Nothing else gives you the freedom or feeling of nostalgia quite like sleeping in a swag.
For me, there’s no better way to sleep outdoors than in the cocoon that is my swag. In any location or temperature, in my swag, I feel warm and protected from bugs – meanwhile still experiencing that glorious feeling of being out in the elements.
If you’re in the market for a new swag, it’s a daunting task to wade through all the brands and different types on offer to find the one that suits you. The following tips will help to make some sense of it all and equip you to make the best choice!
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How to choose a swag
When looking at buying a swag you’ll need to consider the different styles and sizes -single, king single, and double. Test out different brands to see which is more comfortable – the thickness of the mattress may matter to you, but you can always add a lightweight mattress if you want.
Depending on what sort of camping you intend to do with your swag, the durability and thickness of the zips and canvas could be a deal breaker. A feature of my swag is the full-length mesh – this means I can be fully zipped up and enclosed, but with the canvas outer rolled right back. This basically allows me to use my swag in any weather, including hot desert nights in the middle of summer.
In this episode of the Snowys Camping Show Ben and Lauren compare everything from classic bed rolls, to compact canvas castles.
Traditional Vs Dome
Traditional Swags are basically two layers of canvas with a mattress in between. They’re light in weight, compact when rolled up, easy to carry and transport, and are usually lower priced than dome swags.
Dome Swags, due to their shape and height (60-70cm high), provide plenty of room inside while keeping the top canvas layer off your face. They offer easy side and/or head access, are generally well ventilated, and will keep insects, vermin, and snakes out.
Configuration
Make sure you consider how you want to use the swag and whether the door, window and vent configurations suit. If you want to sit side by side on the edge of the swag you’ll need a full length door which also offers better views of the night sky on balmy evenings. If you’re preference is cold weather and snow you may need to forego the large doors in favour of more pole structure for stability.
Size
Swags are generally available in 3 standard sizes, 900, 1100 and 1400.
- 900 – Single: Best for individuals
- 1100 – King Single: Best for individuals wanting extra room for themselves, gear or their furry friend
- 1400 – Double: Best for couples, many models also have annex accessories available for extra gear storage
Nowadays many replacement or upgraded sleeping mats, along with sleeping bags, are available in the same size options to suit.
Material
- Quality canvas swags are made from a blend of cotton and polyester fibres. This creates a finished material that is breathable, rot-proof, and water-proof.
- ‘Heavy-duty ripstop’ means that synthetic fibre has been integrated into the weave, creating an even better strength-to-weight ratio. This is identified with the grid pattern in the fabric.
- The weight or grade of the canvas is generally expressed in ‘ounces per square yard’ (oz), or ‘grams per square metre’ (gsm). Most swags fall into the range of 14-16oz canvas, which is roughly the same as 320-360gsm.
Canvas Vs PVC Base
- A PVC base will generally keep the swag dryer in wet conditions than a canvas base. However, it will tend to be less breathable and prone to condensation in warm and humid conditions.
- A tarp works the same as a PVC base, if the swag you like doesn’t have the latter. An added benefit of a tarp is that you can use it as a clean surface to step on as you enter or leave your swag.
Mattress
- Swag mattresses are generally made from high-density open cell foam with a washable poly-cotton cover that can be removed for washing.
- Thicknesses range from 35mm for biker and traditional swags, and up to 70mm for top-of-the-range dome swags. Thickness usually increases with the swag price.
- For added comfort, self-inflating mats make good additions or alternatives when it’s important for compact storage or transport.
Ventilation
- Dome swags provide good ventilation by fully or part-opening the zippered openings at the head or foot. The head window is sometimes referred to as the ‘shooter’s window’.
- Pegging out the overhanging canvas porticos will provide additional protection from the weather.
Zips
- Reliable and good performing zips are essential in good-quality swags. No.10 Heavy Duty YKK spiral or coil zips are the benchmark, although there are many of equal quality. Look for chunky and solid pull-tabs and zips that are strong and robust.
Storage pockets
- Some swags offer internal nooks and pockets to store torches, phones, water bottles, and more.
- Good-quality swags have pockets to store poles and pegs when the swag is rolled up, making them easy to find when needed.
Swags vs Tents
Sleeping in a swag is not claustrophobic, especially if you do set the poles up – you end up with something that resembles a small tent. The advantage of a swag over a small tent is you’ve got everything bundled in one: sleeping bag, mattress, and shelter.
With a tent, each item is assembled and carried separately. That said, the advantage of a tent is that it packs down smaller than a swag. I guess it depends on your circumstances and your mode of travel. And how much of an old romantic you are!
If you are tossing up between a swag, tent, or rooftop tent, this conversation on the Snowys Camping Show may be of interest >>
Swag Accessories
- Consider a swag bag or swag protection system to store your swag when transporting or storage. It will protect against damage and keep your swag clean of dust and dirt.
- Many sleeping bag brands offer sleeping bags that are ideal for use with swags. Suitable bags are generally 80-100cm wide, have no hood, and are not so bulky that they can’t be rolled up and left in the swag.
- As mentioned above, self-inflating mats make great swag mattresses, as they are lightweight and compact when rolled up. A self-inflating pillow is ideal for the same reason.
- A spreader pole atop your swag will keep your swag taut and stable. It will do the same job as pegging out with rope and pegs when this isn’t possible.
Caring for your swag
Swags are easy to care for, the main thing you need to do is keep it dry in storage, We have a detailed article on looking after your swag here.
23Zero vs Darche – Which Swag Is Better?
We choose to stock these two brands because when it comes to performance, quality and range, both of these heavy hitting swag brands are head to head with the best swag brands in the market. Both brands use carefully selected, usage specific high quality durable canvas, for this purpose don’t get caught up in an extra 20gsm of canvas here and there, or whether stainless steel poles are better than alloy or composite, or whether one mesh is going to protect from insects better than the other.
Do consider the included mattress and how thick it is, read reviews about how comfortable it is. Do your research into packed size and how you will transport the swag. Do consider the swag configuration and how it fits with your intended usage. Do consider easy of setup, ensuring it is not going to become a chore.
From there it really boils down to whether you have a brand preference, or if the features of a specific model better suit what you want out of a swag than the other.
For some interesting listening, the debate surrounding the ‘swent‘ – a sleeping solution that boasts features of both a swag and a tent – has proven to be never-ending. Tune into Ben and Lauren’s conversation on the Snowys Camping Show:
Best Rated Camping Swag
A consistent crowd favourite, the 23ZERO Dual Swag 900mm earns its reputation through a solid combination of build quality, comfort, and versatility. The freestanding dome design sets up quickly without fuss, and the 400gsm polycotton canvas with fully seam-sealed construction holds up well in typical Aussie conditions.
Inside, the 70mm hi-density foam mattress is genuinely comfortable, and the roomy 90cm-wide sleeping area means you’re not fighting for space — making it our top pick for a single swag too. The stargazing door, two-way entry, and mesh windows at each end keep things pleasant in warmer weather, while the zip-down storm covers add protection when conditions turn. The HF welded PVC bucket floor rounds out the weatherproofing package nicely.
It works equally well on the ground or on a stretcher, suits a wide range of trips and conditions, and packs down into its own carry bag without drama. A dependable all-rounder that’s hard to fault.
Available in 900, 1100 and 1400 sizes.
Best for: Any swagging adventure
Best Double Camping Swag
For couples or anyone who refuses to compromise on space, the Darche Nebula+ 1550 is a serious double swag that goes well beyond just a wider sleeping area. The 150cm-wide hybrid design comfortably fits two, and the 420gsm ripstop polycotton canvas with 800mm waterhead rating and internal seam sealing means it’s built to handle whatever the outback throws at it.
What sets it apart is the unique Hutch® storage compartment — a dedicated space for camping gear accessible via two external doors, keeping clutter out of the sleeping area. Five entry points and fine insect mesh on every door and window keep airflow up and bugs out, while the storm covers double as an awning for extended hangouts outside.
The 70mm foam mattress comes with a removable, washable cover, and everything packs into a heavy-duty canvas swag bag. A genuinely capable setup for two.
Best for: Couples, especially if doggo is in tow.
Roomiest Camping Swag
If interior space is the priority, the 23ZERO Outbreak 1550 delivers it in spades. The large freestanding design is held up by strong 16mm black steel body poles — a noticeably more rigid frame than many competitors — which creates a stable, tent-like interior that genuinely fits two adults with room left over for gear.
The 150cm-wide sleeping area sits on a 70mm hi-density foam mattress, and the HF welded PVC bucket floor and fully seam-sealed 400gsm polycotton canvas keep moisture out from every angle. Four entry points make getting in and out easy from either side, and the panoramic 360-degree mesh windows are a standout feature — great for airflow and stargazing, with zip-down canvas walls ready when the weather closes in.
It’s a substantial setup at 22kg, so best suited to vehicle-based camping where weight isn’t a concern but comfort absolutely is.
Best for: Anyone wanting to be able to sit up inside of their swag
Best Motorcycle Touring Swag
When you’re travelling by bike, every kilogram and every centimetre of packed size counts. The Darche Ranger Solo+ is built with exactly that in mind — at just 6.5kg and packing down to a compact 50 x 35 x 35cm, it straps neatly to a pannier and doesn’t eat into your load capacity.
The 320gsm polycotton ripstop canvas and 600gsm welded PVC bucket floor punch above their weight for weather protection, and the aluminium alloy poles keep the overall weight down without sacrificing a stable setup. The Hutch™ storage compartment is a particularly handy feature for riders — stash your helmet, boots, or gloves out of the weather and access them from inside through the removable mesh panel.
The 50mm foam mattress is slimmer than bulkier swags, but it’s a sensible trade-off for the packability on offer. A smart, purpose-built choice for the solo traveller on the road.
Best for: Motorcycle tourers
Best Looking Camping Swag
Not every camping purchase is purely practical — sometimes you just want the best-looking setup at the campsite. The 23ZERO Onyx Dual 900 delivers that in spades, with a deep Onyx Black finish and signature feature stitching that stands out against the usual sea of beige canvas.
Underneath the good looks, it’s built on the proven Dual 900 platform with genuine substance. The segmental arch pole design uses 9.5mm black-coated stainless steel poles with precision-placed elbows — no fibreglass — creating a stronger, sag-free stance with solid internal headroom. The 410gsm polycotton canvas is fully seam-sealed, the 550gsm HF-welded PVC bucket floor handles whatever the ground throws at it, and the 70mm foam mattress means comfort isn’t sacrificed for style.
Two-way entry, zip-down storm covers, and PVC-coated insect mesh round out a swag that performs as well as it looks.
Best for: Campers with an eye for good looking camp gear
Best Budget Camping Swag
Not every camping trip calls for a premium dome swag, and the OZtrail Cooper Expedition Single is a refreshing reminder of that. At just 4kg and packing down to a slim 75 x 24 x 24cm, it’s one of the most compact and affordable swags on the market — and one of the simplest to use.
There’s no setup involved whatsoever. Roll it out, unzip, and you’re ready for bed. The 230gsm ripstop canvas and 460gsm PVC vinyl floor provide solid basic protection, and the head awning adds a little extra shelter when needed. The full-length zip running down one side and across the foot gives you ventilation control without any complexity.
The 5cm open-cell foam mattress is functional rather than luxurious, but for the price and packability on offer, that’s a fair trade. A great entry point for occasional campers or a lightweight backup swag to have on hand.
Best for: Price conscious campers
Best Four Season Camping Swag
For campers who don’t let the calendar dictate their trips, the 23ZERO Bandit Single 900 is built to handle whatever conditions you throw at it. The key difference from a standard dome swag is the additional centre hoop pole — it reinforces the frame structure, reduces flex in heavy wind or rain, and maintains internal space when the weather closes in.
