Are you trying to decide between a mummy and a rectangular sleeping bag? If so, you’re not alone. Whether you are planning a camping trip, hiking adventure or weekend getaway in colder weather, deciding which type of sleeping bag is best for your needs can be a daunting task. Let us help! In this blog post, we’ll provide full information and useful tips to help make your decision easier.
Do I Need a Sleeping Pad?
If you’re going for a mummy bag, you’ll definitely want to invest in some kind of quality mattress or camping pad, as it can help provide additional insulation from the ground and make your sleep much more comfortable. On the other hand, if you opt for a rectangular bag, then there is not usually an extra requirement for purchasing any pads — but that doesn’t mean they aren’t necessary. Depending on the type of surface that you’ll be camping on (such as rocky terrain), it may still be beneficial to purchase some kind of sleeping pad in order to provide extra cushioning and support.
Mummy vs. Rectangular Sleeping Bag – Compared
Mummy and rectangular bags are two of the most popular types of camping gear, but which one is right for you? That depends on a few different factors. Here’s how the two stack up against each other in terms of warmth, portability and comfort.
The Mummy Sleeping Bag
A mummy bag is a snug-fitting, elongated sleeping bag that tapers around the shoulders and narrows towards the feet. It’s designed to keep your entire body enclosed in warmth and provide you with a cozy night’s sleep. They come in varying sizes, from petite to extra long, so you can find one to fit your body shape perfectly. They also usually feature more insulation than rectangular ones, meaning they retain more heat while keeping out cold drafts.
The benefit of using a mummy bag is that it keeps your whole body warm, making it great for cold weather trips or winter hikes. In addition, most of them are lightweight and highly compressible.
The Rectangular Sleeping Bag
A rectangular bag is a larger, more traditional-style sleeping bag with plenty of room inside to move around or change position as necessary. It usually has a zipper along one side that you can open partially or all the way depending on how warm you want to stay. They’re wider than mummy bags, which makes them great for sharing with another person or providing an extra room.
Rectangular bags are also usually less expensive and provide more insulation options. Some models come with adjustable drawstrings so that you can tighten the hood to keep out cold drafts and block out more heat.
Mummy vs. Rectangular – The Ultimate Sleeping Bag Showdown
Warmth
Mummy bags offer superior insulation due to their snug fit. This means that your body heat will stay trapped inside the bag, allowing you to remain comfortable even in cold temperatures. On the flip side, rectangular ones don’t provide as much insulation because they don’t fit as close to your body.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort levels, rectangular bags tend to have an edge here. They provide more space for movement and are ideal if you like having the freedom to move around while you sleep. Mummy bags are less comfortable because their tight shape limits movement.
Portability
If you’re looking for a sleeping bag that won’t take up too much space when you’re packing, then mummy bags are definitely the way to go. Because they are designed to fit close to your body, they can be packed away into a small, lightweight package. Rectangular bags don’t compress as well and will usually require more room in your pack.
Versatility
Rectangular bags come out on top here. Since they have a looser fit, you can use them as a blanket or throw in other outdoor situations. Mummy bags don’t offer the same level of flexibility and are best suited for their intended purpose – sleeping outdoors in cold temperatures.
Affordability
Both types provide a good balance between price and performance. Prices vary widely depending on the materials used, but overall you will be able to find good quality options for sleep in either style. [1]
Weight
Mummy bags tend to be significantly lighter than rectangular ones, meaning that you can save on weight when packing for a backpacking trip. Rectangular bags are also available in lightweight models but they won’t weigh as little as mummy bags.
Roominess
It’s clear that rectangular bags come out on top when it comes to roominess. Not only do they have a fuller cut, but they also provide more space for you to move around in. Mummy bags, meanwhile, are designed with insulation and warmth in mind – not necessarily comfort.
Packed Size
Mummy bags win out once again. They compress down far more than rectangular ones and will take up much less space in your pack. This is great if you’re short on space or want to save on weight when carrying a sleeping bag. [2]
Price
Lastly, price is another factor that can influence your decision. Rectangular bags are usually less expensive than mummy ones because they have a simpler design. However, this does not mean that they are a better value – both types offer high-quality insulation and construction.
Take some time to consider what features are important for you and then make an informed choice based on your needs.
Are There Other Types of Sleeping Bags?
Yes! In addition to the two main types of sleeping bags — mummy and rectangular — there are several other styles to choose from. If neither mummy nor rectangular seems like the right option for you, consider a few alternatives:
- Double Sleeping Bag: It is essentially two sleeping bags zipped together and designed for two people. It’s wider than both previous types and more comfortable for couples or families.
- Quilt Sleeping Bags: These lightweight, packable bags are great if you need something ultra-portable. They come with straps that can be attached to your sleeping mat, so you don’t slip off the night.
