Get yourself the best sleeping bag and have a comfortable expedition on Mount Kilimanjaro!
If you are going on Mount Kilimanjaro, you will need a good sleeping bag to keep you warm during the night. Furthermore, this part of your equipment counts a lot for your hiking trip, as you need to rest well at night in order to have enough energy the next day. If you choose an inadequate sleeping bag, you will end up struggling all night to get some sleep and ‘waking up’ even more tired than you were before. If this doesn’t sound like an attractive scenario for you, read further to find out how to choose the perfect sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro.
1. What to Look for in the Best Sleeping Bag for Kilimanjaro
-
Temperature Rating
Generally, temperature ratings are a significant factor that may help you pick the right sleeping bag for you. As we are talking about Kilimanjaro and nights spent on this mountain, you should know that at such a high altitude, it will get pretty cold. For this reason, we advise you to go for a sleeping bag that has a temperature rating at a minimum of 14 degrees Fahrenheit. You wouldn’t want to get a cold that will ruin your entire trip.
-
Size
Size is also a vital aspect if you want to have a comfortable sleep. If you go with a sleeping bag that is too big, you will have a lot of free space inside it, but this is not necessary an advantage, as you will also be cold. Remember, you are sleeping at a high altitude, and you need to stay warm. A too small one will also lead to many problems, such as lack of comfort. So take all the required measurements before buying or ordering a sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro.
-
Shape and Design
If you are wondering if the shape and design of your sleeping bag matter, the answer is yes. In fact, it is an important feature, because a sleeping bag should fit the contour of your body. Generally speaking, the most appreciated design is the mummy-shape. However, if you are taller or shorter than most people or have unique characteristics of the body, you should pay particular attention to the size you pick.
Other two popular designs, which may offer you the coziness you need, are a two-way zipping system and an insulated hood. The main advantage of the first one is that it improves insulation while the second one allows you to pull the hood around your head and keep it warm.
-
Synthetic vs. Down
When you try to decide on the best sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro, you should also think about its material. Goose or duck down sleeping bags are usually better quality, and they provide you more comfort. Not to mention that these are way lighter than the synthetic ones. However, the prices differ a lot, also, so you need to consider your personal budget, too. But if you plan to go camping and trekking often, we recommend you to purchase a down sleeping bag.
-
Other Customers’ Reviews
Another aspect you must consider when choosing a sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro is the feedback offered by other customers, especially if you decide to buy it online. This way, you can learn from other people’s experiences, and not have an unpleasant one by yourself. If you buy from Amazon, you can also read numerous customer reviews so that you will be able to choose the right product for you.
2. Top 5 Sleeping Bags for Kilimanjaro
2.1. Mountain Hardwear Phantom Flame 15F Down Sleeping Bag
Made of down, this is clearly one of the greatest sleeping bags on the market, and it is also super light. When it comes to quality, Mountain Hardwear is always on the top, offering a wide array of durable and high-quality products, just like this one. If you want to enjoy a warm and comfortable night on Kilimanjaro, you should definitely consider this sleeping bag. If offers you protection during cold nights, and it is also resistant to moisture. The design is another plus of this model. However, all these advantages have their cost.
Pros:
- Super light
- Keeps you warm and it is comfortable
- Durable and resistant to moisture
Cons:
- Expensive
2.2. Mountain Hardwear Lamina – 15 Sleeping Bag
Mountain Hardwear Lamina -15 Sleeping Bag is another excellent choice if you plan a trekking expedition on Kilimanjaro, as it will keep you warm during the cold nights on the mountain. Lamina is a unisex model and has a moderate weight of 4LB.9Oz / 2.05kg. This is definitely wonderful for a sleeping bag which has a temperature rating of 15°F/-26°C. This model is shelled with nylon in order to repeal water and its welded Lamina construction considerably reduces the cold spots.
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Thermal Q insulation
Cons:
- Its price goes up to $300
2.3. Marmot Trestles 15 Long X-Wide Synthetic Sleeping Bag
Even though this is a synthetic sleeping bag, its price-quality ratio is excellent. This model is an affordable all-purpose unisex sleeping bag, which will keep you warm even though the temperature will go down to 15 Fahrenheit/-9 Celsius degrees. Moreover, it is a light option, and you can buy it for only $150.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- SpiralFil High Loft Insulation and insulated collar
Cons:
- Synthetic
2.4. Cosmic Down 0 Degree Sleeping Bag
Another good option for your Kilimanjaro exploration is Cosmic Down 0 Degree Sleeping Bag. This one is perfect for cold nights on the mountain, and it is not synthetic. It has a natural fit foot box, and it offers you all the comfort you need.
- It’s made of down
- Comfortable
- Durable
Cons:
- You may have some trouble with the zipper
2.5. The North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag
Another top choice for Kilimanjaro sleeping bags is the North Face Blue Kazoo Sleeping Bag, which offers you comfort during cold nights, with a temperature rating of 20°F/-7°C. So, if you have a higher budget, it might be a great fit for you.
Pros:
- Water-resistant 650 fill ProDown
- Lightweight
- Comfortable shape
Cons:
- Expensive
3. Best Sleeping Bag Options for your Special Needs
3.1. Best Sleeping Bag Under $100 – Coleman North Rim 0 Degree Sleeping Bag
Even though it is hard to find a high-quality sleeping bag under $100 suitable for a night at such a high altitude, Coleman North Rim 0 Degree Sleeping Bag is definitely a silver lining for all those mountain lovers that are on a budget. This one keeps you warm and comfortable down to 15 grades Fahrenheit, andyou can buy it for only $60. Even though it is 100% polyester, it is an excellent choice for a night on Mount Kilimanjaro. However, it will be quite hard to carry it with you, because it is not a light sleeping bag.
- Mummy-shaped design
- High-quality
- Durable
Cons:
- Heavy
3.2. Best Lightweight Sleeping Bag – Mountain Hardwear Phantom Flame 15F Down Sleeping Bag
As it was already mentioned in the section “Best 5 Sleeping Bags for Kilimanjaro”, Mountain Hardwear Phantom Sleeping Bag is a high-quality product. At the moment, this model is one of the most lightweight sleeping bags on the market, weighing only 2LB.1Oz / 0.95kg. When it comes to low temperatures, this is undoubtedly the best lightweight sleeping bag, as its temperature rating is 15°F/-9°C.
- Prevents heat-robbing moisture
- Mummy-shaped design
- Comfortable and durable
Cons:
- The price can go up to $550
4. Best Accessories for Kilimanjaro Sleeping Bags
4.1. Inflatable Pillow – Weanas® Ultralight Inflating Pillow
For extra comfort in your hiking expeditions, you should also purchase an inflatable pillow. This one has a soft fabric which does not allow your pillow to slip off so that you will rest well. Moreover, it is not hard to carry it with you even when you go with long distance treks.
- Ultra-light
- Soft fabric
- Retains heat
Cons:
- It may be quite expensive
4.2. Thermal Mat – Deluxe Outdoor Thermal Reflective Sleeping Camp Mat Pad
If you want to keep yourself even warmer, you can try using a thermal mat. Furthermore, if your sleeping bag is not waterproof, go with this pad.
- Waterproof and dust proof
- Retains heat
- EVA padded material for improved comfort
Cons:
- It doesn’t last long
5. Maintaining Your Sleeping Bag for Kilimanjaro
First and foremost, you should wear clean clothes when you use your sleeping bag. Don’t go to sleep in the same clothes you hiked in all day long.Another essential tip is to air it daily. You can turn it inside-out for this, especially if it gets wet or you feel moisture.
It is recommended to clean any spot or dirt as soon as you notice it, in order to delay a full wash as long as possible. Prepare a paste of water and laundry detergent, and then, with a toothbrush, clean the spots. If your sleeping bag needs a full wash, you better go with professional laundry services.
6. Conclusion and Recommendations
If you are searching for the best sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro, pay particular attention to the features of the product you want to buy. You may choose a high-quality one for a great price, or you can even opt for a cheaper solution and then improve it with the right accessories. However, you should never forget that nights on Kilimanjaro are cold. So, go with the appropriate temperature rating. When it comes to Kilimanjaro sleeping bag recommendations, we also advise you to take care of yours, so that you will enjoy it for a longer period.
7. Some useful resources for planning your lifetime vacation:
- Safari Planning Recommendations: Best Safari Camera and Safari Camera Accessories, Best Safari Binoculars, Shoes for Safari, Safari Wear
- For Your Birding needs while on Safari: Bird Watching Binoculars, Bird Watching Camera, Birding Scopes
- Kilimanjaro Climbing Recommendations: Backpack for Kilimanjaro, Sleeping Bags for Kilimanjaro, Best Hiking Boots for Kilimanjaro Climb
- Checkout Safari resources for destination guides and FAQ for better planning.
Check Triperiod for complete list of things you will need to have a lifetime experience. Triperiod is your one place destination to everything, African safari.
*Link to Amazon website. Please see disclosure around our affiliate relationship.
Comments
Tags: sleeping bag; kilimanjaro; african safari; tanzania; kenya
