Best summer sleeping bags UK : 1 and 2 season sleeping bags for camping from Rab, Outwell, Vango

A good night’s sleep is vital to a good camping experience, so here we’re looking at some of the best lightweight summer sleeping bags on the market.

There are a few key things to consider when looking for season-specific camping gear, so we’ll also talk a little bit about how to buy the right sleeping bag for you, and what some of the technical specifications mean relevant to your needs.

Sleeping Bag Technical Specs

It can sometimes appear confusing when it comes to understanding the technical specifications of all the different types of sleeping bags out there.

You will find that almost all sleeping bags have technical ratings. These tend to be temperature figures that determine how the bag performs under certain conditions. There are season ratings that run from 1-4, and temperature ratings that define the upper and lower limits of the bag.

A one-season sleeping bag, for example, is only really suitable for the warmest of summer nights. A four-season sleeping bag, on the other end of the spectrum, will protect you when camping in the colder, winter months.

What do temperature limits on a sleeping bag mean?

Temperature limits are rated as the upper limit (which is the highest comfortable temperature in the bag), a comfort limit (an average of the most comfortable temperature in the bag) and a lower limit (which is probably the lowest temperature you’d want to sleep in and still get an OK night’s sleep).

There is also an ‘extreme’ temperature limit, but this tends to be a safety score that is the lowest temperature the bag can withstand to prevent you from getting hypothermia.

What kind of sleeping bag do I need?

Obviously, as suggested by the title of this article, it somewhat depends on what season you’ll be camping. Thinner, lighter sleeping bags are excellent for the warmer summer months, but be aware of each bag’s ‘packed weight’ too if you’re thinking of heading to the hills on a wild camp and carrying your equipment with you.

If you are packing a car for a family or group trip, it clearly makes sense to make the most of the ability not to have to carry your gear - so larger double bags or heavier, thicker bags become the best bet.

Have a look at the material and stuffing of the bags you’re using too - down is expensive, but lightweight and extremely warm (often with comfort levels below minus), whereas nylon, polyester and taffeta, found in less durable, thinner, cheaper sleeping bags are often not as robust or durable.

There are, however, far lower in cost and we’d recommend them for basic, infrequent, warmer camping excursions.