | 20°F (EN) |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | 900 |
| Fill Materials | Goose down with Nikwax hydrophobic finish, RDS-certified |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 607 g | 21.4 oz |
With our lab and field testing finished and metrics tabulated, one bag was head and shoulders above all the others. The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 takes the crown — beating out the Neve Gear Waratah 28 quilt by a single point, and the Zpacks Classic hooded sleeping bag by only a couple more — and earns our top spot as the best ultralight bag. With such a stacked lineup of frankly incredible bags and quilts, what are the defining traits that pushed the Hyperion to legendary gearhead status? The warmth and comfort our testers felt when sleeping in this bag stood out above its peers in testing, such that we should thank the expert designers who crafted such a product. We also found that all the features in the Hyperion work excellently. “I especially love the two-sided half-length zipper and snap by the hood on the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20,” reports our lead tester. He adds, “It lets me keep my face covered while allowing my body a little ventilation.” The addition of simple and effective pad straps kept our pad from shifting in the middle of the night, and now we can’t imagine living without them.
We’d recommend the Hyperion to everyone if we could, but there are a few details encountered during testing that we can’t overlook. First is the price. “Excellent quality like what you find in the Hyperion doesn’t tend to come cheap,” one tester reminds us. Nor are the premium materials used. He points out, “RDS-certified, 900-fill goose down with Nikwax hydrophobic treatment and a 10D nylon ripstop shell with DWR? This is a best-in-class combo.” The other “gotcha” is that the mummy cut of this bag means it is not as versatile as a quilt like the Katabatic Gear Flex 22 or as accommodating of varied sleep styles like the Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed. Quilts aren’t for everyone either, but there’s something to be said about being able to easily and so broadly adjust how much heat your sleep system retains with little effort. A sleeping bag like the Hyperion just can’t pull off those tricks. But if a mummy-style sleeping bag with a hood is what you’re after, we’re sure you’ll be happy with this pick.
Read more: Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 review
Getting cozy in the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion. The 3/4 zip makes it easy to get in and out of the mummy bag.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Best Bang for the Buck
Neve Gear Waratah 28
PROS
Lightweight 850-fill-power duck down
10D nylon taffeta shell and lining material
Excellent value
CONS
Heavier than other options
Small zipper can snag on shell fabric
SPECIFICATIONS
| Style | Quilt (optional zippered footbox) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | -2.22 C | 28°F (comfort) |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | 850 |
| Fill Materials | Duck down, RDS-certified |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 635 g | 22.4 oz |
We love gushing to our friends about our favorite ultralight gear, but many push back at the sometimes higher cost of many pieces. With the Neve Gear Waratah 28, we are thrilled to have an excellent ultralight quilt to recommend that won’t break the bank. What really makes this option stand out in our eyes is the use of high-quality materials: a thin, 10D taffeta liner treated with PFCS-free DWR holds cozy 850 power duck down fill within carefully designed baffles. This keeps the right amount of warmth exactly where you want it. Moreover, one member of our test team was pleased to report, “The foot box of the Neve Gear Waratah is overfilled with down, making it absolutely perfect for sleepers like me whose feet tend to get cold before anything else — I can use all the help I can get.” This quilt can also be cinched up tightly for the coldest of nights you’re likely to encounter in the summer, or spread out like a blanket for more moderate sleeping conditions.
At such an impressively budget-friendly price point, the Waratah 28 does make a few concessions in design, like its 850-fill duck down. Although more than adequate to get the job done, careful gram counters may prefer the weight savings of 900 fill power, or even higher. However, such enhancements come at a significantly higher price tag as well, so there are trade-offs. The only real weakness we could find in the Waratah 28’s design is the use of a small zipper at the footbox. “I have the worst luck with stuck zippers, so I wish the zipper on the Waratah were a little bigger to prevent it from getting stuck, or even worse, broken,” critiques tester Justin Simoni. If you want a lighter quilt, you’ll have to be prepared to pay for the privilege. The Western Mountaineering AstraLite features a thin 12D shell to cut some weight, getting down to only 17.5 ounces. The Therm-a-Rest Vesper 32 sleeping bag is even lighter at 15.0 ounces, thanks to its 900-fill-power down.
Read more: Neve Gear Waratah 28 review
Getting into and cinching up a quilt like the Neve Gear Waratah 28 may feel novel for life-long sleeping bag users, but once you get the swing of it, feels second-nature.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Our Favorite for a Bed-Like Quilt System
Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed
PROS
Integrated pad sleeves keep pillow and pad in place
Draft barrier system adds roominess
PFAS-free DWR-treated shell fabric
High-quality 900-fill-power duck down
CONS
Learning curve for initial setup
Best used with manufacturer accessories
Ultralight sheet adds weight
Requires purchase of secondary sleep sheet
SPECIFICATIONS
| Style | Quilt |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | -3.89 C | 25°F |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | 900 |
| Fill Materials | Muscovy down (90/10 grey duck down) |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 612 g | 21.6 oz (large + 25″ uninsulated Ultralight Sheet) |
Ultralight systems aren’t known for their superior comfort compared to conventional sleeping bags. Zenbivy aims to reverse some of that reputation with their Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed (quilt) paired with their Ultralight Sheet. A common complaint from individuals with difficult sleep patterns is that ultralight quilts and sleeping bags are too constraining and claustrophobic. But quilt users often complain about problems with drafts if they toss and turn excessively. Zenbivy presents a solution: a sleep system that attaches their quilt to your sleeping pad using a sheet that acts as a draft protector on one side, a pad sleeve on the bottom, and a pillow keeper at your head. It also provides a shelf to store unused jackets around your head in place of a hat for added coziness.
The Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed sleep system performs surprisingly well for its intended purpose; however, if you haven’t had issues sleeping in a normally configured quilt or sleeping bag, this may not necessarily provide a higher degree of comfort. The system is also optimized for ZenBivy’s accessories, although the quilt will work fine separately from the Ultralight Sheet. But as our tester concluded, “If you already know you’re a difficult, active sleeper who doesn’t like feeling constricted, the Zenbivy Ultralight Bed (Quilt and Sheet) system would be an easy choice to grab before trying anything else — you’ll most likely be very satisfied.” If you’re still shopping around, also consider the Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL. It’s a quilt that doubles as a hoodless sleeping bag, offering generous shoulder room to accommodate sleepers who need a bit more breathing room. The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25 is a sleeping bag, but one with generous shoulder room and a center zip, which may be more suitable for finicky sleepers who prefer a more relaxed fit around their chest.
Read more: Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed review
The Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed with the Ultralight Sheet resisted most of our attempts of letting drafts in with our tossing and turning.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Best for Moving Fast and Light
Feathered Friends Vireo UL
PROS
Exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio
Generous shoulder girth
Keeps things simple
CONS
Less versatile than other bags
No zipper to easily ventilate
SPECIFICATIONS
| Style | Hoodless, zipperless mummy |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | Split: 25°F lower half and 45°F upper half |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | 950+ |
| Fill Materials | Goose down, RDS-certified |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 459 g | 16.2 oz (long) |
Do you have a gear room plastered with posters of Karel Sabbe and Heather Anderson — and that’s where the kitchen’s digital food scale is hiding? You may have a serious case of FKT-itis (Fastest Known Time). Let the Feathered Friends Vireo UL be the cure. At only a touch over a pound, this hoodless, zipperless sleeping bag invests 9.8 ounces of the finest 950+ fill-power goose down in keeping you warm between catnaps on the trail towards Mount Katahdin or perched precariously on the crest of the Sangre de Cristos en route to Salida. The shell material is a whisper-light, water-resistant 10D Pertex Endurance UL, with a 15D Flite ripstop nylon lining. The only accouterment allowed is a single cinch strap near the head. Break out your insulated jacket while getting your shuteye, as one way this bag cuts serious weight is by stuffing less down into the top half of the bag compared to the bottom. This means packability is excellent when divying up the prime real estate found in your 30-liter fastpack. “The Vireo UL is what I pack when I’m trying to stamp out some serious miles,” shares one tester who is often traveling fast and light.
The trade-off for the extremely slimmed-down design of the Feathered Friends Vireo UL is a collection of compromises made to save on weight. Needless to say, this bag won’t appeal to everyone. The bottom of the bag is limit-rated to 25°F, and there are no zippers or other vents to allow air circulation. If you like the idea of zippers but don’t care for snagged fabric, the Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30 addresses this issue with a special zipper that features an internal piece of flexible plastic. Plus, this two-way zipper system allows you to vent your feet or dump heat on warmer nights. Another consideration with the Vireo is that the upper portion of the bag has a limit rate of only 45°F. So we suggest you bring along your favorite puffy if temperatures are going to drop any lower overnight. Also, considering its few features, the price of the Vireo UL is quite high. “If you’re not already cutting your proverbial toothbrush in half and cold-soaking your oats for the morning’s no-cook meal, you might be better off with a different choice,” says our lead tester. “It’s not for everyone, although I think the Vireo UL could be a great option for mountaineers and fastpackers alike, when pack weight is at a premium” That said, we find the Vireo UL oh so comfy without any zippers or other features next to our skin and the perfect companion when you feel the need for speed.
