As an enthusiastic ultralight backpacker, I’m always on the lookout for ways to lighten my pack without sacrificing comfort or warmth (too much). One area where there has been a significant innovation and change in attitude of my fellow outdoor lovers over the past few years is in lightweight sleep systems. Gone are the days when the traditional mummy bag was the only option. I still feel claustrophobic thinking back to some nights all twisted and sweaty in my mummy bag. Today, we have a variety of more unconventional sleep systems that cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of these alternatives to the mummy bag (which still has it’s use though) and how you can make the most of them on your next adventure.
Mummy bag, be gone!!
Some years ago, if you wanted a lightweight sleep system, your choices were pretty limited to the conventional mummy bag, maybe you would find a hoodless one, weighing a little less. These bags, known for their snug fit and less optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, have long been the go-to for backpackers. However, they often sacrifice comfort for weight savings, but luckily there are some good alternatives.
Today, the landscape is changing. While mummy bags still dominate the “normal outdoor market”, we see more and more backpackers moving towards a quilt. These quilts are more often being made by smaller, niche manufacturers (like Enlightened Equipment). These new designs aim to provide comfort and warmth without the bulk and weight of traditional bags. Despite their slow adoption in the mass market probably mostly based on a lack of understanding and of common expcetance, these systems are gaining traction among ultralight backpackers.
Why Consider a “non conventional” Sleep Systems?
Unconventional sleep systems, such as quilts, top bags, and wearable bags, offer several advantages over traditional mummy bags:
Weight Savings: By eliminating unnecessary layers and focusing on essential insulation, these systems can significantly reduce pack weight. In a mummy you are basically compressing a lot of nice insulation.
Flexibility: Many unconventional sleep systems allow for greater movement and customization. For example, quilts can be paired with different clothing layers to dial in comfort for varying conditions.
Innovative Design: New ways of insulating, new and lighter materials, all these things can help create a lighter and hopefully better sleeping “system” (whether it is a bag, quilt or something else)
What alternatives are there for a traditional mummy sleeping bag.
Quilts: Quilts are more and more common and offer a versatile and lightweight option for backpackers. Unlike mummy bags, quilts lack a bottom layer, relying on your sleeping pad for insulation. This design reduces weight and allows for more freedom of movement. Quilts are particularly popular among side sleepers who find mummy bags too restrictive.
Top Bags: These are similar to quilts but include a bottom layer with no insulation, reducing weight while providing a bit more structure than a quilt. Top bags often feature straps or sleeves to secure the bag to your sleeping pad, preventing you from rolling off during the night.
Wearable Bags: These hybrid designs combine a sleeping bag with insulated clothing. You sometimes see this in the form of a sleeping bag for just your legs (elephants foot) in combination with an insulated down jacket. Wearable bags can have openings for your arms and legs, allowing you to wear them around camp. They can save weight by eliminating the need for separate insulated clothing, although they might not be as warm or comfortable as dedicated sleeping bags and clothing. These are not my cup of tea yet.
Get the most out of your ultralight sleeping kit
To get the most out of your unconventional sleep system, consider the following tips:
Insulation Control: Learn to roll inside your quilt rather than with it to avoid cold spots and drafts. This habit helps maintain consistent insulation around your body. This takes some time getting used to if you are new to a quilt, but after a few nights you will get the hang of it.
Draft Control: Use insulating clothing, a bivy sack, or an insulated balaclava to manage drafts and boost warmth. Combining these elements with a quilt or top bag can significantly enhance your sleep system’s performance.
Pad Control: So often overlooked, a good (and insulating) sleep pad is essential in combination with a quilt. Ensure your sleeping pad is adequate for the conditions (and has a sufficient R-value). For colder temperatures, consider using a thicker or higher R-value pad to prevent heat loss to the ground.
Mind Control: In unexpected cold conditions, staying still and meditating can help conserve heat. I am not a rockstar in that, so for me, simple tricks like using a hot water bottle (fill up your Nalgene with some hot water) or a heat pad is an easy way to warm up the bag and stay a bit more toasty. You could also do some exercises (jumping jacks) and get warm and straight into bed, but that does not always work for me. Eating high-fat foods before bed can also help you stay warm.