- Lightweight Sleeping Bags: These bags are designed to be lightweight and packable, without sacrificing comfort or warmth. They’re great for backpackers who need something that won’t weigh them down on their journey. [3]
Ensure to test it out before your camping trip — especially if you’re buying online! That way, you can ensure that it will provide the warmth and comfort.
Which Characteristics of Sleeping Bags Are Best?
The type of insulation used is the most crucial factor. There are two types: down and synthetic. Down offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio and compresses more easily than synthetics. Synthetic materials offer good warmth retention but at a much heavier weight than their down counterpart.
This measures how cold of a temperature you can expect the bag to keep you warm. Generally speaking, Mummy bags tend to have better ratings because their design holds more heat than Rectangular Bags do. If you’re planning on camping in extreme temperatures then it’s best to invest in a high-end mummy bag with a higher climate rating.
FAQ
Which shape sleeping bag is best?
The answer depends on personal preference, but a mummy bag is a better choice for cold weather camping. It provides more warmth than a rectangular design due to its snug fit that holds body heat in and keeps cold air out. It’s also much lighter and smaller when packed up. However, if you’re looking for extra space to move around or you don’t plan on camping in cold climates, then a rectangular bag may be the best option for you. Plus, they often come with additional features like pockets and zippers for storage. [4]
Are mummy bags better?
Mummy bags are often considered to be the superior choice for lightweight camping. They offer a snug fit and can keep you warm in cold temperatures, making them well suited for hikers who want to pack light. The downside is that they’re sometimes too confining and lack flexibility. If you’re looking for something with more room, a rectangular bag might be a better choice.
Rectangular bags have plenty of space to move around in and are great for those who don’t like feeling confined. They also come with extra features such as pockets and hoods, which can add comfort on chilly nights. They tend to be heavier, making them less ideal if you need to conserve weight. [5]
If you prefer more space and don’t mind the extra weight, then a rectangular bag might be the better option for you. But if you want something lightweight and compact that will keep you warm in cold climates, then a mummy bag is probably the way to go.
What is a rectangular sleeping bag good for?
Rectangular sleeping bags are great for a variety of different things. They can be used for camping, hiking, canoeing, and more. They are roomier than mummy style bags, so they allow you to stretch out when sleeping in them. This is especially useful if you’re tall or just have bigger body proportions that may not fit into a mummy bag comfortably.
They are also good for car trips since you don’t need as much space as with a larger tent. Plus, they’re often easier to transport since most rectangular bags come with straps that you can use to attach to the top of your car or truck.
Rectangular bags also come with extra features like hoods and pockets for storing additional items. They also come with zippers that help you control how much heat you’re retaining inside the bag – this is a nice feature to have if you’re camping during cooler temperatures.
Finally, rectangular bags are generally more affordable than mummy style bags and can be found in a variety of different designs and colors. So, they can be great options for those on tight budgets or who just aren’t looking for anything too fancy when it comes to their sleeping gear.
What are the benefits of a mummy sleeping bag?
A mummy bag offers a few key benefits over a rectangular one.
The most obvious benefit is that it provides superior insulation since its shape fits more snugly around your body, trapping heat in and keeping cold air out. It can even help you stay warm in extreme temperatures due to its tightly-fitted design. Plus, the extra fabric of a mummy bag will also minimize any outside drafts that can make you uncomfortable while sleeping outdoors.
Another great benefit is its light weight and compact size when compared with rectangular bags. Its slim profile makes it easier to carry on hikes or camping trips where every ounce counts. Many modern mummy bags are also equipped with features such as built-in hoods and zippers to help keep you warm and comfortable.
Finally, mummy sleeping bags are generally more affordable than rectangular ones because of their simpler construction. This makes them a great option for those who don’t want to break the bank but still want quality gear that will last.
Useful Video: Difference Between Mummy & Square Sleeping Bags : Backpacking Supplies
Conclusion
Picking the right sleeping bag or quilt is an important decision you need to make when planning a camping trip. Regardless of whether you choose a mummy or rectangular sleeping bag, by following our tips in this guide, you will be sure to find one that best suits your needs and budget. Be sure to consider factors such as size and weight, warmth rating, fill material, and overall quality before making your purchase. Mummy bags are great for those who prioritize warmth and weight reduction but can feel restrictive for some sleepers. A rectangular bag offers more legroom and comfort at the expense of weighing more than a mummy bag. All things considered, it’s really up to your personal preference which type of bag works best for you! Whatever you decide, we hope this guide has helped provide some useful information. Happy camping!
References:
- https://wildernesstimes.com/mummy-vs-rectangular-sleeping-bag/
- https://purehiker.com/mummy-vs-rectangular-sleeping-bags/
- https://coolofthewild.com/types-of-sleeping-bags/
- https://nordisk.eu/info/guide/nordisk-academy/sleeping-bags/shape
- https://wildernesstimes.com/mummy-vs-rectangular-sleeping-bag/