Read more: Feathered Friends Vireo UL review
The design of the Vireo lacks zippers and buckles to keep it as simple as possible.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Most Versatile Quilt
Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL
PROS
Super high fill power down
Functions as a quilt or a mummy bag
Full-length zipper with baffle gives you complete enclosure
CONS
No hood
Expensive
Not the lightest bag available
SPECIFICATIONS
| Style | Hybrid (hoodless mummy bag or quilt) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | 4.44 C | 40°F |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | 950+ |
| Fill Materials | Goose down, RDS-certified |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 544 g | 19.2 oz |
We love the unmatched versatility of the Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL, and it’s a big part of why this bag lives near the top of our charts. Whether trying to ventilate on a hot night or bundle up when the mercury drops, this bag has you covered. A full-length center zip allows you to use it as either a hoodless mummy bag or a flat quilt, providing two great sleeping options. The Flicker 40 pairs super high loft, 950+ fill power down with a shell made of water-resistant and breathable Pertex Endurance UL. Feathered Friends spared no expense and used only the best and lightest materials in this masterpiece.
To try out the lightest Flicker UL available, we tested the 40°F version, and we’re happy to report it kept us warm within that temperature range. However, whenever it dipped into the 30s at night, we weren’t as toasty. If you expect to be outdoors in colder temperatures, Feathered Friends offers this same bag in 30°F or 20°F options, although they are heavier due to the extra fill and added warmth. Potential buyers should also note that the Flicker lacks a hood, reducing its warmth on cooler evenings. “As with most quilts, bring a hat of some sort with you for when you snooze in the Feathered Friends Flicker,” suggests our lead tester. Our testers also appreciated the dual drawcords at both the head and feet, which allow you to wear this quilt around camp on chilly mornings. The full-length zipper is of far higher quality and more functional than the weight-saving buckle and strap systems used on some competing quilts we tested. Another highly versatile option we like is the Zpacks Classic. Although it is a mummy bag, the ¾-length zipper allows it to open almost all the way, making it usable as a quilt on warmer nights.
Read more: Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL review
The Flicker 40 is more than just a quilt, with its full-length zip that transforms the bag into a mummy-style.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Best Synthetic
Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX 30
PROS
Insulates well, even when wet
Generous cut
Excellent value
CONS
Takes up lots of volume
Heavier than most quilts
SPECIFICATIONS
| Style | Quilt (optional zippered footbox) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | -1.11 C | 30°F |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | N/A |
| Fill Materials | CLIMASHIELD APEX insulation |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 697 g | 24.6 oz |
It took us a while to warm up to the idea of testing a synthetic bag in the ultralight category. We’re now happy to report that the Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX 30 left us surprisingly toasty. Instead of down, the APEX 30 uses its namesake synthetic insulation and a lack of baffles to give a 30°F limit rating. This works great, and the quilt comes with a ton of useful features to keep you as warm as you need to be and quite comfortable. Synthetic filling also retains its insulating power when wet, so if you’re traveling in damp climates, this could be a crucial consideration. “When it comes to synthetic options, the Revelation APEX is head and shoulders above the rest and one of the only synthetic quilts I’d even consider,” our lead tester advises.
There are some trade-offs for going the synthetic route, even with the Revelation APEX 30. For instance, down fill just has a much superior warmth-to-weight ratio and packs down much smaller than this quilt could even hope to accomplish. If you are willing to spend a little more, an option like the Hammock Gear Economy Burrow 20 is a great comparison: it has down fill and packs down smaller than the Revelation APEX 30, even though it weighs over an ounce more. For an even lighter down bag, you’ll face another bump in cost. The Therm-a-Rest Vesper 32 is nearly a full 10 ounces lighter than the Apex 30, but it also costs a couple of hundred bucks more. “If you’ve got the room in your pack and don’t mind hauling a little more weight, give this Enlightened Equipment quilt a closer look,” suggests our tester. The price point beats almost every down option we tested, except for the Neve Gear Waratah 28, which blew us away with its top scores in testing and practically unrivaled budget price.
Read more: Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX 30 review
The footbed of the Revelation APEX 30 can either be cinched closed or left open for a more blanket-like feel.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Quilts vs. Mummy Bags
We know that quilts versus mummy bags can be a polarizing topic. There are excellent arguments on both sides of this issue; therefore, we selected our favorite models from each category. Some of our testers prefer quilts, and some prefer mummies, and that’s just fine. We set out on this review to provide info to both schools of thought. Our only firm conclusion is that your needs supersede anyone else’s opinion.
Compare Product Specifications
| Specifications | Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 | Neve Gear Waratah 28 | Zenbivy Muscovy 25 Bed | ZPacks Classic | Sea to Summit Spark 30 | Feathered Friends Vireo UL | Katabatic Gear Flex 22 Quilt | Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25 | Western Mountaineering AstraLite | Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL | Therm-a-Rest Vesper 32 | Western Mountaineering SummerLite | Feathered Friends Hummingbird 30 UL | Hammock Gear Economy Burrow 20 | Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down TopQuilt | Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 | Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX 30 | Katabatic Gear Palisade 30 | Western Mountaineering HighLite | Sea to Summit Traveller 45 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |
Best Ultralight Hooded Mummy Bag |
Best Bang for the Buck |
Our Favorite for a Bed-Like Quilt System |
Best for Moving Fast and Light |
Most Versatile Quilt |
Best Synthetic |
||||||||||||||
| Manufacturer Temperature Rating (Limit Rating) | -6.67 C | 20°F (EN) | -2.22 C | 28°F (comfort) | -3.89 C | 25°F | -6.67 C | 20°F | -1.11 C | 30°F (ISO) | Split: 25°F lower half and 45°F upper half | -5.56 C | 22°F (comfort) | -3.89 C | 25°F (ISO) | -3.33 C | 26°F | 4.44 C | 40°F | 0 C | 32°F | 0 C | 32°F | -1.11 C | 30°F | -6.67 C | 20°F | -9.44 C | 15°F (comfort) | -6.67 C | 20°F | -1.11 C | 30°F | -1.11 C | 30°F (comfort) | 1.67 C | 35°F | 7.22 C | 45°F |
| Style | Hooded mummy | Quilt (optional zippered footbox) | Quilt | Hoodless, bottom-facing center-zip mummy | Hooded mummy | Hoodless, zipperless mummy | Quilt with optional zipped footbox | Center zip hooded mummy | Quilt | Hybrid (hoodless mummy bag or quilt) | Quilt | Hooded mummy | Hooded mummy | Quilt | Quilt | Quilt (optional zippered footbox) | Quilt (optional zippered footbox) | Quilt | Hooded, box-stitched mummy | Hybrid (hoodless mummy bag or quilt) |
| Fill Power Options (Tested, If Multiple) | 900 | 850 | 900 | 900 | 850+ | 950+ | 850, 950 (850) | 850 | 850+ | 950+ | 900 | 850+ | 950+ | 850 | 800 | 850, 950 (850) | N/A | 850, 900 (850) | 850+ | 650+ |
| Fill Materials | Goose down with Nikwax hydrophobic finish, RDS-certified | Duck down, RDS-certified | Muscovy down (90/10 grey duck down) | Muscovy duck down, RDS-certified | Goose down with non-PFAS Ultra-Dry Down finish, RDS-certified | Goose down, RDS-certified | ExpeDRY ultra dry duck down (850 FP) or ExpeDRY goose down (950 FP), RDS- and bluesign-certified | Downtek, PFC-free, bluesign-approved | Goose down, ethically sourced | Goose down, RDS-certified | Goose down with Nikwax hydrophobic finish, RDS-certified | Goose down, ethically sourced | Goose down, RDS-certified | Down, ethically sourced | ExpeDRY gold treated down | Grey Duck Down (850FP) or Grey Goose Down (950 FP), RDS-certified | CLIMASHIELD APEX insulation | ExpeDRY duck down (850FP) or ExpeDRY goose down (900FP), bluesign-approved, RDS-certified |
Goose down, ethically sourced | Duck down with non-PFAS Ultra-Dry Down finish, RDS-certified |
| Measured Weight (Bag Only) | 607 g | 21.4 oz | 635 g | 22.4 oz | 612 g | 21.6 oz (large + 25″ uninsulated Ultralight Sheet) | 575 g | 20.3 oz | 482 g | 17.0 oz | 459 g | 16.2 oz (long) | 669 g | 23.6 oz | 695 g | 24.5 oz | 496 g | 17.5 oz | 544 g | 19.2 oz | 425 g | 15.0 oz | 539 g | 19.0 oz | 658 g | 23.2 oz (long) | 731 g | 25.8 oz | 788 g | 27.8 oz | 661 g | 23.3oz | 697 g | 24.6 oz | 570 g | 20.1 oz | 425 g | 15.0 oz | 527 g | 18.6 oz |
| Measured Stuff Sack Weight (As Included) | 45.4 g | 1.6 oz | 34 g | 1.2 oz | N/A | 25.5 g | 0.9 oz | 68 g | 2.4 oz | 22.7 g | 0.8 oz (long) | 17 g | 0.6 oz | 14.2 g | 0.5 oz | 25.5 g | 0.9 oz | 22.7 g | 0.8 oz | 48.2 g | 1.7 oz | 28.3 g | 1.0 oz | 22.7 g | 0.8 oz (long) | 17 g | 0.6 oz | 5.67 g | 0.2 oz | 17 g | 0.6 oz | 17 g | 0.6 oz | 289 g | 10.2 oz | 42.5 g | 1.5 oz | 59.5 g | 2.1 oz |
