Temperature Ratings
For most backpackers, an Everest-rated sleeping bag is like a dental appointment: expensive and uncomfortable. Sleeping in a bag that's too warm can be surprisingly miserable. Opening just one side to ventilate is like trying to warm yourself at a fire. The side of you near the zipper freezes, while the side tucked into the bag sweats profusely. Excessively warm bags are also unnecessarily heavy and bulky. Your best bet is to buy a bag rated for the lowest temperature you'll encounter regularly. On extra cold nights, wear more clothing. If you become obsessed with winter backpacking, you'll probably want to invest in a full-on winter bag rated to -20 or -30. For really hot summer conditions, like southern Utah in July, you may need only a sheet in which to wrap yourself, plus a sweater to don in the wee hours.

Next Page: Sleeping Bag Temperature Ratings - II

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