Why Any Outdoor Enthusiast Carry an Extra Large Sleeping Bag in Their Arsenal

For anyone who’s spent nights in the open, from the towering peaks of the Rockies to family campgrounds scattered around the country, comfort can sometimes be the key influencer of an outdoor adventure. After many years battling cramped, shrink-wrapped sleeping bags that made me feel like a human burrito, I finally learned the benefits of an extra large sleeping bag. I now share my experience with the difference that upgrade has made for me in camping and why it could be what your outdoor experience is missing.

The Space Revolution: Room to Breathe and Move

One major benefit of extra large sleeping bags is the space they afford. Extra large sleeping bags allow one to extend freedom of movement in bed throughout the night. Side sleepers who may need an arm or knee room, folks who tend to get tight-space claustrophobia, and everyone else who simply enjoys the luxury of stretching-whatever your reason, the extra width & length make some big difference.

My first night in an extra large sleeping bag was like dinner and a show: I could now really experience that upgrade to first class. Previously, I would have spent the night adjusting infinitely to try and find some comfortable position, but in that bag, I simply plopped inside and slept until the sun was up.

Versatility for All Adventures

Probably the most underappreciated use of an extra large sleeping bag is it’s versatility. During summer camping, unzip it halfway so it can be used as a two-person blanket to lie on while watching stars or wrapped around while sitting at the campfire. When winter shows up and brings the cold along, you can put on extra clothing layers, or you might even squeeze in another person with ease. For families, an extra large sleeping bag is a must-have during a camping trip with kids. 

Easy Temperature Control

It is paradoxically an extra-large sleeping bag controls temperature as compared to the smaller counterparts. The more space allows for increased air circulation whenever cool air is involved, while also allowing you room to wiggle into any position that provides you with the ideal thermal balance. You can rest half-out from the bag in warm nights, and in colder nights, you can have a dead-air zone for extra insulation.

The Investment That Pays Dividends

While an extra large sleeping bag is a more considerable investment than your standard sleeping bag, it is well worth the price for improved sleeping comfort and enjoyment while camping. Good sleep means more hiking, patience through camping obstacles, and planning outdoor adventures with enthusiasm.

So… just how much would you value a good night, or even seven, during a backpacking trip or family camping weekend? An extra large sleeping bag will probably rank among the top smart gear purchases an outdoors Viking makes.

Making the Upgrade

If the thought of switching to an XL sleeping bag has been bothering you, do me a favor and just go for it. Your back will thank you, your sleep will thank you, and even your camping companions will thank you. Freedom of natural movement, the ability to set up camp under nearly any situation imaginable, and anything more luxurious than just space-from-a-to-b-ag-are the things that push camping from an endurance exercise into real relaxation.Once you have felt the comfort revolution through an extra large sleeping bag, going back to the cramped alternatives feels almost like dark ages in camping. Give yourself plenty of space; your future camping self will find the upgrade worth every single night of rest beneath the stars.