| Fill Weight (Per Manufacturer) | 354 g | 12.5 oz | 431 g | 15.2 oz | 326 g | 11.5 oz (large) | 391 g | 13.8 oz | 264 g | 9.3 oz | 266 g | 9.4 oz (long) | 437 g | 15.4 oz | 482 g | 17.0 oz | 298 g | 10.5 oz | 238 g | 8.4 oz | 241 g | 8.5 oz | 255 g | 9.0 oz | 340 g | 12.0 oz (long) | 507 g | 17.9 oz | 485 g | 17.1 oz | 456 g | 16.1 oz | N/A | 340 g | 12.0 oz | 227 g | 8.0 oz | 230 g | 8.1 oz |
| Stuffed Volume (Per Manufacturer, Using Included Stuff Sack) | 3.7 L | 4.3 L | N/A (4.0 L recommended for large quilt, 7.0 L recommended for quilt/sheet combo) | 5.6 L | 4.5 L | 5.0 L (long) | 8.0 L | 8.0 L | 3.2 L | 5.0 L | 1.9 L | 4.2 L | 8.0 L (long) | 8.5 L | 4.6L | 7.0 L | 8.5 L | 4.5 L | 3.1 L | 3.5 L |
| Weight (Per Manufacturer) | 567 g | 20.0 oz | 646 g | 22.8 oz | 610 g | 21.5 oz (19 oz for large quilt + 3 oz for 25″ uninsulated Ultralight Sheet) | 533 g | 18.8 oz | 493 g | 17.4 oz | 473 g | 16.7 oz (long) | 678 g | 23.9 oz | 737 g | 26.0 oz | 454 g | 16.0 oz | 541 g | 19.1 oz | 425 g | 15.0 oz | 539 g | 19.0 oz | 649 g | 22.9 oz (long) | 789 g | 27.82 oz | 689 g | 24.3 oz | 638 g | 22.5 oz | 675 g | 23.8 oz | 561 g | 19.8 oz | 454 g | 16.0 oz | 547 g | 19.3 oz |
| Shell Material | Shell: 10D nylon ripstop with DWR; Liner: 10D nylon ripstop | 10D nylon taffeta with PFCS-free DWR | 10D Pertex Quantum with PFAS-free DWR | Ventum ripstop nylon with a PFAS-free DWR | Shell: 10D nylon with PFAS-free DWR; Liner: 10D nylon |
Shell: Pertex Endurance UL 10D water-resistant; Liner: Flite 15D ripstop nylon | Shell: Pertex Quantum Eco ripstop (0.85 oz/yd); Liner: Pertex Quantum ripstop (1.0 oz/yd) | Recycled NetPlus 10D nylon ripstop with PFAS-free DWR | 12D ripstop nylon | Shell: Pertex Endurance UL; Liner: Flite 15D ripstop nylon | Shell: 10D nylon ripstop with DWR; Liner: 10D ripstop nylon | 12D ripstop nylon | Shell: 10D Pertex Endurance UL; Liner: Flite 15D ripstop nylon | Shell: 20D ripstop nylon with DWR finish; Liner: nylon taffeta | Shell: 10D ripstop nylon with DWR; Liner: 10D ripstop nylon (PFAS/PFCS-free, shell and liner) | 10D nylon with DWR finish (PFAS/PFCS-free, shell and liner) | 10D nylon with DWR finish (PFAS/PFCS-free, shell and liner) | Shell: Pertex Quantum ripstop (0.85 oz/yd); Liner: Pertex Quantum ripstop (1.0 oz/yd) | Shell: 12D ripstop nylon; Liner: nylon taffeta | Shell: 20D recycled polyester shell w/ PFAS-free DWR finish; Liner: 20D polyester |
| Construction | Horizontal box baffle consruction, hood | Upper: horizontal box baffles; lower: vertical box baffles, no hood | Upper: horizontal box baffles; lower: vertical box baffles, no hood | Vertical upper baffles and horizontal baffles at footbox, box baffle construction, no hood | Bottom: horizontal sewn through baffling; torso: hybrid box baffling, hood | No hood, no zipper, horizontal baffles with variable fill between top and bottom | Continuous horizontal baffles, differential cut, no hood | Upper: diamond quilt-through construction, sides and bottom, baffled construction, hood | Horizontal baffle, no hood, no zipper | Continuous baffles, no hood | Box baffle, no hood, no zipper | Continuous baffles, hood | Continuous horizontal baffles, hood | Bottom: horizontal baffling; top: vertical box baffling, no hood | Bottom and footbox: continuous horizontal baffles; top: continuous vertical baffles, tapered cut, no hood | U-shaped baffled quilt, no hood | Baffle-less, no sewn-through seams, no hood | Continuous baffles, no hood, differential cut | Sewn-through horizontal seams with bafflerd vertical seams using short netting strips, hood | Sewn-through square baffles, no hood |
| Draft Collar Available (Tested) | Yes (yes) | Yes (yes) | Yes (yes) | No (n/a) | Yes (yes) | No (n/a) | Yes (yes) | Yes (yes) | Yes (yes) | No (n/a) | Yes (yes) | No (n/a) | No (n/a) | Yes, optional (No) | Yes (yes) | Yes, optional (No) | No (n/a) | Yes (yes) | No (n/a) | No (n/a) |
| Additional Features | Cinching draft hood, SynergyLink Connectors for pad attachment, sewn footbox, compression sack, storage bag | Pad attachment straps, YKK #3 zipper overfilled footbox, dry compression sack, storage bag | Baffle-backed Kylie-curve shoulder cinch. storage bag, semi-rectangular shape, patent-pending clip-expandable Fast Footbox. storage bag | Rectangular sewn toebox, zipper clip, cinched shoulder opening, roll-top drybag compression sack | YKK #5 zippers with zipper plough, technical hood, sewn anatomical footbox. QuiltLock snap lock system, compression sack | Drawcord top opening, stuff sack, storage bag | Corded and clip pad attachment system, elastic binding at bottom, internal pocket, draft blocking zippered foot box, stuff sack, storage bag | Ergonomic footbox, minimalist with hood low-profile cordlock, insulated zipper, stuff sack, storage bag | Sewn footbox, elastic pad attachment system, stuff sack, storage bag | Drawcord collar, crossover zipper for draft, cinching footbox, webbed loops for hammock use, stuff sack, storage bag | SynergyLink pad connector straps, snap neck closure, perimeter side baffles, insulated footbox, stuff sack, storage bag | Draft zipper tube, stuff sack, storage bag | Snap and cinch 3D hood, cinching hood, draft zipper tube. trapezoidal footbox, stuff sack, storage bag | Snap and drawstring shoulder closure, stuff sack, storage bag, customizable with optional draft collar, zipper or sewn footbox, 10D or 20D shell materials, varied color combos/temps/ lengths/widths, overfill choices, and ground pad attachments | Pad straps, snap and drawstring shoulder closure, sewn anatomical footbox, dry compression bag, storage bag | Drawcord adjustable zippered foot box, pad attachment system, snap and drawstring neck closure, stuff sack, storage bag | Drawcord adjustable zippered foot box, pad attachment system, snap and drawstring neck closure, stuff sack, storage bag | Pad attachment system, elastic binding at bottom, overstuffed baffles at trapezoidal footbox, internal stash pocket, stuff sack, storage bag | Stuff sack, storage bag | Shoulder drawstring, footbox drawcord, stuff sack, storage bag |
| Maximum Shoulder Girth (Per Manufacturer) | 145 cm | 57″ | 150 cm | 59″ | 193 cm | 76″ (sheet + quilt) | 152 cm | 60″ | 155 cm | 61″ | 168 cm | 66″ | 137 cm | 54″ | 152 cm | 60″ | 173 cm | 68″ | 157 cm | 62″ | 147 cm | 58″ | 150 cm | 59″ | 147 cm | 58″ | 140 cm | 55″ | 142 cm | 56″ | 137 cm | 54″ | 137 cm | 54″ | 137 cm | 54″ | 150 cm | 59″ | 140 cm | 55″ |
| Maximum Hip Girth (Per Manufacturer) | 126 cm | 49.5″ | 130 cm | 51.2″ | 168 cm | 66″ (sheet + quilt) | 152 cm | 60″ | 135 cm | 53″ | 122 cm | 48″ | 117 cm | 46″ | 137 cm | 54″ | N/A | 122 cm | 48″ | 130 cm | 51″ | 130 cm | 51″ | 132 cm | 52″ | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 117 cm | 46″ | 130 cm | 51″ | 140 cm | 55″ |
| Maximum Foot Girth (Per Manufacturer) | 109 cm | 43″ | 104 cm | 41″ | 112 cm | 44″ (sheet + quilt) | 102 cm | 40″ | 102 cm | 40″ | 96.5 cm | 38″ | 102 cm | 40″ | 91.4 cm | 36″ | 96.5 cm | 38″ | 99.1 cm | 39″ | 94 cm | 37″ | 96.5 cm | 38″ | 96.5 cm | 38″ | N/A | 102 cm | 40″ | 102 cm | 40″ | 102 cm | 40″ | 102 cm | 40″ | 96.5 cm | 38″ | 102 cm | 40″ |
| Zipper Length | 1/2-length side zip | 1/4-length at footbox | No zipper | 3/4-length | Half-length side zip | No zipper | 1/4-length at footbox | 1/2-length center zip | No zipper | Full-length center zip | No zipper | Full-length | Full-length, 2-way side zip | 1/3-length at footbox (optional) | No zipper | 20” 1/4-length at footbox | 20” 1/4-length at footbox | No zipper | 1/2-length | Full-length side zipper |
| Available Lengths and Sizes (Length Tested) | Small – 73″, regular – 80″, long – 85″(regular) | Short 5’6″, Regular 6″, Long 6.6″ (regular) | Regular – 72″, large – 80″, XL – 84″(large) | Girth: slim, standard, and broad; Length: short – 68″, medium – 74″, long – 80″ (standard medium) | Regular -73″, long – 78″ (regular) | 361 cm | 68″, 74″ (74″) | Small – 66″, regular – 72″, long – 78″, small wide, regular wide, long wide (regular) | Regular -72″, long – 78″ (regular) | 5′ 8″, 6’4″ (5’8″) | Regular – 6′, long – 6’6″ (regular) | Regular – 75″, long – 79″ (regular) | 5’6″, 6′, and 6’6″ (6′) | Regular – 6′, long – 6’6″ (long) | Short – 67″, standard – 74″, long – 79″, short slim, standard slim, long slim, short wide, standard wide, long wide (standard wide) | Regular -71″, long 76″ (regular) | Short – 66″, regular – “72, regular wide, long wide – 78” (regular) | Short – 72″, regular – 78″, regular wide, long wide – 84″ (regular) | 5’6″, 6″, 6’6″, 5’6″ wide, 6′ wide, 6’6″ wide (6′) | 5’6″, 6′, 6.6″ (6′) | Regular -73″, long – 78″ (regular) |
| Available Temp Options (Version Tested, If Multiple) | 20, 32°F (20°F) | -10 C | 28.4°F, 17.6°F (28.4°F,) | -16.11 C | 25°F, 10°F (25°F) | 10, 20, 30°F (20°F) | 0. 15. 30. 45°F (30°F) | Split: lower 25°F and upper 45°F | 5, 15, 22, 30, 40°F (22°F) | 25°F, 53°F Quilt (25°F) | -3.33 C | 26°F | 20, 30, 40°F (40°F) | 20, 32, 45°F (32°F) | 0 C | 32°F | 20, 30°F (30°F) | 0, 10, 20, 30, 40°F (20°F) | 0, 15, 30, 40°F (15°F) | 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50°F (20°F) | 20, 30, 40, 50°F (30°F) | -1.11 C | 30°F | 1.67 C | 35°F | 7.22 C | 45°F |
A solo campsite up in a side valley of the Khumbu, the famous part of the Himalaya that is home to Mt. Everest. The 20 Degree by ZPacks kept us nice and warm on what proved to be a chilly night.
