Sleeping Bag Risks
The modern sleeping bag is built to be durable and
flexible to respond to a whole variety of conditions, and if cared for well,
it will last you a very long time. So,
here are a few things to remember when it comes to sleeping bags, which in
the process may also preserve your health.
Of course, one should start by bringing the right bag
for the right situation. Gauge if you
are a hot or cold sleeper, and pick a bag with the appropriate rating.
Don’t bring a lightly rated bag to
freezing weather if you like piling on comforters.
As a rule of thumb, add 10 to 15
degrees more to the bag’s rating. If
one is going backpacking, one should pack said sleeping bag the right way.
After adequately compressing the bag
in its stuff sack, strap it on to the lower outer portion of your pack to
add to your center of gravity. This
way, one avoids tripping while on a trail. This
will also save your sleeping bag’s insulation, as too much stuff piled on
top of it can ruin some of the filling. This
should also remind you to put your sleeping bag on top of all your gear when
car camping.
At the camp site, make sure you sleep under a water
proof tarp or tent. This is most
important if you have a down filled sleeping bag.
A lot of down bags these days have
good water resistant shells, but if rain falls and enters the bag, it will
be utterly useless. Even if you have
a synthetic bag, rain can make sleeping in the cold a nightmare.
Using a sleeping pad beneath the bag
will help protect against moisture and the rough ground at the same time.
A pad will also provide extra
insulation, creating a warmer and safer sleeping condition.
Fear of the cold might draw one to sleep closer to the
fire. This might seem like a good
idea, until you catch fire yourself. Some
sleeping bags aren’t fireproof, and even if yours is, you aren’t.
Sleep a reasonable distance away from
the fire. Besides, one shouldn’t be
too warm as this could lead to perspiring inside the sleeping bag.
Even a small amount of perspiration
can later lead to a freezing situation. Finally,
you should take care of your body during a camping trip.
Being hungry, dehydrated, and
exhausted will prevent your body from regulating temperature well.
It’s not all up to the bag you know.
Oh, don’t eat in the bag.
You wouldn’t want to attract some
unwanted guests, like hungry bears.
After using the sleeping bag, let it hang out in the
sun. Even the slightest bit of
perspiration and drool should be dried. Wash
the bag when you get home. Follow instructions so as not to damage it.
Proper and regular washing will keep
your sleeping bag fresh and its insulation in good shape.
Also, let it hang in storage. Keeping
it compressed too long will damage its insulation.
Remember, care for your sleeping bag so it will always be in a
condition to protect you.
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