Planning a backpacking trip with your little adventurers? That’s awesome! Getting out into nature with kids is incredibly rewarding, but it also means making sure they have the right gear. And when it comes to a good night’s sleep under the stars, finding the best kids sleeping bag for backpacking is absolutely crucial. You want something lightweight, warm, comfortable, and easy for them to manage (or at least for you to carry!).
Forget bulky, heavy sleeping bags that will weigh down tiny backs or your own pack. Modern youth sleeping bags are designed with the same innovation as adult gear, just scaled down and often with fun features. In this guide, we’re going to dive into five fantastic options that strike the perfect balance between comfort, packability, and performance, helping your child stay cozy and happy on the trail.
Let’s get your little camper ready for their next big adventure!
1. MalloMe Sleeping Bags for Kids & Adults
The MalloMe sleeping bag is a fantastic all-rounder that often gets overlooked for kids, despite being perfectly suited for them. While rated for adults, its thoughtful design, lightweight nature, and comfortable temperature range make it an excellent choice for growing children who need a versatile bag that can handle various conditions from spring to fall. It’s a smart pick if you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-clean option that won’t break the bank but still delivers on performance for family camping and light backpacking.
Key Features:
- Temperature rated for 50°F to 77°F, making it a great 3-season bag.
- Ultra-strong, waterproof hex-tech outer shell with S-shape stitching and 3D inner synthetic fiber fill.
- Weighs around 3lbs, making it ultralight for backpacking.
- Comes with a compression sack with straps for easy storage and carrying.
- Designed for machine washing and easy wiping clean.
- High-quality double-sided, snag-free zippers and headrest drawstrings for extra warmth.
- Vibrant colors appeal to both boys and girls.
Pros:
- Very versatile for different seasons and uses (camping, sleepovers, light backpacking).
- Extremely durable and easy to clean, ideal for messy kids.
- Excellent insulation for its weight, keeping campers snug.
- Compression sack makes it highly packable for its size.
- Snag-free zippers are a huge plus for independent kids.
Cons:
- As it’s also designed for adults, it might be a bit spacious for very small children, potentially reducing warmth efficiency.
- Temperature rating is more suited for warmer conditions; not ideal for very cold nights.
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise this bag for its durability and how easy it is to clean after a camping trip with kids. They love the vibrant colors and find it surprisingly warm and comfortable for its price point, often noting its suitability for children despite the adult rating.
2. TETON Junior, 20 Degree Sleeping Bag
Specifically designed with your child in mind, the TETON Junior 20-Degree Sleeping Bag is a robust and comfortable option that ensures your young one stays warm even on cooler nights. This junior sleeping bag is built to withstand the rigors of campouts and sleepovers, offering peace of mind for parents and a cozy haven for kids. Its thoughtful features, like the full-length draft tube and convenient pocket, show it’s truly crafted for youthful outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- 20-degree Fahrenheit temperature rating for warmth in cooler weather.
- Sturdy taffeta or canvas shell that is durable and easy to pack.
- Includes a durable stuff sack that makes packing effortless—just stuff, no rolling needed.
- Full-length zipper draft tube helps keep warm air in.
- Convenient pocket in the lining to store a phone or flashlight.
- Sturdy two-way zippers for easy access.
- Hang loops for long-term storage to maintain maximum loft.
Pros:
- Excellent warmth rating for cooler temperatures, suitable for multi-season use.
- Stuff sack design simplifies packing for kids (and parents!).
- Built-in draft tube significantly enhances warmth retention.
- Handy internal pocket for small essentials.
- Very durable construction stands up to active kids.
Cons:
- Might be heavier or bulkier than ultralight adult-oriented backpacking bags.
- Some users find the stuff sack can be a bit tight initially.
User Impressions: Customers rave about the TETON Junior’s warmth and comfort, often mentioning how well it holds up to regular use by kids. The easy-to-use stuff sack is a huge hit, making pack-up a breeze for children.
3. tuphen – Sleeping Bags for Adults Kids Boys Girls
The tuphen sleeping bag offers impressive versatility and space, making it a comfortable choice for kids of all ages, even those who toss and turn. While it accommodates adults, its lightweight design and generous dimensions mean children get plenty of room to stretch out without feeling constricted, a common desire for many young campers. It’s a fantastic option if you’re seeking a spacious yet compact sleeping solution that works equally well for backyard campouts or legitimate trail adventures.
Key Features:
- Rated for 40°F to 77°F (5℃ to 25℃), with comfort around 62-75°F (17℃ to 24℃).
- Measures 29.5″ W x 86.6″ H, offering plenty of room for kids and average-sized adults.
- Two-way zipper allows feet to come out or can be fully opened as a blanket.
- Ultra-lightweight (approximately 3 lbs) and packs down into an ultra-compact bag.
- Comes with a travel-friendly carry bag for convenient storage and transport.
- Easy to wipe clean or machine wash for hassle-free maintenance.
Pros:
- Exceptional spaciousness, providing comfort for kids who don’t like feeling confined.
- Lightweight and very easy to pack down into a compact size.
- Can be fully unzipped and used as a blanket, adding versatility.
- Good temperature range for most spring, summer, and fall conditions.
- Easy to clean, which is essential for kids’ gear.
Cons:
- The generous size might mean too much dead air space for very small children in colder conditions, reducing warmth.
- Not suitable for extreme cold weather backpacking.
User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the bag’s roominess and how easy it is to pack into its compression sack. Many appreciate its flexibility as both a sleeping bag and a blanket, making it a popular choice for various family activities.
4. KidzAdventure Mummy Style 32 – 59F Kids Sleeping Bag with Fun Theme
The KidzAdventure Mummy Style Sleeping Bag is designed specifically for young adventurers, blending practical warmth with fun, engaging themes. Its mummy shape is perfect for retaining heat, ensuring your little one stays toasty down to 32°F, making it a true 4-season option for moderate climates. This best kids sleeping bag for backpacking goes beyond just comfort; it sparks imagination with its adorable forest characters, making every night in the outdoors an exciting part of the adventure. Plus, it’s designed with little ones in mind, from its size options to its ultralight packability.
Key Features:
- True 4-season rating (32-59°F) due to its mummy style and insulation.
- Fun adventure theme featuring forest animals and camping elements.
- Mummy style shape, extra draft tube, extra zipper snap, and cozy hoodie for maximum warmth retention.
- Available in Kids size (up to 4’3”) and Youth size (up to 5’7”) for a perfect fit.
- Ultralight (2 lbs) with a backpack-style sack for easy carrying by kids.
- Unique pillow sleeve for added comfort.
- Guaranteed durability for 3 years.
Pros:
- Excellent warmth due to mummy design and additional features like draft tubes and hood.
- Specific kid and youth sizing ensures a snug, efficient fit.
- Extremely lightweight and compact, easy for children to carry their own gear.
- Engaging theme makes camping more exciting for kids.
- Pillow sleeve is a clever addition for comfort.
Cons:
- Mummy style might feel restrictive for kids who prefer more room to move.
- While warm, the lower limit of 32°F still means it’s not for extreme winter conditions.
User Impressions: Parents love the adorable designs and how genuinely warm these bags keep their children. The lightweight and compact nature is frequently praised, making it a real contender for the best kids sleeping bag for backpacking due to ease of transport for younger ones.
5. Big Agnes Ultralight Cold Weather Backpacking and Camping, Little Red
For the serious young backpacker (or the parent who wants the best lightweight gear for their child!), the Big Agnes Little Red is a premium choice. This ultralight youth sleeping bag doesn’t just scale down adult features; it innovates with kid-specific comfort and warmth. Designed for young campers up to 4′ tall, its unique PadLok Sleep System keeps squirmy sleepers securely on their pad, ensuring they get quality rest. When it comes to performance, warmth, and smart design, the Big Agnes Little Red stands out as a top-tier contender for the best kids sleeping bag for backpacking.
Key Features:
- Kid-sized comfort designed for young campers up to 4′ tall.
- PadLok Sleep System keeps the sleeping bag securely on the sleeping pad.
- Recycled Fireline Core Eco synthetic insulation maintains warmth even when wet.
- Sculpted contour construction creates a natural, bed-like feel.
- Child-accessible design with easy-to-use cordlocks for independent temperature management.
- Contoured hood and insulated draft collar for excellent cold weather protection.
- Includes a unique REM Storage Sleeve (doubles as a stuff sack) and a compact stuff sack for trips.
- Lightweight design balances warmth and packability.