How We Tested
We pored over scores of ultralight sleeping bags and quilts to find the best models and put them to the test — from mountains to deserts to forests — to give you the best recommendations possible. The only way to test a product’s performance is by using it. With this in mind, we tested these bags by sleeping in them — a lot. We used them on windy desert nights, blizzards at 15,000 feet, and everything in between. These bags have been spotted throughout the Rockies of Colorado and Wyoming, the deserts of southern Utah, and the high peaks and passes of the Khumbu, Makalu, and Manaslu regions of the Nepalese Himalayas. Many people took turns sleeping in each bag, spending both cozy and miserable nights in the wilderness, suffering through enough sweating and shivering to truly understand the meaning of “temperature ratings.” One of our testers even caught two colds, which he blames on sleepless nights spent in these bags while searching for their hidden flaws. We went the extra mile to be sure we know what we’re talking about, and we hope you find this review useful.
Our ultralight sleeping bag testing is divided into five rating metrics:
- Warmth (30% of total score weighting)
- Versatility (15% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
We assembled an all-star crew to put these ultralight sleeping bags to the test, including Andy Wellman, Ethan Newman, Justin Simoni, and Jack Cramer. Andy has published guidebooks, hiked long distances in the Rockies, the Andes, and the Himalayas, and is no stranger to a night under the stars. Ethan has worked professionally outdoors for over a decade as a rock climbing guide, wildland firefighter, wilderness ranger, and environmental educator. Justin has explored the more exhilarating peaks and ridgelines of Colorado, finishing bold fastpack routes on his unsupported multi-day adventures, and has assisted with guided ultralight backpacking trips in Kings Canyon NP, Rocky Mountain NP, and Gates of the Arctic NP. Finally, Jack is an accomplished climber and a member of the Yosemite Search and Rescue team who has personally tested more than 60 different sleeping bags. Combined, they spend over 150 nights a year in a sleeping bag, from shiver bivvies on the sides of mountains to comfy nights around a campfire with friends, and they know how to get a good night’s sleep outside.
Our team of professional snoozers has tested these ultralight sleeping bags in conditions around the world!
Analysis and Test Results
To compare and score every quilt and bag as objectively as possible, we narrowed overall performance down to five metrics to evaluate each bag: warmth, weight, comfort, versatility, and features. Because some of these categories are more significant than others, we weighted each metric according to its relative importance for an ideal UL sleeping bag. Keep in mind that all these scores are comparative because we are only willing to speak for the products we test, not everything that exists in the entire ultralight sleeping bag market. This is why a 30-degree Fahrenheit sleeping bag might score highly in warmth; we are comparing it to other sleeping bags of similar weight, not a 0-degree winter behemoth.
While most of these bags utilize high-quality materials and well-executed designs, there are limits to how lightweight they can be. In the realm of ultralight sleeping bag design, sometimes one aspect of performance must be sacrificed to aid another. For example, a tighter cut may be lighter and warmer, but it is far less comfortable. Keep this in mind as you read through this review to be sure you identify the best balance for your needs.
Gettin’ cozy! Our team at GearLab hand-tested each of these bags under the stars to see which were the best.
Credit: Justin Simoni
What’s the Best Value?
Although we don’t factor value into our performance scores, we recognize that it’s a significant part of any purchasing decision. New gear is exciting, but most of us still want to pay the minimum amount for the gear we need. This means knowing whether shelling out extra money for a fancy sleeping bag is worth it. A common example is higher-quality down that reduces weight but increases the price. High-fill-power goose down offers the highest warmth-to-weight ratio of any commonly available insulation. Still, it is much more expensive than duck down, even at comparable fill powers. We can help you consider the pros and cons of each, but only you can decide how much these differences are worth to you.
One numerical way to assess value is to compare the overall score we’ve given a product to its cost. For example, two bags might receive similar scores, but one could cost significantly less. All things being equal, the less expensive option would provide greater value. Without scoring for value, we’ve highlighted some less expensive options to help those looking to save a bit of cash. The Katabatic Gear Flex 22 Quilt offers top-notch performance at a very fair price. It’s not inexpensive, but it does cost significantly less than top-of-the-line products with which it directly competes. The Neve Gear Waratah 28 surprised us with its thoughtful design and list of features, coupled with its budget-friendly MSRP, making it a solid quilt at any price. The 10D nylon face fabric and 15.2 ounces of 850-fill-power duck down make this a true, high-quality ultralight quilt, weighing 22.4 ounces.
The Neve Gear Waratah 28’s vertical upper baffles loft up generously, while its pad straps keep drafts at bay.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX 30 utilizes synthetic fill, which is significantly less expensive than down. It’ll be heavier and bulkier, but you can’t ignore the price tag.
The Outdoor Vitals StormLoft has a combination of horizontal and vertical baffles to keep its down in place.
Credit: Justin Simoni
One of the least expensive quilts in our review, the Sea to Summit Traveller 45, does come with a disclaimer: its limit rating is only 45°F, making it really only appropriate for mild, summer conditions or using indoors in controlled climates. But if that is the niche you’re trying to fill in your gear loadout, this quilt could deliver exactly what you need.
The Sea to Summit Traveller 45 packs down smaller than almost any other quilt we’ve tested and works perfectly as a supplementary blanket when traveling around and staying in potentially suspect indoor accommodations like backpacker hostels, cheap motels, or mountain refuges.
Warmth
No matter how light and fast you want to go, eventually you’ll have to stop to rest. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to enjoying your trip day after day. A warm enough sleeping bag is so critical towards getting good sleep that many ultralight backpackers consider it the “ultimate layer.”
Fortunately, the bags we tested mostly offer good to excellent warmth-to-weight ratios, using quality materials and clever designs to maximize warmth. Select your bag based on the conditions and temperatures you anticipate encountering. Because warmth is the main purpose of an ultralight sleeping bag, it counts for 30% of each product’s overall score.
Sleeping bags work by trapping many small pockets of air in the insulation, which prevents heat loss to the outside air. Down feathers offer the best warmth-to-weight ratio of the common insulation types. The quality of down is rated according to its fill power, a measurement of the amount of loft a specific weight of down provides. Higher fill power numbers translate to more loft and better warmth-to-weight ratios.
Different fill powers of down: 650+, 750+, and 850+ of the same scale weight illustrate how higher fill powers provide more insulation per volume, which will also be able to compress smaller when storing.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Baffles (sewn pockets core to the sleeping bag’s external construction) help ensure down insulation stays where it’s supposed to, whether spread evenly or placed strategically. Box baffles, sewn-through baffles, and other designs all have their advantages and disadvantages, but they all share the same goal of keeping the down in place.
The horizontal baffles of the Hyperion help keep the insulation in place to provide a more evenly dispersed loft.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The other primary type of insulation is synthetic fibers. An advantage of synthetic insulation is that it’s a more affordable material that’s also easier to work with. Swaths of synthetic batting don’t need an intricate system of baffles to stay in place. And if synthetic materials get wet, they still retain a significant amount of insulating power. The drawback, however, is that synthetic fibers just can’t offer the same warmth-to-weight ratio as down. Synthetic insulation is also unable to pack down as small. For these reasons, down is still a more popular choice in ultralight sleeping bags; however, there are situations where a synthetic bag could be a better option, such as in very humid and rainy climates, where the opportunity to dry out your bag fully is limited.
Letting the down uncompress before a night out in the Utah Hills. We recommend unpacking your bag well before crawling into it so that it has time to regain its loft (and therefore maximize its warmth).
