5 Best Sleeping Bag Liner

If you're a frequent adventure traveler, you know that you may not always have clean and comfortable places to sleep in at your destination trips. The reality is that you either have to deal with grimy sheets in old hotels or dirt from camping out under the stars.

One way to make sure that you’ll lie down on a clean, comfy surface is by getting a sleeping bag liner. It provides an added layer of warmth. At the same time, it keeps you free from any bed bugs, dust, and other stuff that can make your sleep uncomfortable.

Benefits Of A Sleeping Bag Liner

Whether you’ll be camping in a tent, or staying at an inn, there are several advantages to using a sleeping bag liner, which include:

• Insulation

A sleeping bag liner gives you another layer of warmth to your sleeping bag. It’s like an extra blanket on a bed. It ensures that you stay comfortable, especially during cold nights.

• Standalone Sheet for Warmer Nights

If it’s used inside a sleeping bag, your liner can serve as an extra layer of blanket. But it can also be used on its own if the weather is warm on a given night.

• Extend the Life of Your Sleeping Bag

When you’re out on a backpacking trip, you only have a single sleeping bag with you. You use it for days or weeks, depending on the duration of your trip. As you sleep on it every night, dirt and sweat can easily accumulate into the bag. Not to mention that you’re lying down on the ground during outdoor festivals or campsites. A sleeping bag liner can keep your sleeping bag clean for a much longer time. You can just remove the liner and wash it, without needing to wash the bag itself.

• Protection From Insect Bites

When camping, sometimes insect bites ruin the experience. If you’re traveling to a location where there are bound to be insects everywhere, a sleeping bag liner can give you that added layer of protection from those pesky bites.

• Clean Layer Against Dirty Sheets

Travelers know that not every accommodation will be pristine and high in standards. If you have a sleeping bag liner, you have the assurance that you’ll be sleeping on a clean surface. You don’t have to worry about bed bugs or molds that might be there in old sheets and mattresses.

What Type Of Sleeping Bag Liner Should You Choose?

With so many options for sleeping bag liners, there are certain aspects you need to consider to find one that fits you. These include:

Type Of Material

Sleeping bag liners come in different materials, and each has its own advantages, depending on how you’re planning to use them:

• Silk

Silk liners are ideal for travelers. They are very lightweight and compact. Silk liners can provide insulation in cold weather. But they are also breathable if you choose to use it in warmer conditions. Do keep in mind that they are relatively pricier than other fabric types.

• Cotton

If you’re not a fan of silk, there are sleeping bag liners made of 100% cotton. Cotton liners tend to be strong, breathable, and absorbent. They are also usually more affordable than silk. While cotton is durable, it’s not as lightweight and compact as silk, so you would need to carry something heavier on your trips.

• Fleece and Microfleece

Fleece is a soft, warm, and quick-drying fabric. This makes it really ideal for colder conditions. However, they are quite heavy and bulky compared to other sleeping bag liners. Price is usually on the moderate side.

• Synthetic

Synthetic fabrics are breathable. They are also usually moisture-wicking, which means the fabric’s engineering eliminates moisture buildup. As such, synthetic liners are ideal for humid conditions. In terms of cost, there are moderately priced synthetic sleeping bag liners on the market.

Climate Condition

You need to determine what type of climate you frequently camp in to choose the best material for your trips. Silk liners can work in both warm and cold conditions. But if you need added warmth, you may need something more insulated like fleece or synthetic.

Sleeping Bag Liner Shapes

Sleeping bag liners also come in a variety of shapes, depending on your preference:

• Standard Rectangular

This is the usual rectangular shape, designed to fit sleeping bags that are straight-sided with a rectangular cut. Some rectangular liners feature a useful pillow pocket. I’ve personally depended on my standard-sized liner because I frequently stay in hostels and need a protective layer when I’m wary of the quality of the sheets. If you plan to use a liner as a standalone sheet, then a regular-shaped one is ideal for you.

• Mummy

This shape is widest at the shoulders and tapered towards the bottom. It gives a snug fit to your feet. Some mummy liners feature a hood for added covering. Of course, if you have a mummy sleeping bag, then you have to choose this shape for the liner as well.

• Double

There’s also a double-width version that combines two standard-shaped sleeping bag liners into one. This is ideal for either sharing with another person or if you just want the extra space.

Choosing a sleeping bag liner can be overwhelming, as you’ll see a huge selection of brands and models. To simplify your decision, here are five of the best sleeping bag liners available now: