Below, we list our best-selling sleeping bags for hiking, camping, touring, cold-weather camping, and children, based on sales data from the past 12 months.

Stumped for a sleeping solution ahead of your next outdoor adventure? This jam-packed, stuff-sack of a blog pares back the Snowys sleeping bag collection to the best-selling bags, stacked high and packed tight on our shelves! Read up to bivvy down…

Stumped for a sleeping solution ahead of your next outdoor adventure? Read on for our best-selling sleeping bags for 2024. Image: OZtrail

Best for Hiking:

Sea to Summit Spark

Technical, super compact, and ultra-lightweight – the Spark series are ideal for both warm and cool weather, depending on the model. With temperature ratings ranging from 14 to -18 degrees Celsius, and offered in both a regular and long fit – go from bags that double as a liner (like the SP0) to technical hoods and front collar drafts that trap the heat for the minimalists after maximum warmth.

Sporting mummy fits for optimal insulation, plus a Nylon shell and lining for lightweight breathability, the Spark also boasts an RDS-certified 850+ FILL Power goose down treated with water repellant to mediate moisture and thus maintain performance. Plus, sewn-through quilted construction with baffles running vertically and horizontally minimise cold spots for a consistently comfortably sleeping experience.

Top sellers for 2025: Spark 7C | Spark -1C | Spark -9C | Spark -18C | Spark Pro -1C | Spark Pro -9C | Spark Womens 7C | Spark Womens -1C | Spark Womens -9C

Left to right: Sea to Summit Spark SP4 and SP1

Sea to Summit Ascent

With new an improved models available too, the Ascent is yet another lightweight but warm sleeping solution, blending adaptability and versatility for true comfort on every outdoor adventure.

Like the Journey, but unlike the women-specific models, the Ascent sports a tapered rectangular shape; roomier than a mummy fit, without sacrificing warmth. Adjust depending on the conditions thanks to the Free Flow triple zips, including a half zip to free up your arms, plus a full-length and separate foot zip for creating a quilt. Filled with RDS-certified 750+ loft down, it goes big on insulation while minimising cold spots thanks to vertical baffles over the chest and a side block baffle to maintain a 60:40-fill ratio. Oversized draft tubes trap body heat, while the lightweight and breathable nylon shell and lining to reduce weight on those heavy endeavours.

Ranging from 2 to -11 degrees Celsius in temperature rating, and available as a regular or long fit, the Ascent Sleeping Bags by Sea to Summit are for the minimalist adventurers and all-out explorers.

Top sellers for 2025: Ascent -1C | Ascent -9C | Ascent Womens -1C | Ascent Womens -9C

Left to right: Sea to Summit Ascent AC1 and AC3

Sea to Summit Trek

For traditional comfort with a modern design approach – available in the new and improved models too – the Trek model from Sea to Summit is for the four-wheeled, adventure-driven travellers after lightweight but lofty comfort!

Also sporting a tapered rectangular shape as both a long or wide version, its Nylon shell for lightweight but compressible durability. Filled with RDS-certified 650+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down too, vertical chest baffles help prevent cold spots and down migration while an anti-snag zipper draft tube prevents catches. A full-length, two-way side zip and separate foot zip allow for use as a quilt on balmier nights beyond the backyard, while a 3D draw hood and neck collar draft tube traps warmth for a snug sleep.

Embellished with an internal security pocket and other versatile touches, the Trek sleeping bag takes you from classic car camping and shorter explorations, to the outdoor adventures demanding more.

Top sellers for 2025: Trek -1C | Trek -9C | Trek -18C | Trek Womens -1C | Trek Womens -9C

Left to right: Sea to Summit Trek Tk2 and Tk1

Sea to Summit Boab

The Boab Synthetic Sleeping Bag by Sea to Summit is your eco-friendly ticket to guilt-free slumber under the stars! From fishing expeditions to paddling adventures, this versatile bag delivers reliable warmth with a roomy, tapered rectangular shape that’s perfect for side sleepers who like to stretch out. The full-length YKK #5 zipper boasts dual sliders extending through the footbox, allowing custom ventilation or complete transformation into a cozy camp quilt. Crafted from RCS-certified recycled materials with Revive Loft insulation, this sustainable sleep solution supports Sea to Summit’s 1% for the Planet commitment without compromising comfort.

Top sellers for 2025: Boab -1C | Boab -9C

This versatile bag delivers reliable warmth with a roomy, tapered rectangular shape.

Sea to Summit Hamelin

The Hamelin Synthetic Sleeping Bag by Sea to Summit is your eco-friendly ticket to backcountry bliss, whether you’re conquering cold nights or mild evenings! Built for versatility with strategic layers of recycled Revive Loft insulation, this bag delivers maximum warmth where you need it most. The weight-efficient Contour shape accommodates side-sleepers and restless wanderers, while the Free-Flow zip system features full-length YKK #5 zippers with double sliders for customizable ventilation. Available in a women’s specific version with female-focused design for natural sleeping positions, both bags boast technical hoods and draft collars to keep the chill at bay while supporting Sea to Summit’s 1% for the Planet commitment.

Top sellers for 2025: Hamelin -1C | Hamelin -9C

Built for versatility, this bag delivers maximum warmth where you need it most.

The Trek is designed for the lightweight hikers and adventure-driven nomads. Image: Sea to Summit

Best for Camping:

OZtrail Kingsfood Hooded

Combining snug comfort with room to wriggle, the Kingsford Hooded Sleeping Bag trumps most of its kind – available in a -3-, 0-, and 5-degree Celsius temperature rating, accommodating conditions from the balmier summer nights to the crisper trips off the grid. Its soft-touch, low-noise, brushed polyester shell and lining lessens the rustling, while a synthetic fill offers superior insulation for warmth in cooler conditions. Snuggle down in the contoured hood, plus roll-over chest cuff for added comfort. Its draft tube sewn into the zipper line keeps the cold out, while the anti-snag webbing prevents fabric catching. Plus, a 4-way compression sack offers compact packing and the attached loops allow for hanging at home.

Top sellers for 2025: Kingsford Hooded -3 | Kingsford Hooded 0 | Kingsford Hooded 5

OZtrail Kingsford Hooded Sleeping Bag

OZtrail Drover

The Drover Sleeping Bag by OZtrail is your ultimate overnight nest for every outdoor quest, delivering rugged royalty whether you’re facing -10 or -5 degree nights! Blending sublime comfort with outdoor durability, this bag boasts a 200gsm ripstop cotton canvas outer and 100% cotton flannel inner for home-like comfort under the stars. The 80% recycled fill construction packs compactly into a waterproof roll-top carry bag with hanging loops for easy airing. Anti-snag webbing, integrated draft tubes, dual zippers for easy access, and internal pockets keep you snug and sorted, while a Velcro closure ensures the bag stays shut even when zippers are open.

Top sellers for 2025: Drover -7 | Drover -10 | Drover 1500 -5

Blending sublime comfort with outdoor durability.

OZtrail Jindabyne

The Jindabyne 0 and -6 Sleeping Bags by OZtrail is your superior sack for sublime outback slumbers under starry skies! With a soft-to-touch brushed polyester outer, 100% cotton flannel inner, and contoured hood, you’ll sleep soundly in hushed, home-like comfort whether facing 0 or -6 degree nights. The -6 version includes a removable fleece liner for extra warmth when temperatures plummet. Anti-snag webbing, integrated draft tubes, internal pockets, and Velcro closures ensure seamless slumber, while the 80% recycled fill construction packs compactly into a 4-way compression stuff sack with hanging loops for easy airing after washing.

Top sellers for 2025: Jindabyne 0 | Jindabyne -6

The Jindabyne Sleeping Bag by OZtrail is your superior sack for sublime outback slumbers!

Coleman Mudgee

There’s a Mudgee for every season, from the C5 for summer nights to to the C-3 for a snug sleep in cooler conditions. A contoured design keeps your head on the bag and the bag off your face, while a comfort cuff at the top offers surrounding softness and a Thermolock draft tube prevents warmth escaping through the zipper. A snag-free opening and closing prevents fabric catching, while the Roll Control feature keeps the bag straight – so you can roll it up and roll on out following an effective and efficient pack-up process.

Top sellers for 2025: Mudgee C-3 | Mudgee Junior C-3

Coleman Mudgee Sleeping Bag

Best for Touring:

Coleman Pilbara

Offering both a 0 and -5 comfort rating for versatile adventurers, the Pilbara Sleeping Bag is built for the tourer after oversized comfort in the elements. Constructed entirely from cotton, it’s both cosy and breathable, with a comfort cuff at the top for burrowing further down in the bag too. Featuring a removable flannel inner sheet too, keep your bag clean while adding warmth. With a cosy foot fleece in the base of the bag to tend to frozen toes, the separate foot zip also allows your feet to poke freely through for relief in warmer conditions. A snag-free zipper allows for easy in-and-out – and Coleman continue to convenience with Roll Control, keeping the sack straight while you pack it back into the included 4-way compression stuff sack.

A soft and roomy sleeping bag, the Coleman Pilbara is just what the tourer ordered.

Top sellers for 2025: Pilbara C0 | Pilbara C-5 | Pilbara -7C

Coleman Pilbara C-5 Sleeping Bag

23ZERO Alaska Black

Designed for heavy-duty use, the Alaska Black boasts a tough, water-resistant, polycotton shell. This contrasts to the comfortable 100% cotton flannel liner and dual layers of insulation. Zippers along each side and the foot section offer versatile use as either an open quilt or for managing warmth retention and ventilation. Keep the valuables safe in the storage pockets, and complete your camp kit with the included flannel-lined pillow.

A true bedroom in a bag – the Alaska Black Sleeping Bags by 23ZERO are built tough for a rustic respite!

Top sellers for 2023/24: Alaska Black 900 | Alaska Black 1100 | Alaska Black 1400 | Alaska Black 1600

23ZERO Alaska Black 1400, 900, and 1600

23ZERO Arctic Black

The Arctic Black 1100 and 1400 Sleeping Bags by 23ZERO are built tough for brutal outback winters across harsh Aussie environments! Both feature a 235gsm water-resistant cotton canvas shell and soft cotton flannel lining with impressive -15°C comfort ratings. Hollow fibre fill delivers superior warmth and insulation, while spiral zippers, wind baffles, and 3D collars enhance temperature control. Complete with internal valuables pockets, flannel pillows, and built-in compression straps for compact packing – these bags are the ultimate cold-weather camping solutions.

Top sellers for 2025: Arctic Black 1100 | Arctic Black 1400

The 23ZERO Arctic Black 1100 (-15) Sleeping Bag is your ultimate outdoor dreaming vault.

There’s a bag that best suits every outdoor adventure. Image: OZtrail

Best for Cold Weather Camping:

Darche Cold Mountain & Cold Mountain Canvas

Complete your campsite in the clouds with the Darche Cold Mountain Sleeping Bags – available in canvas too – designed for the hunter, fisherman, and adventurer after space and a dreamy night’s sleep on the rougher, more rugged getaways.

Boasting an outer shell of water-resistant polyester, its dual zips allow for easy access while a double layer of fibre filling guarantees all-night warmth. With a silk-touch inner lining, 3D collar, and wind baffle for protection from briskier conditions – keep any valuables, tools, or torches on hand owing to convenient storage pockets too.

The canvas line sports a robust but dreamy blend of a soft cotton flannel lining, tough canvas exterior, and a roomy interior. Also featuring a dual-layer filling for warmth and dual zips to merge with compatible bags, an interior pocket also keeps the knick-knacks and valuables close. Plus, cinch in the drawcord hood to keep your noggin toasty out in the field – and for a no-fuss pack up, simply roll into the included zippered carry bag.

Top sellers for 2025: Cold Mountain 900 | Cold Mountain 1100 | Cold Mountain 1400 Double | Cold Mountain Canvas 900 | Cold Mountain Canvas 1100 | Cold Mountain Canvas 1400

Left to right: Darche Cold Mountain 1100, 900, and Canvas 1400

Best for Kids:

OZtrail Kingsford Hooded Junior

Soft to touch but tough against the cold – the Kingsford Junior sleeping bags by OZtrail boasts all the features of the standard bag, only with pared-back specs.

Following a quick machine-wash on a cold cycle, simply hang it out to dry using the stitched-in loops. A synthetic fill retains the warm air, while the rollover chest cuff offers added comfort for a guaranteed good night’s sleep. Plus, a 4-way compression stuff sack provides a space-saving travel solution.

Following a quick machine-wash on a cold cycle, simply hang it out to dry using the stitched-in loops. A synthetic fill retains the warm air, while the rollover chest cuff and contoured hood for surrounding softness offer added comfort for a guaranteed good night’s sleep. A snag-free zipper and anti-snag webbing works with the zipper line’s sewn-in draft tube for easy operation too – plus, a 4-way compression stuff sack provides a space-saving travel solution.

Top sellers for 2025: Kingsford Junior -3

Left to right: OZtrail Kingsford Junior Hooded -3 and 0

What to Watch:

Sea to Summit Alpine Down

While the Sea to Summit Alpine -29C Down Sleeping Bag just missed our top 10 rank this year, we’re hoping to see it claim its spot next year! This lightweight fortress is built for the fast and light braving the frostiest climates. Featuring an Expedition mummy fit for thermal efficiency, this bag boasts 100% nylon construction with technical hood and footbox for superior warmth retention down to -29°C. RDS-certified 850+ FILL Power goose down with ULTRA-DRY treatment delivers comfort when unpacked and compact pack-down when stored. The Free-Flow Zip System includes full-length primary and half-length secondary zippers with draft tubes for optimal temperature regulation and multiple configurations.

Top sellers for 2025: Alpine -29C

Built for the fast and light braving the frostiest climates.

Which sleeping bag ranking surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments!

The post The Best Sleeping Bags for Camping: 2025 Review appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Some lightweight mats carry a significantly steep price tag on account of all the new technologies and fabrics incorporated into their design. It’s not easy to decide, and what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.

Below, we’ve listed our top-selling lightweight hiking mats over the last 12 months (check out this blog for the top-selling sleeping mats for camping too). Before we get into the countdown, let’s cover some of the common questions asked about lightweight hiking mats…

‘Are hiking mats noisy to sleep on?’

Air-filled mats, such as the Thermarest NeoAir and the Sea to Summit air-filled mats, create more noise than self-inflating mats. The good news is that this noise is usually due to the fabric being new, so it will decrease over time and is a small trade-off for much more comfort.

When brand spanking new, some mats may make a little noise. Image: Thermarest

‘What is a bonded sleeping mat?’

This question refers to the self-inflating mats, where the outer fabric layer is glued (bonded) to the inner foam. This creates a sturdier sleeping surface and allows the mat to be inflated tightly.

‘How do I care for my sleeping mat?’

Wherever possible, always use something between your body and the mat such as a sleeping bag or liner. This reduces the amount of oil and sweat that soaks into the mat. Should your mat need cleaning, use a mild soap with warm water and a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the surface.

‘How do I store my sleeping mat?’

Self-inflating mats (full of dense foam) are best stored inflated. This ensures the foams’ memory is in an expanded state which shortens the time it takes at camp for the mat to inflate. Air-filled mats and air-filled insulated mats are much easier to care for. They are best stored loosely rolled, but if space is a premium, they can be rolled up and stored in their stuff sack once they’re clean and dry.

Store your hiking mat properly so that it stays in good condition for many more adventures. Image: Thermarest

‘What size sleeping mat should I get?’

If you’re in the ultra-lightweight category, you’ll probably want to consider the shorter version of any mat. This reduces weight, but you may need to use something else to insulate your feet if the ground is cold. If weight is not a big concern and you just want comfort (or you’re a cold sleeper), choose a mat that is roughly the same length as you are in height.

Width should also be considered, especially for users with larger frames. Women’s sleeping mats are usually shorter than the men’s equivalent, and often have increased insulation around the feet and hips.

Unless weight is an issue, go for the size that matches your height. Image: Sea to Summit

‘What is R-value?’

R-value is an indication of how well the mat resists the transfer of heat from one side to another. This applies to the heat or cold from under the mat, as well as the heat your body may lose into the mat.

The higher the value, the less likely it is you will feel cold from the ground and the more body heat you will retain. For those who want to understand R-value a little better, check out this article here.

There is now a new industry standard for R-value called ASTM F3340-18. Whilst the concept of R-value remains the same, the actual testing methods for the value have been updated.

This has been introduced in a bid to create a level playing field for R-value across brands and to help consumers make more informed choices when comparing the performance of sleeping pads.

The ASTM F3340-18 was introduced in 2020 and to date, not every manufacturer has tested their mats to this new standard. This makes things tricky as you can only really make a true comparison between mats that are both tested to the industry standard.

We’ll make sure we update information on our website as we receive the latest test data from our suppliers.

In cold conditions, a higher R-value will help prevent you from feeling the cold. Image: Thermarest

Mat Types

Closed-Cell Foam

These are made of dense foam with thousands of airtight bubbles inside. They do not compress down, don’t offer much comfort, but they insulate really well and are indestructible, lightweight and very affordable.

Air-Filled

These consist of chambers or cells that require inflation before use. Air-filled mats usually offer a lot of comfort for their relative weight and packed size. They are not self-inflating and should they get a puncture, will not offer any comfort at all. Insulated versions have chambers of synthetic fill or down to help trap warm air.

Air-filled mats are usually the choice for lightweight trekkers and adventurers. Image: Sea to Summit

Self-Inflating

These mats are slabs of open-cell foam, often with holes or cores cut out. Durable fabric is bonded to the foam at the surface and sealed on the edges to create an airtight mat. The expanding foam is what creates the self-inflating feature, but this also means they require a little more muscle to compress the foam when packing your mat away. The other benefit of these mats is that if a puncture does occur, they still offer some padding and insulation.

Filled with expanding foam, a self-inflating mat is a very comfy choice, though not as light. Image: Sea to Summit

Now that we’ve got those questions out of the way, let’s have a look at Snowys best-selling sleeping mats for hiking over the last 12 months.

We’d like to note here that we choose the products we range based on value for money, feedback from our customers, as well as the quality and support from the manufacturer.

10. Thermarest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad

Even at number 10, the NeoAir XLite NXT wins gold for lightweight performance and packability!

Providing stellar warmth-to-weight ratio, 6.4cm of thickness with an internal, supportive baffle structure, and an R-value of 4.2 for insulation across year-round expeditions – these mats are for the fast and light adventurer. Their tapered shape reduces bulk, while ultralight Nylon saves those extra grams. ThermaCapture technology and a Triangular Core Matrix construction work together to trap radiant heat and prevent heat loss – meanwhile keeping the pack size down. Featuring Thermarest’s WingLock valve too, inflating is simple and 3-times faster thanks to one-way inflation and a large opening.

Complete with a pump sack for inflation, a field repair kit for patching up mid-adventure, and a compact stuff sack for storage – these mats are available in a range of sizes.

Why buy this mat?: Superior combination of a supportive structure, year-round performance, and packability.

9. Sea to Summit Pursuit Self Inflating Mat

Fresh to both the top 10 rank and the Snowys floor is the Pursuit Self-Inflating Mat range by Sea to Summit – delivering sublime wilderness sleep where rest matters most!

Featuring innovative Horizontal Delta Coring technology, these mats create foam-supported air channels for maximum comfort at minimal weight. The Pursuit Plus boasts generous 7.5cm thickness with R-Value 4.1 for extended three-season adventures, while the standard Pursuit offers efficient 5cm thickness with R-Value 3.0. Both feature bluesign APPROVED recycled fabric, XPEL Multi-Function Valves, and side-loading stuff sacks for swift transitions. Available in lightweight Contour and spacious Rectangular shapes, you’ll bounce back refreshed for outdoor exploration!

Why buy this mat?: For restful nights’ sleeps after long days of adventuring in alpine environments.

8. Thermarest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad

The ultimate slumber pad for fast and light adventurers — the NeoAir XTherm NXT by Thermarest conquers cold with cloud-like comfort!

Boasting superior warmth-to-weight ratio, 7.5cm thickness, and legendary R-value of 7.3, this mat delivers unbeatable backcountry comfort. Triangular Core Matrix with ThermaCapture technology radiates body heat while reducing loss, meanwhile horizontal baffles ensure alpine-worthy support. The durable 70D base withstands outback abuse, while minimalist design packs to 1L bottle size. Complete with pump sack, repair kit, and rapid WingLock valve for effortless setup!

Why buy this mat?: With technology that radiates body heat while reducing heat loss, the NeoAir XTherm is ideal for alpining, mountaineering, and lightweight adventuring in cold climates.

7. Exped Ultra 7R LW Sleeping Mat

From tempestuous paddling to snow-capped summits — the Ultra 7R LW by Exped marries ultra-light kit with sleep-supporting performance!

Downmat technology delivers all-season insulation for alpine adventures and polar extremes, while Comfort Cradle design features securing side rails and head-to-toe air chambers for dreamy slumber. Recycled ripstop polyester construction prevents landfill waste with eco-conscious comfort crafted using less carbon, water, and energy. Complete with Exped’s pioneering Flatvalve for heavy-duty, reliable inflation, this mat beats biking and alpine brutality with uncompromising performance!

Why buy this mat?: For warmth and comfort on backpacking, bike-packing, hiking, and alpining adventures.

6. Sea to Summit Comfort Light Insulated Mat

With every one of these updates, year after year, these mats come in strong.

Over the years, Sea to Summit has refined the Comfort Light mats range, which now comprises the insulated version and the insulated women’s specific. These mats are probably the most versatile in the brand’s inflatable range, made to provide warmth where it is needed and save weight where it is not. The Comfort Light range is made with two independent inflatable layers, and provides custom comfort and a level of redundancy in the event of a puncture.

Why buy this mat?: Compact comfort and versatility.

5. Exped Versa 5R LW Sleeping Mat

This sleeping mat blends durability with versatility.

Synmat technology with an industry-standard R5 value offers insulation that endures all-season weather. Its head-to-toe air chambers provides a level of durability only dreamed about, while a recycled polyester construction is crafted with less carbon, water, and energy. With an industry-leading Exped-pioneered FlatValve, you achieve no-fuss, reliable inflation.

The Versa 5R LW Sleeping Mat will have you dreaming by dusk and backpacking by daybreak.

Why buy this mat?: Air-filled with outstanding warmth for winter adventures.

4. Thermarest Z Lite Sleeping Mat

Coming in at number 4 – up 3 places since 2023 – we have the accordion-design Z Lite from Thermarest. Some feedback has suggested this mat is slightly bulky, but its reduced weight and budget-friendly price tag make it worth the slightly larger packed size.

It’s a closed-cell foam construction with heat-trapping dimples that provide just enough protection, and can also be used as an extra layer of thermal insulation underneath another mat. It may not dazzle you with a whole lot of specs – but it’s a straight-up, no-nonsense, easy-to-pack-up option with a comfy base between you and the ground.

Why buy this mat?: An affordable, ultralight mat that’s virtually indestructible.

3. Exped LW FlexMat

Be it added insulation for existing self-inflating mat, or simply a minimalist sleeping solution – this mat is the versatile choice.

Its closed-cell IXPE foam construction is DWR-free, while the fold-out design bodes for ease of use in outdoor environments. An R-value of 1.5 has been tested to the ASTM F3340-18 standard, both insulating from the cold and protecting from puncture-prone terrain. For the ultralight travellers seeking a minimalist sleeping option, this mat can also be used on its own.

Why buy this mat?: Versatile in offering added insulation, resistance to rough terrain, and a minimalist option for lightweight trips.

2. Sea to Summit Esther Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Mat

The groundbreaking evolution in outdoor sleep comfort — the Ether Light XR range by Sea to Summit delivers premium plush without compromising packability!

Both models feature 10cm Air Sprung Cell construction and innovative ThermalCore technology for stable, cushioned support. The XR offers reliable three-season performance with R-Value 4.1, while the XR Pro delivers unparalleled four-season warmth with impressive R-Value 7.4 thanks to multiple TRM insulation layers. Integrated Airstream pump, XPRESS valve system, and PillowLock patches ensure effortless setup and slip-free sleep on every alpine adventure!

Why buy this mat?: Upgrade to more comfort without compromising weight.

1. Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air Sprung Cell Insulated Mat

Redefining lightweight comfort for trekking adventures — the Ultralight Insulated range by Sea to Summit delivers compact warmth without compromise! The best-selling Ultralights took the trophy 3 years ago too, featuring a single layer of inflatable cells that conform to your body when you sleep.

With a dot-weld construction creating pocket spring-like air cells, these mats combine body-conforming comfort with Thermolite insulation and heat-reflective Exkin Platinum fabric. The standard version offers versatile performance, while the Women’s model provides tailored hip-wide, shoulder-narrow geometry with R-Value 3.5. Both feature antimicrobial TPU treatment, breath-inflatable design, and PillowLock attachment systems. Lightweight hikers, prepare for jealousy-inducing comfort that packs incredibly compact for every alpine escape!

Why buy this mat?: When weight and pack size are paramount on fast and light adventures!

What to look out for next year?

Well, usually it’s brands like Sea to Summit and Exped that have been the ones to watch when it comes to lightweight mats… but we reckon Thermarest might continue to gain interest and move their way closer to pole position next year! Will they prove strong enough to push Sea to Summit out of the top 3? Stay tuned for next year’s update…

Ben and Lauren chat with Ross from Sea to Summit about the updates to some of their sleeping mats on the Snowys Camping Show:

What’s the best hiking mat you’ve ever used?

The post Best Hiking & Lightweight Sleeping Mats for 2025 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Not only do camp stretchers allow clearance from the cold tent floor, but offer some height when collapsing all the way down or hoisting all the way up is far too much effort! For those those wishing to maximise room, they’re also popular for providing valuable storage space underneath. Some campers also get the heebie-jeebies over potential creepy crawlies exploring their bedding at ground level!

All reasons are valid, and one’s choice in a stretcher boils down to durability, stability, ease-of-use, a packed size that fits in with your transport capabilities, and – most importantly – finding one that is the right size for your tent!

Let’s get stuck into which camp stretchers and beds have been our best-sellers over the past 12 months! This list holds no incentives or brand bias; it’s our customers who have done the talking. We’ve simply crunched the numbers to find out which stretchers and beds have come out on top, based on the sales volumes both online and instore at Snowys.

Starting at Number 10…

10. Oztent RS-1S King Single Stretcher (Series 2)

The ever-popular RS-1S King Single stretcher from Oztent is, despite once being number 3, still keeping campers happy across the country.

Use it on its own or chuck a swag on top, as this stretcher has anti-sway bars to keep it stable. It also features integrated straps that anchor your swag, and is a perfect fit with Oztent’s RS-1 Swag – and at over 1m wide and 2m long, it can also work with most others. Not keen on a swag? No worries. You can fit two of these stretchers with space left in the middle in either the RV5 or RX5 tent!

With its smart new colour and 600D polyester fabric, the RS-1S Series II from Oztent is ideal for those who want a generous and versatile stretcher to use with their swag or camping mattress.

9. Quest Outdoors Fast Bed XC | Queen, Large, and Jumbo

From outdoor dozing to stargazing comfort — new to rank is the Fast Bed XC range by Quest Outdoors, delivering elevated sleep beyond the ‘burbs!

The Queen 150 boasts a luxurious 151cm width supporting 240kg for couples, while the Jumbo 90 offers 88cm of solo sprawling space. For minimalists, the 80 model provides 77cm width with a 150kg rating. All feature quick-fold systems for effortless setup and robust frames that keep you off the cold ground.

Sleep like royalty under the stars with Quest Outdoors’ answer to five-star camping comfort!

8. Helinox Cot One, High Cot One, and Lite Cot

Helinox gear is awesome, and the Cot One is a favourite among motorcycle and bicycle tourers. After comfortably maintaining its hold at #8, we think the only reason it doesn’t shoot even closer to the top spot is due to its higher price tag.