Credit: Ethan Newman
The quantity and quality of the insulation are significant factors in determining the warmth of a bag, but we also found that the design can have a substantial influence. Features like closed footboxes, draft collars, hoods, zipper baffles, and pad attachment systems can differentiate products that utilize similar insulation. In general, hooded mummy bags were slightly warmer because they allowed us to burrow deeper into the bag. Most quilts, in contrast, inevitably allowed cold air to creep into the thermal envelope whenever we moved during the night, so we struggled sometimes to feel quite as toasty.
All ultralight sleeping bags, but especially quilts, are designed to be used as part of a sleep system that includes the bag, a sleeping pad, and your clothing. Tailor your system to work in unison to keep yourself as comfortable and warm as possible. Most tested quilts aren’t designed to enclose the user fully, but instead attach to an insulated sleeping pad to form a warm envelope. The theory behind quilts is that the sleeper compresses any sleeping bag insulation below them, negating the insulating effect it would otherwise have, so why not ditch this unnecessary material and save weight? This can work well, but requires a careful selection of a sleeping pad to match your quilt, and the pad needs to offer great insulation from the ground.
Sleeping pad insulation power is rated on a scale called R-value. The higher the R-value of a sleeping pad, the greater the insulation it provides from the ground. During our testing on cold nights, we found that some quilts left chilly drafts, and we would have liked some extra insulation below us to fill in these gaps. Ensure your insulated pad fits your quilt snugly, and that any extra clothing does not compress the insulation, thereby reducing its effectiveness. Pads do come in different widths, and a wider pad may spread out a quilt too much, leaving less room for you to sleep underneath.
Related: Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads
We made a point of testing each of the bags in our review while sleeping in temperatures very close to their stated ratings. These experiences taught us which bags were warm and which were not, and we rated all the bags on a comparative warmth scale, meaning the warmest received higher scores while the coldest received the lowest.
The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 came out in our testing to be the warmest sleeping bag in our entire lineup. It uses 12.5 ounces of 900-fill goose down to keep you toasty, as well as features that prevent excessive heat loss. We really enjoyed how tightly the hood can cinch around our face and the two-way zipper that allows us to keep the hood on while ventilating our body.
For extra warmth, the hood of the Hyperion 20 can be cinched around the head.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25 with its 24.5 ounces of 850+ fill has some of the highest quality insulation of practically any other bag or quilt in our lineup, considering both fill weight and fill power holistically. It’s a 25°F limit rating that allowed us to sleep soundly in the Rocky Mountain springtime at the foot of Mount Shavano in near-freezing temps. The generous volume and well-designed cinchable hood can help you endure much colder temperatures. This is one bag we’d recommend for colder sleepers.
Our tester’s broad shoulders were no match for the interior volume of the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25, making it an excellent candidate for curling up on tightly on the coldest of days.
Credit: Justin Simoni
While we love quilts for their versatility and spaciousness in warmer weather, our testing revealed that in cold weather, they don’t seem to seal off as well as mummy-style bags, and don’t keep us as warm. The Katabatic Gear Flex 22 Quilt emerged as the top performer in terms of quilted warmth. It uses a generous amount of fill (15.4 ounces), despite its duck down construction having a lower fill power than other top models, at only 850 FP. The Flex 22 is very versatile, however, enabling you to turn it into a blanket on warmer nights when you don’t need so much insulation. The Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down TopQuilt also scored well but didn’t meet our expectations for its labeled 15°F limit rating. To get the most out of the temperature rating of this bag, it’s essential to pair it with a down balaclava and a warm sleeping pad, as both these items significantly influence how toasty you’ll feel while sleeping.
A must-have accessory for a quilt with a limit rating of 15F – like the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft, is a proper insulated balaclava which complements the quilt and keeps your head as insulated as your body.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The Zpacks Classic hoodless sleeping bag also scored well, utilizing an impressive 18.8 ounces of 900-fill goose down in this 20.3-ounce bag. The insulation accounts for a whopping 93% of this bag’s weight. You will want to grab an insulated hat to complement this bag, as it does not have a hood.
If you’re after the lightest ultralight bag that’s warm enough for three-season use and thru-hikes, the Zpacks Classic is an excellent choice.
Credit: Brandon Lampley
Weight
What sets this review apart from our other sleeping bag reviews is its emphasis on weight. Ultralight backpackers are often distinguished from regular backpackers by having a base weight of their overnight pack (non-consumable gear) of under ten pounds. The theory is that by being willing to make some compromises in comfort or convenience, ultralighters can enjoy the considerable benefits of a lighter pack while on the move. A ten-pound base weight can be achieved with any of the products in this review, but if you’re going super ultralight, pay extra attention to the weight score. As the second most important metric, weight accounted for 25% of a product’s final score.
It is worth noting that in almost all cases, we chose to test the version or option of each model that had the lightest weight, usually opting for a higher temperature rating to do so. For those who want a bit more warmth and are willing to carry a few extra ounces, there are generally warmer and slightly heavier options available. Many of the products we tested offer an incredible range of customizable parameters, including the option to overfill the bag or add draft tubes. These options can significantly impact the warmth of the bag but may also delay your order and increase the overall price of the product.
When it comes to ultralight sleeping bags, most manage to shave weight by combining high-quality insulation with pared-down features and design. Down provides one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios, which is why it is the insulation of choice in the very lightest products. Down is rated by its fill power, and the higher the number, the more loft it has, and thus the higher quality. In most cases, the bags tested in this review use down with a fill power of 800 or more. The fill power and quantity of down used in each bag can be found in the specs listed for each product.
Not all UL sleeping bags pack down equally!
Credit: Ethan Newman
In the case of most quilts, weight is saved by eschewing fabric or insulation on the underside of the bag. Lightweight straps or string systems help latch the sides of the quilt around the user or a sleeping pad, thereby eliminating the weight of a zipper as well. Quilts also forego a hood, thus avoiding the weight of more fabric and insulation. Some models also feature snaps to wrap the quilt around one’s neck while sleeping — a nice feature, but it can increase the overall weight.
Mummy bags, on the other hand, employ other tricks to save weight. Ultralight fabrics, both on the shell and baffles, reduce weight but usually make the bags more delicate. Smaller zippers have the same effect. Zippers are also often shortened to trim ounces, sacrificing venting possibilities. Most ultralight mummy bags have rather narrow dimensions because less fabric is required, further lightening the bag.
The Sea to Summit Spark 30 spares no extra materials to make a snug fitting hood that perfectly encapsulates your head.
Credit: Justin Simoni
One suggestion when selecting the lightest bag for your needs is to find the limit rating you’re looking to buy, then determine the percentage of total weight that relates to the fill weight of the bag. The closer this ratio gets to 100%, the more you know a product devotes its weight to providing insulation, rather than features. A ratio of 70% can be considered excellent.
We weighed these bags on an independent scale to determine the weight and then assigned the scores comparatively. In the case of quilts that require extra straps or buckles to close or affix them to a sleeping pad, we also included the weight of those straps or buckles. However, we chose to weigh any included stuff or compression sacks separately.
To understand the distributed weight of these ultralight sleeping bags, we weigh each component separately. Shown here is the Neve Gear Waratah 28, which comes with a 1.2-ounce stuff sack and 1.6-ounce sleeping pad straps. The quilt and sack combo came in at 23.6 ounces, with straps.
A surprising front-runner for the lightest bag is the Therm-a-Rest Vesper 32 quilt, coming in at only 15 ounces! It only has nine ounces of 900-fill goose down, which comprises approximately 60% of the total bag’s weight so that it won’t be the warmest bag. The Western Mountaineering HighLite sleeping bag also scored high in terms of weight, coming in at 15 ounces. Being a bag, it has less fill in total, eight ounces, making up 53% of the bag’s weight. It employs numerous ultralight techniques to address the challenge of shedding grams, including utilizing lofty, 850+ fill down, half zips, and thin fabric materials.
Cowboy camping in Utah with the Vesper 32.
Credit: Ethan Newman
A more unique flyweight design, weighing in at 16.2 ounces for a long, is the Feathered Friends Vireo UL, which is designed to have far less warmth in the top portion of the bag. It is meant to be supplemented with an additional insulation layer you’re already packing, while also cutting features to almost nothing, including a lack of a zipper and a hood. This design decision follows the ultralight ethic of prioritizing items that have multiple uses — your insulated jacket — to save weight across your entire pack system.
The Vireo holds more down at the feet as it is designed to be paired with a jacket.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The Western Mountaineering AstraLite and Sea to Summit Spark 30 follow closely behind, both weighing in between 17 and 17.5 ounces. The AstraLite is a quilt-style bag with 850 fill. The Spark 30 is a hooded mummy bag with 850+FP RDS-certified ultra-dry goose down stuffed into its 10D nylon shell.
Comfort
The other half of the equation for a good night’s sleep is comfort. Drafts, drawcords dangling in your face, buckles wedged underneath you, or a claustrophobic shape can all prevent you from sleeping soundly. Being comfortable at night can help you recover from the previous day’s adventures, setting you up for success again the next day. There’s nothing worse than feeling like ending your day loath to even get into a subpar sleeping bag or quilt. This is why comfort is considered important enough to account for 20% of the overall score.
When assessing comfort, the first attribute we examined was how well the bag fits. Our head testers are 5’11” or shorter and fairly athletic, so we ordered all of the test models to suit a person 6’0″ tall and standard width. Usually, this corresponds to a manufacturer’s “Regular” size, but always check their specific size chart before making a purchase.
By ordering them all the same size, we could compare each bag’s fit to the same standard. Luckily for you, most of the bags in this review come in different height and width options, making it easy to customize a bag for your particular shape.
Waking up to a chilly morning after sleeping out in the San Juan Mountains. The Vireo, in blue, and the HighLite in purple.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Rather than reduce the length, most ultralight quilts reduce the width to minimize weight. The comfiest bags provided the most room, allowing us to toss and turn without restriction. Mummy bags are historically cut claustrophobically. But some, like the Feathered Friends Vireo UL, are generously fitted, which is good news since it lacks a zipper. Quilts, on the other hand, offer plenty of room but sometimes yield claustrophobic feelings when we utilize their pad attachment systems. Some quilts were too narrow to wrap ourselves in on chillier nights, no matter how much we repositioned.
The Vireo has a generous opening and width, perfect for those who like to toss and turn or sleep curled up.
Credit: Justin Simoni
On top of the list is the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20. For a mummy bag, it features a fairly generous girth throughout, which is sufficient for our main tester’s more-than-average shoulders. Another winner is the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25, which measures a generous 60 inches around the shoulders. The center half-length zip is unique to other sleeping bags in our lineup and may be a polarizing feature. We found it easier to get in and out of than a short side zip, but we also found the zipper got stuck often in the nylon.
We found the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25 generously wide in the shoulders and the footbed’s design includes extra room for your feet to stuck up. A small tag on the bottom also makes it easier to hang the bag up to dry in the morning.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Many other mummy bags are too constricting and may make you wonder if you’re getting prepped to be buried alive. Other quilts scored just a little lower, including the Western Mountaineering Astralite, which had a standout feature of utilizing a generous draft yoke around the neck to really stop any cold air from coming in. It almost felt like a pillow for the front of your head!
The unique draft yoke of the Western Mountaineering Astralite was one of our favorite features of the quilt.
Credit: Justin Simoni
A quilt that surprised us in comfort was the Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed. We questioned the utility of the Ultralight Sheet we tested with it. Still, during our research, we saw users raving about the supreme comfort the sheet pairing lends to their complete sleep system experience. We found that the secret to its comfort lies in the extra room it provides laterally. If you feel claustrophobic in more conventional sleep systems, or you naturally toss and turn at night, you could benefit from a system like the Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed that builds in room to allow you to do so without letting drafts in every time you move around.
The Zenbivy Ultralight Bed provides ample space for an active sleeper to move throughout the night, without letting in drafts.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Not many other top models of sleeping bags or quilts we tested had absolutely outstanding comfort scores. This doesn’t mean they’re uncomfortable, but it highlights that comfort compromises are made to keep sleeping bags ultralight. If the compromises we’ve documented across all these products in the name of wearing the coveted “ultralight” label are too much, consider a more traditional backpacking sleeping bag.
Related: Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag
Watching the last rays of the day is always better bundled up!
Credit: Justin Simoni
Versatility
If you want a three-season sleeping bag or are planning an epic six-month thru-hike that will span the seasons from a cool spring into a hot summer and back into a brisk fall, then versatility is a critical metric. Versatility refers to the bag’s ability to be used comfortably in various situations. Questions we asked ourselves when rating each bag for versatility were: Is it possible to wrap oneself up like a cocoon to stay warm on the coldest nights? Likewise, is it feasible to open the bag up and ventilate to stay cool on the warmest of nights? Sleeping bags that could do both with ease were the highest scorers in terms of versatility. At the same time, those that pigeonhole themselves into being practical only in one season or temperature range scored the lowest.
In general, quilts are more versatile than ultralight mummy bags, whose half-length zipper is designed with weight savings in mind, often making them harder to ventilate on warm nights in comparison. Quilts and bags that included full-length zippers, or quilts that were long enough and broad enough to wrap oneself up fully, fared the best because they most easily allowed for staying warm on cold nights. Besides being suitable for both hot and cold seasons, we also considered whether a bag would be serviceable in wet climates. Ultralight sleeping bags that use synthetic insulation, which does not clump and continues to provide substantial insulation even when wet, received a bonus.
Our testers enjoying themselves while comparing/contrasting the versatility of the products. Being able to poke your feet out of the bottom of a sleeping bag allows you to walk about your campsite while staying wrapped up on cold mornings.
We also examined whether a bag utilized a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment on its outer shell to protect it from absorbing liquids, such as condensation, or employed a naturally water-resistant fabric, like Pertex Quantum, to achieve the same effect. Lastly, we assessed the packability of the sleeping bag. The smaller it packs down, the easier it is to carry along with you, and for a few outdoor sports, such as bike touring or bikepacking, this is a critical component of whether a piece of gear can be useful or not. As an important metric, but not the most crucial metric we tested, we weighted versatility as 15% of a product’s final score.
On a chilly morning in the desert, we enjoyed the versatility of being able to wear the Flicker 40 with our feet out and the zipper done up, at least until the sun hit.
Credit: Andy Wellman
No question, the most versatile ultralight sleeping bag we tested is the Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL. This bag can transition seamlessly between use as a quilt or a fully enclosed hoodless mummy bag, offering protection for a variety of situations. On the warmest nights, it can be used as a spread-out blanket, ideal for two people, or as a quilt with an enclosed foot box by tightening the drawstring at the end and zipping it up partway. The full-length zipper allows for a snug seal on cold nights, trapping warm air with the help of a neck baffle featuring dual drawcords. No other bag so easily met the demands of all seasons. Although we tested the 40°F version of this bag, it also comes in 30°F and 20°F versions for those who live and play in colder climates or seasons.
Easily transform the Flicker 40 from a sleeping bag mode to an open blanket.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Also scoring well for their versatility are the Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30 and Zpacks Classic. The Hummingbird UL is filled with over 950 RDS-certified goose down and retains warmth thanks to its horizontal baffles and hood. For those warmer nights, the full-length zip helps keep the heat out. The Zpacks Classic is a hoodless mummy bag rated to 20°F with a box baffle construction and a DWR-coated Pertex Nylon shell. It’s ideal for cold nights. It also features a quarter-length zipper, allowing you to open it up like a quilt for warmer nights.
One of the nice things about quilts is how easily they function as blankets to keep one warm while hanging out around camp.
The Neve Gear Waratah 28 offers great value for us, especially since it can be transformed from a closed-up footbox quilt that you can cinch the top collar tightly for cold nights, to an opened-up full rectangular blanket for warmer nights. Use it in blanket mode for hanging out at the campsite after meals while talking through the night.
Like many quilts, the Neve Gear Waratah 28 allows you to zip and cinch it up for colder nights or lay it flat like a conventional blanket during warmer weather.
The other side of the coin to “Versatility” is “Specificity”. You may be planning a trip where perfect weather is all but guaranteed, allowing you to bring only the essentials on a fast and light trip. We were able to eke out a light and fast mission ourselves with the Sea to Summit Traveller 45 and a few other essentials in tow.
If conditions are absolutely perfect, sometimes you can get away with very little. We brought a hyper minimal sleep and shelter system that included the 45°F limit rated Sea to Summit Traveller, which took up little space in our small fastpack.
Features
The features metric is the final piece of the puzzle for understanding how well an individual ultralight sleeping bag performs. A sleeping bag is simply a down-filled sack or blanket designed to keep you warm at night, and the features are all those little components that make it work. Drawstrings, draft collars, zippers, and hoods are all designed to enhance a sleeping bag’s functionality, making it a more useful addition to an efficient sleep system that conserves all the necessary BTUs you produce to sleep soundly.
The most common features found on these bags are zippers, draft collars, cinch cords around the neck, face, hood, or feet, and, in the case of quilts, pad attachment systems. When assessing features, we first looked at whether a bag’s specific features functioned well or if they were finicky and annoying. Then we compared them to similar features on the other bags and rated them in comparison to all the others.
The Hyperion 20 has a two-way zip and top snap, so you can easily dump heat without your head getting exposed.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Zippers that wouldn’t stay zipped or were continually getting stuck in fabric, pad straps that wouldn’t stay attached or wouldn’t lock in place, and drawcords that lacked buckles or wouldn’t stay tight are examples of poorly performing features that caused us to lower the score slightly. The Feathered Friends Hummingbird attempts to solve many of those annoying zipper problems by employing a flexible piece of plastic near the zipper, which prevents the fabric from being sucked into the zipper and getting stuck.
The handy anti-snagging zipper of the Feathered Friends Hummingbird helps this bag smoothly open and close.
Credit: Ian McEleney
The Sea to Summit Spark 30‘s clever zipper plow design also works incredibly well to stop snags from happening. Its svelte design and included compression sack also mean that it compresses down smaller than other bags rated similarly, taking up less space in your pack.
A snagged zipper in our sleeping bag is one of our biggest pet peeves. The anti-snag plow in the Sea to Summit Spark 30 may have pretty much solved this issue!
Credit: Justin Simoni
The Feathered Friends Flicker 40 UL receives one of the highest scores for features. Not only did it have a ton of them: full-length zipper with a reinforced draft tube, drawcord enclosure at the feet, dual drawcord and neck baffle at the head, and optional attachment points for DIY pad straps — but they all worked well. The difference in having a full zipper versus just intermittent buttons or straps to enclose the quilt turned out to be a game-changer for trapping in heat.
The Zenbivy fits more like a conventional bedsheet, rather than fitting tightly around your body. The integrated hood also helps to keep your pillow from migrating during the night.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The Zenbivy Ultralight Muscovy 25 Bed with its complementary Ultralight Sheet is purposely feature-rich. The sheet all but banishes drafts from the sleep system, keeps your pad and pillow in place throughout the night, and provides a useful shelf around your head to stash an insulated jacket for added coziness.
Many quilts feature a transformable footbox that allows you to choose how enclosed they are, which really helps in modulating heat retention.
Many quilts have a variety of shared features that allow you to transform them from a quilt with a footbox to a flat blanket using a series of snaps, straps, and zippers. Find them in the Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20, the Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX 30, the Katabatic Gear Flex 22 Quilt, and the Hammock Gear Economy Burrow 20.
A warm night in the Black Canyon was a great excuse for Cowboy camping in the Katabatic Gear Palisade 30. We loved the adjustability of the pad attachment straps on this pleasant evening.
How to Pick the Best Ultralight Sleeping Bag for You
Ready to lighten your load and start sleeping on what could be mistaken as a heavenly cloud of soft, lofty insulation? Here are a few questions to think about before you head to the store, or visit our full Buying Advice article for a more in-depth discussion on what to consider.
An ultralight sleeping bag can be one part of a holistic system of simple and lightweight gear. This bag reaches its bantamweight by forgoing a hood, a zipper, and even has different temperature rating zones to use materials as frugally as possible. Paired with a whispy bivvy and dyneema tarp, the base weight of the entire pack can easily dip below ten pounds.
Credit: Justin Simoni
What Makes a Sleeping Bag Ultralight?
Although we’ll discuss weight extensively, Ultralight Backpacking in general is not just about bringing the lightest gear possible on your trip. It is a holistic ethos about packing carefully and thoughtfully, only bringing exactly what you need to be happy, comfortable, and safe for the trip you have planned. Traveling light means an easier experience when moving over distances on foot, and potentially fewer aches and pains when you finally wriggle into your sleeping bag. Less is more in the Ultralight World!
This ultralight bag in its included stuff sack barely weighs over a pound, making a big difference when it’s a part of your total pack weight.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Ulralight gear often sacrifices features and design components that can make other types of camping gear comfortable. This can mean using lighter, more delicate materials (which are at risk of damage), a higher power weight for the insulation (at a higher cost), shorter and smaller zippers and cinches (which are more prone to snagging), and reduced sizing, especially in the girth of the bag.
Small, lightweight features can make a big difference. This cinchable footbox gives excellent flexibility to how comfortable this bag is in a variety of different overnight temps.
Credit: Justin Simoni
The bags and quilts we tested range in weight from 15 ounces to just over 1.5 pounds. In contrast, our “backpacking” sleeping bag category runs from about 1.25 to 3.5 pounds. There is some overlap, and the differences might seem minor, but as ultralight hikers say, “ounces make pounds, and pounds make pain.” If you’re unsure which category is right for you, consider checking both out before making a purchase decision.
Like many quilts, this one can open up into a full blanket for warm weather sleeping.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Which is Better: an Ultralight Sleeping Bag or Quilt?
One of the most noticeable differences between ultralight sleeping bags and conventional sleeping bags is the introduction of the quilt design. Generally, a quilt is more like a tapered blanket that you attach directly to your sleeping pad. Most quilts do not wrap fully around the sleeper, saving on material and thus weight, which your body would otherwise compress and render minimally useful. Quilts are also generally more versatile, as they can either be used just like a blanket or cinched up to more closely approximate a hoodless sleeping bag.
Quilts, like the Enlightened Equipment APEX 30, often have straps to keep them in place on the sleeping pad.
Credit: Justin Simoni
If you’re planning to travel through a variety of different temperature ranges — especially on the warmer side — consider bringing a quilt. They are often more comfortable than bags that have few features for extreme thermoregulation. In colder temps, a mummy sleeping bag may be a better choice to ensure your head stays warm overnight and no unexpected drafts sneak in. Ultralight packing is all about making the right compromises for your specific trip conditions.
Make sure the gear you select is appropriate for the conditions. For this late season trip, a heavier quilt system made more sense than a lighter one.
Credit: Justin Simoni
One ultralight pitfall is not going warm enough, choosing a sleeping bag or quilt with a low weight that does not match your temperature needs. If you need to pack supplemental clothing to fill a warmth gap, you are not saving any weight in your pack. Generally, a slightly heavier and warmer sleeping bag is a more efficient choice, both in terms of weight and volume.
What Do Temperature Ratings Mean?
This sleeping bag with a limit rating of 30F is very appropriate for higher elevation conditions during the summer. Some clever features include a draft tube that helps stop drafts from entering in from the zipper.
All the bags and quilts in our lineup are rated with a Manufacturer’s self-reported “Limit Rating” (unless otherwise noted), based on their extensive field testing. This is the lowest temperature at which a sleeping bag is recommended for use. For a truly comfortable night’s sleep, consider aiming for a bag designed for slightly cooler conditions. Most sleeping bags will also list a Comfort Rating to help shoppers gauge the options that suit their needs. However, it is important to note that both Comfort Ratings and Limit Ratings typically target male shoppers. Women, who often sleep colder, may want to adjust the temperature range they seek to slightly lower numbers to ensure adequate warmth. Of course, everyone is different, so always take these ratings with a grain of salt and adjust your expectations accordingly.
International Temperature Standards
While international testing standards (EN and ISO) exist for sleeping bags, there is debate among manufacturers and users about the accuracy and value of those results. For quilts, such standards do not exist, which means, by default, all ultralight quilts are manufacturer-rated.
Our selection of ultralight sleeping bags and quilts is generally geared towards three-season backpacking, with limit ratings ranging from 20°F for the coldest conditions to 40°F for the warmest. For fair-weather backpacking in mild conditions, a 35°F to 40°F limit-rated bag or quilt may be all you need. If you’re trekking up high mountain passes in the Sierra or Rocky Mountains, consider a bag with a temperature range of 20°F to 32°F.
This high-powered down quilt lofts up super high, providing excellent insulative qualities for the weight, while also packing down small, saving space in your pack.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Down or Synthetic Insulation?
Down fill from ducks or geese is the most common insulation used in ultralight sleeping bags. Insulating feathers are blown into strategically sewn pockets, known as baffles, built into the bag’s shell. The quality of this down directly impacts its warmth. Fill power is the measurement of its loft (the “fluffiness”) as it is directly related to the down’s ability to insulate — the higher the better, and the lighter. A fill power of 850 is of excellent quality, but 900-950+ is even better; however, the cost typically increases to match. Targeted placement, fill power, and carefully considered closures combine to trap warm air inside your bag, ensuring body heat is captured in areas around your body that need it most. Down has extraordinary insulating qualities, especially for its weight, making it a near-perfect natural material for sleeping bags and quilts.
This synthetic insulated sleeping bag performs well, but will take up more volume in your pack than a comparable down filled bag — one of the compromises of using synthetic insulation.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Synthetic insulation in ultralight options does exist, but it isn’t easy to match the insulating power of down for the weight required. Yet synthetic insulation will perform better when wet, as down loses all its insulating power when exposed to moisture. Synthetic is also easier to dry. For trips in rainy environments, a synthetic bag can be the best choice.
The length of this ultralight sleeping bag was spot on, but the girth was at the limit of what our tester found to be reasonable for their own body.
Credit: Justin Simoni
What Size Ultralight Sleeping Bag Should I Buy?
In some cases, down sleeping bags and quilts are a little more constrictive in their dimensions. Generally, we’ve found length measurements to be spot on, so if a manufacturer claims that a sleeping bag in a certain size will accommodate a person up to 6 feet tall, they’re being realistic. Be a little more careful with girth measurements. When available, we’ve documented the shoulder, waist, and footbox girth of all the bags in this lineup to help you decide if they’re wide enough for you. Remember that quilts may have a smaller girth — especially in the shoulders, as they’re designed to be attached to a sleeping mat, which itself can be 20-25 inches or wider.
Well-designed features used intelligently are the hallmark of excellent ultralight gear, like sleeping bags.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Conclusion
Sleeping bags have been around for a long time, and the market is flush with options for use in or outside of a tent. Everything from old-school, square-cut monstrosities to airy space-age quilts and everything in between. For this review, we specifically singled out ultralight sleeping bag and quilt options because the world of backpacking is only getting leaner as companies shave down the ounces in their gear and people start appreciating a faster and lighter approach. These bags are designed for individuals who want to move quickly and far in a wilderness setting, without the added weight of a bulky backpack, and generally during warm weather conditions. This includes activities such as thru-hiking, fastpacking, bikepacking, alpine climbing, adventure racing, and bike touring. We hope our extensive comparison helps you find the right choice for your backcountry adventures.
Destinations & Things To Do
Spain’s Domestic Travel Surge: Top National Destinations for July Long Weekend
Spain’s domestic travel surge has taken center stage this July, as Spanish residents opt overwhelmingly for getaways within their own borders. Fueled by the long weekend around July 25, traditionally marked by the Feast of Saint James, travel activity is peaking from major hubs like Madrid, Galicia, and the Basque Country.
According to booking insights from online travel giant eDreams, sun-drenched coastal spots and vibrant cities are attracting the lion’s share of attention. The data reveals strong interest in both traditional beach retreats and cultural urban escapes, reflecting a summer trend that blends relaxation with exploration.
Beachfront Bliss and Urban Adventures Dominate the Weekend
Coastal Escapes Lead the Rankings
As temperatures rise and vacation days align with the extended weekend, destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Tenerife, Ibiza, Málaga, Menorca, Alicante, and Gran Canaria top the list for domestic beach travel. These locations remain perennial favorites thanks to their combination of warm climates, iconic coastlines, and dynamic leisure offerings.
eDreams data points to a strong correlation between city of departure and destination type. Travelers from Madrid and northern Spain are most drawn to coastal locales, looking to unwind along the Balearic and Canary Islands or on the Mediterranean coast.
City Breaks Still in High Demand
Major cities aren’t left behind. Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Sevilla continue to draw visitors seeking culture, cuisine, and history. These urban destinations are ideal for travelers seeking quick yet enriching weekend trips without leaving the country.
