How to choose the perfect sleeping bag for the Duke of Edinburgh Award
Did you know that The Wilderness Foundation is an approved activities provider for the Duke of Edinburgh Award? Here, Helen Cross from Blacks, who stock the recommended kit, talks about how to choose the perfect sleeping bag for your expedition or residential course…
Heading out into the wilderness is a uniquely rewarding experience. Whether at home or abroad, time spent in nature, away from the stresses and strains of the modern world, is essential for a balanced life. 
However, taking the step into the unknown can be intimidating; especially if you’re not properly prepared. This is why the DofE recommended kit list is such a fantastic resource for those undertaking the award. The kit is tested by DofE teams, meaning that you can be sure of its quality. Blacks are stockists of the recommended kit, and here we share some tips on choosing the perfect sleeping bag for your DofE expedition:

  1. 1.       Look for the recommended kit mark

There is nothing to stop you taking a sleeping bag that isn’t on the recommended kit list, but if you look for the mark you can be safe in the knowledge that your bag has passed the test with the DofE testing teams. We have a section on our website dedicated to DofE kit, alternatively if you ask in store a shop assistant will happily chat to you about your choices.

  1. 2.       Consider maximum and minimum temperature ranges

There is no point taking a sleeping bag suitable for arctic expeditions if you are spending the night in South Africa. Likewise, temperatures can still be chilly at night so thin sleeping bags made for indoor use or very hot weather are unlikely to be suitable. Think about how high you are going: if you are trekking up into the mountains temperature will be substantially lower than on land. A 2 or 3 season sleeping bag is probably the best choice, keeping you comfortable on mild to cold nights.

  1. 3.       Consider weight

Lightweight backpacking has become popular for a reason – there’s nothing worse than having your experience dampened by having to carry too heavy a pack! If you’re worried about pack weight, unused to carrying a backpack, or will be trekking long distances, look for a lightweight sleeping bag with a weight of 1000-1100g.

  1. 4.       Think about extras

Many sleeping bags come with added extras nowadays. Think about where you’re going and what you’ll need: if you’re likely to be bedding down late, consider buying a bag with reflective tabs on the zip, so you don’t have to flail around in the dark trying to find the opening. Likewise, if you know you tend to get cold, consider a model with extra insulation, and if you like to move around in your sleep, think about buying a design to maximise foot room.

  1. 5.       Cushion your sleep

Finally, don’t stop at the bag! Consider taking a cotton sleeper, which can provide extra warmth. Some sleepers are also treated with insect repellents to help buffer you against mosquitos and other insects. A sleeping mat is also invaluable. Leave the airbed at home and take a self inflating model, ultralight if worried about weight. The comfort these mats provide make camping in the elements much easier; and they are far lighter and more durable than airbeds.
 
So, now you know how to pick the perfect sleeping bag for your expedition of a lifetime! For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh award visit www.dofe.org. Read about how The Wilderness Foundation can help to contribute to your award.