Helinox specialise in super compact gear with quality craftsmanship. This stretcher weighs just 2.3kg but has a rated capacity of 145kg due to the strong yet lightweight TH72M alloy frame. The design is easy to assemble and tension thanks to the level system. The Cot One is a classic ‘buy once, buy right’ scenario. It’s for lovers of lightweight, top-notch gear, and is just as perfect for campers looking to reduce packing load as it is for the cycle-tourer.

The ultimate backpacker’s bed — the Lite Cot by Helinox elevates sleep with feather-light intelligence! Boasting aircraft-grade aluminium alloy, Nylon 66 hubs, and premium textiles, this compact cot delivers surprising strength for motorbike tourers and hikers alike. Stretch out in lightweight luxury beyond the campfire!

For those wanting a bit more clearance from the ground, check out the High Cot One from Helinox! It’s got more than double the clearance from the ground to the Cot One, so is the answer to all those lightweight gear enthusiasts who desire a higher bed.

7. Coleman Instant Up Stretcher 1P Swagger

Stretch out in your outback hangout, with the Instant Swagger Stretcher by Coleman! With a heavy-duty frame capable of bearing up to 150 kilograms, this stretcher is for adventurers who dream big. Its simple, one-person operation has you set up and bivvied down by sunset, while its four-pin locking system enables a strong, secure connection to the separately available Instant Up 1P Swagger Tent.

Thanks to 600D polyester fabric too, withstand the wear and tear of heavy dreaming during those outback slumbers.

6. Oztent King Goanna Stretcher (Series 2)

Roll into deluxe outdoor slumber with the King Goanna Stretcher Series II by Oztent! Plush insulated foam padding and durable 600D polyester cradle you under starry skies, while mesh storage, drink and phone holders keep essentials within reach. Its sturdy steel square tubing frame supports 150kg across a generous 92cm width, with swift X-leg design for fast setup and compact storage.

Compatible with Oztent RV-4 and RV-5, this rugged stretcher ensures blissful bedtime on every adventure.

5. 23ZERO Husky 100 Stretcher

Jumping from compact and lightweight to generous and roomy – the Husky 100 from 23Zero is a big, sturdy stretcher that hit our shelves in early 2020.

It’s perfect for supporting a swag if you want to get yourself up and off the ground, and although it’s not custom made for the Bandit 900, it sure is made to measure. This stretcher weighs in at 10kg and with the frame constructed from a combination of steel and alloy, plus a PVC-backed 600D polyester sling holding up to 150kg.

23Zero knows their stuff and it’s no surprise that the Husky 100 has made our best-sellers list yet again!

4. Zempire W-Leg Stretcher V2

From kid’s sleepovers to space-conscious getaways, the W Leg stretcher from Zempire is, even at number 4, a WINNER! We’ve had them for about 4 years, and shooting their way up the rank is a testament to their quality and popularity.

Feedback from some customers has been that the first couple of setups can be a bit more work. That said, it’s worth persevering, and the initial struggle quickly eases once the 600D poly oxford fabric adjusts to being pulled taut by the frame – it’s a bit like a thick self-inflating mat that’s been compressed in manufacturing.

Compact, lightweight, and comfortable, the W Leg stretcher is well thought out and makes a great all-rounder.

3. Big Sky Stretcher Beds | Standard, Deluxe, and Compact

The good old trusty Big Sky Beds from Coleman have been accommodating campers comfortably for a very long time. Their entry-level price point always sees strong sales and they are no stranger to this list!

These stretchers have a different design from other stretchers and use a coil-sprung trampoline-style configuration. The foam mat is included and creates a super comfortable and insulated surface to rest upon. The Big Sky Beds are easy to set up and have hooped legs that are friendly on tent floors – but their larger packed dimensions can put some people off.

Available in Compact, Regular, and Deluxe sizes, these are an ideal budget-friendly choice for long term stays, or as a spare bed at home.

2. Darche XL 1400 Double Stretcher

Let’s talk about the XL 1400 Double Stretcher by Darche! Spanning a generous 1400mm wide, this stretcher offers rugged wrigglers superior space with a no-middle-bar design for literal undivided attention from your loved one. The 600D laminated polyester fabric with PVC panels delivers supportive comfort, while a powder-coated steel and alloy frame ensures rock-solid stability.

Setup is swift with a 3-step process, making this stretcher the perfect cradle for bigger swags and camping couples!

1. OZtrail Easy Fold Stretcher Beds

Taking the gong for yet another consecutive year – OZtrail’s Easy Fold Stretcher Beds are a trusty favourite and boast a string of 5-star reviews! There are 4 sizes to choose from – Single, Low Rise Single, Jumbo and Queen.

These stretchers come with a few added extras such as storage pockets on the side and an under-bed gear hammock. There are no bars for your feet to kick across the ends, and they have a 150kg weight rating. As with most double stretchers, the Queen does feature a bar down the middle for necessary structural support, but if you add a couple of mattresses you can still snuggle with your partner without the bar digging in.

If you’re looking for an easy, stable, no fuss stretcher for general camping, the OZtrail Easy Fold Stretchers are a stellar choice. There is, however, a strong trend towards lightweight gear and with that OZtrail are starting to consider lighter-weight alternatives for their stretcher range. In 2021, they released their aluminium framed stretchers in Large and Jumbo, and despite these not having the easy-fold feature, they are passed with a 25 mm Square Kinetic Hardened Aluminium frame. We wonder whether this new design and lighter weight might be popular enough to bump the Easy-Fold from first place..?

What to Watch: OZtrail Anywhere Single and Queen Bed

Why bring a stretcher and an air mattress when you can have the best of both worlds with OZtrail’s Anywhere Beds? These beds are an alterative to stretchers, representing an airbed-stretcher hybrid!

Sporting a durable heavy-duty PVC air mattress on top of an easy-to-set-up steel frame, packing your sleeping gear for a weekend away is super easy. The air mattress also sits inside a flannel pocket to both protect and add comfort. The built-in pillow and the ergonomic feet are also designed to go easy on your tent floor, while a side organiser keeps your gear and gadgets right where you need them. Its generous length also has it a great option for taller users.

Be it your living room, or a touring tent – the Anywhere Single and Queen Beds from OZtrail is a simple and comfy sleeping solutions!

What are your predictions for next year’s best-sellers?

The post Best Camp Stretchers & Beds for 2025 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

‘Is that really a swag?’

The debate continues, where some still argue that the swag/tent design trend – AKA, the ‘swent’ – isn’t a genuine swag! Is the jury still out? Are our sales still favouring one over the other – or both in one?! When it comes to buying a swag, there are 3 factors in hot demand:

1. Ventilation
2. Versatility, and
3. Durability!

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the roundup of our best-selling swags, based on the last 12 months of sales…

10. Darche Air-Volution AD 900 and 1400 Swags

Making an appearance in our list for the third year in a row are the Air-Volution AD Swags from Darche. With countless 5-star reviews, it’s no wonder they’ve scored a ranking yet again!

This design comes in the 900, 1100, and 1400, and instead of using traditional poles for structure and stability, it’s got a puncture resistant inflatable system. ‘Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it’, they say! With none of the usual poles to assemble, you can have this swag set up in under 20 seconds using the high capacity hand pump. It’s super quick to deflate, fully seam sealed, has two-way entry, full zip head and foot windows, and all the quality you expect from Darche.

The Air-Volution AD is a stellar choice for the tourer, or someone who wants a swag that’ll last (which is, uh, everyone?)!

 

9. OZtrail Sundowner 900 and 1550 Swags

Well, well, well, look what just swaggered it’s way into the top ten for 2025! Straight out of their Overlander range – and our 2024 What to Watch category – OZtrail are rolling onwards and upwards in the swag game with their Sundowner range, available in 900 and 1550 models with an optional awning too.

The compact and all-too-secure bedroom in a bag – the robust, seam-sealed, 420gsm ripstop polycotton canvas construction and 600gsm PVC bucket floor bear the rough and tumble of outback brutality and withstand wet weather. Climatech technology and gusseted end windows allow adequate airflow, while SkyMesh roof panels provide both superior ventilation and an unparalleled, magical view of the outback night. Boasting a wide body and freestanding design, vertical walls also provide plenty of space for the bigger dreamers, or just your baggage. Light up the night with flexible internal LED lighting, featuring OZtrail’s renouned Lumos technology, and keep your camp kit together in a 6-panel flexi storage system for ultimate organisation. A high-density mattress with added protection also features a removable luxe flannel cover for plush, supple comfort.

The OZtrail Sundowner Swag truly is your humble, outback abode away from home – and we reckon next year’s numbers will see it climbing the ranks again in 2026!

 

8. Darche Dirty Dee 900, 1100, and 1400 CP Swags

The Darche Dirty Dee is no stranger to this list. This swag has a really simple set up, is a slightly lighter weight, and comes in three sizes: 900, 1100 and 1400.

Two ridge poles and three hooped cross-poles allow for a freestanding design that offers a multitude of full mesh doors and windows. It’s made with 420gsm poly-cotton canvas with a tough PVC base, and a comfortable 7cm high-density foam mattress. In 2020, Darche released their Hutch accessory, which has a universal fit with most swags, but is a perfect match for the Dirty Dee 1100.

Like an old faded pair of jeans that just keeps on giving, the Dirty Dee has been around for years. It’s durable, and suitable for all-season camping.

 

7. 23ZERO Duke 1400 and 1600 Swags

The Duke is the perfect sundown setup.

A convenient four-way entry, extensive internal space, and freestanding design has the 1400 and 1600 models the mightiest mobile homes! Seek relief from insects and soak in serenity thanks to a super-fine mesh and cross flow ventilation, while climate control features include a zip-down canvas, all-weather gusseted canopies, and a fully seam-sealed construction. With four all-weather awnings too, these swags throws serious shade (without the attitude)!

Battling the beaten track by your side for years to come thanks to self-repairing spiral zips for ultimate security too – rough it in rustic royalty, with the Duke 1400 and 1600 swags by 23ZERO.

 

6. 23ZERO Bandit 900, 1100, and 1400 Swags

Slipping to Number 6 this year, the Bandit swag from 23Zero nonetheless continues to receive rave reviews. At the time of writing this blog, there are a total of 85x 5-star ratings across all three sizes – the 900, 1100 and 1400.

Made to last, the Bandit is a sturdy and versatile three-hoop design that offers a flexible 4-way entry. The two ridge poles give it that freestanding ability which is in such hot demand, and it’s made from 400gsm poly-cotton canvas with a durable urethane coating on the underside. The base is a heavy-duty PVC welded floor and it comes with a really comfortable 7cm high-density foam mattress.

The Bandit is up there with the best and is ideal for campers needing a reliable swag throughout the year.

 

5. 23ZERO Outbreak 1550 Double Swag

Spacious, freestanding, and comfortable – the Outbreak is designed for off-track touring on those two-wheeled expeditions!

With a tightly-woven and proofed canvas construction, this swag has enough room for two and enough leftover for gear, too! Fully seam-sealed, its heavy-duty PVC bucket floor protects from the ground up, while a super-fine mesh window either end provides ventilation and zip-down canvas walls bode better for wet conditions. A 4-way entry makes for easy coming and going, with scenic 360-degree views and plenty of room for the essentials.

 

4. Darche Nebula 1550 and Nebula+ 1550 (with 70mm Mattress)

The incredibly roomy Darche’s Nebula and Nebula+ has been a favourite for years.

Both have all 3 of those ‘in demand’ factors – ventilation, versatility, and durability. Plus, they can be fully opened up to offer 360-degree views! The Nebula + 1550’s hybrid design allows room for two wrigglers, with storm covers that couple as an awning so you can draw out your outback hangout. Darche has always maintained gold standard after-sales support, and some might argue that their exceptional reputation over a longer period of time gives it the slight edge over other brands. Feedback from our Warranties team is that the Nebula model is one of their favourites in regards to very few issues, top-notch quality, and after sales service.

For campsite comradery on every adventure, the Nebula 1550 and Nebula+ 1550 are swag baggage built for blissful outback slumbers. Watch our YouTube videos on the features here, then have a read of the reviews and Q&A’s. Nothing beats feedback from fellow swaggies!

 

3. 23ZERO Woof Den Dog Swag

This swag’s a little more… well, ruff around the edges. Yep, the 23ZERO Woof-Den Dog Swag is the most paw-sible option for your camping comrade!

Its simple set-up and pack-down are owed to 19-millimetre coated segment poles and an easy-use aluminum adjustable ridge rod, holding taut the panels of 320gsm proofed plain weave poly-cotton canvas to withstand the rough and tumble. Avoid the hotdogs with PVC-coated poly, super-fine, zippered insect mesh, and appreciate adequate ventilation in claggy climates. When it’s raining cats and dogs, heavy-duty PVC bucket flooring and seam-sealed construction keeps your doggy dry, while number-ten heavy core-spiral, self-repairing poly zips beat the outback brutality.

From the rustic huskies to the terriers that tear up the terrain – the Woof-Den Dog Swag is the kennel for ruff-ing it rural!

 

2. Darche Dusk to Dawn 900, 1100, and 1400 CP Swags

Back to its solid position in second place is Darche’s Dusk to Dawn – a swag that will never lose favour.

This is the kind of swag you buy for an 18th birthday gift, knowing that in another 50 years it’ll have a whole lot of stories to tell! Available in 900, 1100 or the double size 1400, it has two huge full-length doors that roll completely open. This swag is perfect for campers who like to feel the cool breeze across their face at night. If not rolled up or zipped down, the storm flaps can be extended as awnings with a couple of optional poles. This leaves the large superfine mesh doors on each side offering virtually unimpeded views of the night sky. It has an easy pitch two-hoop design with a ridgepole that has it freestanding, and is made with Darche’s tough 420gsm canvas and a PVC floor.

The Dusk to Dawn has long been a favourite and consistent best-seller ever since it was released. Darche knows how to do swags – and this one will last a lifetime!

 

1. 23ZERO Dual 900, 1100, and 1400 Swags

From Number 6 in 2021, to a solid third place in 2022, to finally taking the crown in 2023, to proudly standing its ground in 2024, AND again this year – it’s clear that the Dual Swag from 23Zero is more popular than ever!

It’s another freestanding design, with two-way entry and a hassle-free setup. All three sizes – 900, 1100, and 1400 – are made from 400gsm poly-cotton canvas with a polyurethane coating. The HF welded PVC bucket floor delivers protection from the ground up, and the oversized storage bag allows you to keep your bedding inside while it’s rolled up.

The Dual Swag receives loads of great reviews and, having outranked the Dusk to Dawn, many customers deliberate between the two.

 

OZtrail are rolling onwards and upwards in the swag game with the Sundowner range. Image: OZtrail

What to Watch:

Tilda Outdoors: The Rosie & The Matilda

Weekends are for the girls – and Tilda founders Maddy and Kali have taken crowded rooftop bars, cocktails, and canapes, and re-written the narrative to instead tell a story of star-studded outback skies, hot chocolate, and campfires. 

Once reliant on the boys to bear the bulk of their camp setup on group getaways, the pair quickly identified the minimal affiliation that femininity had with the rough and tumble of the great outdoors. Fueled by the desire to do more outdoors and inspired by the idea of being independent as much as included, Tilda was born – a kick-butt initiative that has marked only the beginning of an ever-building confidence in camping among women.

Be it the Rosie or Matilda, Tilda products stand up to not only abrasive outdoor elements, but any preconceived idea about girls with gumption who get. It. DONE! Their swags don’t swagger, they strut – sporting robust materials, tough componentry, and a clever setup design.

From the wildlife women to the girls who run the world, Tilda is all of us! We’re confident that these backcountry beauties will slay their way into the top ten in 2026.

Be it the Rosie or Matilda, Tilda products stand up to abrasive outdoor elements. Pictured: The Rosie Swag

Ben and Lauren chat with Tilda Outdoors co-founder Maddy Bockett on the Snowys Camping Show:

Want more on the ‘swag, tent, or “swent”‘ debate? Check out this episode of the Snowys Camping Show:

What do you think is the best camping swag?

The post Best Camping Swags for 2025 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Choosing a sleeping mat for camping, and deciding what features are most important to you, can be tricky. Usually, they’re all a factor, and narrowing down your choice becomes a balance (or trade-off) between them. Be it self-inflation for fuss-free setups, or swift deflation for efficient pack-ups – this blog both expands on the most popular mat models and narrows down your selection ahead of your next outback escape. We’ve grabbed the data and crunched the numbers from our sales over the last twelve months.

Whilst some mats in this round-up are versatile across camping and hiking, most are generally not for an overnight hike – so if that’s predominantly what you’re after, check out our lightweight best-sellers here. Car campers and 4WD tourers, however – you’re going to want to stick around!

From durability and portability, to weight and the ability to insulate – sink into this year’s best-selling sleeping mats for camping, starting with number 10!

10. Quest Outdoors Dreamer 55 and 65

New to the rank are the Dreamer 55 and 65 Self Inflating mats by Quest Outdoors! Offering a generous 7.5cm thick and an R-value of 9.7 and 10.2 respectively, these mats offer year-round respite at the campsite. A soft, noiseless stretch surface fabric and durable base material together deliver robust comfort, while a high-flow rate valve offers seamless inflation and deflation for a sleep getup with a fast setup! Plus, repair patches and Velcro straps offer a means of fixing tears, rips, and ruptures off the grid.

Compactly stored in a rolltop dry bag-style carry bag – the Dreamers are the ultimate doze decks for alfresco weekends away!

9. Darche KOZI Series

Darche’s KOZI Series is almost four years old, and their range of self-inflating Mattresses is already meeting the demand of first timers across the country! Once a ‘what to watch’ product, these mattresses have managed to make it into the top 10 for three years running!

There’s a sizing option to suit every car camper, with a King Single, a Double, and a Queen. These mats are 10cm thick and a great mat at an affordable price. With a peached polyester top for a soft, fuzzy feel, the Oxford polyester base boasts added durability while its 3D-bonded construction maximises the sleeping area for an even resting surface. Plus, horizontally cross-cored, open-cell PU foam enables a quick inflation and deflation; antibacterial-treated too.

8. Darche Supreme Snoozer: 900, 1100, and 1400

Roll in, roll out, and roll up the Darche Supreme Snoozers, available in sizes 900, 1100, and 1400.

For a quicksticks setup and even faster pack down, a fast-flip valve offers one-way inflation and deflation for efficiency, while its foam is horizontally cross-cored to allow for a smaller packed size and a large roll-top storage bag makes for compact packing. Boasting a 3D construction to maximise the sleeping area, a TPU laminated shell is both resistant to water and limits the moisture drawn from the foam. At 10cm thick when fully inflated, its soft-to-touch knitted surface and open cell, high-density foam work together to offer warmth, comfort, and support too.

From sleeping through the sunrise to coffees on the edge of the camp mat – the Darche Supreme Snoozer Mattresses are designed for campsite ease and efficiency only dreamed about!

7. Zempire Bomberpad 3D and Twin Bomber 3D

These pads are for the dreamers beyond the ‘burbs! Featuring a wave-contoured 3D design and an impressive R-Value of 8.6 and 6.5 respectively, these self-inflating mattresses create a robust barrier between you and solid ground for sublime slumbers after long days of adventuring. Their soft, peached, no-noise surface ensures discrete, hushed repositioning without disturbing other campers at night, while the bonded 75D TPU base stands up to the rough and tumble of outdoor living. For swift setup at sundown, the open-cell foam and 360° valve with three position settings means inflation and deflation are a breeze – so you can spend less time setting up and more time winding down.

From the backyard to the backcountry, the Bomberpad and Twin Bomber are the robust but plush solutions to comfortable outdoor slumbers!

6. BlackWolf HexaTherm 3D

Albeit once in fourth place, the HexaTherm 3D from BlackWolf nonetheless remains a solid choice for outside respite – available in a Single and Queen.

Breaking down the specs, there’s not too much of a difference between these mats and the old favourite, Mega Deluxe. This sleeping solution boasts a clever 3D hexagonal core that delivers superior insulation and body-cradling support, with a luxurious soft-touch 30D stretch fabrics on the surface and sides for a cozy sleeping surface that rivals your bedroom mattress. The robust TPU-laminated 75D polyester fabric base stands up to rugged campsite conditions, while high-volume valves ensure quick inflation and deflation for minimal setup time. Despite its generous proportions when inflated, the small packdown design compresses to a surprisingly compact size, leaving precious pack space for other essentials.

We regard them to be among the best self-inflating mats, and won’t be at all surprised if they continue to work their way up the list.

5. OZtrail 3D Fatmat 750 and 1500

The 3D Fatmat 750 and 1500 by OZtrail lives up to its name, delivering a fat stack of comfort for those sweet slumbers off the grid!

Boasting a class-leading 15cm thick memory foam fill, these mats cradle you in body-hugging bliss while mediating the rough terrain beneath. Its 3D high-density, open-cell memory foam maximises both warmth and comfort, while the luxurious 30D pongee top and sides coupled with a 75D pongee base offer a plush feel with unmatched stability. From setup to pack down, the Fatmats feature self-inflation and a 360° wide-open twist valve that requires a single turn. Perfect for stretchers, jumbo swags, and tents, or even as a backup bed for those impromptu home sleepovers. Plus, when it’s time to hit the road, these mats compress down with included hook and loop crank straps, as well as compression straps on the carry bag for a compact, travel-ready package.

4. Sea to Summit Camp Mat SI

The Camp Mat SI by Sea to Summit doesn’t reinvent the wheel – it rolls out a refined take on campsite comfort! Boasting a robust 75D polyester exterior that stands up to the rough and tumble of outdoor living, this mat protects its clever PU foam core featuring Delta Core-V technology. Such an innovative design delivers variable core sizes that provide more warmth where your body needs it and less where it doesn’t, keeping both weight and bulk to a minimum – without sacrificing comfort. The multi-functional, high-flow valve allows for easy inflation, swift deflation, and precise pressure fine-tuning too, so you can customize your comfort level from plush to firm.

From backyard camps to backcountry expeditions, the Sea to Summit Camp Mat SI is the durable all-rounder for elevated sleep.

3. Sea to Summit Camp Plus SI

Standing tall at 7.5cm thick, this entry-level upgrade to the original Camp Mat SI keeps your hips from hitting the hard ground while delivering an impressive 4.3 R-value (ASTM F3340-18) for year-round insulation. Its abrasion-resistant 75D polyester surface with laminated TPU stands up to the rough and tumble of outdoor life, while the multi-functional, high flow-rate, reversible valve makes for easy, breezy inflation. Inside, horizontal delta coring reduces both bulk and weight without compromising on comfort or robustness – offering a sleeping solution that’s as backpack-friendly as it is body-friendly! Plus, an innovative PillowLock system keeps your separately available Sea to Summit pillow firmly in place.

From swag upgrades to tent-based adventures, the Sea to Summit Camp Plus SI Mat delivers sublime slumber – with a self-adhesive puncture repair kit included too, so you can literally rest assured!

2. Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Self-Inflating

Climbing to an impressive eight centimetres in height, this mat delivers cloud-like comfort while keeping you grounded thanks to a laminated TPU anti-slip print on its base. The innovative PU foam engineered with Delta Core Technology reduces both weight and bulk without compromising support, ensuring consistent warmth along the full length of the mat. Its soft-touch stretch upper fabric cradles you in comfort, while diagonal supporting foam walls allow for compact rolling when it’s time to hit the trail. Plus, a multi-functional valve ensures effortless inflation at sundown and swift deflation at daybreak!

1. Zempire Monstamats and Monstabeds

At number 1 this year, the Monstamats and Monstabeds by Zempire deliver mammoth comfort for those wild escapades under open skies!

Towering at 10cm thick, the Monstamat transforms rocky grounds into cloud-like bedding, featuring 30D Super Stretch Ripstop fabric on top for a soft, comfortable feel and a hardy 75D Poly Pongee base to stand up to the rough and tumble of outdoor living. Its smart 3D construction with cross-cored, anti-bacterial foam prevents moisture buildup, so your sleeping space remains fresh and clean – trip after trip. The fully bonded design also eliminates cold spots, preventing your hips from sinking through to meet the chilly tent floor. Overall, the Zempire Monstamat ensures quality rest, conveniently packed into its own carry bag with an included strap.

Meanwhile, the Zempire Monstabed turns rugged terrain into five-star sleeping quarters with its innovative sleeping system – combining the premium Monstamat mattress with a robust inflatable bed base. The revolutionary design eliminates the need for bulky stretchers, while the integrated components all pack neatly into a single, portable carry bag for streamlined transport to your campsite. The patented technology delivers exceptional support throughout the night, ensuring you wake up refreshed. With easy inflation thanks to the separately available compact Monstapump, your deluxe campsite bed will be ready for respite in no time.

From remote bushland to festival grounds, the Zempire Monstabed transforms roughing it into a luxurious slumber experience – creating a home-away-from-home comfort that traditional setups only dream about.

Sink into this year’s best-selling sleeping mats for camping.

What to Watch:

Exped LuxeMat LXW and LuxeMat Duo LW+

Just touching down on the tarmac that is the Snowys store floor is the LuxeMat series by Exped, taking outdoor slumber from roughing it to first class luxe living!

The evolution of the legendary MegaMat boasts unique wool-insulated, organic cotton topping for superior moisture management and temperature regulation on every off-grid getaway. Practical side zippers allow gap-free coupling for seamless double-bed comfort, while side pockets keep essentials within reach. A durable ripstop shell ensures longevity, meanwhile the core-cover design allows machine washing for fresh, squeaky-clean camping experiences.

Available in a single and a duo, certified to the highest animal welfare standards, and Oeko-Tex® 100 tested – the Exped LuxeMats takes dreamtime beyond the driveway!

How do you choose a good camping mattress?

The post Best Sleeping Mats for Camping: 2025 Review appeared first on Snowys Blog.

So, how do we emulate the comfort we feel at home while out hiking or camping… without being overcome with bulky, heavy equipment? At Sea to Summit, this has become less of a challenge with every lofty layer carefully incorporated into their impressive sleep systems.

In this blog, we unpack the abundance of sleeping bag, liner, mattress, and pillow combinations for the most blissful outback slumbers – including some updated models fresh to the Snowys floor!

Whether we’re home or camping in the great outdoors, we all need a good night’s sleep. Image: Sea to Summit

Sea to Summit’s Sleeping Mat Range

The sleeping mat range is designed to suit a broad range of uses and situations. The Comfort Plus Insulated Rectangular sleeping mats have been known among customers to serve well on outdoor and overseas trips, time and time again. Sea to Summit aren’t the sort of company to rest on their laurels; in late 2014, they released a range of lightweight sleeping mats aimed at the hiking, bike touring, and mountaineering community.

The level of comfort from sleeping on air-sprung cells has to be experienced to be believed. Not only do they allow good sleep on otherwise uncomfortable beds, but also on the ground. These mats are innovative and certainly meet Sea to Summit’s criteria, winning many awards and so attesting to their standing worldwide!

Inflation

The Airstream Pump Sack is a brilliant piece of equipment for pumping up the mats. With gentle puffs across the top of the bag, it is filled with air which is then expelled into the mattress. It’s quick and easy to use, and can double as a dry bag for gear too. Weighing next to nothing, it packs into a tiny ball when not in use.

Self-inflating mats, on the other hand, require no pump – great for the lightweight adventurers attempting to pare back the bulk. Their internal PU foam and multi-functional valves allow for easy inflation and deflation, as found with the Comfort Plus SI Sleeping Mat.

Frequently Asked Questions on Sleeping Mats

These mats are quite unlike a lot of others on the market, raising questions concerning noise and durability based on their delicate and lightweight appearance. Not for long, though – once taken out into the field, they quickly become synonymous with comfort!

Sea to Summit are masters when it comes to quality. Every mat – yes, every mat – is inflated to 1.5 psi and checked overnight for loss of pressure and leaky welds. This way, users know when they take their mat out of their backpack (30km from the car) that it will perform as intended. You can see the entire range here. 

Since Snowys began to stock these mats in 2015, we have fielded stacks of questions from weight-conscious Australian hikers and bikers…

Sea to Summit mats quickly become synonymous with comfort! Image: Sea to Summit

1. Are they noisy?

Science can answer this one.

All sleeping mats on display (including those by other brands) were put to a rigorous test of smooshing, massaging, rolling, and rubbing between hands. After measuring the noise emissions with a specialist piece of scientific equipment – a pair of ears – the verdict is that they are a little noisy, but not excessively so.

2. What’s the warmest Sea to Summit mat that Snowys stocks?

The warmest in the range is the Comfort Deluxe Self Inflating Sleeping Mat. It sports an R-Value of 6.5, owing to internal PU foam that’s been engineered with Delta Core Technology and diagonal supporting walls for improved insulation from directly below.

3. Are they easily punctured?

Sea to Summit sleeping mats are no more susceptible to puncture than any other similar mat. In fact, because of the ‘honeycomb’ cell design, surface contact with the ground is less so than with ‘flat’ self-inflating mats. The less material there is touching the ground, the less risk there is of a puncture.

As the Comfort Plus has two independent chambers, a puncture on one side means redundancy in the other. This also allows for greater flexibility over the firmness of your mat.

If you do get a puncture, Sea to Summit supply a puncture repair kit containing 3M® adhesive patches.

4. Is the Comfort Light Insulted more comfortable than the Comfort Light?

Only really in the sense of warmth. The Comfort Light Insulated is rated at R 3.7 whereas the Comfort Light comes in at R 3.1. So the Insulated will keep you warmer and more comfortable in the cold.

Both feature the same cell structure so there is no difference between the two in terms of padding. They both feature a single layer of cells for your head and legs and a double layer through the torso region. This reduces weight.

Anecdotally, some do feel the ground more when sitting up in the Comfort Light – but on their back, side, or even elbow, there was little difference.

Sea to Summit designed their range to provide the most comfort in the smallest and lightest package possible. Image: Sea to Summit

5. What’s so good about the Sea to Summit range?

Comfort. Sea to Summit designed their range to provide the most comfort in the smallest and lightest package possible. There are lighter, smaller, and warmer mats on the market – but few compare in terms of comfort.

6. How do I inflate a Sea to Summit mat?

Two ways.

You can rely simply on your breath. All Sea to Summit mats have an anti-bacterial treatment in them, so there are no issues with this. It’ll take about 20 breaths to completely inflate the Ultralight sleeping mat. Deflation happens almost instantly via a rapid air dump port.

Alternatively, you can use an Air Stream pump sack to make lighter work of inflation. A couple of light breaths in either, and your mat is inflated in seconds. Both double as stuff sacks for the mats, so they won’t take up any extra space.

7. I’m hiking The Overland Track next spring. Which mat is best?

The Overland Track is pretty unpredictable, weather wise. Spring can mean cold or warm weather, or a combination of both.

That said, it’s unlikely you’ll be sleeping directly on the ground unless you have to camp out due to injury or bad weather. You’ll either be sleeping on a wooden bunk in a hut, or in your tent on a wooden tent platform adjacent to a hut. Insulation against the cold ground will be less of a problem than if you were sleeping directly on it in your tent.

The most versatile mat in the range – that still boasts a decent R-value, balanced with lightweight and comfort – is likely the Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated. The regular length weighs in at 480 grams, is rated R 3.3.

Sea to Summit Ultralight Pillows

The Aeros Ultralight makes a comfortable pillow to back up the mat, and it’s only the size of a matchbox when packed into its storage pouch!

This little beauty has the same valves as the sleeping mats, so can be inflated with the Air Stream or a few quick, direct breaths.

The Aeros Ultralight makes a comfortable pillow to back up the mat. Image: Sea to Summit

A pillow while camping can be deemed an unnecessary luxury. From down-filled to synthetic-filled, some need to be compressed to fit into a rucksack. Some find that they’re tricky to pack down small enough for their needs, and offer no more comfort than a rolled-up down jacket.

That said, the Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Ultralight is considered a real winner among hikers. Taking up virtually no space in a pack (at 5.5 x 7cm in diameter), and weighing next-to-nothing (just 60g) – how much comfort could it really bring once inflated?

How you use the pillow is, of course, a personal preference. For example, place it on the headrest area of your hiking mattress without further padding or covering it, or try wrapping it up in a windcheater.

Inflation and Deflation

After only three breaths, the pillow is inflated to be approximately 36 x 26 x 12cm, and more than adequate for a good night’s sleep. Made from a durable, comfortable and non-slip material, the pillow is capable of taking a fair bit of weight while inflated.

Inflating this takes all of 5 seconds, featuring a one-way inflation valve (this means it won’t start to deflate between breaths). To deflate, simply pull the deflation plug out from the same handy valve; it is ready to fold and roll up immediately into its own drawstring nylon bag.

Sea to Summit have leveraged on their in-depth knowledge and understanding of the sleeping bag market. Image: Sea to Summit

Sea to Summit Sleeping Bags

Over the years, Sea to Summit have re-worked their entire range of sleeping bags, leveraging on their in-depth knowledge and understanding of the sleeping bag market to deliver a range defined by technical performance, comfort and versatility.

Sea to Summit Sleeping Bag Technologies:

• Free Flow zip design incorporates both full and half-length zips in the same bag for temperature adaptability, as well as zip plows and slides to prevent fabric snatching.
• Zip-coupling system, where all bags identified with this feature are produced with the same 165cm #5 YKK zipper. This allows any left zippered unisex bag to be joined with any right zippered women’s bag.
• Compatibility with separately available quilts.
• Fabrics for technical performance.
• Superior ULTRA-DRY down that almost eliminates the negative effects moisture has on down.
• A ‘Down Batch Test Report” International Down Feather Laboratory (IDFL): the world’s largest and most respected down laboratory enclosed with every bag.
• Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified to ensure humane sourcing of down.
• WaveLoft construction in the synthetic bags that loops thick layers of proprietary THERMOLITE® insulation together for extra loft and warmth.
• Warmer women’s specific engineering with a modified shape, extra down, and thicker footbox insulation.
• Temperature tested to the EN13537 European standard for sleeping bags (excludes Ember quilts).

With over 42 sleeping bag variations across 16 different models, there is truly a Sea to Summit sleeping bag to suit every user on any adventure. Based on our first impressions, we’ve summarised the range below and you can find all the juicy specifications by following the links through to our product pages.

What’s New in 2024?

Despite the roaring success of their sleeping bag range, Sea To Summit’s continual drive for perfection has lead them to make some refinements to some models in their down range in 2024. Their classic range is still available for purchase – or, if you wish, you can splurge a little more to take advantage of the premium offerings in their new-season bags.

The refinements Sea To Summit made were most notably:

• Simplified product names
• Standardised temperature ratings
• Evolved shapes and fit
• #5 YKK zipper, with anti-snag slider now across the new season range
• Sustainable fabric choices wherever possible
• Updated storage sacks and compression bags

There is truly a Sea to Summit sleeping bag to suit every user on any adventure. Image: Sea to Summit

The Spark

The Spark bags are lightweight and technical all-rounders for both men and women. There’s a version to suit every weight conscious explorer on warm weather adventures, right through to cold climate expeditions. They feature 850+ ULTRA-DRY Goose Down and ultra-light fabrics and trimmings. Vertical chest baffles combined with a contoured mummy shape offer optimal lightweight thermal efficiency too.

Technical features – 850+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Goose Down. Vertical and horizontal chest baffles (latter depending on the model). Ultra-light 7D and 10D fabrics. Mummy shape for efficient insulation. Combination box and sewn through baffle construction. Cannot be joined with another bag, but compatible with separately available quilts.

Ideal for – Ultra-light adventures in warm to mid-winter climates.

Shop here:

Classic models – Spark Sp0 | Spark SpI | Spark SpII | Spark SpIII | Spark SpIV

Premium new-season models – Spark 7C | Spark -1C | Spark -9C | Spark Double -9C | Spark -18C | Spark Women’s 7C | Spark Women’s -1C | Spark Women’s -9C

Video – Spark review here

The Spark Pro

There’s no other way to describe the Spark Pro other than as a premium sleeping bag. By combining the successful Free Flow Zip system, with technical design, lightweight fabrics and then filling the bag with 950+ loft down, the Spark Pro unquestionably offers the best of everything you look for in a sleeping bag.

Technical features – 950+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Goose Down. Vertical chest baffles. Ultra-light 10D fabric with DWR water resistant treatment on the head and foot. Mummy shape with Free Flow zip system for efficient insulation, comfort, and versatility. Combination box and sewn through baffle construction. Can be joined with other new season Women’s version bags, compatible with separately available quilts.

Shop the premium new-season models – Spark Pro -1C | Spark Pro -9C

The Flame

The Flame is an ultra-light, all-round, women’s-specific sleeping bag available in multiple versions to suit every activity. It has all the same materials and features as the Spark, only with a women’s specific cut i.e. wider at the hip and narrower at the shoulder. Plus, it has a little extra down for increased warmth.

Technical features – 850+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Goose Down. Vertical chest baffles. Ultra-light 7D and 10D fabrics. Women’s specific mummy shape for efficient insulation. Combination box and sewn-through baffle construction. Cannot be joined with another bag.

Ideal for – Women on ultra-light adventures in warm to mid-winter climates.

Shop here:

Classic models – Flame FmII | Flame FmIII | Flame FmIV

Premium new-season models – Check out the Spark Women’s range for the premium updated models of the Flame series: Spark Women’s 7C | Spark Women’s -1C | Spark Women’s -9C

Video – Flame review here

The Flame is an ultra-light, all-round, women’s-specific sleeping bag. Image: Sea to Summit

The Amplitude

A technical bag with a focus on comfort. The Amplitude is best suited to basecamp style adventures or car camping where you are not scrutinising grams and rucksack space. It features a roomy rectangular design filled with 750+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down, three zippers for multiple configurations including separating the top and bottom as a quilt and blanket, and a webbing system to attach a sleeping mat to the bag.

Technical features – 750+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down. Spacious. Vertical chest baffles. 20D and 30D fabrics. Panelled footbox. 3D Hood. Webbing to attach sleeping mat. Available in double size. Can be joined with other bags.

Ideal for – Car camping, van life, hut based adventures.

Shop here – Amplitude Am2 (2°C) | Amplitude Am3 (-8°C)

The Ascent

If you’re seeking a single sleeping bag to cover most adventures that offers a good balance between weight, durability, and versatility, the Ascent is the ideal choice. These bags offer more space than a mummy bag, and boast an efficient design with vertical and horizontal chest baffles, a panelled footbox, and a 3D hood roomy enough to fit a regular Sea to Summit pillow . The Ascent also features the Sea to Summit Free Flow Zip design with both half and full-length side zips, plus a footbox zip for temperature adaptability.

Technical features – 750+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down. Relaxed tapered rectangular or Mummy fit, depending on the model. Vertical and horizontal chest baffles (latter depending on the model). 20D fabric. Panelled footbox. 3D Hood. Free Flow zipper design. Can be joined with other bags, including women’s.

Ideal for – Anything from car-based adventures to extended trekking in warm to cold climates.

Shop here:

Classic models – Ascent AcI | Ascent AcII | Ascent AcIII

Premium new-season models – Ascent -1C | Ascent -9C

Video – Ascent review here

The Altitude

The Altitude sleeping bag is the women’s version of the Ascent, and is a great all-rounder. It has all the same features, only with a female-specific shape that’s wider at the hip and narrower at the shoulder. It’s also loaded with more down than the Ascent, featuring THERMOLITE® panels under the foot area for increased warmth.

Technical features – 750+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down. Relaxed women’s specific tapered rectangular shape. Vertical chest baffles. 20D fabric. Panelled footbox. THERMOLITE® panel underfoot. 3D Hood. Free Flow zipper design. Can be joined with other bags.

Ideal for – Women on car-based adventures or extended treks in warm to cold climates.

Shop here:

Classic models – Altitude AtI | Altitude AtII

Premium new-season models – Check out the Ascent Women’s range for the premium updated models of the Altitude series: Ascent Women’s -1C | Ascent Women’s -9C

Video – Altitude review here

The Trek has a tapered rectangular design, while the Journey is the Trek bag with a women’s specific design. Image: Sea to Summit

The Trek

The Trek has been a staple part of the Sea to Summit sleeping bag range since the very beginning, where the latest version has seen a change to both vertical chest and horizontal baffles for increased efficiency. The Trek has both a tapered and semi-rectangular design that offers more room than traditional mummy bags, and comes at a very affordable price for such a high-quality bag.

Technical features – 650+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down. Relaxed, tapered rectangular and semi-rectangular shapes. Vertical and horizontal chest baffles (latter depending on the model). Durable 20D and 30D fabrics. 3D Hood. Can be joined with other bags.

Ideal for – General camping, hiking and travel.

Shop here:

Classic models – Trek Tk1 | Trek Tk2 | Trek Tk3

Premium new-season models – Trek -1C | Trek -9C | Trek -18C | Trek Women’s -1C | Trek Women’s -9C

Video – Trek review here

The Journey

The Journey is the Sea to Summit Trek bag, only with a women’s specific design. Along with all the same features that make the Trek a popular and affordable bag, the Journey has a shape that is wider at the hip and narrower at the shoulder. It’s also packed with a little more down and features a THERMOLITE® panel under the foot section for increased warmth.

Technical features – 650+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down. Relaxed women’s specific tapered rectangular shape. Vertical chest baffles. Durable 20D and 30D fabrics. THERMOLITE® panel underfoot. 3D Hood. Can be joined with other bags.

Ideal for – Women, general camping, hiking and travel.

Shop here:

Classic models – Journey JoI | Journey JoII

Premium new-season models – Check out the Trek Women’s range for the premium updated models of the Journey series: Trek Women’s -1C | Trek Women’s -9C

Video – Journey review here

The Traveller

The Traveller is designed for…well, travel! It’s a featherweight sleeping bag with a minuscule pack size and a hoodless design that can be opened up as a quilt making it perfect for hostels or to throw over the top of another bag for added warmth.

Technical features – 750+ Loft ULTRA-DRY Down. Tapered hoodless shape. Ultra-light 15D fabric. Sewn-through construction on TrI. Horizontal baffles on Tr2. Can be joined with other Traveller bags.

Ideal for – Travel

Shop here:

Classic models – Traveller TrI | Traveller TrII

Premium new-season models – Traveller 7C

The Journey bag is packed with a little more down for increased warmth. Image: Sea to Summit

The Treeline

The Treeline is an entry level three-season down bag with a relaxed mummy shape and a single side zipper. It’s filled with a lesser lofting down and does away with the ULTRA-DRY feature to keep the costs down. Made with a 50D nylon shell, the Treeline maintains a quality lightweight build at an affordable price.

Technical features – 600+ Loft Down. Relaxed mummy shape. 50D fabric. Can be joined with other bags.

Shop here – Treeline Tl1

The Trailhead

Basic and affordable quality. The Trailhead synthetic bag from Sea to Summit offers space and comfort for general camping. It features a durable water repellent shell fabric and efficient WaveLoft construction as well as a single full-length zipper that enables the bag to be zipped opened as a quilt.

Technical features – WaveLoft synthetic construction. Tapered rectangular shape. 30D DWR shell fabric. 20D Lining. Single full-length zipper. Cannot be joined with other bags.

Ideal for – General warm to cool weather camping.

Shop here – Trailhead ThII | Trailhead ThIII

The Quest

An affordable all-rounder for general camping and weekend warriors, the Quest is the women’s specific version of the Trailhead. It features a shape that is wider at the hips, narrower at the shoulders and has a dose of extra insulation in the footbox. It has a single full-length zipper and maintains the quality build you can expect in all Sea to Summit sleeping bags.

Technical features – WaveLoft synthetic construction. Women’s specific tapered rectangular shape. 30D DWR shell fabric. 20D Lining. Single full-length zipper. Thicker footbox insulation. Cannot be joined with other bags.

Ideal for – General camping for women in warm to cool weather.

Shop here – Quest QuI | Quest QuII

Video – Quest review here

The Trailhead bag offers space and comfort, while the women’s-specific Quest features a dose of extra insulation in the footbox. Image: Sea to Summit

The Basecamp Down -9C

An all-rounder for general camping and all-out explorers, the Basecamp features a relaxed semi-rectangular fit with enough room to fit a home-size pillow in the hood – which is removeable, and doubles as a blanket! Sporting Sea to Summit’s Free Flow Zip system too, it has full-length #5 primary and secondary zippers and boasts compatibility with both Sea to Summit quilts and women’s bags.

Technical features – RDS-certified 650+ FILL Power duck down. Relaxed semi-rectangular shape. 20D Polyester shell and lining. ULTRA-DRY down water-repellent treatment. Primary and secondary full-length zippers. Oversized hood with soft-touch adjustments. Compatible with Sea to Summit quilts and women’s bags.

Ideal for – General camping in cool weather.

Shop here – Basecamp -9C

The Alpine Down -29

Offering lightweight durability on the heavier endeavours, the Alpine -29C Down Sleeping Bag is for the fast and light braving the frosty climates. It features an expedition Mummy fit for thermal efficiency – wider at the hips, narrower at the shoulders – with a technical hood and footbox. Plus, benefit from a full-length primary zipper and 1/2-length secondary zipper for temperature regulation.

Technical features – RDS-certified 850+ FILL Power goose down. Expedition mummy fit. 20D Nylon shell and lining with PFC-free DWR for water resistance. PFC-free ULTRA-DRY down water-repellent treatment for better thermal performance. Free Flow Zip system with full-length primary and 1/2-length secondary zippers offer multiple sleeping bag configurations. Technical hood and footbox.

Ideal for – Expedition, trekking, and alpine camping

Shop here – Alpine -29C

Beyond the walls of the family home, we’re entitled to a sufficient sleep setup. Image: Sea to Summit 

Sea to Summit Sleeping Bag Liners

Finally, the Sea to Summit sleeping system can be topped off with a sleeping bag liner. This is an invaluable addition to sleeping comfort – used by itself in warm conditions and exceptional in cold conditions, extending the warmth of a lightweight down bag and keeping the state of your sleeping bag cleaner too. Even fresher to the Snowys shelves is the new sleeping bag liner range, including the Blend, Comfort Blend, Breeze, and Reactor models.

Ben and Lauren have also discussed sleep system ratings with Dean Woodall from Sea to Summit on the Snowys Camping Show podcast. Tune in here:

Which Sleep System is Right For Me?

Camping

If you’re after a mat that you can chuck into the car for that weekend away, there are both air-filled and self-inflating options for general car camping.

You can have the best camping mat in the world, but if you pair it with a dodgy sleeping bag (or vice-versa), you’re still likely to feel unsatisfied. Here are Snowys’ top picks for the ideal Sea to Summit ‘sleep system’, covering compact gear to see you through camping trips, the odd hiking adventure, and something specifically for camping and general comfort.

Mats

Our top STS mats for car camping:

Comfort Light SI Sleeping Mat – a good choice for campers who do the occasional overnight hike as well. Tapered, 5cm thick, self-inflating, and available in small, regular, and large.

Camp Plus SI Sleeping Mat – for campers wanting a well-insulated mat with a durable surface fabric. Available in regular and large, both tapered and rectangle, 7.5cm thick, and self-inflating.

Comfort Plus SI Sleeping Mat – for a bit more luxury, this choice is 8cm thick, self-inflating, and insulated. It’s available in regular and large, both Tapered and Rectangle, as well as Double and the slightly different air-sprung model that Ben mentions.

Sleep Systems

Below is a car camping/overnight hiking hybrid system for a compact and lightweight option that crosses between the two activities.

Aeros Premium Pillow – available in Regular, Large, and Deluxe.

Trek Sleeping Bag and women’s specific Journey Sleeping Bag.

Comfort Light SI Sleeping Mat – includes air-sprung, women’s specific models.

The comfortable, easy-care pick for general car camping:

Foamcore Pillow – available in Regular, Large, and Deluxe.

Quest Qu Women’s Sleeping Bag – tapered rectangle, synthetic WaveLoft fill, and available with a comfort rating of 3°C and -1°C, in both regular and long sizes. The Trailhead unisex version is available in 5°C and -1°C, plus a bunch of size variations.

Camp Plus SI Sleeping Mat.

Our top picks for the ideal ‘sleep system’ cover compact gear to see you through camping trips, the odd hiking adventure, and something specifically for camping and general comfort. Image: Sea to Summit

Hiking

Alrighty hikers, let’s get down to business! This is where gram-counting and pack size are important, but so are comfort and insulation – especially for those cold nights. The type of hiker you are will determine which areas you need to prioritise.

If you’re pretty extreme with your adventures, then you’re going to want high-end gear from which you can demand the most. If you’re not quite so hardcore and want something more affordable without sacrificing that STS quality, then here are our sleep system picks for both kinds of trailblazers.

Mats

Air sprung cell or self-inflating, insulated or no insulation, unisex or women’s specific? Here’s our pick of Sea to Summit mats for hikers.

Ultralight Insulated – available in our best-selling air-sprung, as well as a self-inflating version. These are lightweight, slightly tapered, and available in a range of sizes.

The Comfort Light range – these offer a bit of extra thickness and the self-inflating option provides a good weight, pack size, and comfort ratio. Here’s the air-sprung version and also, the women’s specific in both self-inflating and air-sprung cell.

Ether Light mats – for the very best balance in weight, size, and comfort. These are in a range of sizes and shapes, but all are air-sprung and 10cm thick.

Sleep Systems

For the hiker wanting ultralight and compact gear, with maximum comfort.

Aeros Premium Pillow Regular – packs down to an incredibly small size, yet still offers comfort and support.

Spark Sleeping Bag – down fill, mummy-shaped, and available in both regular and long for comfort levels of 14°C, 9°C, 7C, 4°C, -1C, -2°C, -8°C, -9C, and -18C. There’s also the Ember Quilt series for the gram-counter extraordinaire!

Ether Light XT Sleeping Mat – for a super compact and lightweight system.

For the general all-round hiker that wants awesome quality and isn’t fussed by a bit of extra weight or pack size.

Aeros Ultralight Pillow – inflatable with internal baffles to cradle your head.

Ascent Sleeping Bag – down fill, tapered rectangle, and available in two sizes for comfort ratings of 2°C, -1C, −4 °C, -9C, and −11 °C. Or, the Altitude women’s specific version, −4 °C and −10 °C.

Ultra Light SI Hiking Mat – Our pick for the general hiker.

If you’re a pretty extreme adventurer, you’re going to want high-end gear from which you can demand the most. Image: Sea to Summit

4WDing

STS has built a solid reputation around their ultralight gear, so it might come as a surprise that we reckon there’s a few key pieces that are perfect for off-road touring. There are three important components to a decent sleep system – your pillow, your sleeping bag, and your mat. So, what’s our pick for 4WDing?

Mats

Comfort Plus SI – for the compact 4WDer, this one crosses over from general camping to offer the best of both.

Camp Plus SI – another versatile mat that is suitable for both camping and 4WDing. This is a really durable choice.

Comfort DLX SI – available in three sizes, Regular Wide, Large Wide, and Double. These mats have a much larger pack size compared to the other two but are the crème de la crème in 4WD luxury.

Sleep Systems

If you’ve got a beefed-up rig but need to keep your gear weight and size down for touring.

Aeros Down Pillow Deluxe – an air-filled premium pillow that will cradle your head with down-filled baffles stitched into the cushioned top.

Amplitude Sleeping Bag – a down-filled warmer option that’s available in three comfort ratings,  2°C, −8°C, and Double −8°C options.

Comfort Plus SI – compact, self-inflating, 8cm thick, and insulated. The Tapered version is great for fitting the whole family into one tent, or it’s also available in Rectangle, and Double.

There we have it, folks! That’s a round-up of our ‘Snowys Pick’ from the Sea to Summit range. No matter whether you’re a male or female, warm sleeper or cold sleeper, ultra-lightweight hiker or heavy-duty 4WD tourer, big-spender or on a tight budget – there’s a mat and sleep system to keep you comfortable on your camping, hiking, or 4WDing adventures.

Want more from Sea to Summit?

Ben and Lauren sit down with the team and bivvy down on what goes on behind the scenes:

Tell us about your sleeping system and what you would like to improve. We can help. 

The post The Sea to Summit Sleep Systems appeared first on Snowys Blog.

But… what are the bedding options? How do they differ from one another? Most importantly, which is going to allow me the best night’s sleep?

In this article, we’ll look at a range of different sleeping options to give you a better idea of what you should take on your next camping or outdoor trip. Let’s take a look!

Inflatable Mattresses

Everyone has slept on an airbed or inflatable mattress before. Some have had good experiences, others not so much. An inflatable mattress relies solely on air to keep its shape and support you while you sleep.

Pros:

• Very much on the cheaper side of the budget, as they are quite basic.
• Available in a range of sizes, with a built-in pillow.
• Given they are quite deep, they tend to be quite comfortable. Your hips stay away from the ground or other firm surface, and they conform to the shape of your body (similar to a water bed).
• Can be pumped up tight for a firmer feel, or expelled of some air to soften it.

Cons:

• Can be quite easily punctured.
• If you puncture the mattress and it deflates slowly overnight, you wake up on the cold, hard floor!
• Small holes can be very difficult to find and patch (especially at 2 o’clock in the morning).
• Inflatable mattresses offer no insulation from the ground, so don’t provide a particularly warm night’s sleep. In cold conditions, they are best used with a blanket over the top.
• Can be bouncy; if sleeping on a Double or Queen, you are likely to feel every movement from your partner.
• Require a pump to inflate (another expense and something else to carry). Using a hand or foot pump can be tiring, and electric pumps are both noisy and require power.

Self-Inflating Mattresses

Self-inflating mattresses are similar to inflatable mattresses in that they are an airtight bag which, when sealed with air, supports your body. Inside the airtight bag is foam, which is compressed when the mattress is rolled up. When unrolled and the valves opened, the foam expands back to its original size, sucking air into the bag as it does so.

When the foam return to its full size and the bag is inflated, the valves are closed, containing the air. To pack away, simply open the valves and compress the foam, forcing the air out as you roll. By closing the valves at the end, no air will enter again, thus preventing the foam from expanding.

Pros:

• As the name suggests, these mattresses will inflate on their own, negating the need for a pump.
• Simple to set up: roll it out, open the valves, and walk away. Just remember to close the valves again afterwards.
• Comfortable, particularly in the larger sizes.
• Insulative, keeping you much warmer.
• Given its foam interior, any puncture won’t result in ultimately sleeping on a cold, hard floor!

Cons:

• Can occupy a lot of room.
• Larger mattresses will have more foam, therefore occupy more room when packed away too.
• On the other hand, some self-inflating mats available are quite thick when unrolled, but small when packed away. These mattresses will contain more air than foam, and often more expensive than thicker models.
• Over time, the edges of the mattress can deteriorate (depending on the quality).
• Any small punctures can be harder to locate than on inflatable mattresses. Any holes will also mean the mattress inflates in its bag when packed away, and this can cause difficulty when removing from the bag again.

Camp Stretchers

A camp stretcher is a fold out frame with a canvas (or similar material) stretched out and pulled nice and tight, supporting the body.

Pros:

• Raised off the ground, making it much easier to get in and out of bed.
• Quick and easy to assemble, and provide extra storage space beneath (for baggage etc.).
• Compact for storage and transport.
• Can be a cooler option for warm weather, given they’re raised from the ground.

Cons:

• Stretchers can be quite heavy, some weighing up to 10 – 12kg.
• When new, and depending on the type of stretcher, they can be a little tight. And whilst their design is easy to assemble, they tight canvas can be difficult to stretch into place.
• Stretchers do not insulate you from the ground and can be very cold overnight, especially during the winter months.
• Some stretchers will come padded however these will be larger and bulkier to pack away.
• You may find stretchers quite firm to sleep on and are often partnered with a foam mattress or self-inflating mattress to offer a little more comfort.
• Some stretcher frames can be quite rocky and creak loudly when moving around on them.

Swags

A swag is a canvas bedroll, protective from wind, rain, dirt, sand, and bugs. It can be used outside on its own, or inside a tent, caravan, or even the living room as a roll-out bed. Swags usually boast a canvas construction and come in all shapes, sizes, and designs. Commonly, they come equipped with a foam mattress inside.

Pros:

• An efficient source of bedding, with very little setup required. Depending on the design, most need only be rolled out before they’re ready for use.
• Sleeping bag or other bedding (such as sheets and blankets) can remain inside, even when rolled up.
• Most swag mattresses are made from dense foam of varying thicknesses, usually very comfortable.
• Owing to their canvas construction, swags are insulative and protective from both the ground and cold outside air.

Cons:

• Large and sometimes awkward to pack away and transport.
• Often require transporting in a trailer or on roof racks.
• Can be heavy, depending on size and canvas weight.
• Can be uncomfortable in warm and humid conditions. In areas prone to bugs and insects, it’s necessary to zip yourself inside the swag completely – though this can create very hot and sticky interior conditions, and therefore an uncomfortable sleep.

When heading on a holiday, getting a good night’s sleep is one of the most important things. Image: OZtrail

Whichever sleeping arrangement – I recommend that you first consider how you will be transporting your chosen bedding to your destination. Upon arrival too, think that how much space will you have to set it up.

The post Sleep Options for the Restless Camper appeared first on Snowys Blog.

In general, there are two types of sleeping bag fill available on the market: the traditional down and the more modern synthetics. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to weigh up these factors before making your choice.

Down-Filled Sleeping Bags

Down is the breast feathers of birds, and the traditional filling for sleeping bags. Most quality down is from ducks and geese, collected from their nests after it falls off the bird. Or, in some cases, it’s a by-product of the food processing industry.

The quality of down is measured by fill power. This is basically a measure of how much the down will ‘fluff up’ when in use, measured in cubic inches per ounce. Generally, a low end down sleeping bag or quilt will be approximately 400, while the top of the range can reach as high as 900. The more a bag ‘fluffs up’ the better the insulating properties, and hence less weight of filling is required to keep you just as warm.

There are many advantages and disadvantages of down sleeping bags. Let’s take a look at them.

Advantages

The main advantages of down are the warmth per weight, and longevity. Generally, down bags can be half the weight of a comparatively warm synthetic bag, and compress much further. This means less weight on your back if you are hiking, and less to cart around camp from the car. They also have a longer lifespan.

A down bag will keep filling and stay warm for years, even with regular use. A synthetic bag will eventually lose its warmth. Some sources suggest a down bag will last two to three times as long as an equivalent synthetic bag.

Disadvantages

The overwhelming disadvantage of down is its performance when wet. A soggy down bag will only retain about 10% of its warmth, and takes a lot of drying.

Down is also generally more expensive as an initial purchase. However, the long-life of a down bag means it will generally be cheaper in the long term. Down bags are a long-term purchase that may be unwarranted for some applications such as school camps, or if they are only being used occasionally for local summer holidays. However, if you expect to use them regularly over a long period of time, they are definitely a worthwhile investment.

Synthetic-Filled Sleeping Bags

Synthetic sleeping bags are a more modern alternative to down, and always improving. The fill is a polyester microfibre that can be compressed, then ‘fluffs up’ to provide insulation when released.

Generally the greater the mass of synthetic measured in grams per square metre (gsm), the warmer it will be. However, it will be heavier as well. As the quality of the synthetic fill is improving all the time, synthetic sleeping bags are becoming both lighter and warmer.

Synthetic fillers vary widely, with most manufacturers having their own specific type of fill. This means there is no standard for the quality of the filler. However, these manufacturers make their name on quality – so if the filling is poor, the company is probably on the way out.

There are many advantages and disadvantages to synthetic sleeping bags, which we’ll examine below.

Advantages

The main advantages of synthetic bags are both their performance when wet, and the initial cost. Synthetic bags will retain about 50% of their dry performance when wet, which is far better than down bags. Synthetic bags also dry out quicker. That said, always endeavour to keep your sleeping bag dry.

Synthetic bags are considerably cheaper that down bags too, at most levels of performance. They’re a good starting point if you don’t want to make a large long-term investment.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, synthetic bags don’t last as long as down bags, and may lose a lot of their warmth within five years if they are used regularly.

Synthetic bags are also heavier and bulkier than down bags, especially for extreme conditions. They’re generally best for car camping or local holidays, where weight and bulk are of minimal concern, and where low cost is important.

Synthetic-filled bags are great for kids who either grow out of bags quickly or need something for school camps – but generally not as good as down bags for hiking, unless you expect to get very wet!

Features to Look For in a Sleeping Bag

When buying a sleeping bag, there are several qualities to look for: the quality of fabric, quality of filling, carry sack, and design.

• A wet or torn sleeping bag performs badly, so look for fabrics that are waterproof or at least water-resistant.
• You don’t necessarily need to go looking for waterproof breathable membranes or fabrics waterproof to 10000mm, unless you expect to sleep in a river (it happens, believe me). That said, a bit of water resistance will go a long way towards improving the performance of the bag.
• Most fabrics used in sleeping bags are very light and strong – but look for any obvious signs of wear and tear each time you use the bag, and fix them as soon as you can.
• The quality of filling is a big factor. The higher the quality, the better the warmth per weight in both synthetic and down filling. Generally, go as high as you can afford – but ensure you know what you are looking at. Some of the numbers quoted can be deceiving.

Design

Finally, design is an important feature. Unless you are going for weight savings over comfort, a full-length zipped bag is a good idea.

• A zip can make a sleeping bag much more versatile. Unzipping the bag will prevent sweltering on a warm night, while zipping it up will keep you warmer when it’s cold.
• A hood will keep your head warm and improve heat retention, and ‘Mummy; contoured or tapered designs can help prevent the heat escaping from around your body.
• Some bags have zips across the feet, to allow for versatility. Others have this as a solid section, which is warmer.
• Make sure to choose the design that suits your requirements best.

By considering these points, your sleeping bag will keep you warm and give you a good night’s sleep, year after year.

Sleeping Bag Maintenance

Sleeping bags are generally a simple piece of gear, however they require some basic care to keep them in top shape.

When you don’t need your bag compressed, leave it loose. Most bags come with a large bag for storage and a small bag for compression. If you don’t have one of these larger bags, hang your sleeping bag in a closet, store it in a pillow case, or at least leave the compression straps as loose as you can.

Keep it Dry!

Down loses 90% of its warmth when wet, and synthetics lose 50%. So make sure you leave your bag out to dry before storing it. As well as degrading the performance, a wet sleeping bag is a warm, moist environment – perfect for bacteria!

The place a sleeping bag is most likely to get wet when not in use is in your pack, or just out in the open. If you can find a waterproof sack, this can help to keep the sleeping bag dry out – if not, I highly recommend keeping your sleeping bag inside a dry sack if you are expecting any rain.

Keep it Clean Wherever Possible

Using a liner or wearing clothes in a sleeping bag will avoid the need to wash the bag. Using a liner can also add warmth; a simple cotton or a silk liner can add a few degrees to most sleeping bags, while some technical liners can add up to (an albeit ambitious) 15 degrees.

Cleaning a sleeping bag can be a daunting task (especially for down bags), and should be avoided where possible. It is possible to have down sleeping bags professionally washed; contact either a local manufacturer or an outdoor store for advice on who to contact in your area.

Synthetic sleeping bags can be machine washed at low temperatures, on a delicate setting using a mild soap and a lot of rinsing. Generally, its recommended to follow the washing instructions on the bag, as they can vary – however, don’t use bleaches. Never iron or dry-clean the bag either, and always allow plenty of time to dry.

Washing a Down Bag

They must be hand-washed, so you will probably need to use a bath. Fill it with warm water and add a mild soap. Submerge the bag, jostle it around, and squeeze it to move the soap through. Leave to soak for 30-40 minutes, then move it around in the water again to further move the soap through.

Let the water out of the bath and, without lifting out of the bath, squeeze the water from the bag (if you lift the bag, the weight of the soaked down can cause the internal baffles to tear). Refill the bath with warm water, and move the bag about to rinse out any excess soap. You will likely need to repeat this step several times to ensure you’ve ridded the bag of all soap.

Once rinsed, squeeze the bag out into the bath and allow to dry. This may take several days, however it is vital that the bag is totally dry before used or stored.

Caring for Your Bag

Caring for a sleeping bag is a simple and quick process. With correct care, your sleeping bag will keep you warm for a long time.

Sleeping bags can be a major purchase, however they are vital for a good night’s sleep. Choosing between down and synthetic bags can be difficult if you are on a budget – so just make sure you look into where and how you intend to use it. As mentioned, they can often be worth a large initial investment for both long-term performance and the joy of a good night’s sleep!

For more ideas, check out the range of sleeping bags at Snowys – and let us know if you have any extra thoughts on what makes a great sleeping bag!

The post How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Follow our rose petal trail, and take your pick from 14 different ways to their heart! Image: Salomon

From the pressies for their feet to the gear that beats the heat – this blog goes out to anyone with a skipping heartbeat! This year, swap the dozen red roses with a double self inflating mattress, and the candlelit dinner with campfire damper and a tent tangled in string lights. With our carefully selected Valentine’s Day gift ideas below, we’ve got the key to their carava– 

Uh, we mean 4WD–

UHH, we mean HEART.

So follow our rose petal trail and take your pick from 14 different paths to their heart…

Swap the candlelit dinner with campfire damper and a tent tangled in string lights. Image: MPOWERD

1. MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights

No, you haven’t lost your ‘spark’. You just need the Luci Solar String Lights.

Embellish your setup with their radiant tendrils, charged via the power of the sun or a traditional outlet for convenience – plus, the USB port can boost the charge of your mobile phone. Thanks to the unique clips, attaching and suspending the lights is simple, while the dual directional LEDs offer a warm, enchanting glow.

Be it a star-speckled constellation at your campsite, or pizzazz to the patio – these string lights offer no-fuss, romance-abundant lighting with a touch of elegance.

Keep the rubbish, recyclables, and wet gear separate from your vehicle’s clean interior.

2. Bushranger Wheelie Bin

The Wheelie Bin by Bushranger will either be well-received as a kick-butt addition to their 4WD kit, or read as a subtle way of saying ‘you’re grotty, sort it out or we’re done xx’.

Keep the rubbish, recyclables, and wet gear separate from your vehicle’s clean interior, owing to a self-supported main compartment that holds 57 litres, a moveable ridged divider for convenience, and two sides reach a 5-litre capacity. The hard-wearing, reinforced PVC with a double padded base and partial walls offer extra strength and reliabiity, UV-tested to hold up to colour-fading with a reflective strip to ensure visibility at night too. Four side-release buckles secure the lid, and vented eyelets in the base make for easy draining.

This is no trash talk (well, except for in a literal sense).

Good luck chasing her once she gets going up the gradient in these butt-kickers!

3. Salomon Quest Rove Mid GTX Women’s Boot

For one to ~step it up~ this Valentine’s Day, one must first box it up – and we recommend the Quest Rove Mid GTX Women’s Boots by Salomon.

A durable Mud Contragrip® outsole with deep, sharp lugs guarantees grip on loose, uneven, or slippery terrain, while an EnergyCell midsole absorbs impact. These boots also boast an Advanced Chassis insert that offers stability, lateral support, and protection, while a Gore-Tex membrane delivers breathable water protection for damp environments. A split-suede leather and Gore-Tex upper construction guarantees durability, dryness, and longevity, a toe cap offers protection, and 3D mesh mediates debris – so she can traverse the ups and drops from road to rubble.

Good luck chasing her once she gets going up the gradient in these butt-kickers, offering guaranteed grip for the go-getter gals!

Constructed from high-quality leather with a firm snap-closure to keep your pocket knife secure.

4. Leatherman Leather Box Sheath 4” Small

‘Oh sorry babe, I can’t fix that. Forgot my knife.’

Either that’s a lie and they secretly don’t know how to, or they genuinely need the Leatherman Leather Box Sheath to keep their fix-it kits at their hip.

Constructed from high-quality leather, it features a firm, snap-closure to keep your pocket knife secure – plus, an integrated belt loop so they’re literally joined at the hip. The Box Sheath 4” Small is also compatible with the separately available Wingman, Sidekick, Rev, Rebar, and Heritage Rebar multi-tool models from Leatherman.

If longevity is the goal, gift them the gear that looks after what they’ve already got.

True comfort that carries them from around the house to across the town.

5. Birkenstock Arizona Cross Town Sandal

Fall in love with versatile, rustic footwear designed for outdoor affairs.

With a cork-latex footbed that moulds to the anatomic shape of your foot, and a suede footbed lining – these sandals are the straightforward slip-on of their around-the-place streetwear. Keep it classy with classic, adjustable buckle closures over a sophisticated two-strap design of oiled leather, complete from the ground up with a two-component polyurethane sole – a supportive, sporty shoe for outdoor activities calling on contoured comfort!

True comfort that carries them from around the house to across the town.

Consisting of two loops – one for each mattress – and a vertical band in the middle.

6. Exped Universal Mat Coupler Kit

This one goes out to the new couples who have been single for so long and have grown to enjoy their own company so much that they still own a single mattress.

Stay as you are fam, Exped has got you covered and coupled with their Universal Mat Coupler Kit.

Consisting of two loops – one for each mattress – and a vertical band in the middle, this kit works to keep the mats level in the middle. Adjust the coupler to the thickness of the mat by moving the middle band, and accommodate the width of the mat by adjusting the outer tabs. Position the straps at the shoulder and hip height to space them out well.

Thin but durable, they’re unnoticeable as you sleep and versatile across almost any single mattress you may own.

Go on. You know you’re there now. Couple up.

Like your Valentine, the Victorinox Camper Pocket Knife is a cut above the rest.

7. Victorinox Camper Pocket Knife

For a gift that makes the cut, the Camper Pocket Knife is designed with the organised adventurers in mind.

You’ve got a Valentine in Victorinox, who never half-finish a job and have crafted beautiful, functional, precision-quality, and innovative knives for over 100 years. With a wood saw for chopping kindling and a can opener with a slot-head screwdriver – this knick knack is kitted out for the moments when fixing a piece of equipment and tucking into a can of baked beans are just as pressing as each other. Just like uttering those three little words, cut to the chase with a large blade for the tougher tasks, while a toothpick and tweezers bode better for tackling the more tedious.

Like your Valentine, the Victorinox Camper Pocket Knife is a cut above the rest.

As a certified carbon neutral product, they’re the gloves that give a little love.

8. XTM Performance Real Deal Unisex Glove

You know they’re the real deal – and so are these. The Valentine’s Day gift that fits like a glove.

As a certified carbon neutral product, they’re the gloves that give a little love. With GORE TEX® INFINIUM technology for lightweight water resistance and windproofing, their hands are as warm as their heart, bolstered amid the outback winter chill. Silicon lining in the fingers bodes well for grippy digits while a reinforced goat skin leather palm defies the rough and tumble of the outdoors. Plus, they can count on the touch screen compatibility for tablet-ing and gadget-ing on those picture-perfect coffee breaks.

We gotta ~hand~ it to XTM Performance, delivering armoured tactility for your ~amor~ of outdoor activities: the Real Deal unisex glove!

From salty air to moments shared, feel the heat without the burn this Valentine’s Day.

9. Caribee Long Reef Beach Shade

Could you (Cari)BEE any more in love?!

Like your loved one, the Long Reef Beach Shade by Caribee is stylish and second-to-none.

This shelter delivers quality shade in the summer months. Yeah, you’re a team of two – but this shade offers an easy, one-person setup with the included poles, pegs, ropes, and mallet, while the carry bag keeps everything you need under wraps in one neat package. Its setup design allows various options, depending on the angle of the sun throughout the day – simply adjust to suit your needs. 

From salty air to moments shared, feel the heat without the burn this Valentine’s Day, with the Caribee Long Reef shade.

Owed to a recycled polyester shell and liner construction, enjoy lightweight loafing.

10. Exped Camp Slippers

Kick back after tackling the tracks together, in the Exped Camp Slippers.

Owed to a recycled polyester shell and liner construction, enjoy lightweight loafing after lumbering the trails and resistance wear and tear (you know, from all that lounging around in each other’s company). With anti-slip, PVC-free soles, shuffle from the camp kitchen to the campfire with adequate grip.

Be it a hotel, hut, or tent – they can settle into synthetic fibre filling for a warm, comfortable fit on the next couples’ trip.

The MegaMat hold a reputation for being reliable and extremely comfortable.

11. MegaMat Duo 10 LW+ Self Inflating Sleeping Mat

Here’s a solid relationship to strive for: Snowys and Exped, where the MegaMat is one of our longest and best-selling products in our range.

Individually tested to be 100% airtight before approved for sale, with a reputation for being reliable and extremely comfortable – the MegaMat 10 Duo LW+ boasts a velvety surface fabric laminated on hollow cored foam, ensuring superior insulation and a minimal packed size despite a massive 10cm in height when expanded.

Plus – if all mats are designed to withstand 5 times the pressure attained during normal inflation, you can withstand the 5 days of pressure to decide on a Valentine’s Day gift.

Fully padded for surrounding comfort.

12. Oztent Koala Hotspot Lounge Chair

If all you’ve got to give them this year is a hug, at least the Koala Hotspot Lounge from Oztent like a giant cuddle on legs.

Fully padded for surrounding comfort, a 600D ripstop polyester fabric covers a durable steel frame boasting a 200kg weight rating. With adjustable lumbar support too, a HotSpot pouch provides passive heat on the frosty mornings and chilly evenings for added consolation at camp. An insulated drink and phone holder on one side keeps the necessities in arm’s reach, while two mesh pockets hold other essentials for those drawn-out lounge-abouts.

Spatial awareness was so last Valentine’s Day. This year, curl up in cushioned comfort with the Koala Hotspot Lounge.

Constructed from a breathable and comfortable blend of cotton and silk.

13. Sea to Summit Silk + Cotton Liner – Double Extra Wide

So much of us wants to start this by saying ‘now you can get down and dirty in the outdoors’, but we won’t.

…Oh.

Anyway… this extra wide liner is constructed from a breathable and comfortable blend of cotton and silk, double-folded with reinforced seams for effective performance. Plus, it’ll both improve the thermal qualities of your sleeping bag and keep it cleaner for longer. 

From the hotels to tents, store it snug owing to its compactness, and throw across a bed for a clean, fresh sleeping quarters.

Offering your sleeping beauty a touch of luxury.

14. Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow

At number 14, it’s only fitting that we call it a night. If a hoodie is a hoodie, with no business being a pillow after hours – the Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow offers your sleeping beauty a touch of luxury on any trekking or travel adventure.

Featuring a soft 50D polyester cover wrapped around a TPU bladder, its subtle synthetic insulation in between blends with the contoured shape to provide a comfortable sleep beyond suburbia. Plus, a multi-functional valve facilitates easy inflation and rapid deflation, packing compactly into a stuff sack that fits snug in the palm of your hand.

Hearts in your eyes yet? Image: MPOWERD

There are more where those heartthrobs came from, on our Lovey Dovey Deals page.

What are your plans for a Valentine’s Day adventure this year?

The post 14 Ways to Say ‘I Love You’ appeared first on Snowys Blog.

So in this blog, we’ve made our list, checked it twice, and tagged every item with a competitive price! From Kris Kringle gifts with a $20 limit, to the bigger gifts you’ve been saving to splurge on – start filling the sack with the gear, gadgets, and rugged gifts for the outdoorsy people you love!

The range of hats from Sunday Afternoons are as cool as the new kids on the (sun)block! Image: Sunday Afternoons

For the Kids Who Kick Back

Under $50

• Sunday Afternoons Hats: Up to $26.94

As cool as the new kids on the (sun)block, the range of hats by Sunday Afternoons feature wide brims and polyester-nylon constructions to wicks away moisture. Stain-resistant for those fun-filled days running amuck, they beat the grub and grime like water off a duck’s back!

Keep the little ones from getting too hotheaded, owing to a certified UPF 50+ sun rating too. Plus, thanks to reversible designs for sun-safe versatility, and breakaway chinstraps that release under pressure – your kid can keep their chin up until sundown.

For the kids who like to kick about at the shack, stuff their stockings with compactly-packed Sunday Afternoons hat!

• OZtrail Junior Moon Chair: $40.40

A crevice for your camp critters, the Moon Junior Chair is designed for children’s safety.

Its easy Grab and Go straps allow the gremlins to go, go, go – while the drink bottle holder allows easy-reach refreshment. With wide arms for supplementary support and a locking pin to prevent unplanned folding up, the OZtrail Moon Junior Chair offers a considered yet comfortable cranny for curling up.

Keep the little ones from getting too hotheaded, owing to a certified UPF 50+ sun rating. Image: Sunday Afternoons

For the Campfire Feasters and Heat-and-Eaters

Under $100

• Offgrid Provisions Meals: Up to $18.99

Forget wrapping paper – rip open a bag of getaway grub from Offgrid!

Founder James Viles had a hunger to discover the undiscovered, but a desire to do so in a slow, simplified way to appreciate time spent outdoors. With refined ingredients, he redefined food the alfresco way – connecting people, food, and nature with the Offgrid Provisions range.

Made for the meat-eaters and vege venturers who want to lift their degustation game, these meals are all-natural, Aussie-made, and designed to heat and eat for simple, alfresco-style sustenance! Be you crouched at the campfire or behind the kitchen bench – simply drop into boiling water for five minutes, or tear at the top and microwave like the most full-bodied, flavoursome Christmas stocking on the fireplace.

Simply drop into boiling water for five minutes, or tear at the top and microwave. Image: Offgrid Provisions

• ‘Fire to Fork’ Cookbook: $35.90

In his popular campfire cookbook, YouTube legend and resident king of campfire cooking, Harry Fisher from Fire To Fork, maintains a focus on simple meals made over a fire with high-quality ingredients.

From holidaying on the beaches in the Kimberley to homestyle cooking in your own backyard, the book features over 60 recipes, including some from his most popular YouTube videos. Plus, benefit from information on the tools needed for your camp kitchen, how to prepare your fire, and advice for stocking your on-the-road pantry!

In his popular campfire cookbook, YouTube legend Harry Fisher maintains a focus on simple meals made over a fire. Image: Harry Fisher

• CampBoss Jaffle Iron: $44.90

It’s time to officially take care of the suppertime snacking, with the CampBoss Jaffle Iron!

From the long arms for safety from campfire flames, to the timber handles for limited heat transfer – this jaffle iron harnesses the heat and beats the burn! Be it Bolognese, baked beans, and savoury combos, or chocka-block sweet concoctions – simply line the crater with two slices of bread or pastry, and fill with desired ingredients for the ultimate hot food pocket or campfire pie.

Take the colour, craft, and convenience of cooking from the backyard to the outback!

• Campfire Combo Camp Oven: $89.90  

Crank the heat, because Campfire’s Combo Camp Oven is tougher than damper crust.

Boasting a top-quality cast-iron construction for impressive durability and longevity, a deep-dish dome design, and a shallow, heavy-duty base for even heat distribution – this oven offers versatility on every cooking adventure. Pre-seasoned too, carry from under the Christmas tree to the campfire coals for immediate use.

From casseroles and bakes to dessert damper and cakes, the Combo Camp Oven cooks your camp tucker with alfresco finesse!

Love cooking with a camp oven? Check out Cam’s Camp Oven Turducken & Gravy!

For the After-Dark Dabblers

Under $100

• XTM Performance Cora Headband: $5.00

Speaking of wrapping presents – wrap your head around the Cora Headband.

Your headwear henchman for keeping the heat in, its supple chenille construction and fleece lining keeps cold weather off your mind. Kick it to the peak in chic cable knit, and rock across the mountain top with stylish metal branding. As a certified carbon neutral product too, it’s the eco-friendly thought that counts.

• MPOWERD Luci Lanterns Range: Up to $69.90

The Luci range from MPOWERD provides practical and ambient lighting for your alfresco space. Solar powered with the option of a traditional outlet for convenience, some host a USB port to boost the charge of your mobile phone when other power sources are scarce. From sufficient charging in direct sunlight, to water-resistance, battery indicators, and long-lasting light – the outdoor lanterns are fit for both indoor and outdoor activities, while string lights blend convenience and atmosphere to any communal setting.

Boasting low, medium, and high mode options for different applications, the Luci lanterns and string lights offer illuminated ambience from the backyard to the outback.

The Solar String Lights by MPOWERD provide practical and ambient lighting for your alfresco space. Image: MPOWERD

• Coleman Hybrid Hooded Sleeping Bags: Up to $55

The Hybrid Hooded sleeping bags by Coleman keep you snug on those sub-10 and sub-0-degree getaways! Featuring a Comfort Cuff design for surrounding softness, this bag boasts homelike qualities. A snag-free ZipPlow zipper allows for safe, easy opening and closing too, while the separate foot zip mediates the temperature surrounding your extremities. Plus, for a streamlined packing process too, Roll Control prevents the bag from skewing and twisting – working with the QuickCord no-tie closure for efficient fastening.

Bag a bargain with the Hybrid Hooded sleeping bags – designed for sublime outdoor dreaming in colder conditions.

Eat with elegance on every alfresco escape. Image: Opinel

For the Compact Campers

Under $150

• Opinel Nomad Cooking Kit: $98.89

From hiking and camping, to boating and picnicking – this slick set includes a quality-made N°12 folding knife with a serrated blade for bread, a N°10 folding corkscrew knife for opening wine, a N°06 pocket peeler for fruit and veg prep, a beechwood cutting board for carving meat, and a microfibre dish towel that doubles as a travel pouch. 

With handles of a durable beech wood and stainless-steel blades for robustness, their safety rings lock them both open in use and closed for transport.

Eat with elegance on every alfresco escape, with the Opinel Nomad Cooking Kit.

Perfect for the go-getters jetting off on their next getaway. Image: Eagle Creek

• Eagle Creek Pack-It Sets: Up to $99.99

From sending it every weekend to catering for the over-packers on the overnighters – the Pack-It sets by Eagle Creek include the Weekender, Overnight, Starter, and Reveal Cubes for curbing the packing chaos!

Boasting 300D Polyester fabric constructions and 100% post-consumer recycled fabric for their washable and water-resistant features, each component is as efficient to clean as they are to use! Keep the socks, jocks, and pyjamas maintained, the dirty boots and dusty shoes away from your cleaner clobber, your toiletries together, and minimise wrinkles in one neat, intact, compactly packed package!

These Pack-It sets are perfect for the go-getters jetting off on their next getaway.

• BlackWolf Quick Fold Lightweight Chair: $149.90

From picnics to camping trips, and sports events to festivals, this chair takes a front-row seat!

Blending stability with portability, its lightweight but tough aluminium tube frame is both scratch- and rust-resistant. Sink into true serenity with a 900D polyester and HD mesh fabric that tensions as the legs are extended, with a slightly back-leaned seat posture too. Quick to assemble and fast to fold away, its average setup time is 4-8 seconds!

This holiday season, the BlackWolf Quick Fold Lightweight Chair is the perfect chair for your festive derriere!

The range of tie-down packs by Tiegear guarantee flexible strength and robust reliability. Image: Tiegear

For the Gear Gurus Who’ve Got it Together

Under $250

• Tiegear Packs: Up to $249.95

We all know the five senses are sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch – but for campers, the sixth sense is security! The range of tie-down packs by Tiegear guarantee flexible strength and robust reliability at the site, without the need for pegs.

With packs equipped to secure caravan setups, awnings, and gazebos, Tiegear bundle their guy ropes and HD springs into an acrylic canvas and mesh gear bag for kick-butt durability, breathability, and compact storage in the back of your vehicle.

Simple, functional, and Aussie-made. Image: Blacksmith Camping Supplies

• BS Aussie Made Peg and Tool Bag (with Handles): $34.90

Store the essential tools and steel pegs in the Australian-Made Peg & Tool Bag from Blacksmith Camping Supplies.

Constructed from military-grade 505gsm Australian-made canvas – Dynaproofed for rotproofing and breathability – its interior capacity has space for camping tools and up to 35 x of separately available Hex Pegs. The Velcro opening secures it shut, while webbing handles offer ease of carrying or grabbing from the boot.

Simple, functional, and Aussie-made – cart about your camping accessories with ease and efficiency.

There’s a cold one for the whole crew. Image: Camelbak

For the Cool, Calm, Can Collectors

Under $500

• Coleman 16-Can Soft Cooler: $24.90

Catering for the campsite parties and backyard barbies, this cooler boasts an odour- and stain-resistant make – as easy to keep clean as it is to keep your cold ones crisp! With a front pocket for the bottle openers and other campsite knick-knacks, a zip-top closure also offers easy access to your refreshment while the lid’s bungee cord straps in a picnic blanket for those drawn-out hangouts on the lawn.

Keep your cool and kick on this summer!

• Camelbak Chillbak Cooler Packs: Up to $449

The Camelbak Chillbak 30 and Chillbak Cube 18 are the coolest can-keepers at the campsite! There’s a cold one for the whole crew, owing to their 24- and 16-can respective capacities, with a padded back panel and shoulder straps for breathability and protection. A hose with spigot is accessible from the exterior for easy, efficient refills, while a waistbelt ensures a secure fit. Kit out your pack with tools, fix-it kits, and essentials thanks to additional storage above the cooler in the roll-top area too!

Keep cool and carry on this Christmas, with Chillbak cooler packs!

Image: Campfire

For more gift ideas, follow us somewhere Snowy-er than the North Pole…

The post A Snowy(s) Christmas: Gift Guide 2023 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

We see you. We hear you.

As heard in Episodes 65 and 66 of the Snowys Camping Show, your trusted Snowys gear experts Ben and Lauren answer more of your campsite questions in the second and final part of our Campsite Q&A’s blog series.

Your trusted Snowys gear experts Ben and Lauren answer more of your campsite questions. Image: Coleman

Gear and Maintenance

Essentials for Beach Camping, and Tips for Keeping the Sand out of the Swag / Tent?

To first address sand, Ben and Lauren recommend a mesh ground sheet which, while expensive, is worth the investment. Double-layered, the mesh allows for any sand on top to fall through without resurfacing, ensuring a sand-free environment. These ground sheets were initially invented as portable helipads, designed to be positioned on loose desert surfaces to prevent sand from blowing and flicking upwards as the helicopter lands. OZtrail manufacture a less expensive model, which still adequately serves the same purpose.

Lauren also recommends EVA foam floor mats at the doorway, and a dustpan and brush to sweep away sand from legs and feet. A Muk Mat – a large, well-finished slab of Astro Turf – works wonders in sandy, beachy environments too. Lauren also suggests washing away the grit and debris in a tub of water, large enough for someone to stand in. Ultimately, allocating a ‘zone’ nearby your setup to clean away sand before entering the living area is the suggested approach. Sand in a tent and living space is often only a problem if we allow for it to build up – so control it from the beginning! 

Broadly speaking, beach camping also requires some sort of wind management. That said, setting up a wind break in sandy environments can encourage sand to whip upwards in a whirlwind. To control this, Ben and Lauren recommend choosing tents with fine mesh, and sealing windows and openings during the day to prevent sand from making its way into bedding.

Lastly, adequate sand pegs and guy ropes are paramount when beach camping, as well as trace springs for added stability in windier conditions.

Securing Food from Pests?

…Try literally anything.

In a previous podcast episode, Ben and Lauren detail how to manage critters and pests at the campsite.

Ultimately, they recommend Tupperware that seals tight. Ben is content with leaving unopened food packets in a tub with the lid sitting on top. On the other hand, opened packets should be kept in an airtight container to prevent ants from making their way in.  

In Ep53 – Kangaroo Island, Lauren describes the relentless possum raids as a result of leaving her doors open at night. Generally though, she manages well by keeping her food in storage draws under the bed and recommends solid plastic tubs. Even for a grain of rice, mice will chew through soft silicon and thin plastics, so be aware of the quality of your storage options too. Again, Ben can advocate for this in Ep44 – Ben’s Half Lap, where he resorts to creating a trash contraption mouse trap to catch a critter than chewed its way into his 4WD!

For the unique nomads who hoped for more than just ‘use good storage containers’ – ever tried suspending your food from a tree using squat straps? Learn more about this in Ep57 and Ep96 on Weird and Wonderful Camping Gear!

Can you repair a sleeping mat if it leaks at the seams or valves – and if so, how?

Ben and Lauren have recorded a video that lives on the Snowys YouTube channel, elaborating on material relevant to this question – though not in detail.

Usually, only a leak via a seam or valve is guaranteed under warranty. This is because inconsistencies or fissures at these points are more than likely attributed to manufacturing faults. Ben and Lauren recommend getting in touch with the retailer of your defective sleeping mat to receive a warranty assessment.

While not the prettiest fix, Ben suggests Stormsure adhesive or seam grip glue to mend your mat DIY-style. Specifically, heavily smother the hole before spreading the glue at length along each side to create a seal. For an even stronger hold, apply the glue to a nylon ripstop-type material (from a place like Spotlight), as a foundation. This works particularly well with longer tears; Ben recommends incorporating fabric or gauze in and amongst the glue by placing a large strip over the top of the gash. When stretched, the fabric separates – but the seam grip covers it.

Personal camping essentials, upgrades, original gear, current gear, and reasons behind any alterations?

Before we unpack this question – yes, Ben. We get it. You love your coffee kit bag.

As much as this is true, Ben points out that he considers ‘personal camping essentials’ the items that mostly sit beneath the ‘hygiene’ and ‘medication’ umbrella. Lauren rarely washes her hair on a camping trip, instead relying on Sea to Summit’s Wilderness Wash as both soap and body wash. Other essentials include her quality base layers and socks, sheep skins to drape over her camp chairs for warmth, Crocs (which she insists are the most bomb-proof, ideal footwear to slip on and off around the campsite), a head torch, and a bird book with binoculars to watch and learn of the pretty birdlife that often surrounds her on her travels.

On the other hand, Ben reveals the gear he’s replaced over the years. He now avoids rounder table lanterns and instead opts for 12V LED strips or hanging lights, having decided that they light his table setup more effectively. As well as lighting, Ben has reconsidered how he operates his stove, now opting for multi-fuel over gas. Unlike large, heavy gas bottles, multi-fuel systems are easy to transport and assemble, eliminating the need for hoses and other accessories. While it may take longer, Ben confirms that this is the trade-off he’s willing to sacrifice. His cast iron camp oven – whilst a favourite – is also soon to be replaced by one of spun steel for both weight and portability reasons. Lastly, he’s removed his awning from his 4WD. This was after deciding it was too tedious to set up and take down on trips where he was driving more frequently than he was pulling over. It now sits in his shed at home… and he doesn’t miss it!

Ben now avoids table lanterns and instead opts for 12V lighting. Image: Hard Korr

Lauren hears of new and improved gear through the grapevine from as often as monthly to even weekly. For this reason, her setup reflects constant evolution as opposed to a ‘before and after’ project. An example of this is her transition from a Waeco 45-litre fridge to a myCOOLMAN dual zone 85-litre fridge, after discovering more room in her van to store it. Now in the process of fitting out their camper van, she reflects on why she didn’t consider two drawer fridges to stack on top of one another – an arrangement she’s keen to progress to when the vehicle renovations are done. The drawer fridges she’s interested in are 10 centimetres wider than the current fridge, but are stackable and each capable of running as either a fridge or freezer.
Overall, settling on a sprinter van instead of a 4WD or caravan – as much as Lauren and her partner love it – has its limitations. Lacking features such as 4WD access or adequate clearance can sometimes be more significant issues than not, especially when she plans to go far beyond her backyard and get wild! As a result, Lauren finds herself wondering what she may opt for further down the line, and what differences it will pose regarding setup. Better or worse – at the end of the day, the grass will always seem greener.

Advice on Tent Security (and Storing Spare Keys)?

The simple answer is: don’t keep your keys in your tent.

With his minimalist setup, Ben has spent many camping trips probably appearing as one of the less wealthy campers at the campsite – which likely explains why he’s yet to be robbed! In some ways, locking everything away can suggest that you have something to steal.

An effortless solution is to not store valuables inside the tent, where Ben tends to only leave his bedding. While there’s always a chance, the likelihood that his sleeping bag will be stolen is relatively low, with fewer repercussions if it was over his wallet or phone.

As for Lauren, theft has never been on her radar. In her experience, there’s an unspoken rule in the camping community to not steal from other setups. Ben admits that National Park spaces are relatively theft-free, though some caravan parks in particular are more prone to it. This is often not as malicious as it is purely opportunistic; young, ratbag kids are usually just out for a thrill, looking to snatch up some loose change or something valuable. This is often the case in most areas alike.

Ultimately, the chance of theft at a campground depends on its location. To address any concerns you may have, simply lock your vehicle and avoid leaving loose change or valuables in exposed places. For instance: at night, Ben tends to store his car keys in the small internal tent pocket just above his head.

Gazebos – Necessary Additional Family Shelter, or Storage Space Waster?

The short answer? It depends on who you are, the storage space you have, and the nature of your desired setup.

For a more detailed response, Ben and Lauren cover relevant information extensively in Ep7 – Gear You Don’t Need for Camping and Ep59 – Shelters for Rainy Days.

What is Safer: to Keep Your Lithium Battery (Plugged Into Solar Panels and a Fridge) in a 6 x 4  Trailer, a Tent, or on a Blanket on the Ground?

If the battery is lithium, it’s generally safe either way.

On the other hand, other lead acid batteries (including sealed) emit hydrogen and generally don’t operate well in extreme temperatures, so best kept in a ventilated space. Keeping it by your fridge shouldn’t be a concern in this regard, as the fridge itself also requires adequate aeration due to its compressor.

Albeit, Ben and Lauren aren’t experts on batteries. Initially, they suggest using common sense; keeping a hot battery close beside you within a tent isn’t ideal! Those who are still unsure should note the warnings in the instruction manual of their respective power station (for instance, the Companion Lithium Rover), or talk to the experts (e.g. Battery World).

Items you Thought Would be Useless but Were Useful, and Vice-Versa?

For Ben, he never expected to need a paintbrush on a road trip – but has found it useful in sweeping away dust and debris from his car or tent interior, especially in outback travelling!

On the other hand, the few opportunities he’s found to use his awning don’t warrant transporting it about as often as he once did. For this reason, it now lives packed away in his shed indefinitely. As well as this, he’s allocated his ‘Grandpa Fork’ to the box of untouched tackle. The tool is simply a fork-like piece that attaches to the end of a stick, designed for toasting marshmallows. While Lauren thinks they’re a nifty invention, Ben would rather just use a stick…

For Lauren, her set of four collapsible tubs are the most unexpectedly delightful addition to her camp clobber. She uses them regularly, and plans to soon purchase another set.

As for the presumably great gadgets that have turned out to be sub-par, she keeps a large collection of items alike in her shed which simply haven’t suited her setup as much as she initially thought. At this stage, nothing in particular springs to mind – but keep an eye out on the Snowys Camping Show Facebook group while she sets this question aside to marinate…

Ben finds he doesn’t use his awning enough to warrant transporting it around as often as he does. Image: Darche

Camping, Caravanning, and 4WDing

Funniest Camp Fail?

… On par with Ben’s ‘green ant’ story, as told in Episode 44? Lauren may just match it.

There’s a place she and her family love to go, the track to which is recommended for 4WDs only – especially when wet. That said, Lauren claims her Sprinter van can tackle more than one may think… but in this instance, these were her famous last words.

Lauren and her family were due to meet with another two groups. Given the substantial room in her vehicle compared to others, she was transporting enough gear for six people – plus more to lessen the load for other families. This added significantly more weight to the van… which didn’t bode well on the track after recent rainfall. When they approached the track, it was a slurry of cold, grey mud. By the time they realised it wasn’t a good idea to proceed, it was too late to turn back!

Initially, they were hopeful… before the van began to slip and slide perilously in the sludge. Eventually, they were left steadfast in sticky mud, stranded in the middle of the Riverland. The sun had set; it was 9:30pm. Lauren directed the kids to toddle off into the inky blackness with a torch to find help, while she and her partner began the exhaustive process of attempting to nudge the van, stubbornly wedged in the thick mud.

After some time, their friend arrived, and together they discovered the root of the problem; the vehicle’s diff was lodged firmly into a large lump of clay. To first alleviate some of the weight, Lauren had the kids carrying camp clobber from the van to the campsite, piece by piece like a row of ants. Next, her partner stripped down to only his shorts and primely positioned himself well underneath the van. The track soon became a mucky mess of footprints as Lauren’s family gathered sticks, logs, and debris to dig away at the diff buried deep in the sludge.

Time moved fast – but the van remained resolute. By midnight, Lauren and her crew attempted one last tactic. After removing the wheel, they packed in the space underneath with sticks and bark, inserted the jack, and pushed as hard as they could while one of them took the driver’s seat. Eventually, Lauren and her family were a wholesome blend of filthy, relieved – and with a vehicle in motion!

For a camp fail equally as chaotic involving a snake, a floating tent, and a mass of green ants – check out Ep44 – Ben’s Half Lap.

Practicality of Extended Overland Trips in an SUV/Wagon/Car, Versus the More Built-Out 4WDs/RVs/Camper Vans/Caravans?

The key consideration that distinguishes one from the other is preparation. Travelling in a 4WD, RV, or camping vehicle requires less given that, in many ways, they already account for half of your setup. With an SUV or smaller vehicle, space is more limited.

As much as it bodes well to first do your research before purchasing a more built-out camper van, don’t let your current wagon or car be a roadblock to hitting the road and seeing the sights. While it may not be wise to travel through the Bungle Bungles in a Sedan, there is still so much to see and do in the great outdoors without a 4WD setup.

Do Either of you Own a Camper Trailer or a Caravan? What are Your Hacks?

Ben and Lauren do not – but Snowys’ resident caravanning expert, Kevin, certainly does!

Kevin has frequently featured in episodes of the Snowys Camping Show, such as Caravan Water Tanks 101, Caravan Refrigeration, and Caravanning the Oodnadatta Track. Given how many caravanning hacks there are, Ben and Lauren suggest advising us of any specifics for Kevin to address from his fountain of knowledge.

Travelling in a 4WD requires less preparation given that, in many ways, they already account for half of your setup! Image: Darche

What are the essential spare items that Kev would take for extended caravan travelling, off-road?

We’ve addressed this in detail in Episode 68 with our caravanning expert, Kev.

While the list extends further, and excludes the various considerations and details depending on the off-road situation – Kev recommends the following as a guide:

• A standard toolkit
• Wheel bearings
• A hub seal
• Irrigation joiners, straights, and elbows etc. for the hoses and connectors beneath the van
• Two spare wheels, as well as plugs for any minor punctures
• Turn buckles and chains to secure broken springs and axels (this becomes complicated, and depends on the situation!)
• A roll of duct tape, insulation tape, and wire
• Replacement fuses to suit those existing in your car or caravan
• So much more!

Food

Favourite Meal to Cook When Camping / Meal Ideas?

Ben and Lauren elaborate on relevant information throughout both Ep2 – Tips for Keeping Camping Food Fresh, Ep13 – Camping on a Budget, and Ep27 – Camp Kitchen Essentials.

In addition to this specific content, Lauren confirms that her favourite camping food – especially in Winter –  is a cooked brekky. For her, nothing beats smoky bacon, eggs, and charred toast by the campfire coals first thing in the morning!

On the other hand, Ben tends to cook modified versions of the meals he eats at home. For example, when cooking a pasta at the campsite that would usually include fresh tomatoes, he’d add tinned instead.

Another winner for Ben is damper. A doughy, buttery, body-bolstering blend of simple and versatile – damper requires only staple ingredients, elevated even more with bits and pieces of sweet or savoury. By the same token, a jaffle iron is one of Ben’s favourite appliances at the campsite. As well as cooking mini dampers, Ben uses his iron by pressing dough into the moulds, filling it with either baked beans, chocolate, or other fillings of choice, and toasting to create little dough pouches for his kids to carry around camp.

In the meantime, she suggests preparing as much food in advance as possible. This includes pre-chopping vegetables, and pre-cooking meals to then vacuum-seal and re-heat in boiling water at the campsite. Storing pre-cooked rice and chopped vegetables such as onion, pumpkin, or carrots in vac-sealed bags also keeps food fresh and maintained.

In Lauren’s experience, meal-prepping for only herself and her partner versus her entire family are two very different processes. So again – watch this space for more content specific to this aspect of adventuring!

What are the recommended meal and preparation ideas for camping, specifically for stove cooking?

For a little while, Lauren has been keen to produce an episode purely centred around campsite meals. In it, she’d aim to cover meal planning, preparation, and cooking for camping.

In a previous episode with Dr. Kate Grarock, ‘Food for Adventure’, Ben and Lauren kept the content hiking-focused. Episodes alike include ‘Food for Hiking‘, as well as content that explores camp kitchen essentials and how to keep food fresh. Considering this, Lauren has identified the absence of an episode solely dedicated to recipes and meal ideas.

Fridges

Use-case tips on Dometic icebox sizes – including packing standard-sized items to assess how they fit, and how to subsequently determine a suitable size?

This has been an angle on iceboxes from which both Ben and Lauren have wanted to approach for a little while. In a previous podcast episode, ‘Fridges Vs Iceboxes’, they discuss the pros and cons of each and consequently which option is more suited to various setups.

For now, our gear gurus confirm that it depends on the purpose for which your icebox is being used; be that solely cooling, or in conjunction with a fridge. Granted, a YouTube video on our channel may be the perfect way to further elaborate on this question and demonstrate visually… so for the last time, watch this space!

In a previous podcast episode, Ben and Lauren discuss the pros and cons of both iceboxes and fridges. Image: Dometic

OK, now let’s be real for a second…

Will Snowys ever open a store in Victoria or Sydney?

Unfortunately, this isn’t on the radar. Ben says that Snowys aim to continue to focus on what they do well, as opposed to expanding and subsequently increasing the prices of products. That said – never say never!

Nonetheless, this isn’t a conversation Lauren and Ben are ultimately involved in, instead determined by a higher level of authority.

Do you two each have an Instagram account, so we can see your setups as well?

The short answer is: not really.

Why? Lauren’s answer for Ben is simple: he’s ‘lame’!

Ben’s explanation for his lack of internet sharing is a little more sentimental; when he’s on holiday, he unplugs almost entirely. Instead of watching the number of views rise on his Instagram stories, he watches the view of the sunrise instead. While some reach the end of a demanding day outdoors and choose to take the time to share photos with their family via WhatsApp, Ben watches the sun set instead. On his half-lap across the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ben became so emersed in his surroundings that his wife would update his family for him!

Nonetheless, Ben and Lauren admit that they reference their own setups a lot throughout their Snowys podcasts and content. Those who listen to the Snowys Camping Show podcast have insight into Ben and Lauren’s identities in a work-based capacity, with little reference to their personal life.

Lauren has a personal Instagram account that she rarely uses, but has considered creating one that is more relevant to her camping life for public observation. Where she’ll continue to ponder the idea, Ben is certain that a personal account will be disappointing for his followers due to the simplicity of his setup!

More questions? Hit us up! Image: Sea to Summit

Got a question for Ben and Lauren? Check out Episodes 23, 30, 48, 65, 66, and 92 of the Snowys Camping Show to hear whether it’s already been answered!

The post Campsite Q&A’s (Part 2) appeared first on Snowys Blog.

From wet weather tips and coffee at the campsite, to the best bags, mending swags, what they can’t camp without, and how to get around – this blog covers the first of a two-part series on the questions asked of our resident gear gurus – Ben and Lauren.

From wet weather tips to coffee at the campsite – read on for answers to some of our most-asked questions! Image: Sea to Summit

Camping

‘What are your favourite items of camping equipment?’

Ben’s favourite is his Aeropress coffee maker and X-Pot kettle from Sea to Summit, plus his solar panels so he can travel further off the grid. Lauren is very fond of her Cecil & Co Campfire Water Boiler which she uses with her 12V shower for steaming hot bush showers, her trusty Scrubba wash bag for cleaning clothes, and her Hillbilly cookstand for campfire cooking.

‘What do you look for when choosing a campsite? Do you have any local favs?’

Lauren admits that she doesn’t like to share her favourite spots, as there have been some great campsites in the past that have become trashed after gaining popularity. In terms of finding a good spot, she says WikiCamps has been helpful as you can filter both your region and requirements. Lauren now looks for bush camps / campsites with minimal amenities, are nearby a water source, offer space for kids to roam, and allow both dogs and campfires (within fire season). Ben largely feels the same, as he prefers more remote camping where there is plenty of space and solitude.

‘It would be cool to see your setups – Ben’s sounds quite interesting.’

You can hear more about Ben and Lauren’s setups in the Episode 71 and Episode 72 of the Snowys Camping Show:

‘There are many women camping solo these days. I am 59, and I would love to know what products make camping easier and safer for me.’

Instant Up Tents are a good example of easy, user-friendly camping gear. Lauren hasn’t solo-camped much in her time, but some contributors in our Facebook group have shared tips like taking an extra chair and leaving an empty can or beer bottle to give the impression of another camper’s presence. Also, having a way to communicate in terms of safety, be that some sort of messenger device to connect with your loved ones or a UHF radio for calling for assistance. This will provide some peace of mind.

‘Tips for taking toddlers camping?’

Having touched on both camping with kids and camping with teenagers, Lauren and Ben maintain their suggestion to allow children the freedom to explore in safe areas (i.e. away from spaces prone to snakes). Navigate the nooks and crannies with them, and foster a respect and wonder for natural environments. 

Along with old, worn clothing, Lauren recommends packing your child/ren a waterproof over-suit for winter camping, thrown on with a pair of gumboots for perfectly protected play among the mud puddles. She also comments that camping in caravan parks often presents more problems than setting up out in the open, where cars and other children tearing up the tracks on bikes can create a cramped and crowded space for toddlers. In the bush, parents can instead establish the clear perimeters their children can roam to, and eliminate any worries about washing. On that, Lauren suggests doubling a trug as both a washing basin and a bath.

For sleeping, Ben recommends creating a barrier either side of your child to prevent them from rolling off their mat. Especially in the winter, waking up in the middle of the night on the cold, hard floor can make defying the outdoors the following day difficult – and in some cases, cause sickness. Additionally, Lauren strongly suggests avoiding kids’ sleeping bags. In her experience, they’ve never offered the same level of warmth, longevity, or adequate length as the adult designs. Instead, simply purchase a standard sized bag, and either fold in half or block off at the end to prevent your pocket-sized humans from slipping too far into the sack.

Oh, and of course – be sure to not to skimp on the snacks!

‘What’s the right way to stake a tent?

Some say 45° away from tent, others 45° toward the tent, and some say vertically. Confusion reigns. For me, it’s critical the tent remains secure in wind!’

The top of the peg should be pointing away from the tent – so when you’re hammering it into the ground, it’s angled away from the tent.

‘On my lap around Australia, what is recommended: ute canopy, camper trailer, or caravan?’

For those travelling as a couple without children, Lauren and Ben suggest using a Ute canopy as opposed to attempting to tow a camper trailer or caravan. Nonetheless, in cases where campers feel comfortable leaving them stationary somewhere for long periods of time, caravans and trailers can provide a roomy, humble alternative.

That said, Ben agrees that an easier-to-set-up sanctuary is more economical and beneficial for a dynamic duo. The money saved on a camper trailer can instead be invested in upgrading your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) to accommodate a substantial rooftop tent. Ben suggests a thorough investigation into the style of rooftop tent you purchase, given some are easy to set up while others require the use of pegs and guy ropes.  

‘Do you consider using a caravan “camping”?’

In short, no – but it doesn’t matter what it’s called, doing what you enjoy is what matters. At the end of the day, it’s still a valuable pursuit. According to the Oxford Dictionary, camping is defined as: ‘The activity of spending a holiday living in a tent’. So, there you have it!

‘What are your thoughts about the future of Australian manufacturing within the camping/hiking and touring sector?’

Both Ben and Lauren believe that it’s important to support Australian-made and Australian-owned companies whenever possible. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted many supply chain issues in every industry, but the market has been that way for quite some time in regards to overseas manufacturing. Keep in mind that just because a product is made offshore doesn’t mean it’s poor quality. Many Aussie family-owned brands choose to manufacture overseas due to the limited options in Australia with technology and machinery, so it’s a complex topic that should be considered from all angles.

Ben and Lauren chat with Laine and Erin Wescombe of Blacksmith Camping Supplies about everything Aussie Manufacturing:

‘Regarding First Aid, what knowledge is essential for campers and what items do you never leave without in your first aid kit?’

It’s good to have as much knowledge as you can if you’re heading somewhere remote, with a basic first aid course as the minimum. Keep some extra items in your first aid kit to cater for your specific needs as well. Lauren also mentions that it’s important to have an alternative method of communication if you frequently travel to areas where there isn’t a reliable phone signal. This could be in the form of a satellite communicator, satellite phone, or PLB. Even with some First Aid training, if there’s a life-threatening emergency, urgent medical attention will be required.

‘Ben – you always seem very focused on weight and functionality (rightfully so), but what do you take camping that isn’t necessary and something you consider a luxury?’

If it’s a luxury item, Ben usually doesn’t take it. That said, when he travelled up north (where it’s hot and humid), he carried a 12V Breezeway Fan from Outdoor Connection to keep his family cool.

Navigate the nooks and crannies with your kids, and foster a respect and wonder for natural environments. Image: Coleman

Sleeping Gear

‘I currently have 50mm thick, self-inflatable sleeping mats for my family car-camping trips.

I am finding lately that the mats don’t self-inflate as much as they used to, and aren’t as comfortable. I was thinking of going for hiking air mattresses with insulation, so they can be also used for canoe camping and the odd hike. Are these a good option, or should I consider something else?’

You could certainly use an air mat – but one of the main benefits of a self-inflating foam mat is that if there’s a puncture, you will still have some insulation to sleep on. Consider that you might have different comfort standards when you’re hiking compared to when you go family camping. You might want to go for a self-inflating mat designed for hiking, as they’re more durable and comfortable but still fairly lightweight.

‘Where can I find mattress toppers for swags?’

For those who are unfamiliar with a mattress topper – this is a corresponding product that provides added padding and comfort to an existing mattress. Where some have walls like a fitted sheet, others are simply a mat of synthetic fibre, down, merino or wool. Lauren recommends merino for adequate temperature regulation, while Ben simply utilises a fitted bed sheet that he tucks beneath the mattress sides.

While residential mattress sizes don’t align with those of swags, Lauren suggests visiting Target, K-Mart, Spotlight, or other hardware and homeware stores for adequate options.

‘Stretcher bed Vs air bed Vs self-inflating mat?

Particular consideration for those with back issues, knee issues, hand issues (i.e. comfort, getting up off the ground, assembling equipment, or closing valves)?’

Ben and Lauren reckon the best option for someone who might have limited mobility would be a stretcher that provides elevation, plus a self-inflating mat with a two-way valve so it’s easier to set up and pack away.

Consider that your comfort standards when you’re hiking will be different compared to when you go family camping. Image: Exped

‘What’s the best sleeping bag for men, and what’s the best for women?’

This is a complicated question as there are many factors, and most bags in the higher price bracket will perform similarly. Once you decide on either a synthetic or down bag, narrow it down to the fit, look for an EN rating, and consider size and packability.

Ben and Lauren also recommend listening to their interview with Sea to Summit discussing sleep systems, which might help with the decision-making process.

‘I bought a brand new down sleeping bag but it has a strong smell, like a wet dog.

I’m wondering if the down inside is bad, or something’s wrong with the bag? Is it normal that new down bags stink?’

This is totally normal and very common. Keep in mind, feathers are a natural fibre, so they will have a natural scent that will fade over time. Some people are more sensitive to it than others, but there are some things you can do to minimise it like taking it out of its storage sack and hanging it up in your wardrobe to ventilate. You also have the option of washing your down bag, but wetting the feathers can sometimes intensify the smell. We recommend keeping it dry, airing it, and just being patient.

‘Best sleeping bags for bigger people?’

For the taller campers, Sea to Summit offer longer-style sleeping bags. At 185cm, Ben fits a regular sized bag, while at 191cm tall Lauren’s partner is better suited to a longer design.

For those who are simply broader – or as Lauren calls it, ‘cuddlier’ – women-specific designs by Sea to Summit are narrower in the shoulders but allow more room in the hip area. Additionally, their Amplitude and Basecamp series mirror a large sack, feature two warmth ratings, and are significantly more spacious. Lauren describes their appearance as a fluffy balloon, boasting a huge internal circumference for star-fishing and spreading wide. These particular styles are popular among motorcycle tourists too.
Unlike the Mummy shaped design – wide at the shoulders, tapering at the feet – the rectangular fit maintains the same measure of room from head to toe. The Sea to Summit website indicates the internal circumference of their sleeping bags, as well as hip and shoulder measurements.

Like Sea to Summit, Darche also offer a 1100 sleeping bag that aligns with a King-King-Single size. While this doesn’t quite meet the same volume of space as a double, it is larger than a single and thus still offers a roomy alternative.

Weather Protection

‘What is the best rain jacket and best down jacket for men, what’s the best for women?’

This is a tricky one, as we don’t sell clothing at Snowys; it’s not our area of speciality. Essentially, when it comes to the top-of-the-range, high-quality clothing (where you’re spending $500+), the differences will likely be minor.

Generally, we would say that the hallmark of a high-quality rain jacket would be breathable waterproof fabric with ventilation and a good hood.

In terms of down jackets – if you’re just looking for one to wear around town, you could definitely go for something more affordable. However, if you’re using it for technical applications, look for models that use responsibly sourced down, have a good warmth-to-weight ratio, and feature water-resistant fabric.

‘Has anyone made up their own windbreak?

I was thinking of using shade cloth and star droppers. I think star droppers might be on the heavy and awkward-to-store side of things though – are there aluminium poles that would be suitable?’

Definitely – but we would suggest not taking star droppers as they are heavy, so could be dangerous in an accident. Even if strapped on tightly, it will become a spear if it begins to move with too much weight around it. Whatever you put on the roof rack must be secure. Aluminium poles will help save weight, so they are a good choice – plus, you’ll need good pegs and guy ropes. Ben recommends taking a mesh tarp folded in half, as this will mediate and slow the wind without putting too much stress on the poles.

‘Do you always pack clothing for any weather, or do you only ever pack for expected weather?’

Ben is a light packer, so he plans based on the expected weather forecast – although he might take a pair of pants and a light jumper sometimes, just in case. Lauren follows the same principle, though she might occasionally throw in a pair of comfy longer pants for wearing around camp. Regardless of the weather, she always packs a thick pair of socks to help her stay warm.

‘Tips or tricks for camping in the rain?’

In previous episodes, Lauren and Ben have touched on some logistics surrounding camping in wetter weather. Nonetheless, Ben encourages campers to enjoy the pitter-patter of raindrops on the still, damper days.

To prepare for the no-so-pleasant occasions, assess the weather predictions via the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) or your local agency. At the campsite, ensure guys ropes are taught, the fly is fully tensioned to ensure efficient funneling of rain, and establish a sheltered space for cooking and socialising, such as a spare tarp or gazebo.

Stick to lighting brands that are known for quality, such as Ledlenser. Image: Ledlenser

Electronics, Lighting, and Power

‘I’m thinking of buying a good head torch, but I don’t know if it’s worth spending good dollars on one or just replacing cheap ones as they stuff up…’

Ben’s approach to gear is that the fewer items thrown away, the better. Generally, with head torches, you get what you pay for. Ben has had a Princeton Tec head torch for 15 years which cost around $100. It has been on many adventures with him, and is still going strong! Stick to brands that are known for quality such as Black Diamond, Petzl, Silva, Ledlenser, or Nitecore.

For Lauren, the most important factors are that the unit is rechargeable and the battery can be replaced. She has used BioLite torchs in the past, but the internal battery can’t be replaced – this means that eventually it will end up in landfill. Instead, she now uses a Petzl Tikkina headlamp with a replaceable battery.

‘How do I determine the best small option for recharging my phone when camping, away from power points and a stationary vehicle, for 4-5 days?’

We would say start by working out what devices you’re going to use (e.g. just your phone, or other gear) and how much you want to use each device. Generally though, a small 20mAh powerbank should be suitable as something you can charge at home or while you drive.

Tents

‘Thoughts on camper trailers Vs tents for young family camping?’

Camper trailers are great for those who have the space at home to store them, are happy to tow, and also spend the initial investment by purchasing one. However, some limitations are that they can be time-consuming to put up, involve more maintenance, and require space for storage at home. That said, camper trailers are convenient and easier to get going with on your adventures –especially with kids.

‘Here’s one for Ben: would you take a hiking tent on your regular car-camping trips, or a larger tent?

Also, do you have an AGM battery in the car, or Lithium? If not Lithium, will you make the switch eventually?’

In his younger days, Ben was a hiker who took his lightweight tent on camping trips – but as his family grew, he upgraded to an older-style Black Wolf Tuff tent. He then upgraded to an Oztent RV5 tent for outback adventures, which is what he and his family still use now.

Currently, he has a lead-acid auxiliary and main battery, so he can charge them both with the same profile. That said, he would like to switch to lithium in the future to save weight.

Which tents on the market are the easiest and most efficient to set up and pack down for a newbie?

Lauren believes that the easiest to set up would be an air tent or an Instant Up design. Ben recommends checking out a basic dome tent, as you can’t really go wrong with good quality construction and thoughtful design.

‘What do you think of cheaper tents found at department stores?’

If you’re looking for a tent to survive a couple of uses, they will be fine – but if you want something that will stand up to many years of use, generally you do get what you pay for. If you were to have an issue with it, it’s unlikely that spare parts would be available, so even though the tent can be replaced through warranty the broken one will end up in landfill. We’d say the better approach is to buy once, buy right – so you can enjoy your shelter over many adventures.

A Muk Mat will help to prevent beach, bush, and campground grit from making its way indoors. Image: Muk Mat

Gear, Campsite, and General Maintenance

‘How can we limit the amount of sand and dirt little feet bring into our swags?

We have a 3-week trip planned with a mixture of beach, bush, and campground swagging with a 2- and 5-year-old!

You probably won’t be able to prevent this entirely, but you can manage it by keeping your shoes outside the swag. Putting a Muk Mat or some sort of foam matting outside as a doormat will help, as well as keeping a dustpan and brush on the inside to help get rid of any dirt on your bedding.

‘How can we keep pesky pests at bay? Wildlife sure are experts at penetrating defences!’

Lauren hasn’t really experienced issues with wildlife, as she camps with dogs and kids (so the noise probably keeps them at arm’s length). Neither has Ben. However, some general tips would be to keep food scraps secure, cover up and use insect repellents, set up orange lighting to deter bugs, and keep your tent zipped closed.

‘What is the best option for managing mozzies in particular when camping?’

As Ben’s wife is a mozzie-magnet, he suggests using EVERYTHING!

Some repellants include Thermocells, DEET, mosquito nets, sprays, and coils in still climates. For chemical-free prevention strategies, cover bare skin with long-sleeved clothing, keep screens and panels securely zipped, and simply factor a barrier of any kind into your camp set-up. For more tactics, check out Ep31 – Creepy Crawlies at the Campsite – or this blog on the many ways to repel bugs while camping.

‘How can I fix a snapped swag pole?’

For snapped fibreglass or alloy poles, the swag pole repair kit by Darche is a helpful henchman. For aluminium repairs, Darche offer two different kits – one for angular, segmental swags, and the other for arched hoops found in dome designs.

Replacement fibreglass poles of the same diameter can be sourced and simply cut to length, while repairing a breakage or snap is often done using the small tube-like sleeve (ferrule) included with most swags. Simply slide this over the top of the rupture and secure with duct tape for a temporary, stable fix lasting the remainder of a trip. Lauren demonstrates how to approach this in a Snowys YouTube video.

As for alloy poles, these are more difficult to repair or replace. Lauren and Ben suggest returning to the respective manufacturer for assistance.

‘Any unpacking, at-home rituals? Tips on gear checks and maintenance? Wet or windy weather activities?’

Ben and his family try to unpack straight away following a camping trip, before they do anything else. He generally makes notes while camping of anything that needs to be addressed or refilled, so it’s easy to sort everything upon arriving home. Lauren tends to leave it to the next day as she usually arrives home from her trips quite late. As her van is not their daily car, it doesn’t need to be unpacked straight away – however, she does take out the laundry, rubbish, and any leftover food.

In terms of activities on a rainy or windy day, Ben and Lauren suggest playing cards, games, reading a book, or listening to music to pass the time.

Ben loves making pizza and damper on the campfire. Image: Campfire

Camp Cooking and Food

‘Best coffee makers for camping?’

A good question for Ben, who maintains that the AeroPress or Wacaco are the most ideal coffee brewers out bush. While an AeroPress can simply be filled with water before a dash of cold milk, the Wacaco produces a traditional espresso shot that requires heated milk to produce an equally hot, hearty cup.

For the super hardcore hot coffee fanatics, some large silver stove-top setups produce espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Boiling the water builds up pressure, creating the shot and concurrently steaming the milk.

‘What’s your favourite recipe for camp stoves and open fires?’

In terms of campfire recipes, Ben loves making pizza and damper, while Lauren is a fan of a bacon and eggs brekkie or stewed lamb shanks in a camp oven. If you’re looking for inspiration, the Fire to Fork cookbook is a good place to start.

Camp stove cooking can be restrictive, but you could get fancy with pasta sauces or use a hotplate to cook a BBQ. Lauren mainly just pre-cooks meals at home and vacuum seals them to reheat in boiling water. This saves gas, time, and cleaning up.

Ben and Lauren chat with Fire to Fork’s Harry Fisher about all things campfire cooking:

‘What food is best to leave in the pantry for short overnight stops (product review on Back Country or Outdoor Gourmet food brands)?’

While Lauren and Ben have previously tapped into freeze-dried and dehydrated meals, they plan to present a more hands-on, detailed demonstration that offers a better sense of how these packet foods look, taste, and cook. Until then, Lauren offers her opinion, essentially describing them as hit-or-miss. Ben and Lauren often have opposing views depending on the brand or choice of meal, which is ultimately suggestive of how subjective freeze-dried and rehydrated food reviews really are.

The appeal of freeze-dried meals comes from their convenience on lightweight adventures, and so aren’t a pleasing enough substitute for a meal on occasions when standard food would otherwise be consumed. For example, Ben’s go-to pasta recipe on his most recent camping holiday used canned vegetables which, in comparison to packet meals, allowed a ‘fresher’-tasting dinner. That said, the Radix brand of freeze-dried food is commonly preferred over others, with a greater resemblance to standard meals.

Overall, Ben suggests canned or long-life food to keep overnight in the pantry, given no refrigeration is required. On that, products displaying a ‘best before’ date often has greater flexibility around the consumption timeline than that of a ‘use by’. That said, the further it surpasses its date stamp, the more it drops in quality and flavour.

Other alternatives include the Offgrid and Go Native brand of heat-and-eat packet food. Go Native is preserved via ‘retort packaging’. This method involves sealing the cooked food while still hot, as opposed to dehydrating. From here, the packet simply requires reheating with boiling water. Ben recommends this as a hearty alternative to other packet meals.

‘Best ultralight cutlery and crockery for hiking, at the lowest price?’

Our podcast hosts both agree that the Sea to Summit polypropylene set is the most cost-efficient and effective hiking cutlery, at just under five dollars per set. Bundled as a fork, spoon, and knife, simply link with a carabiner for a no-fuss food-friendly system. The Delta range of cutlery is shorter, constructed with durable polypropylene and the same reinforced nylon plastic, finished with a flexible plastic carabiner for keeping neat and collected amongst your clutter.  

For crockery, the Sea to Summit Delta bowl and/or plate is a lightweight option. When hiking, a bowl is generally all that’s required, while the additional plate often bodes better for a camping-style holiday.

Ultimately though, Lauren insists that if your camp cutlery isn’t comfortable to hold, the eating experience is thrown completely off course! For that reason – and all lightweight, cost-effective suggestions aside – she carries a set of standard steel cutlery in her camping kit.

Offgrid is an example of fresh, heat-and-eat packaged food, great for overnight stops. Image: Offgrid

OK, now let’s be real for a second…

‘The Snowys products Ben and Lauren couldn’t go without?’

A coffee connoisseur at the campsite, Ben’s response – an AeroPress – is hardly a surprise. His commonly coined nickname ‘Safety Ben’ has him sheepishly admitting that his choice should probably be something more along the lines of a first aid kit or a swag. Nonetheless, he can’t go without coffee – and wasn’t that the question?!

On the other hand, Lauren claims that her Scrubba Wash Bag and Collapsible Space Saving tubs are the most-used, well-loved, not-to-be-forgotten tackle in her pack. After not taking her washbag on her last getaway, she missed it more than she expected – while her collapsible tubs now allow far more room in her kitchen, holding large pats of butter, avocado halves, and wads of bacon.

‘Favoured Snowys products by Snowys staff?’

Jess from Customer Service: a sleeping bag liner. Versatile throughout both warm and wintery weather, this product also keeps her sleeping bag clean.

Sam from Customer Service: trekking poles. Be it for relieving pressure from the knees, hoisting herself up hills, checking the levels of mud holes before heaving across hip-deep, or flipped upside-down for use as tent poles – Sam believes that trekking poles offer true camping comradery.

Laine from the Web Team: a soft-sided cooler and luggage scales. Too often has he left beers behind at a BBQ in someone else’s fridge, so his cooler is now his personal, portable cranny for the cold ones. Thanks to his luggage scales too, he now beats getting burnt at the JetStar luggage check-in, previously packing too much tackle that wavered over the ideal weight.

Cory from IT: his fridge (for keeping his beer), Sea to Summit collapsible X-Cup (for drinking his beer), and Pacsafe waist wallet (…for buying his beer).

Leece from Customer Support: like Ben, an AeroPress – plus a Delta insulated cup.

Michael from the Web Team: a round jaffle iron! Leading up to his travels, Michael would purchase McDonald’s cheeseburgers to keep in the fridge. At the campsite, he simply cooked them in the jaffle iron over the campfire for an even faster fast-food fix!

Brett from the Web Team: the JetBoil Zip. Simply fill, clip, and boil – the perfect stripped-down, lightweight option for fast adventures, covering your coffee fix or for reheating a Radix meal. Lauren owns the JetBoil MiniMo – a short, stocky alternative – which perches perfectly and patiently for her prior to brewing a coffee or tea. An all-round, well-loved product in the Snowys family!

‘When will Snowys open a store in Sydney?’

Unfortunately, to Ben and Lauren’s knowledge, this won’t be a move Snowys will make in the foreseeable future. That said, the ever-evolving, ridgy-didge website successfully accommodates every Snowys supporter around the country!

From swags to Scrubba wash bags, there are some key items that Ben and Lauren can’t go camping without. Image: Darche

For an audio experience, tune into the following episodes as Ben and Lauren address the above questions:

Got a question for Ben and Lauren? Check out Episodes 65, 66, and 92 to hear whether it’s already been answered!

The post Campsite Q&A’s (Part 1) appeared first on Snowys Blog.

In this blog, we bivvy down on how to effectively wash a down sleeping bag for sweeter dreams and squeaky-clean camping trips.

Let’s get down to it…

Your bag is built for adventure, but it’s important to keep it clean. Image: Sea to Summit

What’s Required?

1. Down wash – specialised down wash is formulated to clean and restore the water repellency, without damaging the fill. This is why it’s important to use it instead of conventional detergents.
2. Large front-loading washing machine – Yep, you’re going to have to get yourself down to the local laundromat! Home washing machines are too small, lacking enough circulation of water to clean the bag efficiently. Top-loading washing machines generally also have an agitator, which can damage the baffles on your bag. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid them.
3. Front-loading dryer – It’s ideal to use the biggest dryer you have available to you. If you’re finding you need to stuff it into your dryer, it’s too small and the bag won’t dry efficiently. This can cause damage to your bag.
4. Tennis balls or wool dryer balls – this is to ensure that the down doesn’t clump together as it dries.

You’ll need some down wash, tennis or dryer balls, a large front loader, and a front-loading dryer.

What to Avoid

• Bleach, conventional detergents, or washing powder
• Top-loading washing machines
• Dry-cleaning

Washing Your Down Sleeping Bag in a Large Front Loader Machine

Check the wash instructions on your sleeping bag, as this will provide specific information about what temperature to set the machine and the settings to apply.

1. Turn the bag inside out and put it in the machine
2. Ensure there isn’t residual washing powder in there first, before adding the volume of down wash according to the label
3. Set the machine to the correct temperature, and set to the ‘delicate’ or ‘gentle’ cycle
4. Remove when the cycle has finished, and check it over

Add to the tumble dryer on the ‘low heat’ (‘gentle’) setting, with dryer or tennis balls to prevent clumping

After washing, pop your sleeping bag in a dryer with some tennis balls to prevent clumping.

Handwashing Your Down Sleeping Bag in the Bathtub

1. Turn the bag inside out with all the zips and tabs closed
2. Fill your bathtub with lukewarm water (or whatever temperature the bag’s instructions suggest)
3. Add the recommended volume of down wash
4. Lie the bag out flat in the tub, and gently massage in the wash
5. Leave it to soak for about an hour
6. Drain the tub and fill it will water to rinse the bag
7. Leave to soak in the water for around 15 minutes
8. Gently press on the bag remove the soap, and repeat this a couple of times until no suds remain
9. Drain the tub, then press on the bag gently to remove excess water
10. If your dryer is not big enough, you can take it to your local laundromat. Or, lay it out flat on a drying rack or clothesline in a warm, ventilated area – indoors or outdoors. You will need to give it a gentle shake every now and again to ensure the down doesn’t clump.

A down sleeping bag needs to remain in good condition to perform ideally in severe weather conditions. Image: Sea to Summit

Keeping Your Down Bag in Good Condition

Sleeping Bag Liners

Use a sleeping bag liner every single time you use the bag. This will minimise the sweat and oils from your skin that tarnish the bag and affect its insulation.

Go to Bed Clean!

On a longer trek, this may be tricky to avoid – but try not to sleep in your bag wearing dirty clothing. Wipe down your face and neck with a baby wipe too, as this is where most of the oils can rub off and onto the hood. Essentially, the cleaner you are in your bag, the less dirty your bag will become.

Using a clean liner will prevent oil and dirt from building up inside your newly clean bag. 

Spot Clean

If you do spill or smear something on your bag, spot clean it as soon as you can with a damp cloth.

Air it Out After Use

When you arrive home from a trip, spread your sleeping out to air-dry for a couple of hours. This will dry any residual moisture from sweat or condensation.

If you do spill or smear something on your bag, spot clean it as soon as you can. Image: Sea to Summit

Store it Properly

Avoid storing your bag in its compression stuff sack, as this can damage the down and reduce its performance. Instead, stash it in the larger storage bag that it comes equipped with. This will help to keep the fill in good condition for as long as possible.

That’s all, Folks!

Don’t put off washing your down sleeping bag any longer – just like the feeling of fresh sheets, a freshly laundered bag is going to feel amazing after a vigorous day of adventure!

Just like the feeling of fresh sheets, a freshly laundered bag is going to feel amazing after a vigorous day of adventure! Image: Sea to Summit

When was the last time you washed your down bag (if ever)? Go on, be honest!

The post How to Wash a Down Sleeping Bag appeared first on Snowys Blog.

You’ve just spent the day four-wheel driving the dunes, hiking the track, or swimming with the kids. You’re ready to crash early and get a good night’s sleep, but… it doesn’t quite work out that way.

Sometime in the night, you wake to feel the ground firmly beneath you, and –

Pssssssss…

There’s that tell-tale sound. Your air mattress has sprung a leak. Don’t feel deflated – this blog details how to repair and care for a camp mattress when things fall flat on those full-blown outdoor adventures!

Don’t feel deflated – this blog details how to repair and care for a camp mattress. Image: Exped

Watch our YouTube video for Lauren’s step-by-step guide:

Repairing a Mattress

Repairing a leaky airbed or self-inflating mattress is not as daunting as some may think, and it’s the same straightforward process for both. Most airbeds or self-inflating mattresses come complete with a repair kit. If this is ever misplaced, spares are also available.

The Gear Required:

• Existing repair kit (included with your mattress), or a replacement most suited to your needs, or any kit listed in Step 8.
• Spray bottle
• Standard dishwashing liquid
• Water
• Paper towel
• Texta or permanent marker
• Scissors

Step 1

Inflate the Mattress and Spray it Down

First, inflate the mattress fully so that the air behind the leak is under more pressure to escape. Create a solution in your spray bottle of a squeeze of dishwashing liquid and some water.

Start by spraying down the mat, beginning at the base. This part of the mat was touching the ground, so that’s where the puncture is most likely to be.

Step 2

Locate the Puncture

Work systematically, spraying down the entire mattress and watching for any bubbles – these are created by the escaping air. If you have access to a bath, you could also submerge your mattress into soapy bathwater.

If you know exactly where the leak is, you can bypass these first two steps.

Step 3

Mark the Area

‘X’ marks the spot. Use some paper towel to dry off the area, then the marker to clearly mark the spot to not lose sight of where the leak is.

Step 4

Prepare Your Patch and Deflate

Ideally, cut your patch to the size of a 50-cent coin to achieve a decent amount of coverage around the damaged area. You could also get away with something the size of a 20-cent coin.

Round off your patch and trim away any corner pieces that may get caught and rip off your patch.

Deflate your airbed or mattress as much as possible. If you attempt to repair an inflated mattress, there will be air attempting to force its way out of the puncture. This will compromise the repair job.

Thoroughly dry off the area with paper towel too.

Step 5

Apply the Adhesive

Apply the adhesive to the hole, and spread generously around the area to comfortably accommodate the patch.

Step 6

Allow Adhesive to Become Tacky

Leave for a minute or so to allow the glue to become tacky. If you have ever repaired a bike tube before, you’ll know exactly what this means.

Step 7

Apply the Patch

Stick on the patch and hold it in place for a minute or so, ensuring it is flat and bedded firmly in the glue. Apply a little pressure so the edges are sealed.

Note: We recommend cutting a larger patch than what is displayed in the images, with rounded corners (the patch used in the image above is for demonstration purposes only).

As mentioned, a circular patch about the size of a 50-cent piece is ideal. The patches you’ll find in your repair kit are likely to be much more neutral to blend in with the rest of the mattress.

Step 8

Test!

It’s best to allow 8-10 hours of drying time before you reinflate your mattress, so that the glue and patch have properly sealed around the leak. This ensures a long-lasting repair.

You may be cranky in the morning after that sleepless night – but if you get onto the repair job early enough, the patch can do its thing throughout the day so your mattress is good to go again that night.

If the puncture is more of a tear, run a bead of Seam Grip along its length and allow it to dry thoroughly.

Here are some helpful replacement repair kits, if what’s included with your mattress has gone MIA!

• Elemental Air Mattress Repair Kit – a generic repair kit specifically designed for air mattresses. Includes both a vinyl and velour fabric patch.
• Thermarest Permanent Home Repair Kit – perfect for Thermarest mats but can also be used on other self-inflating mattresses.
• Sea to Summit Sleeping Mat Repair Kit – Designed for Sea to Summit mats with Air Sprung Cells technology.
• Gear Aid Field Repair Kit – a multi-purpose repair kit that can be used on all kinds of fabric so long as it’s not silicone treated.
• Gear Aid Seam Grip + WP Sealer & Adhesive – an essential part of any camper’s kit, this stuff is a multi-purpose adhesive that’ll get you out of a bind every time.

There are a few points to remember when using and storing your self-inflating mattress. Image: Exped

Caring for a Self-Inflating Mattress

Here are a few important things to remember when using and storing your self-inflating mattress.

If you’ve deflated a self-inflating mat, rolled it up, and packed away – you may find that when the time comes to retrieve it from its bag on your next camping trip, it doesn’t want to self-inflate. This is because it has been stored deflated for too long.

Inspect the Area

Survey the area where you plan to sleep on your mattress, and remove any small rocks, stones, grass seeds, or anything else sharp enough to puncture it.

This goes for packing away, too – ensure your mat is clean of any small rocks and seeds prior to rolling it up and packing into its bag. A small stone or grass seed could puncture it while packed.

Carry a Mattress Patch Kit

See above for how to best repair a puncture.

Survey the area where you plan to sleep on your mattress. Image: Geordie Wright

Storing Your Mat

Dry

Ensure your mat is as dry as possible prior to rolling it up and packing away. Doing so could mean it sweats, creating mould on both the mat and the inside of its bag. This causes it to smell and potentially become a health hazard.

Unrolled

When you arrive home from your trip, remove your mat from its bag, unroll it, allow it to self-inflate, and ensure it’s clean.

Clean

Wash or wipe over with a damp cloth, and allow it to properly dry.

Ensure your mat is as dry as possible prior to rolling it up and packing away. Image: Exped

Inflated

…in a cool, dark, and dry place. Given it’s fully inflated, ensure it is touching nothing that might puncture it.

Ideal storage places are:

• A shelf or under a bed (lying flat)
• Behind a couch (standing on its side)
• In a cupboard or behind a closed door (standing on its end)
• Hung up (if the mattress has straps)

Keep the Air Valve Open

Keeping the air valve of the mattress open when in storage will allow the mattress to expand and contract. This allows any moisture inside the mattress to gradually dry out too.

If your mattress is not stored fully inflated, the foam or cells inside may crush. As a result, it may become ineffective the next time it’s in use. This is because they may not expand to allow air in through the valve.

Providing that your mattress is looked after properly, it will suffice for many years! Image: Exped

If your self-inflating mattress doesn’t inflate…

If at any point this happens, you can blow in a few puffs of air yourself for added firmness. These mattresses are not designed to be inflated with an air compressor or other types of inflators.

Providing that your mattress is looked after properly, it will suffice for many years. Next time you head out camping, you’ll be thankful to have stored and looked after your mattress well!

Experienced a few leaky air beds in your time? Got any tips to add to this ‘how to’? 

The post Repairing and Caring for a Camp Mattress appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Whether your sleeping bag has a down or synthetic fill, the action is the same… stuff it!

Let’s guide you through a step-by-step process for packing your sleeping bag. We’ve intentionally chosen two very different types of bag to help you understand that this method is suitable regardless of whether yours is a camping sleeping bag or something a little more technical for expeditions and multi-day hiking.

Entry-level or top of the range, synthetic fill or down, and irrespective of its temperature comfort rating, we still recommend the stuffing method! The only exception is canvas sleeping bags that generally come with a zippered bag, or roll up with straps similar to a swag.

For all other sleeping bags, the important thing to remember is to avoid folding or rolling which can create ‘sheets’ of fill that inhibit future lofting and over time, can break it down. Stuffing creates an irregular folding pattern that is unique each time you pack your sleeping bag away. This reduces the risk of tension within your bag and means it’ll loft up better when you use it next time.

You’ll be full of smiles using the ‘stuff’ method. Image: OZtrail

The stuffing method requires a certain degree of assertion. You want to be forceful without putting pressure on any seams or stitching. It’s also a good idea to remove any rings or sharp bits – there’s no fun to be had if a rogue fingernail snags your outer fabric, or if that nobbly bit on your watch catches on the seam.

Although both synthetic bags and down bags enlist the same action, the process for each ever so slightly differs. Let’s start with…

Synthetic sleeping bags

For this example, we’ve chosen the Essential 5°C Sleeping Bag from Black Wolf. A brand-new bag will be very tightly rolled so you want to teach that inner fill how to breathe in deeply and hold that air!

Grab the inside foot of your sleeping bag.

Step 1

1. Have your compression sack nearby, open and ready to grab.
2. With one arm, reach inside your bag and with your other arm, meet the inside hand at the foot of the sleeping bag on the outside.
3. Grab your sleeping bag and scrunch it together.

Maintain a firm hold on the sack.

Step 2

1. Keep a grip on the gathered foot end of your sleeping bag with the inside hand while you grab your compression sack.
2. Without being too rough, push the handful right down to the bottom of the bag.
3. As you stuff the foot into the base of the sack, you want to make sure you’re pushing right down to the bottom of the bag because if you short cut this at the start, you’ll be on the back foot and have to work harder to get the last of your bag into the sack once you get to the top.

Compact your sleeping bag to the bottom of your compression sack right from the start.

Step 3

1. Once the base of your sack has been filled, some people like to secure it between their feet, with the remainder of the sleeping bag bunched under their arm. Go with whatever works for you, so long as the base stays put while you continue to feed the bag into the sack, squishing as you go. Don’t be afraid to make it a whole-body movement!
2. Holding one hand on the opening of your sack, continue using your other hand to grab bunches of the bag and punch them as far down into the sack as you can.
3. It’s helpful for the hand that’s on the outer to gently pull upwards to assist the other hand downwards.

Support the sack with your knee or between your feet.

Step 4

1. Keep punching the rest of the bag down into the compression sack, pivoting the sack as you go to spread the bulk and create an even stuffing.
2. Similar to how you began, try to get each punch and your fist as far down to the bottom of the sack as you can.

Use your fists to hold the sleeping bag down.

Step 5

1. Work your way around, supporting and twisting as you go, until the last of the bag is inside the sack.
2. Use your fists to hold the sleeping bag down, then relieve one hand for Step 6.

The toggle will help keep the opening pulled in.

Step 6

1. While the fist of one hand pushes against the sleeping bag closest to the top of your compression sack, use your free hand to scoop up the drawstring and pull the cord to tighten the top and create the gathered closure.
2. Secure the toggle into place as tightly as you can to the closed end.

Make sure your compression straps are not twisted before you fit the cap into place.

Step 7

1. Most compression sacks have a cap that can be moved into place over the top.
2. Fit this into place, making sure the straps of your compression sack aren’t twisted and have been released from buckles, plus loosened off.
3. Depending on your activity and space requirements, you can pull the straps down to compress your sleeping bag even further or tighten the straps off just enough to secure the cap but not necessarily completely squish the bag.

If you want or need to reduce the size of your pack, then you can use your body weight by placing one of your knees on top of the sack and tightening off the compression straps. Avoid tightening too much though, as the strain may weaken the stitching of your sack and stress the buckles.

If space is limited, you can compress your packed sleeping bag using the compression straps.

Down sleeping bag

When stuffing a down bag, you must take a little bit more care because of the extra fabric and baffles inside.

Here we’re jumping way up to the other end of the scale and using one of the high-end bags from our range, the Spark SP4 Sleeping Bag from Sea to Summit. Regardless of which bag you have or how much it cost, you want to take care of it as best you can. But if you’re investing some serious dosh into a specialised expedition bag, then you want to do everything possible to maintain its quality and longevity.

Most high-end down sleeping bags will come with both a compression sack and a loose-fitting bag for storage.

Step 1

1. Have your compression sack nearby, open and ready to grab.
2. Use one arm to reach deep inside your bag, grab the foot and in a dual movement with your other hand on the opening of your sleeping bag, flip the whole thing inside out.

Down sleeping bags often have a waterproof coating on their outer fabric which inhibits their breathability when packing and during storage, so turning it inside out means your sleeping bag will be able to breathe.

Once the down sleeping bag is inside out, you can begin stuffing.

Step 2

From here, the process is very much the same as what you do for a synthetic bag. However, down bags do tend to stuff and squish more easily, you’ve just got to show that air who’s boss!

1. With your bag inside out, reach one arm inside your bag and work its way to the foot.
2. Meet the inside hand at the foot of the sleeping bag with your free hand on the outside.
3. Grab your sleeping bag and scrunch it together with your inside hand.

Fill the base of your compression sack as much as possible.

Step 3

1. Once the base of your sack has been filled, some people like to secure it between their feet, with the remainder of the sleeping bag bunched under their arm. Go with whatever works for you, so long as the base stays put while you continue to feed the bag into the sack, squishing as you go. Don’t be afraid to make it a whole-body movement!
2. Holding one hand on the opening of your sack, continue using your other hand to grab bunches of the bag and punch them as far down into the sack as you can.
3. It’s helpful for the hand that’s on the outer to gently pull upwards to assist the other hand downwards.

Double action stuffing! One hand opens and pulls the sack upward, while the other punches the bag down to the bottom.

Step 4

1. Holding one hand on the opening of your sack, continue using your other hand to grab bunches of the bag and punch them as far down into the sack as you can.
2. It’s helpful for the hand that’s on the outer to gently pull upwards to assist the other hand downwards.
3. Keep punching the rest of the bag down into the compression sack, pivoting the sack as you go to spread the bulk and create an even stuffing.
4. Like how you began, try to get each punch and your fist as far down to the bottom of the sack as you can.

Down sleeping bags are easier to pack than synthetic varieties.

Step 5

1. Work your way around, supporting and twisting as you go, until the last of the bag is inside the sack.
2. Use your fist to hold the sleeping bag down and relieve your other hand for Step 6.

Keep squishing the bag down into your sack while pulling the drawstring.

Step 6

1. While the fist of one hand pushes against the sleeping bag closest to the top of your compression sack, use your free hand to scoop up the drawstring and pull the cord to tighten the top and create the gathered closure.
2. Secure the toggle into place as tightly as you can to the closed end.

The cap protects the toggle and gathered opening of your compression sack.

Step 7

1. Most compression sacks have a cap that can be moved into place over the top.
2. Fit this into place, making sure the straps of your compression sack aren’t twisted and have been released from the buckles, and loosened off.

Avoid pulling your compression straps too tightly.

Step 8

1. Depending on your activity and space requirements, you can pull the straps down to compress your sleeping bag even further or tighten the straps off just enough to secure the cap but not necessarily completely squish the bag.

Storage bags allow your sleeping bag to breathe and keep the fill lofted. 

A note on storage

Most down bags come with 2 different sacks – one for when you’re hiking or camping and you need to keep your gear compact and minimal. The other is a loose-fitting, zippered storage bag to house your sleeping bag between trips.

Down bags are best stored inside out and uncompressed. Using a loose-fitting breathable bag allows the down to remain lofted and keeps things dry and fresh. Most quality down bags will come with a cotton or mesh storage sack that will accommodate the bag in a loosely packed fashion. If your bag does not have one of these then you can use a large pillowcase or similar, then store it in the top of a cupboard or somewhere it won’t get squashed.

If you have space, the most ideal way to store your bag is to hang it from the foot end using a clipped coathanger. This method keeps the insulation as lofted and aired out as possible. However, it’s not the most realistic option for most people, so a loose-fitting breathable bag is a good second choice. 

Packed and ready for action – the Spark SP4 down sleeping bag and the Essential 5°C synthetic sleeping bag.

The moral of this story is simple: stuff your bag. It’s easier for you and better for your bag, which means you’ll get the most out of it for years to come!

If you’re still a little bit unsure or you’re eager to check out how Ben uses his feet to hold the base of the sack in place while he stuffs, check out our YouTube video:

What’s your go-to method for packing up your sleeping bag?

The post How to Pack a Sleeping Bag appeared first on Snowys Blog.

One of the most important considerations when choosing a sleeping bag is the fill. This brings up the age-old question asked in the outdoor industry – which one should I choose? Down or synthetic?

What you decide will play a huge role in your comfort when sleeping outdoors. In this article, we’re going to break down everything you need to consider including price, compressibility, weight, durability, warmth to weight ratio, and maintenance so you can make the best choice when it comes to choosing the right gear.

Before you take the plunge, take a look at what we have to say below.

It can be hard to decide which one will suit your adventures best. Image: Sea to Summit

What is down?

Down is the layer of light fluffy feathers found underneath feathers on ducks and geese.

Down is an incredible natural insulator. Image: Sea to Summit

What is synthetic fill?

Synthetic insulation is typically made of polyester fibres matted together to create sheets of fill. These sheets are then sewn into the bag in various ways to maximise loft.

Synthetic insulation aims to mimic down to keep you warm. Image: Sea to Summit

Price

Price is where synthetic and down also differ substantially. Down bags are quite pricey and will vary depending on the fill power, quality and weight. Producing synthetic fibres is cheaper compared with the growing and processing of down from birds.

This is why synthetic bags are generally very popular among beginners or those who don’t use their gear as much and can be several hundred dollars cheaper than a down sleeping bag.

You will have to spend more to purchase a down bag. Image: MSR

Warmth to weight ratio

There are many types of synthetic fill on the market from several leading brands, which can differ in quality and longevity.

Generally, they don’t provide as much warmth to weight ratio compared to down, but that’s not to say it’s not a viable option to keep you warm even on colder expeditions. The fill power or loft rating is how insulation is measured when it comes to down, with both terms being interchangeable. Put simply, a higher fill power indicates more warmth from less weight.

High-quality down is also lightweight and compressible which are qualities that are much needed for technical adventures. Despite all the technical advances in material technology, synthetic fibres have yet to be developed that match the structure and warmth to weight ratio of down.

The higher the loft, the better the insulation.

Cleaning, maintenance and storage

We would suggest that if you invest in a higher quality bag, then you should always use some sort of liner every time you sleep in it. That way, you will prevent the sweat, oils and dirt from building up, meaning you won’t need to wash it as much.

Down bags need to be washed using specialised down cleaner, as it’s designed to clean it and restore water repellency while retaining the loft of the down. For more information on how to wash a down bag, check out this guide here.

When not in use, down bags should be kept semi-lofted in their storage sacks that they came with, in a temperature-controlled space that’s cool and dry.

Synthetic bags can generally be washed in a large front-loader machine using warm water, a gentle cycle and very mild detergent. It’s also ideal to store them semi-lofted to avoid crushing the synthetic fibres.

Synthetic and down have different care requirements. Image: Sea to Summit

Performance in wet conditions

Synthetic fill is known to loft and retain some of its warmth even if you douse it in water, so in a worst-case scenario, you would still have some comfort if your sleeping bag gets wet.

Down does lose its insulation properties when it gets wet. Lots of manufacturers now treat their down so that it absorbs less moisture, dries faster and retain loft better.

With these modern improvements, down is now more comparable to synthetic in terms of water-resistance.

Consider if you will be using your bag in wet conditions. Image: Sea to Summit 

Durability and longevity

A properly cared for down sleeping bag can last for many years before you start to see a deterioration in performance. You can compress it down into its bag over and over without it affecting the loft.

If used frequently, compressing a synthetic bag into its stuff sack repeatedly over a long period of time will eventually cause the fibres to break down.

If you take care of your down bag, it can last many years. Image: Sea to Summit

Compressibility

Down is extremely compressible, packing down to a compact and lightweight package that makes it ideal in the instance where space and weight are a premium.

You will be able to compress a synthetic sleeping bag well, but over time this will cause the fibres to break down, so eventually, the bag will lose its loft.

The more compressible and compact, the better for lightweight adventures. Image: Marmot

Ethics

You may only want to purchase down that has been responsibly sourced or may choose to avoid it entirely and choose synthetic if that’s your personal preference.

At the end of the day, there are a plethora of options available to you, so you’re bound to find the perfect sleeping bag that meets all your needs.

Look for down bags that are responsibly sourced. Image: Sea to Summit

Which one should I choose?

We’ve broken down the pros and cons of each one and laid out some suggestions for what style and type of bags are suited to different activities and needs.

• Regular camping and occasional lightweight adventures

If you are planning on using your bag regularly, a down bag with a versatile tapered rectangular shape with a reasonable compact packed size is ideal. This way, you can get the maximum longevity and performance when camping, even on lighter trips.

A down bag with a streamlined shape will serve you well as an all-rounder. Image: Sea to Summit 

• Occasional camping

A synthetic sleeping bag with a versatile temperature range is ideal for this kind of use.

A quality synthetic bag is ideal for camping. Image: Darche

• Kayaking and rafting camping

Go for a lightweight synthetic sleeping bag, as if it gets wet, you will still have some comfort.

• Alpine conditions

Look for a sleeping bag with high-quality down, a water-resistant shell and a mummy shape so that it will keep as warm as possible when sleeping in alpine conditions.

When snow is on the cards, make sure you choose a suitable bag. Image: Marmot

Breakdown – Down vs Synthetic

Down

• Best warmth to weight ratio
• More expensive
• Longer lifespan
• Loses insulation abilities when wet

Synthetic

• More affordable
• Will offer some comfort when wet
• Dries faster
• Heavier
• Less compressible
• Shorter product lifespan

There is a place for both types of bags for different uses. Image: Sea to Summit

It may sound like we’re favouring down bags here, but when you look at the stats and weigh up all the factors, they’re generally warmer, more compressible, and last you longer which makes them a good investment if you use it frequently.

However, if you’re an occasional adventurer, or are on a strict budget that doesn’t cover a down bag – then you can still get a high-quality synthetic bag that will suit your needs.

What kind of sleeping bag do you own? Do you own more than one? 

The post Down vs Synthetic Sleeping Bags – How to Choose appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Ideal for setting up as a reading station on the patio, between two trees for a backyard campout or two vehicles at the beach, or on the trail for an elevated sleeping solution in warm conditions – the humble hammock will surprise you with its versatility!

Protect yourself from the wind. Image: Sea to Summit 

What’s So Great About a Hammock?

1. Fresh Air

You’re not cramped inside a tiny hiking tent or stuffy camping shelter. Instead, you’re experiencing the freedom of fresh air and falling asleep beneath the twinkling stars.

2. A Streamlined Sleep Setup

Your gear is simplified with a hammock involved, as you can pack a lighter sleeping mat for a layer of insulation or forego one altogether if the weather is warm.

3. Less Maintenance

No poles, no pegs, and no hassle – so less can go wrong when you’re out in the field! Plus, you won’t have to keep any spare parts on hand.

When set up properly, a hammock is an eco-friendly choice. Image: Sea to Summit

4. Environmental Impact

Instead of a tent – which needs to be pitched into the ground using pegs and a groundsheet – a hammock won’t leave as much of an impact on your chosen campsite. This is provided you set up using tree protectors.

5. Improved Sleep

There have also been studies conducted by French and Swiss scientists on the rocking motions of a hammock, and how this can both help send you to sleep sooner and improve the quality of your sleep.

Sleeping in a hammock may even improve your sleep. Image: Adrian Krawczyk

Read on for our breakdown of the best hammock options for backyard use, camping, hiking, and more…

Hammocks for Your Deck, Backyard, or… Car?!

• OZtrail Double Hammock with Timber Rails

With enough space for two people, the Double Hammock with Timber Rails by OZtrail makes lounging with your favourite person easy in the comfort of your own backyard.

This design is made from a soft cotton-polyester blend fabric which is comfortable, hard-wearing, and easy to keep clean. It also features timber rails to prevent fabric from wrapping over the top of you – plus, allows more freedom to stretch out.

To set up, simply find your two strongest trees, grab a drink and a book, and you’re ready to relax!

This double hammock is perfect for the backyard. Image: OZtrail

• OZtrail Anywhere Hammock Double & Frame

The whole fam will be queuing up to lounge on the OZtrail Anywhere Hammock Double & Frame.

This model comes with a sturdy, easy-to-assemble frame, so you can set it up anywhere – be that at home or the campsite.

With this hammock, lay back and let your imagination take you away to a tropical paradise!

Everyone will love the Anywhere Hammock! Image: OZtrail

• Kurgo Wander Hammock

This one’s for the doggos of the outdoors!

With door-busting durability and waterproof construction, this hammock suspends between your vehicle’s front and back compartment, defying the doggy dynamics. A centre zip allows room for two-legged passengers, while hook-and-loop openings mean you can easily access your seatbelt and latching system. Remove from the headrest to create a simple backseat cover too, thanks to the double handles providing double the handiness.

This hammock is for the hounds that hang out for the front, but kill for that backseat thrill!

Hammocks for Camping

• Coleman Lightweight Hammock

Lightweight and Easy to Transport

If your camping setup needs something a bit sleeker and easy to transport, the Lightweight Hammock from Coleman will tick those boxes.

This hammock is rated to a sturdy 180kg, yet weighs only 0.5 kg itself! It also has an affordable price tag – so it’s a win all around.

String it up between two trees at your favourite camping spot for somewhere to unwind.

This lightweight choice is great for both camping and hiking. Image: Coleman Australia

• OZtrail Anywhere Hammock

Versatile and Stylish

For longer stays at the campsite, set up the Anywhere Hammock for some much-needed downtime when the family tent becomes overcrowded.

This hammock has a super simple design, easy to fit in your vehicle with the rest of your camping essentials. It features a durable, soft-touch cotton/polyester surface for comfort, requires no assembly, and includes a carry bag.

With a single and double size available, choose the option that will best suit your setup.

The Anywhere Hammock is easy to transport. Image: Eric Clark

Hammocks for Lightweight Adventures

As an alternative to a traditional tent, a hammock can be a lightweight and complete sleeping solution when exploring trails below the treeline.

Gram-counting hikers can now enjoy something different to relax in, as hammocks now come in minuscule lightweight packages – so you don’t have to compromise your setup.

With a hammock, save on space and weight. Image: Sea to Summit

• Sea to Summit Ultralight Hammock

Lightest on the Market

With the packed size of an orange – the Sea to Summit Ultralight Hammock takes compact to a whole new level.

This hammock is made from ultra-breathable fabric to prevent you from overheating while you snooze on balmy nights – and despite the whisper-light package, features triple bar-tacked webbing loops and a weight rating of 135kg.

Just add the separately available suspension straps and, to keep bark from being stripped, tree protectors.

This design ticks all the boxes for lightweight trips. Image: Sea to Summit

• Sea to Summit Pro Hammock

Durable Without Excess Weight

Perfect for setting up for an arvo in the sun, or when you want to save on space and weight when sleeping in warmer conditions, the Pro Hammock double is ideal for travelling couples.

This design is made from soft yet high tenacity ripstop nylon, with strong steel-plated buckles. It easily packs away into a compression bag for storage in your rucksack.

This hammock also quick and fuss-free to set up. Just use the additional suspension straps, and add the tree protectors as an optional extra.

This hammock is both durable and easy to set up. Image: Sea to Summit 

Hammock Accessories for a Complete Sleeping Solution

These accessories by Sea to Summit, suited to their compatible hammocks, are a prime example of how you can tailor your hammock setup to suit all kinds of adventures.

• Hammock Gear Sling

Easy, Convenient Storage

When you’re all snuggled up in your lightweight hammock setup, the last thing you need is to capsize while reaching for a phone, snack, or knick-knack in your rucksack!

That’s where the hammock gear sling comes in. Just set it up beneath your sleeping setup, and Bob’s your uncle! Easy access to all your essentials from the comfort of your hammock.

Easy to set up and adjust, and constructed from the same durable and lightweight fabric as the hammocks – this gear sling is the simple and practical solution for storing your phone, headlamp, water bottle, or other necessities within reach.

A gear sling is a clever storage option. Image: Sea to Summit

• Hammock Tarp

To Shield From the Wind

While an impeded view of the sky probably isn’t what you envisioned for sleeping in your hammock, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans.

For extra coverage on your shelter, the Hammock Tarp from Sea to Summit is constructed from light yet super strong Ultra-Sil fabric with tapered ends. One with a single tie-out point and the other two tie-out points, protect yourself while cooking or sitting comfortably in your hammock.

For colder and breezier days, this tarp is the perfect shelter solution for your hammock setup.

• Hammock Bug Net

For Insect Protection

In tropical conditions when the insects are out in full force, no one wants mozzies, sandflies or midges harassing all night long.

This net is constructed from high visibility mesh without a ridgeline, so you can still stargaze in protected comfort from pesky insects. It also has a spreader pole to keep the mesh off your body, and a wide, zippered opening for easy access.

This net provides peace of mind that your sleep will go uninterrupted beneath the stars.

Have you ever slept in a hammock? Let us know in the comments! 

The post Guide to Hammocks for Leisure & Adventure appeared first on Snowys Blog.

To put it simply, R-value is a measurement of the thermal resistance of a material, or how well it resists the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value, the more insulation it will provide.

More about R-value

R-value isn’t just for sleeping mats, it’s also commonly used in the construction industry. In particular, for those pink insulation batts in the ceiling of your house, they all have an R-value.

R-value isn’t something you need to be overly concerned with in summer when the ground doesn’t get very cold. Using a high R-value mat in warm weather won’t make you hot, it’s only going to put a thermal barrier between you and the ground. However, when the temperatures drop and you find yourself setting up camp on wet or icy ground – R value becomes a very important consideration.

R-value is a factor you should consider when choosing a sleeping mat. Image: Sea to Summit

The new ASTM F3340-18 standard

Back in 2016, a group of leading outdoor companies started developing a standard of testing R-Value in order to create consistency across the industry. This new standard is known as  ASTM F3340-18 and has been introduced across several ranges as of this year including Therm-a-Rest, Sea to Summit, Exped, Black Wolf and more. 

As a result of this methodology being implemented, some R-values on sleeping mats have/will change. This does not mean that the mat will be warmer or colder than before, the value is now just represented on a universal scale for an apples-to-apples comparison to other mats.  

Some brands may not test their products to the ASTM standard, or will choose to only implement this testing at a future date. There will be a transition period with the new testing as we cycle through our inventory. So, in the meantime, check the product details tab online for each model and size, or the product itself in-store to confirm it’s been tested to the ASTM standard.

For more details on the nitty-gritty of ASTM, head here or here for more information.

How is R-value tested?

The method for testing R-Value is extremely similar to how it was previously tested, it has just been updated to be consistent across different manufacturers. It involves a hot plate on one side of a mat and a cold plate on the other, then electronic sensors determine the energy required to keep the hot plate at a consistent body heat to measure the R-Value.

R-value measures the thermal resistance of the material, which translates to how well it insulates. Image: Sea to Summit

Does R-value correlate to a temperature rating?

R-value is a measure of the transfer of temperature from one side of a material (in this case a mat) to the other. These values can’t be correlated to a temperature, but there are some guidelines for which R-values are suitable for each season.

How do I choose a sleeping mat based on R-value for each season?

As a rough guide, here is what we would recommend for choosing values for sleeping mats.

What R-value sleeping mat should I use in summer?

As a general rule, for sleeping in warm conditions, an R-value of 0-2 will be suitable. However, a high R-value won’t make you hot, it will just insulate you from whatever the ground temperature is underneath. The exception to this is any mat with a reflective layer inside that radiates heat – these may feel hotter in summer.

Insulation won’t be as important when the weather is warm. Image: Sea to Summit

What R-value sleeping mat should I use in spring/autumn?

In mild weather conditions, a sleeping pad with an R-value of 2-4 will suit. This is the most common range for general use sleeping mats.

What R-value sleeping mat should I use in winter?

If you spend a lot of time on cold weather camping or hiking trips, you may appreciate a mat with an R-value of 4 and above.

Winter camping or hiking requires adequate insulation from the cold ground. Image: Sea to Summit

What R-value sleeping mat should I use in alpine conditions?

For alpine conditions, you will need a mat with an R-value of 6+ and you’ll want to make sure you team your mat up with an appropriately rated sleeping bag and suitable clothing.

Most mats you’ll see are between 0 and a 9.5 R-value rating. An example of the highest-rated mats we carry are the Exped Megamat or the Black Wolf Mega Deluxe mats which have a value of 9.5. These self-inflating foam mats are too heavy for hiking and trekking adventures and are best kept for car camping.

If you’re trekking or hiking in icy conditions, you will likely be looking at a lightweight and compact mat. These can range between 0.7 for an ultralight non-insulated design, to a 5.9 for a down-filled model.

Usually, the lighter the mat is = the lower the R-value. So, you may need to stack a few mats together to reach a suitable R-value for alpine use.

For example, a mat with an R-value of 4 or 5 on top of a lightweight closed-cell foam mat with a 1-2 R-value will give you the insulation you need without the bulk and weight. It will also make your sleeping system more versatile.

This chart gives you a full overview of R-Values for all kinds of conditions.

If the mat doesn’t have an R-value, is that bad?

There are plenty of high-quality mats that provide decent thermal resistance but don’t have a value listed. This is likely due to the fact that testing can be an expensive process for the manufacturer.

However, if you want to use your mat for technical expeditions you might want to choose one that is rated to be on the safe side.

How can I increase the R-value of my current sleep system?

There are ways to improve the thermal resistance of your current sleeping system depending on the time of year you want to use it.

You can add a thin foam mat underneath or use an emergency survival blanket or bag to reflect heat back into the mat or your body. Essentially, you just need to add more layers between you and the cold ground. This could even be in the form of leaves or pine needles in an emergency situation.

We hope this has answered all your questions on R-value and that you sleep well (and properly insulated) on all your future adventures.

How do you keep warm on your adventures when the temperatures drop?

The post R-Value & ASTM Standard for Sleeping Mats Explained appeared first on Snowys Blog.

There are 2 reasons why – packed size and weight.

A sleeping bag needs to fit inside a rucksack, along with all your other gear, and contribute as little as possible to the weight you will be lugging along the trail.

The Black Wolf 3D 500 Bag is still going to be too bulky and heavy to fit in a rucksack when compressed.

Small & light is better for hiking

In the above picture, we have a 70L rucksack, which is a good sized pack for most hiking and trekking adventures.

The Black Wolf 3D 500 sleeping bag in the image above is a popular style for general camping. It has a synthetic fill and a comfort temperature rating of approximately -5 °C. As you can see it’s going to occupy a significant amount of real estate in your pack.

Even when compressed, as can be seen on the right of the image, it is still a big unit, and what’s even worse is that it weighs in at about 3 kg. This sleeping bag is best kept for car camping trips.

The Latitude LtI Sleeping bag is half the size and weight when compressed compared to the 3D 500 above.

In the above image, we have the same 70L rucksack and a Sea to Summit Latitude LtI which a good all-rounder down-filled sleeping bag. It shares a similar comfort rating as the sleeping bag mentioned above (approx. -4 °C). Even before it is compressed it is far smaller than the camping sleeping bag featured in the top image.

Furthermore, on the right you can see the same bag compressed ready to be stashed in a rucksack. Not only is it less than half the size, at 0.88 kg, it is less than half the weight of the sleeping bag mentioned above.

This is the sort of packed size and weight you should be aiming for in a hiking and trekking sleeping bag.

What’s the difference in design?

Sleeping bags that are designed for camping are usually square in shape, roomy, comfortable and made with tough, durable fabrics. Packed size and weight are generally a secondary consideration in their design.

A hiking bag is usually tapered, often mummy in shape for thermal efficiency (more on this later), are made with lighter fabrics and have a hollow fibre synthetic or down fill material. They are designed primarily to offer warmth at a minimal weight and packed size.

There are some bags that straddle the gaps between weight, packed size and internal space. The Trek Sleeping Bags from Sea to Summit are a good example of this.

The Trek TkIII Sleeping bag is an example that balances space and weight well. Image: Sea to Summit

What is all the sleeping bag terminology?

Firstly, let’s talk about shapes, which there are quite a few of. Each sleeping bag shape is often also available in different sizes/lengths to suit every individual.

The most common shapes are:

1. Square

This offers lots of internal space and can be either with or without a hood. This shape is usually found on general use camping sleeping bags that are made for comfort.

2. Tapered

A tapered cut reduces some of the dead space in a sleeping bag which improves thermal efficiency. These are a good shape for those wanting space in their sleeping bag whilst trying to save on weight.

3. Mummy

Mummy shapes have a figure-hugging cut, there’s little to no dead space in the bag, so they can trap a layer of warm air right next to your body. These are designed purely for efficiency and are preferred by alpinists wanting the best warmth to weight ratio from their sleeping bag.

This hoodless and tapered design is great for warm weather or hostel use. Image: Sea to Summit

Some of the less common shapes are: 

1. Hoodless tapered

Hoodless tapered bags are a good choice for travel when you want a compact sleep solution to use in hostels. These are also popular lightweight bags for summer adventures.

2. Quilt

Generally kept for warm weather adventures, the concept of a quilt is that it will provide warmth over the top whilst your mat provides warmth from underneath. They are usually found in the rucksack of an ultra-lightweight hiker as the absence of zips or a hood shaves off extra grams for those who are conscious of how much weight they’re carrying.

3. Women’s specific

A women’s specific bag is usually roomier in the hip area and will be generally shorter in length to prevent any dead space. Women’s model bags will also often have extra insulation in areas, such as the footbox and the torso.

Women may find that female-specific bags provide a tailored sleeping experience for technical expeditions. Image: Sea to Summit

Now for the terminology:

Baffles

Simply described, these are the cavities between the stitching on a sleeping bag. This term is often used when referring to a down bag where the baffles stop all the down from ending up at one end of the bag.

Footbox

Most general-use sleeping bags taper to a point at the end, which, if you are tall, doesn’t leave a lot of room for your feet. A footbox is usually found on tapered and mummy shaped bags where a three-dimensional box creates space for your feet to rest without feeling restricted or pushing against the side of the bag.

Baffles section off the fill of a bag so that you have even insulation and warmth. Image: Thermarest

Draft tubes

These insulation filled tubes run alongside the zipper on the inside of the bag. They are designed to fill the insulation gap created by the zipper and minimise airflow through the zipper.

Neck/chest baffle

This is situated inside the sleeping bag around the top of your shoulders. It can usually be tightened to keep the warm air from escaping out the top.

Hood

This is the bit that goes over or sits under your head. These too can be either flat or three dimensional in their design. You lose about 30% of your body heat from your head, so having a good hood that efficiently hugs your head is going to make a big difference on a cold night.

A 3D hood will add extra warmth when the conditions are chilly. Image: Sea to Summit

Should I get a down or a synthetic sleeping bag?

The fill is what gives a sleeping bag its thermal properties, and there are two types of material used – down and synthetic.

Both of these materials have pros and cons, but both are suitable for hiking and camping. Without getting too technical, I’ll summarise both for you below.

Down

• You’ll find both duck and/or goose down in a sleeping bag.
• Duck down is more cost efficient, but goose down offers better performance.
• Down is differentiated by a loft rating (650, 700, 850+). The higher the rating, the more warmth you get at a lesser weight.
• Down bags pack up much smaller and offer excellent warmth to weight ratio.
• If looked after, down bags can last for decades.
• If down becomes wet it loses all its warmth-retaining properties.
• Down bags are expensive when compared to synthetic bags.

Down bags are generally warmer but come at a cost. Image: Sea to Summit

Synthetic

• There are hundreds of proprietary synthetic fibres on the market. Some of these include Thermolite, Primaloft, or Hyperloft.
• Synthetic fill does not compress as much and does not provide the same warmth to weight ratio as down.
• Hollow fibre synthetic offers the best performance for a synthetic fill.
• Synthetic bags offer some insulation even if wet and are easy to care for.
• If synthetic fill starts to break down, the sleeping bag cannot be rejuvenated.
• Synthetic filled bags are more affordable than down.

Synthetic bags can be a little easier to maintain. Image: Sea to Summit

Choosing the right temperature rating

There’s no clear-cut answer here, so the best advice we could give is to make sure you choose a bag with a comfort rating (not extreme rating) that is 5 to 10 degrees lower than the average temperature you expect to be spending most of your time sleeping in.

Remember, a sleeping bag can be warmed up a little with extra clothing and a thermal liner and it can also be unzipped and used as a duvet on warm nights, so sticking to an average expected temperature will give you the most versatility. Check out this article here to help you better understand sleeping bag temperature ratings.

How much does a sleeping bag for hiking cost?

As you’ve probably guessed, there’s no straightforward answer here. For a reliable synthetic filled bag for hiking, prices start at around $120 AUD and extend to above $300 AUD, depending on the make.

For a good quality all-round-use down sleeping bag, you can expect to pay $300-400 AUD, whereas a technical or specialist sleeping bag can set you back $700+ AUD.

Pick a temperature rating that reflects the conditions you’ll be using the bag most in. Image: Sea to Summit

Can I just stuff my sleeping bag back into its storage sack?

Yes, in fact, this is what we recommend. Even though the process of ramming your sleeping bag into its storage sack seems somewhat careless compared to neatly folding and rolling it, it can actually be better for the bag.

This is especially relevant for synthetic filled bags, let me explain why.

When rolling the bag, you often need to fold it in half first, and this fold often ends up being in the same spot every time, which with repetition can cause the fibres to break or separate along the fold and create a cold spot.

The process of tightly rolling a sleeping bag also places tension on the synthetic fibres around the outside of the roll, potentially causing them to break. It also tends to encourage the fill to remain in a flat rather than lofted state.

Stuffing your synthetic sleeping bag overcomes both of these issues. It may look all crinkled next time you pull it out, but it’s going to keep you a whole lot warmer.

As for down bags, stuffing is just far easier than rolling, you just need to be gentle. And if your bag has a waterproof shell, turn it inside out before stuffing so the air escapes from the bag easily during the process.

Check out the video below where we show you how to do this for both general camping and lightweight hiking sleeping bags.

In this video, we show you the best way to pack up a down bag and a synthetic bag.

Storage & care

No matter which type of sleeping bag you have, proper care will ensure you get the longest life out of your investment. Only wash your bag when absolutely necessary, as repetitive washing can contribute to the fill material breaking down.

The use of a liner extends the life of your sleeping bag as you can wash the liner regularly rather than the sleeping bag.

Synthetic bags are easy to care for as they can be placed in a front loading washing machine with normal detergent on a gentle cycle and hung out to dry.

Down sleeping bags require a little more care and consideration, check out this article for a full guide on washing, storing and caring for your down sleeping bag.

That’s all the advice we have for choosing a sleeping bag for your lightweight adventures – whether it be for kayaking, climbing, bike touring or trekking. Whichever sleeping bag you land on, we hope you sleep soundly in it on your next adventure.

Do you prefer down or synthetic bags for hiking?

The post Guide to Lightweight Sleeping Bags for Hiking appeared first on Snowys Blog.

The previous pump required a long cable to the vehicle or a power pack in the tent to fire it up but we soon realised technology has moved on. Sure, you can still buy a pump with a cable, and they are pretty cheap, but rechargeable battery technology now provides much more flexibility and convenience.

This is what you get when you buy the Coleman Rechargeable Quickpump. The pump, of course, two adapter nozzles, and a 240V and 12V charger, and the usual instruction manual and warranty information (not pictured). 

So, our recent trip to Snowys saw us leaving with a new Coleman Rechargeable Quickpump. It comes complete with the pump, a 240V and 12V charger and adapter nozzles, and is designed to both inflate and deflate your air bed.

No more cords. This makes the Rechargeable Quickpump easy to use in a confined tent. 

Now there is nothing like a real world test, so on a recent trip to Alice Springs, the unit was put through its paces. We were really pleased and here are the results:

Average inflation time

About 1 minute, 8 seconds.

Note the two adapter nozzles. This makes this pump compatible with most air beds and mattresses.

Average deflation time 

Around 25 seconds (if you let it go down naturally first, deflation is much quicker).

Number of inflation/deflation cycles before recharge

After 10 cycles the pump was slowing down but still going. (Pro tip: On your way to your destination, have it charging off the 12V socket in your car. This will ensure you have a fully charged pump by the time you set up camp.)

This pump was so much more convenient than the old cable one and the results impressive. It appears to be solid and robust and if stored in its box should provide long service. Hopefully, we don’t misplace this one!

What’s the best air bed pump you have used? 

The post Review – Coleman Rechargeable Quickpump Air Bed Pump appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Do you remember it being…warmer? Does it seem to have lost its warmth over the years?

Maybe you have a sleeping bag that’s better suited to the summer months, you’re about to head out in winter, and don’t want to buy another sleeping bag?

If this sounds like you, this blog lists 5 toasty tips for a warmer sleep – but first, let’s bivvy down and learn a little more about the humble sleeping bag…

Brrrr, winter camping can get positively arctic if your sleeping bag isn’t warm enough! Credit: Sea to Summit 

The Sleeping Bag

Sleeping bags are one of the only products on the market that have a temperature rating. Think about it, it’s not common to buy a jacket or even a quilt for your bed at home with a temperature rating.

As a general rule, if we feel cold we put an extra jumper on or another blanket on the bed. Despite this, we expect that a sleeping bag with a ‘temperature rating’ of 0 degrees will keep us toasty warm in the snow, no matter what type of person we are.

The reality is that this temperature rating is only a guide. We all feel the cold differently, so we simply cannot expect a sleeping bag to reflect such science – or that one temperature rating fits all.

So, what does temperature rating mean? How can we use this roughly equated number to help us choose an appropriate bag for the job?

We all feel the cold differently. Credit: Sea to Summit

Sleeping Bag Temperatures

Before delving in – ask yourself:

• Do you usually go camping during cold weather, when it’s warm, or both?
• If the weather is forecast to be cold – how cold? Is there a chance of frost or snow?
• Are you sleeping outside, or in a tent? How large is the tent? Is it just for sleepovers?

With those considerations in mind, let’s talk sleeping bag ratings:

+5 to +10-Degree Bags

A +5 to +10 is considered a ‘summer’ bag. It is roughly as warm as sleeping with a sheet or light blanket on your bed at home.

0-Degree Bags

A 0 degree bag is a great all-rounder, but won’t keep you warm in the snow or frost – it’s about the same as having a regular doona on your bed at home.

-5 to -10-Degree Bags

A -5 to -10 degree bag is considered a ‘winter’ bag for typical Australian climates – it should be similar to having flannelette sheets and an extra blanket or two on your bed at home.

Choosing Your Sleeping Bag

The temperature rating is the point at which you will likely wake up to. You will feel cooler as the external temperature approaches this rated temperature, so it’s important to allow yourself a temperature buffer. The below factors are worth considering to help select the right bag for you.

1. First, determine the lowest temperature you will be using the sleeping bag in most of the time.
2. From here, we recommend adding a buffer to ensure you sleep warm. This is dependent on how you sleep:
   • Warm sleepers: refer to the EN/ISO tested ‘Comfort’ rating as a starting point, and choose a bag with a rating at 5 degrees below the lowest temperatures you plan to use your sleeping bag in.
   • Cold sleepers: refer to the EN/ISO tested ‘Lower Limit’ rating as a starting point, and choose a bag with a rating at 5-10 degrees below the lowest temperatures you plan to use your sleeping bag in.
3. Keep in mind that you can expand the comfort range of a sleeping bag by adding liners for extra warmth, or use the sleeping bag unzipped as a doona to cater for temperature extremes you may occasionally encounter.
4. Finally: this is not an exact science. We are all different, with varying metabolisms. You’ll need to use some of your own judgement in your selection.

You will feel cooler as the external temperature approaches the sleeping bag’s rated temperature. Credit: Sea to Summit

EN/ISO Temperature Rating

Sleeping bags must be independently tested by the manufacturer to obtain this rating. The rating is often based on an R-value, which is a measurement of insulation – just like the insulation in the walls of your house.

Some manufacturers will do real world testing on one sample of their insulation, and apply a formula to the different sleeping bags. On the other hand, sleeping bags tested to an EN (European) Standard (or an ISO or international standard as of 2016), are the most accurately tested bags.

That said, keep in mind that this testing is done in a controlled and static environment where a dummy is placed inside the sleeping bag with temperature sensors. So, unless you’re a motionless dummy sleeping in an environment void of variables, you’ll need to allow for your own physiological makeup and the equipment you are using.

What is the EN or ISO Standard?

There are no testing guidelines here in Australia, so look out for bags that have been tested according to EN Standards. The EN Standard for sleeping bags is marked EN13537, which was superseded by the ISO 23537-1 international standard in 2016.

The standard measures three temperature ratings:

Comfort

The temperature at which a standard woman can expect to sleep comfortably, without feeling cold and in a relaxed position.

Lower Limit

The temperature at which a standard man inside the bag sleeping in a curled position is starting to feel cold, but not shivering. This is the limit of performance for the sleeping bag.

Extreme

At this temperature, anyone can expect to feel particularly cold with a risk of hypothermia. You should only use the sleeping bag in this range for an emergency.

Look out for bags that have been tested according to EN Standards. Credit: Sea to Summit

Not all manufacturers will list all three ratings – ensure you’re considering the correct one. Ultimately, no amount of laboratory testing is going to be 100% accurate to your body. Less expensive sleeping bags will advertise a more generous rating that may not be accurate. Bags that list the EN/ISO Standards will be more accurate and provide a good point for comparison between bags. As that process is expensive though, it will affect the price tag.

You can always shed a layer or unzip your bag if you’re hot – but if you wake up freezing cold in the middle of the night, there won’t be much you can do to get warm!

On that note, below are five ways to improve the warmth and therefore quality of your sleep on those colder camping trips:

1. Wash Your Sleeping Bag

If your sleeping bag is on the ‘well-used’ side and doesn’t seem to be as warm as it once was, you may need to simply give it a good wash. Over time, the oils from your skin together with moisture caught in the filling can cause the stuffing to clump together. This prevents it from ‘fluffing up’, which keeps you insulated and warm.

The filling in the sleeping bag needs to ‘puff up’ and expand with air, which then traps the body heat of the person sleeping inside. Washing your old sleeping bag will clean the filling and enable it to do this more effectively, thus trapping more warm air and increasing the insulation between the person inside and the cold air outside.

Wash your sleeping bag to restore its warmth. 

How to Wash Your Sleeping Bag:

1. Put your sleeping bag in a pillowcase to protect the thin outer material from tearing.
2. Using a front loader, wash your sleeping bag on a warm, gentle cycle (if you have a down sleeping bag, use Down Wash).
3. Dry your sleeping bag in a large tumble dryer on the lowest setting. Place a few tennis balls inside the dryer too; these will smash into the sleeping bag, breaking up the filling and fluffing it up again.
4. If you don’t have access to a dryer, simply dry the sleeping bag on the clothesline in the sun. Every half an hour or so, beat it with a tennis racket to break up the filling.

In an ideal world, you would have a sleeping bag for every season. But in reality, you can make one sleeping bag a lot more versatile with a few of these hacks. Credit: Sea to Summit

2. Thermal Liners and Hot Water Bottles

Thermal Liners

If your sleeping bag isn’t rated low enough for the conditions you’re using it in, or if you’ve discovered you’re a cooler sleeper – rather than purchasing another sleeping bag, consider adding a silk, cotton, or fleece liner.

A thermal liner is made of the same material as thermal underwear, specifically designed and rated to boost the warmth of your sleeping bag. While there are many on the market, the cotton and silk liners by Sea to Summit are a personal favourite.
By adding a liner to your bag, you not only have a sufficient winter sleep system but can still use the sleeping bag on its own in average conditions. The liner can then be used on its own in warmer weather! A removable liner also keeps your sleeping bag cleaner, and thus your filling in better condition.

On the contrary, avoid adding extra blankets on top of your bedding. The weight will crush the filling, rendering it ineffective for trapping the air. Use them beneath you, or under your mat instead.

Hot Water Bottles

If you’re heading away for a particularly cold weekend, it may be worth packing a good ol’ fashioned hot water bottle too. You can also use a regular water bottle – just ensure it has a quality seal so it won’t leak, and the water inside isn’t too hot. Sports-style bottles aren’t usually a good idea, but the Nalgene, 360 Degrees Stainless Steel drink bottles and those alike work well.

Heat the billy before bed and pour the hot (not boiling) water into your bottle. Tuck it into your sleeping bag with you – and enjoy some seriously snug comfort! Better yet, if you prepare it ahead of time, you’re pre-heating your bed so it’s warm by the time you officially hit the sack!

Layer thermals under your clothes while you sleep. Credit: Sea to Summit

3. Thermal Clothing

Thermal underwear are the warmest pyjamas you will ever need when camping in cold conditions! Known as a ‘base layer’, they will trap warmth directly against your skin and make a huge difference to your comfort in cold conditions. Layering clothes on top of your thermal base will trap air between the fabric, keeping you warmer than simply adding a single thick layer of clothing.

Ensure you add your layers and warm up by the campfire well before lights out too, so the heat has time to build. This will also have it easier to maintain, as it will be trapped with you when you slide into your sleeping bag.

Keep your extremities warm on a cold winter’s day. Credit: Sea to Summit

4. Beanie and Socks

Humans lose about 30% of their body heat through their heads! By wearing a beanie to bed or tightening the hood of your sleeping bag, you’re trapping more warmth. Simply keep your mouth and nose free so you’re not breathing into your bag – this creates moisture throughout the night.

When your body becomes cold, it takes blood from the extremities such as your feet and hands to instead keep it surrounding your vital organs. By heading to bed with warm socks and gloves, you’re keeping your feet and hands warm, which maintains the blood flowing to them. This makes for a better night’s sleep!

Tuck into a large dinner before bed. Credit: Coleman

5. Eat a Big Dinner!

Your body uses a lot of energy to digest big meals. In the case of a large dinner, all this energy will produce heat and keep you warm come bedtime. By eating a decent sized dinner packed with low GI carbohydrates, your body will continue to burn fuel all through the night!

Two-minute noodles give you enough energy for… well, two minutes. On the other hand, a big bowl of spaghetti Bolognese will ensure a good night’s sleep! Just don’t eat too much…and go easy on the garlic, or you’ll be awake with indigestion! Contrary to popular belief too, if nature calls during the night you are better off surrendering to it; holding on will override your kidney’s signal to your brain. Through a chain of technical temperature regulation measures, our bodies feel colder when our bladder is in need of relief!

Hopefully, this advice will help keep you snug while you sleep. Credit: Sea to Summit

Keep Warm on Your Next Adventure!

No matter the age or quality of your sleeping bag, these tips will help you achieve the best from it.

It’s worth noting too that your sleeping bag is part of a whole sleep-system. This means that your choice of sleeping mat will also influence how cold or warm you will be throughout the night.

An airbed is not one to keep you warm, as the air within the mattress will remain cold. Instead, choose a closed-cell foam or filled mat, which traps air and helps insulate. Sleeping inside a smaller tent that is double-walled (ie. using a fly) and having decent ventilation to reduce moisture build-up are also tips worth bearing in mind.

Here’s hoping you can get a good night’s sleep, even on those freezing cold winter nights! With the above tips, you’re less likely to resort to the dangerous (and not recommended) tactic of using a heater inside your tent… or to the ancient Native American method of creating a hot rock bed!

Your sleeping bag is part of a whole sleep-system. Credit: Sea to Summit

Do you practice any of these tricks? Got any more to add? Comment below.

The post Toasty Tips for a Warmer Sleep appeared first on Snowys Blog.

As a general rule, Coleman air mattresses don’t come with weight ratings, an exception to this is the Aerobed range which are now stamped with ratings dependent on the size of the bed.

But there is a distinct lack of weight bearing guidelines when it comes to a Coleman Quickbed or Dura Sleep mattress.

What are the weight ratings of Coleman air mattresses

The question has therefore been raised a number of times: What are the weight ratings on Coleman air mattresses?

In the interest of keeping our customers informed, we embarked on a widespread research project. We armed a research monkey with pen and paper, phone and 25 minutes of research time to come up with an answer.

The data produced from this project, despite being relatively dull does instil confidence in the Coleman air bed range.

Our contact at Coleman HQ had this to say:

“We do test our airbeds to withstand up to 300kg (based on queen size) however don’t claim this on the packaging. The testing we focus on is more around pressure test / leak test / weld test etc. as well as weight testing.”

Further to this, a more official response was:

“All Coleman airbeds are 100% tested – fully inflated for 24 hours, weight tested (static and dynamic up to 300kg) as well as pressure tested. We are so confident in the performance of our Quickbeds we provide a ‘guaranty not to leak.”

Let’s do the maths…

Now I’m no physics genius. This is the first time I have had to recall Newton’s laws of motion since high school, but I’m pretty sure the formula goes something like this:

300kg of weight is roughly equal to 3000 newtons of force, and let’s assume we have a camper weighing in at 80kg.

Newton’s second law states that: force = mass x acceleration

3000 = 80 x acceleration, which, if my memory serves me right, is jumbled around like this:

3000 / 80 = acceleration, which means our 80kg camper would need to be accelerating at 37.5metres per second squared towards the airbed to generate 300kg of force.

Does anyone else want to weigh in?

Now I could be wrong here, so I will not be offended if anyone with a sound knowledge of physics can jump in to better explain this.

I’m confident in saying that it is going to take some serious physical activity on a Coleman air mattress to find its weight limitations!

The post Coleman Air Bed Weight Ratings Explained appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Ageing joints, body shape and injuries among other things make this difficult. The right sleeping mat will have you dreaming in comfort, however, you travel into the bush.

There are four types of camping mattress, I have outlined the key features of each to help you choose the right mat for your adventures.

High-density foam mats

These are the basic foam mats used in most swags, or for adding comfort to a stretcher.

• Quick to use and comfortable
• The disadvantage is their bulk when space can be premium.

Examples: Oztrail Camp Mat.

Foam mats, while basic, are very easy to use. 

Closed cell foam mats

The first mattresses that added comfort and safety for campers in a lightweight form, usually blue in colour.

• Bulky.
• Very light weight.
• Good insulators.
• Provide some comfort – takes the edge of the lumps and bumps of the ground.

Examples: Oztrail Giga Earth Mat

Air mattresses

But not the regular type of air mattress we have come to know, they have the disadvantages of robbing you of your body heat, being heavy and bulky.

I am talking about the latest offerings from companies such as Exped and Thermarest who have come up with innovative ways that let you camp without the concerns of weight, size and thermal efficiency.

• Some models are Ultra Lightweight.
• Compact.
• More thickness than self-inflating options.
• Easily adjusted.
• Use various insulation technologies for exceptional thermal efficiency.
• Integrated inflation devices.

Examples: Exped Down Mat, Thermarest Neo Air, Exped Synmat.

It’s easier to get a good idea of the packed size when you compare them all to a tin of baked beans. 

Self-Inflating mattresses

These mats suck air into open cell foam when the valve is opened and inflate themselves. You can top them up with a few puffs if need be. It doesn’t matter what outdoor activity you indulge in there is one to suit your needs.

• Compact – deflated rolled size can be as small as a litre of milk.
• Light weight – the type and cut of the foam used affects the weight but generically they are light.
• Adjustable – the amount of air in the mattress can be adjusted by opening and closing the valve.
• Provide insulation – insulates you from the ground.

Examples: Thermarest Prolite Mat, Exped SIM Mats.

For the ultimate in self-inflating comfort, check out the Exped Megamat, or the Oztrail 4WD mats.

I used a Thermarest Prolite 4 for many years and regularly slept the sleep of a baby, but as my body has aged and sagged I have looked for more thickness to provide me with comfort. I now use the latest technology in air mattresses.

You can “demattstress” yourself and thoroughly enjoy your camping experience by considering this range of alternatives. Move over Sleeping Beauty.

What kinds of sleeping mat do you use?

The post So Many Camp Mattresses…Which One is Right for You? appeared first on Snowys Blog.

A slight tinge of envy, perhaps? That was how I felt many camping moons ago until I got my own hammock, and it changed my world for the better. Hammocks are a wonderful addition to your camping inventory and are small enough to squeeze into your vehicle or even your hiking pack.

Here are 5 surefire reasons why you must pack a hammock on your next camping or hiking adventure:

1. Hammocks are versatile and easy to set up

Hammocks are so much simpler than setting up a tent, so you can ditch those pegs and poles from your kit! Usually a couple of good-sized trees will suffice and hopefully, they will be growing near your campsite. Or you’ll make sure you select a location that has two trees with perfect hammock hanging distance between them. If you are desert travellers, a hammock between two bullbars has been known to work just as well.

 Doesn’t this look cruisy? All you need to set up a hammock is a pair of sturdy trees

2. They’re comfortable and super-functional

Hammocks will last several years of regular use with the correct care. Plus, if you find it comfortable to sleep in your hammock for longer periods of time, then you may just find yourself ditching your tent altogether. Well, when the weather permits. Plus, you won’t have to deal with any rocks or sticks poking into your back that you may otherwise encounter sleeping in a tent – now, that’s simple camping!

Likewise, gram-counting hikers can enjoy sleeping in a hammock, as they now come in minuscule, lightweight packages – without a compromise on strength or functionality.

Look at this little ripper! The Sea to Summit Ultralight Hammock is almost the same size as a large stone fruit!

3. Hammocks have a low impact on the environment

When you lie in your hammock, you won’t be squashing any endangered plants or insects, because – obviously – you’re hanging above the ground. If you’re concerned about the effect of your weight on the trees, you can now set up your hammock with the aid of tree protectors to distribute the load so that the health of the trees is protected.

Adding tree protectors to your hammock set up will help distribute your weight, and prevent damage to the tree. 

4. You can keep your gear close by

It’s rare nowadays for the average adventurer to go off the grid without some sort of tech device – a phone, tablet, or PLB which are usually things you want to have on hand at all times.

Instead of cuddling up to your phone at night, you can pop it in the Sea to Summit Gear Sling and hook it up under your sleeping quarters so you can have easy access to all your essentials without having to get up.

A hammock gear sling means you’ll never topple over sideways while grabbing your phone again!

5. You can use them even when the mozzies are out, or the weather forecast doesn’t look so good

With a range of technical accessories available, you don’t have to let a light drizzle or insects stop you from enjoying a night out under the stars. Gone are the days of swatting as you sleep – with the addition of a Hammock Bug Net you can snooze in peace without flies, mozzies or gnats disturbing your slumber. And, if the weather’s looking a little rainy – you can set up a Hammock Tarp for protection against the wind and rain.

Put your feet up and relax with a good book while you enjoy some peace and quiet in a hammock. 

Hammocks are a scenic way to enjoy some peace and meditation, while you rest in comfort. When you’re lying back with a good book – you’ll discover why kicking back in a hammock is the way to go for some fresh air and relaxation in the great outdoors – or even in your own backyard.

Will you be jumping on the hammock bandwagon anytime soon? What do you think of the technical take on this humble sleeping system?

This post was updated in April 2017. 

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