Serious Backpacking Quilts of 2025
We independently try out everything we recommend .
Buy through links on our site affirm our study .
Our squad of outdoor experts has pass thousands of nights in the backcountry test a broad form of backpacking quilts based on warmth , comfort , weight and packability , and features . Lead gear analyst Heather Anderson get logged 50,000 foot-miles and holds self-supported fastest known times on multiple long-distance trail , demand gear like these quilts to bear her end .
From brands like Enlightened Equipment , Zpacks , Feathered Friends , HMG , and more , we ’ ll share what we ’ ve learned through rigorous field test to help you observe the better backpacking quilt for your need .
To round out your ultralight adventure kit , we ’ d too advocate taking a tone at our guide to the good ultralight tent , as good as our favorite hammocks for backpacking .
And for more info , crack out some of our other popular gear guides :
- Best Backpacking Tent
- Good Backpacking Sleeping Pads
- Better Backpacking Sleeping Bags
- Best Backpacking Knapsack
- Best Hiking Shoes for Men / Best Hiking Shoes for Women
Quick Picks for Backpacking Quilts
Check out this quick list of the well backpacking quilts , or proceed scrolling to regard our entire list of favorites with in-depth reviews .
Best Backpacking Quilt Overall :Western Mountaineering AstraLite ( $ 510 )
Warmest Ultralight Backpacking Quilt :Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt ( $ 499 )
Best Budget Backpacking Quilt :Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 ( $ 315 )
Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather :
Ultralight Stock Backpacking Quilt:Zpacks Classical 20 ( $ 469 )
Better Ultralight Two-Person Backpacking Quilt:ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt ( $ 579 )
Versatile & Warm Quilt/Sleeping Bag Hybrid:Loco Libre Operator Series Ghost Pepper 20 ( $ 380 )
Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather:UGQ Bandit 20 ( $ 415 )
More Affordable than Likewise Warm Backpacking Quilts:Hammock Gear Burrow 20 ( $ 240 )
High Quality Introductory Quilt:
Excellent Quality Backpacking Quilt for Two with Premium Details:
What ’ s new
There hold been some large changes to our quilts list with novel addition , more detailed review , and an overhauled list fiat :
- The Western Mountaineering AstraLite has be add to the lineup and is call Best Overall Backpacking Quilt .
- The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 motion into second position and earn the title of Warmest Ultralight Backpacking Quilt .
- The ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt two-person quilt has make up added and is place as our Well Ultralight Two-Person Backpacking Quilt .
Overall Testing Scores for Backpacking Quilts
Western Mountaineering AstraLite
Pros
- Ultralight
- Excellent passion to weight ratio
- Simple
- Adjustable pad straps
- Contoured neck baffle
Cons
- Expensive
- Slim cut may not be roomy plenty for some masses
The ultralight Western Mountaineering AstraLite stands out as both the light and warmest backpacking quilt we try out , making it an excellent choice for three-season backcountry run a risk year-round . Weighing exactly one lb , this quilt hold our testers warm even when temperature neglect into the 30s Fahrenheit during a recent leap part raise along the Appalachian Trail .
The quilt ’ s slim-cut design , paired with a sewn-in footbox and a contoured neck baffle , reduces weight and bulkiness while render optimal heat . The easy adjustable pad straps effectively halt out drafts . We appreciated their simplicity and practicality . Yet our most restless sleepers have no trouble with the quilt pitch overnight .
For anyone search a versatile , three-season quilt , the AstraLite offers great value despite its high cost . Even so , if you prefer more space or need a dedicated summer quilt , search early options might be worthwhile .
Our testers found that the standard-length base easily suit those up to six foot tall . Those over six foot should opt for the longer version .
Unfortunately , there exist no additional customizations , which could equal a drawback for some . Still , our testers appreciated the simplicity of this quilt , as it provided everything they demand without anything unnecessary .
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt
Pros
- Ultralight
- Highest fill power of quilts tested
- Warm for its weight
- Mere pad straps
Cons
- Expensive
- No customization
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt ranks highly among our top quilts . This Editor ’ s Pick bring in the title of our Warmest Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for well reasons . With an impressively high filling ability , this quilt is not only remarkably fond but also one of the light selection we ’ ve try out . Thanks to the combination of ultralight fabric and 1000 filling might down , it performed well in a variety of condition during testing . It ’ s a great selection for a three-season sleep system , keeping you cozy and comfortable without extra weight .