The 400gsm fully seam-sealed polycotton canvas and HF welded PVC bucket floor form a solid weatherproof foundation, while four all-weather awnings and full zip-down storm covers give you genuine protection across every season. When conditions are mild, the superfine insect mesh and 4-way entry keep airflow moving and bugs out.
The 70mm foam mattress keeps comfort consistent year-round, and the freestanding design works equally well on the ground or on a stretcher. At 14kg it’s a solid carry, but one that earns its weight when conditions get serious.
Available in 900, 1100 and 1400 sizes.
Best for: Campers needing a reliable swag throughout the year
Best Air Swag
For campers who want to spend less time setting up and more time relaxing, the Dometic Pico FTC 2×2 is a genuinely clever piece of kit. Air Frame Technology replaces traditional poles entirely — inflate the frame in minutes, stake out a few pegs, and you’re done. It packs down to a compact 68 x 29 x 29cm and comes with backpack-style carry straps, making it one of the most portable swag-style shelters available.
The Weathershield™ TC polycotton canvas is designed to reduce condensation — a common frustration in enclosed swags — while fully sealed doors and windows keep insects out. The integrated I-Beam inflatable mattress provides a decent 4.5cm of support without adding bulk, and the wet weather entrance is a handy touch for getting in and out without soaking the interior.
At 11.5kg it works comfortably as a two-person setup, or a very roomy single. A strong choice for campers who value speed and packability above all else.
Best for: Ease of setup and packability.
Best Dog Camping Swag
Because your dog deserves a decent night’s sleep too. The 23ZERO Woof-Den is a purpose-built dog swag that brings the same build quality as the human range — scaled down for four-legged campers weighing between 4 and 8kg.
The 320gsm polycotton canvas construction is fully seam-sealed, and the heavy-duty 550gsm HF welded PVC bucket floor keeps things dry from the ground up — handy when your dog has no regard for muddy paws. The large arched entry makes it easy for dogs to get in and out independently, and the PVC-coated superfine insect mesh provides ventilation without letting the bugs in.
Setup is straightforward with 19mm coated segment poles and an aluminium trigger-lock ridge pole, and the whole thing packs down to a compact 70 x 28 x 28cm — not much bigger than a day pack. A thoughtful addition to the kit list for campers who never leave the dog at home.
Best for: Your furry campsite friend.
Camping Swag FAQ’s
Australian-made swags are becoming hard to come by. There are still some small manufacturers that provide their own distribution, such as AOS and Murchison River Swags, but we at Snowys no longer carry any purely Australian-made swags in our range.
See our article for information on seasoning a swag here >>.
Most modern swags offer solid weather protection, and many are now fully seam-sealed straight from the factory. The brands we carry claim their swags don’t require seasoning, but we still recommend doing it in your backyard before a trip – it won’t do any harm, and it’s a good way to test for any potential leaks before you’re out in the field.
You get what you pay for. If you’re expecting a swag to last decades, then spending a little more upfront to ensure your swag is made from quality canvas will pay off in the long run. Anything in the Snowys range from 23Zero or Darche are of excellent quality.
Technically, no swag is 100% freestanding — you’ll almost always need a few pegs for the awnings or storm flaps. That said, any swag with ridge poles will stand largely on its own, and the more frame structure a swag has, the better it will hold its shape without pegs.
Absolutely — using a swag on a stretcher gets you off the ground and provides a handy ledge to sit on, which is a welcome bonus as we all get older. Match the stretcher’s sleeping area to the footprint of your swag and you’re most of the way there. A little overhang is fine — water will run off the swag and onto the ground rather than pooling underneath. If you plan to leave your swag on the stretcher unattended, it’s worth looking for a stretcher with fixing points at the corners to keep things in place.
Trekker, surfer, climber, mountain biker, runner, camper. Participator in most things… master of none.