In conclusion
Unconventional sleep systems like quilts and top bags are a promising and often much lighter and more packable alternative to traditional mummy bags for ultralight backpackers. By understanding and optimizing these systems, you can enjoy a lighter, more flexible sleep setup that meets your needs in various conditions. Whether you’re out for a short micro-adventure in your local forest or hiking through the mountains, knowing how to use your quilt in combination with other items (to keep you warm and toasty or cooler at night) can definitely enhance your backcountry experience, providing comfort and warmth without the weight.
Happy trails and sweet dreams under the stars!
As ultralight enthusiasts we all know the value of our precious down-filled jackets, sleeping bags and quilts. They offer unmatched insulation with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, down is the cornerstone of ultralight backpacking, hiking, and outdoor adventures. Its packability and breathability make it ideal for everything from sleeping bags and quilts to jackets and booties.
However, if we want to keep enjoying our puffy down gear, we also have the responsibility of maintaining our fluffy quilts, bags and jackets. By cleaning it you will prolong its life and performance. We have written up a few tips on how to care for your ultralight down items.
Cleaning Frequency
Your down gear’s cleaning schedule totally depends on how intense you use your hear and how much you expose it to dirt and oils. Spot cleaning can address minor spills, but a thorough wash is necessary when the gear loses loft, breathability, or starts to smell (nobody likes smelly gear). For example you can keep your quilt a bit cleaner when you use a liner (but that also brings extra weight, so leave that at home most of the time)
Washing Ultralight Down Gear: a few tips
Hand Washing
Our preferred method for washing is by hand. It is especially suitable for delicate down items with very fine down (800+ quid) and thin fabrics (10D and under). Use a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water (don’t make it too hot, feel with your elbow) and a down-specific detergent/soap (there are several good brands we like, Grangers for example). Gently massage and rinse until clean, avoiding wringing. Push the water out and let the item air dry with no heat. I often lay it in the shower on a flat drying rack. You can also use a dryer on a cold program. toss in a couple of tennis balls (yes, with your quilt or bag in the dryer) to break up clumps. Let’s break it into a few easy to follow steps:
Before you start, check if you don’t have anything left in your pockets, close zippers and get ropes and stuff tucked away.
Use a bathtub or a big bucket (we have used a large cement mixing bucket from the DIY shop) and fill with Luke warm water.
Add a down-specific soap. Don’t put too much soap in it.
Put your gear in, pressing it gently to ensure it’s fully soaked. Take it easy and gentle, don’t go rough to protect the delicate down clusters.
Let it soak in the soap and water for at least 15 minutes (longer if it is really gross), thus allowing the detergent to work its magic on dirt and stains.
After this drain the soapy water and push it gently out of your down item, avoiding any twisting or wringing to prevent damage.
Re-fill the tub or basin with fresh water and gently massage the down item to rinse away any remaining soap residue. Let it sit for an extra 5 minutes before draining.
Repeat the rinsing process until the water runs clear, this can take a couple of turns
Take the gear out of the water and be careful not to let the down clump together at the bottom. Push the water out gently.
To pre-dry, gently press or roll your down gear in a clean towel (or sandwich it between two dry towels) to remove excess water.
Leave to drip on a flat serface if still very wet or transfer your wet down gear to a dryer, along with a couple of tennis balls to help fluff it up (yes, that works perfectly). Set the dryer to a ‘no heat’ or ‘low heat’ setting.
Check periodically to ensure the drying progress, extending the time if necessary until your item is completely dry. Remember, even if it feels dry on the outside, moisture could still be trapped inside.
Depending on the size and wetness of your item, drying may take several hours.
Once dry, remove your down gear from the dryer and gently break up any clumps by hand. You may need to pat down any areas that are still uneven to help them regain their shape.
Leave to air dry for a couple of days (that is at least something we do, to ensure it is fully dried)
Always store in a big bag in a dry place.
Machine Washing
If you happen to have a good front-loading washing machine with a special program. In that case machine washing can be efficient and effective. Use a cold water program, a gentle cycle (no centrifuging), and again a down-specific detergent. Let it drip dry flat to remove the excess water first and after a while transfer to a dryer on a no-heat setting with tennis balls to fluff the down.
Pros and Cons
Hand Washing:
Gentle on delicate items
using your hands can prevent lumping the down
You can focus to clean specific areas
Cons: Time-consuming, requires manual effort
Machine Washing:
Time-efficient, easier soap removal
Shorter drying times due to the spin cycle
Cons: Potential warranty issues, not suitable for all machines
Conclusion
Maintaining your ultralight down gear through proper washing and care ensures it continues to provide the exceptional warmth and comfort essential for your outdoor adventures. Whether you choose hand or machine washing, the effort will extend the life and performance of your valuable gear, keeping you ready for whatever the trail brings (and it smells a lot nicer ;-).
Remember, taking care of your gear means it will take care of you, enhancing your outdoor experiences and ensuring your adventures are as lightweight and comfortable as possible. And always read the manufacturer’s label to see the washing instructions and be careful not to void warranty. Happy trails.
Why would you choose for ultralight gear?Exploring the Benefits
In the world of hiking and backpacking, every ounce counts. As an outdoor enthusiast, you might have heard the buzz about ultralight gear and wondered if it’s worth the investment. Believe me, we all had that thought, but once you have converted to the ultralight side, you will never go back. So let me assure you, when it comes to hitting the trails, lighter gear isn’t just a luxury; it’s a game-changer. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of choosing lighter backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats, and why embracing the ultralight philosophy can totally change the way you look at your next outdoor adventures.
Transitioning to ultralight gear can be a pretty big shift for everybody that is more accustomed to traditional, heavier equipment often sold through the bigger outdoor retail shops like Bever and Decathlon. And it is often good and durable stuff, but damn it is often oh-so heavy. Initially, the prospect of downsizing and adapting to lighter gear may evoke feelings of uncertainty and resistance. Some individuals may worry about sacrificing comfort or functionality in favor of weight savings, fearing that lighter gear may not provide the same level of durability or performance as their familiar, bulkier counterparts. “If it is this light, it will probably break a lot faster”: is something we often hear, here at Lightweight Outdoor. Besides that, we hear the occasional concerns about the initial investment (wow, that [fill in piece of gear] is really expensive) required for high-quality ultralight gear may lead to apprehension, especially for those on a tight budget. Furthermore, adjusting to the minimalist features and streamlined designs of ultralight equipment may pose a challenge for individuals accustomed to the convenience and familiarity of traditional gear setups. But once you dive a bit more into the world of UL backpacking / hiking you will find that the benefits of ultralight gear far outweigh any initial concerns. And that you will ultimately have more fun caring less stuff on your next adventure.
So we will first cover the “Big 4”: Backpacks, Tents, Sleeping bags/quilts and Sleeping Mats. Because these items often make up the most of the bulk and weight of your kit.
Lighter Backpacks:
Pros:
Enhanced Mobility: ultralight backpacks are designed to minimize weight without compromising on durability or functionality, allowing you to move with agility and ease on the trail.
Reduced Fatigue: With less weight on your shoulders and back, you’ll experience reduced strain and fatigue during long treks, enabling you to go further and explore more. Basically have more fun on the trail
Streamlined Design: light weight backpacks feature sleek, minimalist designs with carefully considered features, ensuring optimal comfort and organization without unnecessary bulk.
Cons:
Pretty expensive: yes, they can be a bit more expensive than the traditional packs you can buy, but you will have a lot more fun with them.
Durability Awareness: Some ultralight materials may prioritize weight savings over ruggedness, necessitating proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity on the trail, this is often because the materials used are a bit thinner than traditional materials. But modern fabrics like ecopac and dyneema certainly are very strong and durable.
Lighter Tents:
Pros:
Effortless Setup: Ultralight tents often boast intuitive designs and simple setup processes, allowing you to spend less time wrestling with poles and stakes and more time enjoying the great outdoors. Especially the case with trekking pole tents.
Enhanced Portability: With compact pack sizes and minimal weight, lightweight tents are perfect for backpackers who prioritize mobility and efficiency in their gear selection.
