This
Monday's Kit Tip
is about
sleeping bags
and more specifically, caring for them. It's worth taking a few
precautions to keep your bag happy.
These days sleeping bags tend to come with two bags, a stuff sac, which
may have compressors for carrying the bag with minimal volume and a
bigger, loose, storage sac. Compressing down for short periods of time
won't damage it, but for long term storage, use a bigger bag that
allows the sleeping bag to stay relatively uncompressed. Ideally you'd
leave it fully lofted, but not many of us have the space to do that.
Store the bag somewhere dry.
Next, when you're using the bag, a liner is a great idea. It's not so
much that a lightweight inner bag adds insulation, more that it will
keep the lining of your sleeping bag cleaner and mean you don't have to
wash it, which with down in particular, can be a right hassle.
Finally, when you're out on the hill, take the time to air your bag in
the morning, particularly if you have a bag with a water-resistant
outer fabric like Pertex Endurance. Your body produces moisture as your
sleep and some it it will be trapped in the bag, turn it inside out and
throw it over a tent, guyline or handy rock to let it warm in the sun
while you're having your breakfast.
It's slightly less crucial if your bag has a 'normal' outer fabric
which will be more breathable, but it's still worth doing if you can.
