Episode 71 | Sleeping Bag Layering Systems
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Summary
In today’s episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we’re going to talk about how to use multi-layered sleep systems to stay warmer on multi-day trips in cold weather.

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In this Episode:
- Why should we layer two sleeping bags or quilts instead of just using one?
- The benefits of using a hoodless down bag (inner layer) and an extra-wide synthetic quilt (outer layer).
- What’s the main problem with using a down bag on multi-day trips in cold weather?
- How to manipulate the dew point to keep our sleep system dryer!
- Why a thin synthetic quilt is easier to dry than a thick down bag.
- What clothing should I wear while using a 2-layer sleeping bag/quilt system?
- Let’s own less gear, but make it work for us – how to backpack in all four seasons with only two sleeping bags/quilts!
- How to layer for couples in a 2-person bag where each partner has wildly different temperature tolerances!
- Why layering sleeping bags or quilts is more versatile and more comfortable than using a single-layer sleeping bag or quilt with all of your clothing layers.
- The problem with sleeping with lots of clothing layers – circulation and comfort issues.
- My favorite sleep clothing for cold weather backpacking.
Learn More
- Feathered Friends Tanager
- Enlightened Equipment APEX 50 deg F Quilt
- Nemo Tango Duo Wide
- Nemo Tensor Pads
- Learn more about 2-layer sleeping bag/quilt and clothing systems in our online course, Backpacking in Inclement Conditions.
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Credits
- Backpacking Light - Executive Producer
- Ryan Jordan - Director and Host
- Chase Jordan - Producer
- Look for Me in the Mountains - Music
- Written by: Chris Cunningham and Ryan Jordan
- Performed by: Chris Cunningham (acoustic guitar, lead and harmony vocals, harmonica), Chad Langford (upright bass), and Tom Murphy (mandolin).
- Produced by: Basecamp Studios in Bozeman, Montana
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