shellback

Hi everyone.
I'm trying to get some ideas on sleeping "quarters" for tent camping. The intent is to keep it light and save on bulk. I currently have a self-inflatable pad which I love, but the problem I have is I can't stand sleeping bags. The main problem is I feel confined and really can't get any rest.
A bit of background: My only camping experience is in warm weather (the Caribbean) and beach camping, which I did use a plain rectangular SB but kept it open and just used a sheet for cover. However, now my camping will be in the fall/winter in TX and I'm concerned when the temps start dropping.
I was thinking of bringing a sheet and maybe a fleece blanket along with the pad, but I think it's going to eat up a lot of room in my pack, and maybe not keep me warm.
Any ideas?

Troop198

How big a tent are you sleeping in? In most of Texas you only need a three seaon tent or maybe even a warm weather tent.

You could get a bigger tent and try a cot.

But I degress. you asked about bags. Sorry but it depends is the best answer. Keeping you warm is the main criteria when selecting a sleeping bag. Choose a bag rated for the season and temperature you’ll be using it in most often. So if you camp in south Texas (South of I 10) as opposed to say North of I 20, the winter seasons are different.

The temperature rating of a sleeping bag indicates the lowest temperature at which an average user will sleep comfortably (and wear a hat if you get cold)
Rating also assumes you have a ground pad.

If in doubt, get a colder-rated bag. You can always vent it by opening the zipper on nights when it’s not as cold, 30 degree fits most of Texas winters I added a liner for colder days, that also works by itself for those nights you just need a cover. A liner can be used like a blanket and the confines you describe go away.

This all changes if you want to hike alot, look for other discussions on this forum for sleeping bags. there are some good discussions.

jaymes

Purchase one of those thermal plastic sheets from Wal Mart Camping section. Now, sew it between two bedsheets. Between two bedsheets, it will muffle the solar reflector sheet's crinkling as you move underneath it. It will weigh less than a half pound, and will offer plenty of room regarding stretching your legs. Depending upon which side you direct toward you, the temperature will vary; one side will be warmer, because of reflecting body heat, than the other. All of your sleeping bag can now go under you for padding.

Motorman355

I'm like you. 8 out of 10 times, I'm sleeping on top of my sleeping bag with a sheet or light blanket. I always have the zipper all the way open just in case mid night I get a little chill and then I just slip between the bag. Still, I don't zip it up. I'm a tosser and a turner. I need the unzipped space to comfortably sleep. You might check into those new bags that stretch with your movement.

If you worry about the bulk of a bed sheet or blanket. Purchase a silk bag liner. They are light weight and actually keep you warm despite the thin material.