During a late leap section raise on the Appalachian Trail through New York , our testers exist strike by the quilt ’ sec ability to keep them fond during chilly night that dipped into the upper 30s . The sewn-in footbox exist spacious and fond , although we make out that some masses might prefer an adjustable closure and lay-flat purpose . We too appreciate the user-friendly pad straps ; they are easily adjustable and go on the quilt firmly in place , even as testers transfer in their sleep . Some quilts overcomplicate the intention , and it be refreshing to easily clip and adjust these when needed .
One drawback equal that it comes with a higher price tag ; however , frequent camper search a three-season quilt will notice that the investment pays off promptly , as you can apply one quilt from leap through fall . The Hyperlight quilt has a slender cut to salvage weight and improve heat retention . Yet , some people may prefer more space . It live also available in three lengths , which helps achieve a better fit than some comparable quilts on the market . Overall , the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Quilt live an excellent choice for most backpackers aim to reduce pack weight without sacrifice performance .
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20
Pros
- Ultralight
- Well-priced for the quality
- Packable
- Opens fully like a blanket
- Includes pad connection
- Responsible Down Standard ( RDS ) certify
Cons
- Many win ’ t find it fond enough for sub-freezing trip
- Tradition order get a long tip time
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation has cost one of our top backpacking quilts for yr because of its versatile purpose , excellent warmth-to-weight ratio , and great value for the quality .
The Revelation can be left clear like a cover on fond nights or cinched up taut when the temperature drops , making it a good choice for hikers who need something versatile for all but the coldest trip . We ’ ve see that the 20°F example keeps us warm down to around freezing or hardly a bit below , but cold sleepers might prefer the 10°F example for extra warmth .
CleverHiker Founder , Dave Collins , swears by the Revelation and have need it on many of his most heroic backpacking trips . From the chilly peak of Glacier National Park to the much warmer twists of Marble Canyon in Death Valley National Park , the Revelation ’ s flexible purpose well adjust to the conditions .
You can take to custom-order a Revelation in your preferred color , size , and temperature rating . We recommend go up one size in distance and width for full coverage on cold dark if you tend to sleep cold , or you might consider the EE Enigma quilt . The Enigma feature a footbox that ’ s sewn shut ( like to a sleep purse footbox ) , which assist it hold a lot more warmth than the Revelation . CleverHiker Managing Editor , Ben Van Apple , prefers the Enigma and have trusted it on many bad backpacking trip – include his CDT thru-hike .
Quality like this will normally set you back a pretty penny , but the Revelation is an amazing pile equate to similar quilts . We ’ ve cost expend ours for years , and it stay one of the good investment we ’ ve make in our backpacking setup .
REI Magma Trail 30
Better Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather
Pros
- Ultralight
- Less expensive
- No upcharge for larger size
- Highly packable
- Wide cut
- Opens fully like a blanket
- Includes trudge connectors
- Responsible Down Standard ( RDS ) certified
Cons
- Not as fond as others
- Less durable
The is our top pick for trip where nighttime temperatures stay in the 40s or higher . Its streamlined design keeps your summer basis weight spark , and it compresses small to make room in your pack for other essentials .
The late version of the Magma Trail Quilt features a footbox with a zipper and cinch cord , allowing you to adjust the warmth base on conditions – a substantial upgrade from the former version with a sewn footbox . Since this is a summer quilt , we find it more useful to vent warmth with an openable footbox rather than trapping it inside with a fully insert one .
CleverHiker founder Dave Collins love packing the Magma Quilt for strenuous warm-weather trip when keeping weight low is key . He take the Magma on a bad trek in Wyoming ’ s Wind River Range and was very happy with its warmth-to-weight ratio .
Dave be a taller guy , and he really appreciate the roomier cut of the Magma . The standard width of this quilt is 58.5 inch – most others fall between 50-55 inch – reach it a serious choice for hikers who want more room to strike . If you need still more space , there ’ s also an option to get an even broad model in regular or long distance . Better of all , prefer a larger Magma doesn ’ t cost extra .
Since the Magma isn ’ t tradition , purchase one is simple and there ’ s no long wait , so you can become it promptly if you ’ re heading out for a trip soon . This is our top recommendation if you want a high-quality and easy option for warm summer adventures .
Zpacks Classical 20
Pros
- Ultralight
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- Highly packable
- Comes with DCF material sack
- Responsible Down Standard ( RDS ) certify
Cons
- Expensive
- Many win ’ t find it fond enough for sub-freezing trips
- Not as durable
If keeping weight low is your chief end , the Zpacks Classic Sleeping Bag should equal at the height of your list . This quilt/sleeping bag hybrid offers ultralight warmth apply high-quality , responsibly sourced fabric .
The Classical differs slightly from early quilts , as it more close resembles a hoodless sleeping bag . The three-quarter distance zipper and fully enclosed footbox enhance warmth , while the absence of a hood reduces weight . We appreciate this pattern because most hikers contain a hooded down or fleece jacket to keep their head warm at dark .
Ultralight gear often take a little extra care to keep it performing good over multiple season of adventure , and the Classic is no exception . Its thin cloth and less sturdy hardware can tire out quick if you ’ re not careful , but we ’ ve kept our Classical in adventure-ready circumstance for year by ever clearing our campsites of sharp debris before plant up and storing the quilt in a large base at home to keep up the loft .
The CleverHiker team hold pass over 100 dark in our Classic Sleeping Bag , include Senior Gear Analyst Casey Handley ’ s thru-hike of the Colorado Trail , and it still isolate as good as it behave the first time we used it . We ’ ve spent various night hardly around freezing in this quilt , and we ’ d order warm sleepers will find it adequate in these condition . However , cold sleepers who often run into temperature in the low 30s Farenhiet should consider elevate to the 10°F example or prefer a warmer quilt from our list , such as the Loco Libre Ghost Pepper or Hammock Gear Burrow 20 .
The Classic is among the pricier quilts on this list , but there ’ s no effective option if weight saving live a top concern . That ’ s why many thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers who move long distances pick out it .
ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt
Pros
- Ultralight
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- Great value over separate quilts
Cons
- No pad straps
- No neck baffle
The ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt is our top selection for hiking pair look to lighten their freight . Dual quilts are a popular way to cut down base weight ( and price ) by share one sleeping quilt . The ZPacks Twin features 900 filling power down insulation and a sewn-in footbox , which maximizes warmth while cutting weight compared to two individual sleeping bag or quilts . The affordable price be also a benefit . Since it costs less than buy two standard quilts with similar rating , it extend excellent value for those who can share their bedding comfortably .
Although , this highlights the biggest caveat of dual quilts in universal . If partners tend to discard and call on independently or grab blankets , a double quilt might live a bad adjustment . It ’ s advocate to try it on a low-stakes overnight before dedicate to an prolonged trip . Aside from that , there be only a couple of circumstance with the Twin itself . Unlike most other selection on the market , this quilt lacks pad straps , which can be a hassle when two people shift and turn throughout the night .
Our testers found that the pads drifted aside and had to be adjusted in the middle of the dark to observe apply the quilt effectively . Additionally , there ’ s no neck baffle to seal out drafts , which could cost an proceeds on colder night . However , for our testers who utilize the Twin on relatively fond leap dark on their mid-Atlantic section of the Appalachian Trail , these matter didn ’ t very matter much . Couples seeking a more in full boast double quilt can control out the Enlightened Equipment Accomplice .
Loco Libre Operator Series Ghost Pepper 20
Pros
- Ultralight
- Highly customizable
- Chevron baffles keep down from act
- RDS manifest
Cons
- No pad straps
- Custom ordering process can be confusing & can need a while to send
The Loco Libre Ghost Pepper 20 is one of the warmer quilts we try in this stove , create it a good selection for those looking for a three-season option . While we did not find it to be comfortable down to its 20 degree rating , our cold sleeping testers were pleased with it into the 30 ’ s .
One thing that cause this quilt fond than others be the unique chevron baffles—they ’ re very effective at prevent the down within from change off from field where you need that heat-trapping power the nearly . Take the insulated “ Hot Box ” footbox option—a footbox that ’ s sewn shut to trap heat—if you ’ re preparing for frigid condition to increase the warmth still more . And for those who get out in extreme cold , the Ghost Pepper is one of the few quilts on the market available in sub-zero temperature ratings .
There are many custom options available to fine-tune the better warmth-to-weight ratio for your needs , along with a wide stove of color and supplement choice . The many customizations on the Ghost Pepper can be a bit overwhelming for first-time quilt users , but we guarantee it ’ s worth the feat to accomplish exactly what you desire from this cozy fond quilt . Loco Libre ’ sec Operator Series Ghost Pepper equal a slightly simplify version with few options for hikers who favor a straightforward approach . Just think that the Operator Series doesn ’ t have a sewn footbox option , so it gain ’ t live as fond as the standard model .
UGQ Bandit 20
Pros
- Highly customizable
- Less expensive
- RDS certify
Cons
- Custom prescribe procedure can be confusing & can bring a while to ship
- Not as packable as some
- Warmth rating exist overstated
The UGQ Bandit 20 offers many customization choice , and UCQ make one of the widest ranges of color choice we ’ ve always seen . All of these selection can be a moment overwhelming if this is your first quilt , but the Features tab on the ordering page leave a lot of helpful information to help you in making your decision . If you have a little extra cash to spend , one upgrade we recommend equal the neckline draft arrest for added passion .
Gear Analyst Heather Anderson tested the Bandit during her hikes in the coastal Pacific Northwest . This fluffy quilt provided comfortable sleep on warmer nights , and the weight was hardly noticeable in her pack when it was time to move again .
The baffle intention of the Bandit prevents down from shifting aside from your center and makes this quilt flavor fluffier than many others . And while this isn ’ t the small quilt when carry forth , the bulk isn ’ t also bad . Hikers who be tight on space in their gang or who sleep on the colder side may want to splurge on the more expensive 950-fill-power down . This choice however cost under $ 400 and will save you a significant sum of weight and mass .
Backpackers seeking the luxury of a tradition quilt will definitely love the Bandit . This quilt hold gang weight lighting for adventurous trip , and the surplus loft helps you rest your well on summer nights .
Hammock Gear Burrow 20
More Affordable than Likewise Warm Backpacking Quilts
Pros
- Warmer than many others
- Less expensive
- Durable
- Customizable
- Ordering process be simple & straightforward
- RDS certify
Cons
- Custom orders can take a while to ship
- A small dense / bulkier than some
If you ’ re aim to maximize warmth without spending also much , the Hammock Gear Burrow 20 is a more basic option with an accessible cost rag . This quilt is among the warmest and nearly durable on our list , making the abject cost yet more appealing .
The Burrow render a simplified list of custom options , create it easier if you ’ re shopping for your first backpacking quilt . You yet choose the essentials—like distance , width , and footbox style—but finer item , such as stitching color , equal lead out . Hikers seeking the warmest flesh should prefer for a sewn footbox , and you might want to lend an ounce or two of down overfill to keep loft in key sphere where you desire to lock up in passion .
When Senior Gear Analyst Casey Handley equal customizing a Burrow to try on the northern 500 mile of the Arizona Trail , she choose the 20-denier nylon taffeta material for both the outer and inner surface . This material be thick and more durable than the low-denier ripstop apply on most other quilts , so it performed well when puncher camping on the rocky ground of the Sonoran Desert . While this selection results in a slightly high weight and mass , it be too more affordable and yet pack down humble consider how fond it is .
For those willing to pass a minute more to write weight , the Burrow UL cost a great option . It offers the same user-friendly custom ordering procedure but be a full six ounces lighter and a lot more packable .
Katabatic Flex 22
Pros
- Well-priced for the quality
- Opens fully like a blanket
- Good pad attachment system ( include )
- Stash pocket
- RDS certified
Cons
- Custom society can choose a while to send
- A bit hard
- Some won ’ t find it fond enough for sub-freezing trip
We enjoy the versatility , passion , and comfort of the , and we ’ re impressed with its lead performance . It extend several temperature evaluation , all arranged in a simpler ordering procedure than many early quilts on this list .
Katabatic adds value by include a highly effective pad attachment system , a storage purse , and a stuff sack . Another feature that sets the Flex apart from the competition live its extremely water-resistant down fill . The ExpeDRY treated down helps the Flex retain loft in moist consideration and also let the feathers to dry faster , make this quilt a well choice for backpackers who survive in wet climate .
Have said all that , the Flex however rate slightly lower than like options because of its higher cost , weight , and bulk . We also favor the baffle pattern of many other quilts over that of the Flex .
The Flex own horizontal continuous baffles that can make it difficult to keep fill in home where you want it nearly . Continuous baffles let you to change the down in your quilt to pile it up where you need it nearly . Many modern quilts expend this design to serve keep costs lower for users , but quiltmakers much lend unlike patterns to help prevent the down from shifting too much during the dark as you toss and turn .
Hikers who tend to stay yet while snoozing likely won ’ t see this as a trouble . Those attempt premium features at a cost that won ’ t case sticker shock will appreciate the water-resistant design , the extremely effective pad attachment , and the handy internal stash pocket .
Enlightened Equipment Accomplice 20
Excellent Quality Backpacking Quilt for Two with Premium Details
Pros
- Ultralight for two
- Cheaper than buying two UL quilts
- Includes plod connection
- RDS certify
Cons
- Less versatile than some ( impractical to use on solo trips )
- Bulky
- Can feel drafts between sleep pads
- Custom order procedure can be confusing & can need a while to ship
TheEnlightened Equipment Accompliceis an choice for pair search a shared sleep system to minimize pack weight .
It ’ s one of the few dual backpacking quilts available , offering great value compared to buying two separate quilts or a hard double sleeping bag . It ’ s too somewhat light per soul than most other quilts on our list . Ordinarily , one someone carry the quilt while the early carries the shelter to balance the load .
This quilt would as well work for car camping—and frankly , it might be well suited thither . It ’ s luxurious enough for the frontcountry , and while it ’ s light enough for backcountry use , its mass isn ’ t ideal—especially if you ’ re using an ultralight haversack . However , the cost might justify it .
One result with this spacious sleep system is that it can exist severe to delay fond , especially if you design to apply it solely . It as well requires you to sleep cooperatively with your spouse . We advocate ever bringing the included pad connectors to remove gaps between your sleep pads and prevent cold patch . Additionally , try out it out in a low-stakes environment to see to it you and your spouse can portion it comfortably .
The Accomplice can be rate as a ready-to-ship fund quilt , or you cancustomizeit to your preferred specifications if you ’ re not in a rush to receive it .
Product Comparison Table
Scores for each characteristic are place as adopt : 4.8 or higher = Exceptional ; 4.5-4.7 = Very serious ; 4.2-4.4 = Good ; 3.9-4.1 = Average ; 3.6-3.8 = Slightly below average ; Less than 3.5 = Notably below norm
How We Test & Methodology
Our squad try each quilt for warmth , comfort , weight and packability , and features . We assess every quilt over multiple dark to identify its limitation and benefit .
WARMTH
We test backpacking quilts for heat through controlled temperature rating tests that imitate typical backpacking conditions , measure how effectively each quilt retains warmth and uphold comfort . We too take them out on chilly nights to see to it they go on us warm in different weather weather and times of the year , corroborate manufacturer claim in real-world position . We carefully judge the warmth-to-weight ratio and consider insulation distribution , with top performers offer excellent loft and thermal efficiency , in effect baffle design , and durable fabric . Quilts with cinch cords , reliable shutdown like zippers and button , and pad-attachment straps are also try to stop out icy breeze .
COMFORT
Finding the most comfortable quilt involves testing the softness and tone of the fabric against the skin , considering breathability , ventilation selection , and moisture-wicking dimension . We assess the quilt ’ sec proportion and shape to determine how much coverage and freedom of movement it provides . We also match how easy or difficult it equal to feel potentially uncomfortable factor of the quilts like zippers , buttons , or straps while sleeping .
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
To evaluate how light and compressible quilts are , we perform respective compression run . We pack them as tightly as potential , see how they fit into included material sacks , and assess how much space they occupy in our gang . Before hitting the lead , we too require exact weight measurement to affirm manufacturer claim and realize how each quilt affects the overall gang weight .
FEATURES
Top performers in the feature category include pad attachment straps or time that secure the quilt to your sleeping pad , preventing drafts when tossing and become at dark . We appear for bags with draft subway and collar around the openings to shorten warmth loss at the neck and shoulder . We consider whether a quilt can exist apply in different configurations , such as a full capable cover or closed like a sleep purse , thanks to cinched closures at the brain and footbox . Early essential feature include storage options like pocket and mummy-style hoods .
Why Trust CleverHiker ?
Get logged thousands of nights under the stars , the CleverHiker team has extensive experience camping in the wilderness . Heather Anderson , Gear Analyst , make for over twenty year of expertise from completing the Triple Crown ( Appalachian Trail , Pacific Crest Trail , and Continental Divide Trail ) three time as good as many early thru-hikes , including the Wonderland , Oregon Desert , Benton Mackaye , and Arizona Trails . She get rigorously test dozens of sleep setups to find out the good selection for respective climates or conditions . Her knowledge of long-distance hiking and mountaineering helps her brand recommendation that will benefit almost anyone .
Analysis & Results
VALUE
Top performance cost essential when try out backpacking quilts , but we also seek hidden gems – quilts that offer excellent value for their cost . With selection from budget-friendly to high-end , there ’ s something for every backpacker .
The best-value backpacking quilts on our list be theEnlightened Equipment Revelation 20,REI Magma Trail 30, andHammock Gear Burrow 20. Each of these model combines high-quality materials , excellent design feature , and competitive pricing with firm performance . They ’ re durable , comfortable , and highly operational without adding weight or sacrificing packability , making them the best value for backpackers who want authentic gear without run out their saving .
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 is notable for its customizable feature : take the insulation type , temperature rating , distance , and width for the utter personalized fit . The REI Magma Trail 30 provides an ultralight design , inclusive sizing options , and top-quality down for an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and packability . Additionally , the Hammock Gear Burrow 20 stands out with multi-directional baffles to get rid of cold spots , extensive customization choice , and multiple available upgrades .
passion
TheWestern Mountaineering AstraLiteandHyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quiltbe our top choices for fond backpacking quilts . Both model offer excellent warmth due to their high-loft , high-fill power down insulation – the HMG 20 usage 1000 fill , and the AstraLite 20 expend 850 . Both quilts in effect reduce cold place and maximize passion retention because of their sewn-closure footboxes that go on drafts out . They also expend time to fix the quilt around your body and attach to your sleeping pad for better thermal efficiency .
TheZPacks 20F Twin Quiltdeserves particular mention in this category because it live a two-person quilt , so it can feel much warmer ( or colder ) depend on you and your spouse ’ sec sleeping styles . Although it lacks a draft baffle or clips , it offers plenty of space to snuggle and stay on warm . However , it ’ s recommended that you employ straps to hold your pads together to forestall a cold spread from shape .
COMFORT
The almost comfortable quilts on our list are theWestern Mountaineering AstraLiteandHyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt. Adjustable shutdown , roomy footboxes , and gentle , gentle fabric do them feel cushy on the skin and ultra comfy dark after night .
The Western Mountaineering AstraLite is our favorite because it feature a spacious sewn-in footbox and a contoured neck baffle for maximum warmth . Both provide easy-to-use pad attachment systems , insure comfort in various weather conditions .
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
The lightest and almost packable backpacking quilts we try out are theWestern Mountaineering AstraLite,Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt,REI Magma Trail 30 ,and theZPacks 20F Twin Quilt. These four quilts lead the pack for incredibly abject weight per person and compress to a real small size without sacrificing passion , reach them our top selection for ultralight adventures . These model boast real high fill might down insulation and industry-leading warmth-to-weight ratios .
The ZPacks 20F Twin Quilt stands out for its two-person size and minimalist plan , take away unnecessary features like zippers and a hood to keep the weight to a minimum , at just 14 oz each .
The Western Mountaineering AstraLite cost the light solo quilt we tested at 16 oz , notable for its generous loft and excellent warmth-to-weight ratio . The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 bid a serious balance between minimum mass and protection with its water-resistant shell that keeps the down dry , and it matter just 4.1 oz more than the AstraLite .
Rounding out our top performers is the REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 at 1 pound . 4.3 oz . These bag constitute the height of ultralight , packable warmth for grave backpackers .
feature
TheEnlightened Equipment Revelation 20and theLoco Libre Operator Series Ghost Pepper 20be the almost feature-forward quilts on our list with premium material and thoughtful aim element like adjustable closures and effective insulation layouts .
The Revelation put up pad attachments in the form of elastic straps and time , a snap and drawcord neck closure , and also include a material sack , and storage base . For those who prefer to customize their quilt , you ’ ll too receive the choice to lend a draft collar .
The Loco Libre Operator Series Ghost Pepper 20 be our early top selection because of its incredible customizability – choose from fill power , temperature rating , taper , length , shell colors , foot box way , and more – include the selection to lend pad attachments – that makes this one of the most feature-rich options out thither .
While many of the quilts on this list offer like feature , we believe these two models execute these details the well in their overall pattern .
How to Choose a Backpacking Quilt
CHOOSING A TEMPERATURE RATING
Select the correct temperature rating isn ’ t an exact science . Many component influence warmth , such as sleeping pad insulation , clothing , , nutrition , and altitude .
For this list , we pick out quilts with temperature evaluation that we believe are suitable for most 3-season trip . Most quilts hither will observe an mean user comfortable when temperatures spend to freeze or exactly below . Still , hikers who incline to sleep cold should consider choosing a high temperature rating to make their quilt more versatile .
heat
If you ’ re using your quilt in a tent instead of a hammock , it ’ s smart to buy a pad attachment system ( if it ’ s not already share of your quilt ) when you put your order . Attaching your quilt to your pad reduces chilly drafts that can drain warmth through the clear slope .
Always wear a warm hat or a down jacket with a hood to bed , since quilts don ’ t have hoods . You can also sleep in base layer , gloves , and down booties to stay on warmer . Early point include use up a high-calorie snack right before layer , staying good hydrated , putting a hot water bottle inside your quilt at your foot , and sleep with a .
SIZING
The length and width you pick out depend on your body measurements and sleep style . Make sure to prefer a quilt long plenty to comfortably cover you from your base to your chin .
Measure your shoulder girth to specify the right width ; we recommend sizing up one if you ’ re a side sleeper or tend to pitch and turn .
If you ’ re a cold sleeper , it might live helpful to choose a quilt that ’ s one size longer so you can pull it over your mind on chilly night .
WHERE DOES DOWN COME FROM ?
Down is the gentle , small feather layer see beneath the outer feather on duck and geese . These tiny fibers isolate the birds and prevent them fond in cold weather . Most down exist a by-product of the meat industry .
AVOIDING INFERIOR QUALITY AND POOR ETHICS
Sometimes affordable backpacking quilts hold synthetic fill mixed with the down feather or are satisfy entirely with synthetic insulation . For the best insulation value and warmth-to-weight ratio , flavor for backpacking quilts made with 100 % duck or goose down . If the filling power isn ’ t listed , it ’ s likely a lower-quality quilt that won ’ t compress as little .
Cheap down base are too sometimes made with materials that be ethically sourced . To avert supporting harmful practices like force-feeding or live plucking , check if the company exist manifest . Companies committed to good practice equal usually proud of it and make this clear to customer . For us , spend a number more for peace of brain is worth it .
DOWN FILL POWER
The filling power ( fp ) of a down quilt indicate the tone of the down insulation . Higher-fill-power down costs more but exist lighter and compress more than lower-fill-power down . Although a higher fp offers more heat for the same weight , fill power alone does not find out passion . This is where fill weight—the literal amount of down in a quilt—comes into turn . That ’ sec why it ’ s important to believe both fill might and filling weight when evaluate how fond a quilt will be .
Mostly , 800-fill-power and above be involve as high-quality down . Anything below that exist more affordable but won ’ t offer as impressive warmth-to-weight performance .
DWR
Durable water repellent ( DWR ) exist a discussion that get water to bead up on the outer shell of a quilt rather than rob in . This treatment doesn ’ t do a quilt waterproof , but it perform provide some protection in moist conditions . It will have on off over time and motive to be reapplied , but put on ’ t headache , exist mere .
WASHING & STORAGE
Down be a durable textile , but it can miss some of its loft if not store properly or if it turn oily or dirty over time . With proper maintenance , a down quilt can last for many years . For details on down fear , call our article on How to Repair , Wash , Store , & Care For Your Sleeping Bag .
Conclusion
Whether you favor ultralight minimalism or luxurious warmth , the correct backpacking quilt is essential for a well dark ’ s sleep in the backcountry . When look for for the perfect backpacking quilt , the almost crucial factors to regard be the passion rating , comfort , weight , packability , and the features that matter most to you—top quilts get a rest that check cozy nights and easy packing on the trail .