Best Budget Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2024

BEST BACKPACKING SLEEPING BAG UNDER $100

The Marmot Nanowave 45 is an affordable summer sleeping bag that won’t take up too much room in your backpack. Not only is it cheap, it’s practical and functional which is why it’s our pick for the best backpacking sleeping bag under $100. 

In awarding it the winner of the best under $100 category, we realize it’s not quite fair because most other bags on this list have a temperature rating down to around 20 degrees. However, if you’re on a super tight budget and plan to camp from mid-spring to mid-fall, the Nanowave 45 is hard to beat.

Which leads us to the biggest downside of this bag, it is only good in mild weather. But, not everyone needs or wants a super warm bag and if you combine the Nanowave with an extra warm sleeping pad and a thermal liner, you might be able to extend the temperature range of this bag down a few degrees, making it much more versatile. If you’re looking for a warmer budget backpacking sleeping bag, check out the REI Trailbreak 20 which is also featured on this list. 

The Marmot Nanowave is also available in a 55-degree and 35-degree version.

BEST BUDGET SLEEPING BAG FOR WOMEN

If you’re in the market for a down sleeping bag, but can’t afford to throw down your whole paycheck, consider the Kelty Cosmic 20. This down sleeping bag has some attractive features given its low price. 

A few highlights of this bag include the durable water repellent treatment, anti-snag zippers, and a cozy hood. This gives you some peace of mind knowing your bag won’t lose insulation because of moisture or that you might accidentally tear a hole in it because of a snagged zipper. The reasonable weight is also much appreciated given the tradeoff in money typically means more pounds.

With a 550-fill-power, the Kelty Cosmic 20 won’t be the most insulated bag on the list. However, if you’re shopping on a budget, the Kelty Cosmic 20 is still an attractive option.

BEST BUDGET WINTER SLEEPING BAG

The Marmot Trestles 0 is a real find for hikers wishing to explore cold environments. With a durable SpiraFil synthetic insulation, the sleeping bag will keep you warm at temperatures as low as 1.9°F. A 3D hood will provide warmth and comfort for your head; you can also cinch it tightly around your face during freezing nights. Another great feature of the Marmot Trestles is the foot box, which ensures extra comfort and warmth where it’s most needed. 

The Trestles 0 has a full-length, two-way zipper built to prevent snagging. There is also a fold-down second zipper that provides fresh ventilation. In case you need anything during the night, there is an external stash pocket for your essentials. Additionally, the bag has two hang loops for storing or drying out the bag.

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT & BUDGET-FRIENDLY SLEEPING BAG

The Therm-A-Rest Space Cowboy 45 is an awesome ultralight mummy-shaped sleeping bag. Its compressed volume of 2 liters makes it highly packable and lightweight. Because this sleeping bag only withstands 45°F, it is better suited for warmer weather and summer camping. However, you can layer it with other quilts using blanket loops on the bag, expanding its versatility. Additional removable connectors even let you fasten a sleeping pad to the bag. 

The Cowboy 45 uses water-resistant synthetic fill that retains its insulation abilities even when damp. It is strategically placed in certain areas to optimize warmth and weight. The ThermaCapture lining efficiently traps body heat. Additionally, a cinchable hood also guards against unwanted drafts. All these features make the Space Cowboy 45 a great companion for backcountry travels.

The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is a middle of the road bag that is good value while including some features you won’t find in budget sleeping bags. 

What we love about this bag is its balance between price and features. While it’s not the cheapest bag out there, it does include some clever features that make a huge difference. The draft collar lets you cinch the hood around your face which seals out the cold air. Also, the foot box has an opening that gives you some air flow if you get too toasty. Another thoughtful touch is that the pulls glow in the dark, a handy feature at three o’clock in the morning.

The biggest downside of the Bishop Pass 15 is on the heavier, bulky end of the line up. We wouldn’t recommend lugging it on long distance trips but it is manageable for short backpacking adventures. Also, it has a pretty narrow fit. If you’re a side sleeper or like to sprawl, you should probably steer clear from the Bishop Pass. 

Looking for a higher or lower temperature rated bag? The Bishop Pass line is also available in a 0-degree and 30-degree version.

The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is also available in a women’s version in a 0-degree, 15-degree and 30-degree option.

The REI Co-op Trailbreak 20 is a budget minded synthetic sleeping bag that was designed for people who are just starting out backpacking. 

Just because this bag is a steal doesn’t doesn’t mean that it is cheap. While the Trailbreak 20 is nowhere near as light, comfortable or packable as the bags at the top of our list, we have to give it credit for being an exceptional value. Its size and weight is manageable for short backpacking trips.

The cash savings do come with some drawbacks.The lining fabric is a bit rough making it much less comfortable than the silky fabric found on many other bags. Also, it doesn’t have a neck baffle, so some heat does escape through the top of the bag. One last nitpick, the Trailbreak doesn’t come with a compression sack, so you’ll need to calculate that into your decision. If you’re on a tight budget and just can’t spring for a better sleeping bag right now, this is a good option to get you out on the trail fast.

Looking for a summer sleeping bag? The REI Trailbreak is also available in a 30-degree version.

The REI Trailbreak comes in a women’s specific which is available as a 20-degree or 30-degree bag. 

The Sea to Summit Trailhead ThII 30 is another synthetic sleeping bag that retains its insulation abilities even when wet. It uses a unique WaveLoft technique that tangles filling fibers for maximum heat retention up to 30°F. This bag has a tapered rectangular shape, providing you with comfort and room to move. An oversized anti-snag zipper draft tube will guard your whole body against cold chills when you snuggle down in this bag. 

An important characteristic of the THII 30 is its versatility. Its full-length zipper lets you turn this sleeping bag into a quilt. Furthermore, there is a second zipper in the foot box, allowing ventilation for your feet and broad temperature adjustability. Plus, to prevent your frustration, the bag’s lining fabric is directly attached to the shell fabric, which prevents zipper tangles.  This sleeping bag is excellent for backpacking since it weighs about 2.5 lbs – not much more than most ultralight sleeping bags!

The Big Agnes Lost Dog is a cold-oriented sleeping bag that withstands temperatures up to 15°F. It uses FireLine ECO synthetic insulation made from recycled polyester, and the innovative design includes several features for comfort. It has a Free Range hood that allows you to lift your head while keeping a snug fit around your face. The Free Range foot box is similar, giving you some wiggle room. An additional no-draft collar will keep the cold wind out. 

For convenience, a Flex Pad Sleeve can stretch over an insulated sleeping pad for extra warmth. The bag also has a 2-way anti-snag zipper and can be joined with another right-zip sleeping bag. If that doesn’t sound comfy enough, the Lost Dog offers a Pillow Barn feature that makes sure your pillow stays put all night. Although it is on the pricier end of affordable, the extra features make it worth it.

The Sea to Summit Traverse TvII 25 has a tapered rectangular shape and uses the WaveLoft construction for increased comfort. However, the Traverse TVII 25 has a more expanded range of features. It can withstand temperatures as low as 25°F, allowing you to explore slightly colder environments. And an oversized, anti-snag zipper and a neck draft tube provide exceptional resistance to chilly mountain breezes. 

A Free Flow zipper system in this bag comes with three features that let you customize your temperature. A full-length main side zipper, a half-length opposite side zipper, and a foot zipper all provide you with unrestricted movement and ventilation. As a bonus, the TVII 25 can be zipped up with another bag. This versatility makes up for its higher price, delivering you your money’s worth.