All-Weather Performance: Despite their lightweight construction, UL tents deliver reliable weather protection and durability, keeping you comfortable and sheltered in diverse conditions. Sometimes it might be necessary to manually seam seal a tent
Cons:
Single wall tents: these tents without a specific (separate) inner tent can be more prone to exposed condensation. Which can be pretty annoying if you are not used to that.
Space Considerations: While ultralight tents offer ample room for sleeping and gear storage, they may have slightly less interior space compared to heavier models, requiring a balance between weight savings and livability.
Durability Awareness: As with any lightweight gear, proper care and site selection are essential to prevent damage and prolong the lifespan of your tent.
Lighter Sleeping Bags:
Pros:
Featherlight Comfort: ultralight sleeping bags utilize cutting-edge materials and insulation technologies to deliver unparalleled warmth and comfort at minimal weight, ensuring restful nights on the trail.
Packability: With compact stuff sizes and featherlight constructions, lightweight sleeping bags optimize pack space and weight distribution, allowing for easier transportation and organization. Especially down filled sleeping bags compress really good.
Warmth to weight: Engineered in a way they offer a great warmth to weight ratio, using premium materials and insulation they find the perfect combination of giving a warm night of sleep without adding super much weight.
Cons:
Premium Investment: While ultralight sleeping bags offer exceptional performance, they may come with a higher price tag compared to traditional options, reflecting the advanced materials and craftsmanship involved.
Minimalist Features: To achieve weight savings, some ultralight sleeping bags may forgo certain luxury features, such as integrated pillows or elaborate hood designs, catering to minimalist preferences.
Quilts:
An ultralight alternative for the traditional (mummy style) sleeping bag can be a quilt. Quilts offer a lightweight and versatile alternative for backpackers looking to optimize their sleep system. While they may not be suitable for all preferences or climates, quilts provide a compelling option for those seeking to maximize comfort and efficiency on the trail. Ditching hoods , full length zippers and excess materials (especially where you lie on, that insulation will be compressed anyway and thus can be pretty useless), quilts are a really great way to safe some weight on your camping kit.
Versatility: Quilts offer a unique sleeping experience, providing warmth and insulation while allowing for greater freedom of movement compared to traditional sleeping bags. They’re particularly well-suited for minimalist backpackers and those who prefer to customize their sleeping setup.
Weight Efficiency: Quilts often weigh less than traditional sleeping bags of equivalent warmth, making them an attractive option for ultralight enthusiasts seeking to further reduce pack weight.
Condensation Management: Quilts minimize the risk of condensation buildup by eliminating the bottom insulation found in traditional sleeping bags, resulting in a more breathable and comfortable sleeping environment.
Can be worn as a superman cape, which makes you feel so goooooood, especially standing on a mountain looking at a great view.
Lighter Sleeping Mats:
Pros:
Plush Support: Ultralight sleeping mats strike the perfect balance between weight savings and comfort, providing ample cushioning and insulation for a rejuvenating night’s sleep. Don’t be fooled, most lightweight sleeping mats are easily 7,5 centimeters thick and very comfortable.
Compact Convenience: Designed for maximum packability, lightweight sleeping mats roll up small and weigh next to nothing, ensuring effortless transportation and storage in your backpack.
All-Season Performance: When looking for an ultralight mat, keep the r-value into mind. This is the insulation value of a mat. If you want a decent and warm sleep, choose a mat with a higher R-value.
Cons:
Durability Awareness: While ultralight sleeping mats are engineered for durability, they may require extra care to prevent punctures or tears, especially on rough terrain. We often use a sheet of Tyvek as an extra layer of protection
Why Ultralight outdoor gear?
At Lightweight Outdoor, we believe that lighter gear isn’t just about shedding a few grams of your pack; it’s about elevating the way you experience the outdoors. By investing in ultralight backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats, you’ll enjoy increased mobility, reduced fatigue, and simply a bit more fun on every adventure. Plus, with our carefully curated selection of premium lightweight gear (we try out most of the gear you will find in our shop), you can rest assured that you’re getting the best performance and value for your next adventure.
