When it comes to bikepacking, every ounce of weight and inch of space in your pack is precious.
You need gear that’s not only functional but also lightweight and compact enough to fit in your bikepacking setup.
Among the essential pieces of gear, a good sleeping bag is one of the most crucial. It needs to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable without weighing you down or taking up too much space in your pack.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the four best lightweight sleeping bags for bikepacking that strike the perfect balance between weight, warmth, and packability.
Whether you’re planning a summer bikepacking trip in mild climates or need something more versatile for cooler nights, we’ve got you covered.
1. Sea to Summit Spark SP I Sleeping Bag
Overview
The Sea to Summit Spark SP I is a top contender when it comes to ultralight sleeping bags for bikepacking.
Designed for minimalists who don’t want to compromise on warmth or comfort, the Spark SP I is one of the lightest sleeping bags on the market.
It’s filled with 850+ loft RDS-certified Ultra-Dry Down, offering an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio that makes it perfect for bikepackers who need to keep their load light.
Key Features:
- Weight: 12 oz (340 grams)
- Temperature Rating: 46°F (8°C) comfort, 40°F (5°C) limit
- Packed Size: 3.3 x 5.9 inches
- Insulation: 850+ loft Ultra-Dry Down
- Price: $389.00
In-Depth Analysis
Warmth and Insulation
The Sea to Summit Spark SP I uses high-quality Ultra-Dry Down, which is treated to resist moisture, making it ideal for bikepacking in variable conditions.
While it’s rated for comfort at 46°F, the Spark SP I is best suited for summer bikepacking or for those who run warm at night.
The mummy shape helps retain heat, and the lightweight shell fabric is both breathable and durable.
Weight and Packability
Weighing just 12 ounces, the Spark SP I is incredibly light, making it an ideal choice for bikepackers who prioritize minimalism.
It compresses down to an incredibly small size, fitting easily into even the most compact bikepacking bags.
The stuff sack is included, and the bag can be further compressed with additional straps if needed.
Durability and Construction
The Spark SP I is built with a 10D nylon shell and a 7D liner, providing a good balance between weight and durability.
While it’s delicate compared to some heavier sleeping bags, it’s designed to withstand regular use in a bikepacking context.
The Ultra-Dry Down helps protect the insulation from moisture, a critical feature when you’re dealing with condensation or damp environments.
Best For
The Sea to Summit Spark SP I is best for bikepackers who need an ultralight, compact sleeping bag for summer trips or mild weather conditions.
Its minimal weight and small packed size make it a top choice for those who want to travel fast and light.
Conclusion
For bikepackers who prioritize weight and packability above all else, the Sea to Summit Spark SP I is an outstanding choice.
It’s one of the lightest and most compressible sleeping bags on the market, making it perfect for ultralight adventures.
2. Western Mountaineering HighLite Sleeping Bag
Overview
The Western Mountaineering HighLite is another excellent option for bikepackers seeking a lightweight and compact sleeping bag.
Western Mountaineering is known for its high-quality down products, and the HighLite is no exception. With 850+ fill power down and a minimalist design, this bag is perfect for those who need warmth without the weight.
Key Features:
- Weight: 16 oz (453 grams)
- Temperature Rating: 35°F (2°C) comfort
- Packed Size: 5 x 12 inches
- Insulation: 850+ fill power down
- Price: $395.00
In-Depth Analysis
Warmth and Insulation
The HighLite is rated for comfort at 35°F, making it a versatile option for bikepacking in cooler conditions.
The 850+ fill power down provides excellent insulation while remaining lightweight. The continuous baffle construction allows you to shift the down to where you need it most, helping to manage heat distribution throughout the night.
Weight and Packability
At 16 ounces, the HighLite is slightly heavier than the Spark SP I, but it offers more warmth, making it suitable for a broader range of conditions.
It packs down to a compact size, though not quite as small as the Spark SP I. However, the additional warmth it provides makes it worth the slightly larger packed size.
Durability and Construction
Western Mountaineering is known for its durable, high-quality construction, and the HighLite is no exception.
The 12D ripstop nylon shell is lightweight yet strong, offering good resistance to wear and tear. The down is treated to resist moisture, and the bag’s minimalist design helps reduce weight while maintaining durability.
Best For
The Western Mountaineering HighLite is best for bikepackers who need a lightweight bag that can handle cooler temperatures.
It’s ideal for spring and fall trips or for those who tend to feel cold at night.
Conclusion
The HighLite offers an excellent balance between warmth, weight, and durability, making it a versatile choice for bikepacking in a variety of conditions.
If you’re looking for a sleeping bag that’s light enough for summer but warm enough for cooler nights, the HighLite is a great option.
3. Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 Sleeping Bag
Overview
The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 is a high-performance sleeping bag designed for ultralight adventures.
Weighing just 16 ounces, it offers an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio thanks to its 900 fill power down insulation.
The Hyperion is designed with a focus on efficiency, minimizing weight while maximizing warmth, making it perfect for bikepackers who want a lightweight yet reliable sleeping bag.
Key Features:
- Weight: 16 oz (453 grams)
- Temperature Rating: 32°F (0°C) comfort
- Packed Size: 5 x 7 inches
- Insulation: 900 fill power Nikwax Hydrophobic Down
- Price: $379.95
In-Depth Analysis
Warmth and Insulation
The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 is designed to keep you warm in temperatures down to 32°F.