Pros:
- Premium ultralight design, ideal for serious backpacking with kids.
- PadLok system prevents kids from rolling off their sleeping pad.
- High-quality synthetic insulation performs well even in damp conditions.
- Excellent warmth for its weight, with features like a contoured hood and draft collar.
- Kid-friendly adjustments empower children to manage their own comfort.
- Smart storage solutions (REM sleeve and stuff sack).
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other kids’ sleeping bags.
- Sizing is specific (up to 4′ tall), so it has a shorter growth span for taller children.
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional quality and warmth of the Big Agnes Little Red. The PadLok system is a game-changer for parents, ensuring kids stay put and warm all night. Its lightweight nature is a major draw for backpacking families.
Making the Right Choice for Your Little Explorer
Choosing the best kids sleeping bag for backpacking really comes down to balancing warmth, weight, and your child’s comfort needs. Whether you prioritize an ultralight option like the Big Agnes Little Red, the rugged versatility of the MalloMe, or the kid-specific features of the TETON Junior, there’s a perfect bag out there to make their outdoor adventures cozy and memorable.
Consider the typical temperatures your family will encounter, how far you’ll be hiking, and whether your child prefers a snug mummy fit or more room to wiggle. No matter which you choose, a good quality sleeping bag is an investment in countless happy nights under the stars!
FAQ: Kids Sleeping Bags for Backpacking
Q1: Why can’t my child just use an adult sleeping bag for backpacking?
A1: While possible, it’s generally not ideal. Adult sleeping bags are often too long and wide for children, creating excess empty space that their body can’t heat efficiently. This can lead to them getting cold quickly. Kid-specific bags are sized appropriately, weigh less, and often have features like fun designs or special zippers tailored for small hands.
Q2: What temperature rating should I look for in a kids sleeping bag for backpacking?
A2: It depends on where and when you’ll be backpacking. For general 3-season (spring, summer, fall) use in moderate climates, a rating between 20°F and 40°F is a good sweet spot. For summer-only trips or warmer regions, 40°F and above might suffice. Always err on the side of slightly warmer if unsure, as you can always vent the bag if it gets too warm.
Q3: How important is the weight and packability for a kids sleeping bag?
A3: Extremely important! If your child is carrying their own pack, every ounce matters. A lightweight, compact sleeping bag (ideally under 3 lbs, even better under 2 lbs) will make a huge difference in their comfort and willingness to carry their gear. If an adult is carrying the child’s gear, a lighter bag still makes your load easier. Look for bags that come with compression sacks.
Q4: What’s the difference between mummy and rectangular sleeping bags for kids, and which is better for backpacking?
A4:
– Mummy bags: Tapered shape that closely follows the body’s contours. They are more efficient at trapping heat, lighter, and more compact for backpacking. The downside is they offer less room to move, which some kids might find restrictive.
– Rectangular bags: Offer more space to move around but are less thermally efficient and bulkier/heavier.
For backpacking, a mummy or semi-rectangular bag is almost always preferred due to its superior warmth-to-weight ratio and packability.
Q5: What type of insulation is best for a kids backpacking sleeping bag – down or synthetic?
A5:
– Down insulation: Offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio and compresses very small. However, it’s more expensive and loses its insulating properties if it gets wet.
– Synthetic insulation: Heavier and bulkier than down but much more affordable and retains warmth even when damp.
For kids, synthetic is often a practical choice due to its lower cost, durability, and ability to perform if it gets wet (which, let’s be honest, often happens with kids!). However, high-quality synthetic options are increasingly lightweight.
Q6: How do I properly care for my child’s sleeping bag to ensure longevity?
A6: Always store the sleeping bag uncompressed in a large mesh storage sack (many come with one) to maintain its loft. When it gets dirty, follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions carefully. Many synthetic bags can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent (never use fabric softener!). Air dry thoroughly or tumble dry on very low heat with tennis balls to fluff the insulation. Avoid frequent washing if possible, spot clean when you can.
Q7: Should I consider a sleeping pad for my child when backpacking?
A7: Absolutely! A sleeping bag only provides insulation from above. A good sleeping pad is crucial for insulating from the cold ground, providing comfort, and preventing heat loss through conduction. Look for lightweight, inflatable pads or closed-cell foam pads designed for backpacking.