Find the Best Sleeping Bags and Backpacks
July 31, 2006 — -- Sleeping bags are must-haves on any summer camping trip.
With school just a month away, many parents are going to be searching for the perfect backpack for their kids.
Anna Wallner and Kristina Matisic -- "the Shopping Bags -- came to "Good Morning America" to give tips on what backpack and sleeping bag is right for you.
"The Shopping Bags" are also the authors of "The Tips, Tricks and Inside Information to Make You a Savvy Shopper."
Sleeping Bags
Slumberjack Talon +40, $74.99
The rectangular bag is good for those who toss and turn.
North Face Skareb 40, $149
Because this sleeping bag tapers in at the legs, it is good at generating warmth from your body heat. If it is too big, you won't generate enough body heat to use the bag to its full potential. Get kid-size bags for your children because putting them in bags that are too big may not keep them as warm as they need to be.
North Face W Blue Kazoo, Long Version, $219
This sleeping bag is also for a larger-than-average person.
North Face Cat's Meow, $159
The manufacturer says the cut is geared for women in the length, shoulders and hips.
Synthetic Vs. Down Bags
Synthetic bags will dry quickly if you've been caught in the rain or spent the night on damp ground. They can be cleaned in the washer-dryer.
Down bags are warmer, more lightweight, and generally more expensive. You determine how warm down bags are by the fill number. The higher the number, the warmer the bag. The lowest recommended fill number is 600. These bags usually need to be dry-cleaned.
Temperature
The sleeping bags showcased by the "Shopping Bags" are made for use in the spring, summer and fall.
On the bags, the manufacturer posts a temperature rating. If you feel colder more than most people, you'll want to keep that in mind when buying your bag.
Cotton Sleeping Bags
Cotton bags are only good for sleepover parties and offer no protection from the elements. They are very heavy when they get wet and take a long time to dry.