It uses 900 fill power Nikwax Hydrophobic Down, which is treated to resist moisture, ensuring that the down retains its loft and insulating properties even in damp conditions.
The bag’s box baffled construction helps prevent cold spots, and the ergonomic design ensures a snug fit, maximizing warmth.
Weight and Packability
Weighing just 16 ounces, the Hyperion 32 is incredibly lightweight for the warmth it provides.
It packs down to a small size, making it easy to stow in your bikepacking setup. The included compression sack allows you to reduce the packed size even further, ensuring that it won’t take up much space in your gear.
Durability and Construction
The Hyperion 32 is made with 10D nylon ripstop fabric, which is both lightweight and durable.
The Nikwax Hydrophobic Down is a key feature, providing protection against moisture while maintaining the bag’s lightweight profile.
The bag’s zipper is lightweight yet durable, and the overall construction is designed to withstand the demands of bikepacking.
Best For
The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 is best for bikepackers who need a lightweight sleeping bag that can handle a range of temperatures.
It’s particularly well-suited for those who plan to encounter cooler nights and want a bag that offers both warmth and minimal weight.
Conclusion
The Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 is an excellent choice for bikepackers who need a versatile sleeping bag that’s light, packable, and warm. Its high fill power down and hydrophobic treatment make it a reliable option for a variety of conditions.
4. Marmot Phase 20 Sleeping Bag
Overview
The Marmot Phase 20 is a top-of-the-line sleeping bag that offers exceptional warmth and comfort for its weight.
With 850 fill power down and a temperature rating of 20°F, it’s one of the warmest lightweight sleeping bags available, making it ideal for bikepackers who venture into colder climates.
Despite its warmth, the Phase 20 remains relatively light and compact, making it a solid choice for bikepacking.
Key Features:
- Weight: 23 oz (652 grams)
- Temperature Rating: 20°F (-7°C) comfort
- Packed Size: 6 x 12 inches
- Insulation: 850 fill power down
- Price: $479.00
In-Depth Analysis
Warmth and Insulation
The Marmot Phase 20 is designed for cold weather bikepacking, with an impressive temperature rating of 20°F.
The 850 fill power down provides excellent insulation while keeping the weight down. The down is treated to resist moisture, and the bag’s mummy shape and insulated draft tube help retain heat, ensuring you stay warm even in colder conditions.
Weight and Packability
While the Phase 20 is heavier than the other bags on this list, it’s still relatively lightweight given its warmth.
At 23 ounces, it’s manageable for bikepacking, especially if you’re expecting cold nights. The packed size is slightly larger, but it’s still compact enough to fit in a bikepacking setup, particularly if you use a compression sack.
Durability and Construction
The Phase 20 is built to last, with a 10D Pertex Quantum fabric shell that’s both lightweight and durable.
The down insulation is water-resistant, and the bag’s overall construction is designed to withstand the demands of regular use in rugged environments. The zippers are sturdy, and the stitching is reinforced, ensuring the bag will hold up over time.
Best For
The Marmot Phase 20 is best for bikepackers who need a warm sleeping bag for cold-weather trips.
It’s ideal for those who venture into higher elevations or northern latitudes where temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Conclusion
The Marmot Phase 20 offers exceptional warmth in a relatively lightweight package, making it a top choice for bikepackers who need a reliable sleeping bag for cold-weather adventures.
While it’s heavier than some other options, its warmth and durability make it worth the extra weight for those planning to sleep in colder conditions.
Comparison Chart
Feature | Sea to Summit Spark SP I | Western Mountaineering HighLite | Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32 | Marmot Phase 20 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Weight | 12 oz (340g) | 16 oz (453g) | 16 oz (453g) | 23 oz (652g) |
Temperature Rating | 46°F (8°C) | 35°F (2°C) | 32°F (0°C) | 20°F (-7°C) |
Packed Size | 3.3 x 5.9 inches | 5 x 12 inches | 5 x 7 inches | 6 x 12 inches |
Insulation | 850+ loft Ultra-Dry Down | 850+ fill power down | 900 fill power Hydrophobic Down | 850 fill power down |
Best For | Ultralight, summer bikepacking | Cool weather, versatile use | Cool weather, ultralight | Cold weather, versatile use |
Price | ~$389.00 | ~$395.00 | ~$379.95 | ~$479.00 |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right sleeping bag for bikepacking is all about finding the balance between warmth, weight, and packability that suits your needs.
Each of the four bags we’ve reviewed offers something unique:
- Sea to Summit Spark SP I: The ultimate choice for ultralight summer bikepacking, offering incredible packability and minimal weight.
- Western Mountaineering HighLite: A versatile option that’s perfect for those who need a lightweight bag for cool conditions without sacrificing warmth.
- Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 32: Ideal for bikepackers who need a bag that’s both ultralight and capable of handling cooler temperatures.
- Marmot Phase 20: The best option for cold-weather bikepacking, offering exceptional warmth in a relatively lightweight package.
No matter which bag you choose, these options are all designed to help you stay comfortable and well-rested, ensuring that you can enjoy your bikepacking adventures to the fullest. Safe travels, and happy bikepacking!