This urban trend underlines the growing popularity of short-format travel that combines accessibility with rich cultural experiences — ideal for the limited timeframe of a holiday bridge.
Where Travelers Are Coming From — and Going
Key Departures and Arrivals
The long weekend holiday sees travelers departing primarily from Santiago de Compostela, La Coruña, Vigo, Madrid, and Bilbao. The same cities — especially those in Galicia — are also receiving a notable influx of travelers, with Santiago de Compostela emerging as a significant hub due to its religious and historical significance during the Feast of Saint James.
In fact, the influx of domestic and international tourists to Galicia underscores the symbolic and cultural importance of this region during late July. International visitors also show interest, with travelers from Germany, the United Kingdom, and France arriving to take part in the festivities and summer atmosphere.
Top Destinations Based on eDreams Bookings
| Top National Destinations | Top International Destinations |
|---|---|
| Palma de Mallorca | Paris |
| Tenerife | London |
| Ibiza | Lisbon |
| Málaga | Rome |
| Madrid | – |
| Barcelona | – |
Planning Ahead or Booking Last-Minute?
Booking Habits Vary by Region
One of the more revealing trends from the eDreams analysis is the mixed approach to planning. While some travelers booked their trips more than two months in advance, others waited until just weeks — or even days — before departure.
For instance, 46% of travelers headed to Vigo and 39% of those traveling to La Coruña made their reservations within the last month. Meanwhile, a more organized 25% of visitors to Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela had confirmed plans over two months prior.
Short-Term and Spontaneous Travel on the Rise
This dual behavior reflects a broader shift in travel habits, where flexibility is key. With platforms like eDreams offering dynamic packages and real-time availability, travelers are empowered to make quick decisions without sacrificing choice or quality.
Whether meticulously planned or spontaneously booked, the July long weekend proves that Spain’s passion for local travel remains strong. From serene coastlines to buzzing cities, domestic destinations are thriving this season.
In this Wanderlust feature, we ask five tastemakers what their summer plans are. From revealing their top travel wishlist destinations, to insights on what their summer travelling plans looks like, these ladies take us on a journey into a high-summer. Along with picturesque travel inspo, they also reveal what they’re packing for their trips – for the ultimate summer inspo guide.
Her Excellency Khawla Al Serkal | Director General – Sharjah Ladies Club (Slc)
This is The Travel Issue – which locations are top of your travel list?
Cannes, Lugano, and Lake Como are at the top of my travel list. Cannes is always captivating – with its effortless blend of elegance, seaside charm, and cultural vibrancy, it’s the perfect place to immerse myself in art, film, and French Riviera glamour. Lugano offers a peaceful escape where Swiss precision meets Italian soul – its lakeside beauty and Alpine views make it a serene yet sophisticated destination. And Lake Como, with its timeless romance, historic villas, and calm waters, is simply a dream. Together, these places reflect the kind of travel I love – elegant, inspiring, and deeply rejuvenating.
Where will you be travelling to this summer?
This summer, I’ll be travelling to a few favourite destinations, but one that’s become a cherished yearly tradition is our family trip to Évian, France. Tucked between the Alps and Lake Geneva, Évian offers the perfect balance of nature, tranquility, and wellness. It’s a peaceful escape where the kids can enjoy the outdoors, and I can unwind in the crisp mountain air. From lakefront walks to fresh local cuisine, it’s a place that feels both grounding and rejuvenating. It’s not just a getaway – it’s a summer ritual that brings us together as a family in the most meaningful way.
Mona Bin Kalli | Entrepreneur
This is The Travel Issue – which locations are top of your travel list?
My favourite summer destination is Sardinia in Italy. The coastline is breathtaking with crystal clear emerald water. The entire island is stunning!
Where will you be travelling to this summer?
This summer I’ll be travelling to London, Paris and hopefully make it to Sardinia, which is my birthday ritual.
Jihane El Alaoui | Content Creator
This is The Travel Issue – which locations are top of your travel list?
London, Mykonos, Bodrum, Paris and Courchevel are on top of my travel list at the moment. I can’t wait to visit these destinations!
Where will you be travelling to this summer?
This summer, I’ll be travelling across Bodrum and Mykonos for a beautiful coastal escape. I might also head to the Maldives at the end of my trip.
Latifa Al Shamsi | Beauty & Fashion Content Creator
This is The Travel Issue – which locations are top of your travel list?
Japan and Morocco are currently at the top of my list. I love Japan for its unique blend of tradition and innovation – and Morocco for its colours, culture, and timeless charm. Both inspire me creatively in very different ways.
Where will you be travelling to this summer?
This summer is a beautiful mix of familiar favourites and new adventures. I’ll be spending time in Bodrum, Egypt, and Lebanon. And for a family escape, we’re still deciding – but it’s likely to be somewhere vibrant and exciting in Asia.
Natasha Oakley | Founder – Monday Swimwear
This is The Travel Issue – which locations are top of your travel list?
Dubai had been at the top of my list before this year. I’d visited when I was younger, but this January was my first time returning, and it was such a special trip. I absolutely loved my time there – it was even more meaningful because we were there with Monday Swimwear to celebrate our launch on Ounass. Next on my list is Africa. I’ve been dreaming of going on safari for as long as I can remember. I’d also love to explore South Africa – it’s been high on my list for years and I hope to make it happen soon.
Where will you be travelling to this summer?
I’m actually in the middle of my summer travels now. We started our trip in Paris, and I’ve spent the past few weeks in Greece, mixing work and leisure. My husband is Greek and we love coming back each year – this time we’ve had the chance to explore even more of the country. Devin, my best friend and business partner, has been with me the whole time as well, and we’ll be wrapping up this leg of the trip together at the end of our time in Greece. Italy is always calling us back – it’s probably our favourite destination. My husband and I got engaged in Capri three years ago and married there two years ago, so it holds a very special place in our hearts. We’ll be visiting Capri again this year, as well as Ischia and the Amalfi Coast. Usually we’d stay a little longer, but I’m heading back earlier than usual because we’re opening our very first Monday Swimwear store in Beverly Hills in mid-July. It’s such a huge moment for us, and I can’t wait.
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
- Hightower Top Parking Lot (908.8) to Bearfence Mountain Hut (919.1)
- 2438 feet ascent 1955 feet descent
The Heat Dome is officially over. The differnce in the air temperature and the humidity is profound. The last few days, taking in air was hard. The high humidity left us gasping for oxygen among the H2O laden air.
Both of us were awful at chemistry but it didn’t take a rocket scientist to understand that the ratio of hydrogen (H) to oxygen (0) was off kilter.
Early Shuttle
Wayne, our amazing shuttle driver said he was up at 5 am and would take us to the trail as early as we liked. We decided on 7 am, just on case we wanted to sleep in.
We were up early and ready at 6:30 am. Wayne was early too so it was an unintended meeting of the minds.
We returned his free bottle of scentfree laundry soap and added to the shuttle hiker box my leftover 1/2 shaker of bottle medicated powder.
Another Fast Start
After low temperatures in the 80s, the mid 70 temperature of early morning was refreshing. We zoomed through the mile and a half we had skipped ahead in just 25 minutes. Had we done it two days before, I expect it would have been two or three times longer.
We were encouraged and happy. It felt like a different life than the heavy drudgery of just 36 hours prior.
First Blackberries
At 8:36 am, we encountered a patch of ripe wild blackberries the Shennandoah are famed for. They were so delicious.
Many trail snacks are berry flavored. Nothing compares to fresh picked, wild berries. Even our organic home dehydrated berries paled by comparison.
We remembered together the fun we had last summer Huckleberry picking. Huckleberries are to Glacier National Park what blackberries are to the Shennandoah. Tourists come to eat Huckleberry foods and go pick some.
Last summer was a particularly good year for berries and tourists. Visitors go on organized berry excursions where they are given buckets and a brief lesson in berry picking. No one ever tells them the BIG berries are up the steep hillsides on bushes that are hue from accumulated snow melt. Thwy stick to the sides of the trail where the bushes are short and the berries tasty, but small.
Passers by notice us deep in the bushes and turn their heads away in modesty. They all assume we are on cathole patrol, not picking berries.
This summer, we enjoyed our berries trailside, tourist style. We were focused on hiking, not berry picking. Also, we were concerned not to eat too many berries and accidentally increase our cathole patrol.
More Food
We brought out sandwiches .adequate from vegetables, sour dough bread and pimento cheese. We burried them in our packs to keep them cool. They were a great post berry repast.
For dinner, we ate apples. They were a crisp and refreshing dinner after a long, still hot hike. Carrying them was well worth the extra weight.
Bouncing on Blowdowns
The afternoon threatened thunder and lightening. We paid close attention to where the rumbles issued forth. We did not want to be on an open, rocky sections with no cover.
After a couple of hours of vigilance, along with temperatures in the low 90s, we were wearing down. The day was a rocking success, but it was getting time to rest and sleep.
Our speed gradually increased in a fit of “horse to the barn” syndrome. I stepped tall and wode to clear a 2 foot high blowdown. My trailing right foot almost cleared the blowdown but not quite.
I found myself hanging a couple of feet above the ground, face down over a blowdown, balanced precariously on my left hiking pole, eyeball to eyeball with a patch of poison ivy.
So much for hurrying. Never works. We extracted me successfully without engaging the poisen ivy. We hoped.
Limping into Home Plate
The fall was relatively inconsequential but having jammed my fist and hiking pole into my rib I did notice. As we rounded the bend to the shelter, I spotted the first of the summer eccanacia.
It is well known for its healing power. Tonight, its golden rays made me feel better just by looking at it.
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