Chilly weather shouldn’t keep you from getting outside, but when you’re camping in the cold, you need a sleeping bag that will keep you from freezing. A 0 degree sleeping bag is a great choice for camping in a variety of seasons, but how do you choose the right one to warm you up? Here at The Adventure Junkies, we’ve sorted through a variety of options to help you choose one of the best 0 degree sleeping bags to keep you cozy on your cold adventures.
For a complete analysis of all backpacking sleeping bags, check out the buyer’s guide Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags.
Quick Answer - The Best 0 Degree Sleeping Bags
- Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF
- Marmot Trestles 0
- Kelty Cosmic Down 0
Comparison Table - Best 0 Degree Sleeping Bags
For the best experience turn your device horizontallyName | Insulation | Weight | Shape | Price | Rating | Review |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF | Down | 2.7 lbs | Mummy | $750 | 4.7 | Read Review |
Marmot Trestles 0 | Synthetic | 4.6 lbs | Mummy | $147 | 4.6 | Read Review |
Kelty Cosmic Down 0 | Down | 4.5 lbs | Mummy | $300 | 4.3 | Read Review |
Name | Insulation | Weight | Shape | Price | Rating | Review |
Weight and price are shown for the regular size.
Reviews - Best Backpacking 0 Degree Sleeping Bags
Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF
Specs
- Fill Weight: 30.0 oz
- Insulation: Down
- Weight: 2.7 lbs
- Shape: Mummy
- Volume: 14.4 L
- Temp Rating: 0 F
- Fill Power: 850
Features
- Very comfortable
- Full Down Collar
- Spacing/Continuous Baffles
BEST WINTER BACKPACKING SLEEPING BAG
The Western Mountaineering Kodiak MF is a four season sleeping bag that was designed for backpackers who want to brave extreme conditions in comfort.
While there are plenty of excellent winter sleeping bags out there, the Kodiak MF is our top choice because it is seriously warm and comfortable. While other bags are equally as toasty, they have a narrower fit that makes them constricting. When it is cold out, we tend to spend more time inside our bags and appreciate the extra room. The Kodiak MF adds a few inches in the shoulders and is generously packed with down making it super lofty. The spaciousness also gives you the option to stuff in an extra quilt if you need to add some warmth. Considering how warm this bag is, it packs down incredibly well.
If you’re just getting into backpacking the price tag might seem ridiculous but for serious backpackers who value high end gear, it’s a worthy investment. Also, like with all proper winter sleeping bags, the versatility of the Kodiak is limited. It would be way too warm for summer backpacking trips and overkill in mild Spring weather.
The Kodiak MF is also available in a 6 foot and 7 foot version.
Marmot Trestles 0
Specs
- Fill Weight: 41.2 oz
- Insulation: Synthetic
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
- Shape: Mummy
- Volume: 30.9 L
- Temp Rating: 15 F
- Fill Power: HL-ElixR
Features
- Low Weight And Small Packed Size
- Extra Warm
- Full Length Two-Way Zipper
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.
Kelty Cosmic Down 0
Specs
- Gender: Men's
- Insulation: Down
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Shape: Mummy
- Temp Rating: 2 Degrees F
- Insulation Type: Down
Features
- Soft Yet Durable Nylon Shell
- Dual-Sliding Locking Zipper
- Hand Pocket For Storing Overnight Essentials
If you’re on a budget and looking for a highly affordable, cold-bearing sleeping bag, then definitely consider the Kelty Cosmic 0. This bag, although ringing in at a lower cost, will keep you warm down to 2 Degrees Fahrenheit and it comes equipped with all the features you need for a good night’s rest. A draft collar ensures warmth around the neck while the water repellent coating easily wicks away moisture.
Pack this bag if you’re thinking about a quick, cold weather expedition. You probably won’t want to rely on this bag for long duration expeditions, where you may be spending a lot of time in your tent, but if a quick in-and-out journey is on the docket, then definitely consider saving yourself some money and going with the Kelty Cosmic 0.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING THE BEST 0 DEGREE SLEEPING BAGS
Although temperature ratings of sleeping bags are standardized, it can still be confusing to understand in what conditions a 0 degree sleeping bag will keep you warm. Your entire sleeping setup (clothing, sleeping pad, tent) can affect how warm and comfortable you’ll actually feel at night, and, of course, each person’s body regulates temperature a little differently. REI put together a guide explaining how sleeping bag temperature ratings work.
DOWN FILL POWER
Down fill power differs between 0 degree sleeping bags and makes a difference in both weight and warmth. But what exactly does it mean? Basically, it describes the quality of the down. A higher number provides better insulation (but is not necessarily warmer) and is usually much more expensive. This article from REI goes into more detail about down fill power.
BAG SHAPE
Many 0 degree sleeping bags are mummy-shaped, which means they fit tight to the body. This offers extra warmth while also cutting weight since it eliminates extra fabric and insulation. However, mummy bags can feel quite restrictive since you don’t have much room to move.
Semi-rectangular bags give you a little more space so you’re more comfortable when you sleep. These bags might weigh slightly more, but if they are well-designed, they should still be able to keep you warm.
ZIPPERS
Most sleeping bags have full-length zippers on just one side, so if you have a preference due to your dominant hand or the side of your tent the door is on, try to choose a bag that won’t frustrate you with a zipper on the wrong side.
Many 0 degree sleeping bags also have a second partial zipper to give you extra ventilation. Some even have zippers at the feet or can unzip fully to lay flat if you need a blanket.
FEATURES EXPLAINED
Baffles
Fabric separators that keep down insulation in place.
Draft tube
A tube filled with insulation that backs the length of the zipper to block cold from entering.
Draft collar
An insulation-filled collar to provide extra warmth at the neck.
READ MORE
For more of our top hiking & backpacking gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:
Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags
Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads