Purpose

• Though campers use both sleeping bags and pads to help them sleep, the two items have different purposes. Sleeping bags are essentially sacks that campers sleep in. In most climates, campers need at least a sleeping bag for proper warmth, so sleeping bags are considered a bare minimum necessity for camping. Sleeping pads, however, are more of a luxury camping item. They add extra warmth and cushioning under a sleeping bag, so campers are more relaxed and comfortable. However, for campers who are planning to carry their gear on long hikes, sleeping pads may be both unnecessary and cumbersome to carry.
  
  

Comfort

• Another primary difference between sleeping bags and pads is comfort level. Sleeping bags provide the minimum warmth necessary and very little padding. While a camper can survive in a sleeping bag, sleeping bags are not intended to provide a great deal of comfort. Sleeping pads add a layer of comfort because the camper lies on the cushion padding rather than on the hard, cold ground. Sleeping pads can be heavy and cumbersome to carry, but if campers can afford the extra weight, they will get added comfort.
  
  

Warmth

• Sleeping bags and pads provide different degrees and types of warmth. Sleeping bags vary in their thickness, and therefore their warmth. Generally, they provide warmth on top of the camper's body (primarily from body heat). If the sleeping bag has a hood, it will provide additional warmth to the camper's head. Since the camper sleeps on or near the cold ground, though, the camper's back largely remains cold in a sleeping bag. A sleeping pad, therefore, is intended to keep the camper's back warm but does not provide heat on the top of the camper's body. Sleeping pads are best in very cold climates where an additional layer of warmth is critical for campers.
  
  

Types of Sleeping Pads

• There are several types of sleeping pads that provide varying of levels of warmth. Self-inflating pads are popular because they are compact to carry and easy to set up. Often, though, the warmest self-inflating pads are heavy. Inflatable pads that are not self-inflating require more work but have fewer parts to carry and are often lighter. Pads may also be made of open or closed foam. Open foam is warmer but acts as a sponge when in water. Closed foam allows water to pass through without soaking in.
  
  

Types of Sleeping Bags

• Most sleeping bags today are "mummy" bags, shaped to perfectly and snugly fit the body. Some people feel that such bags are claustrophobic, so roomier styles are available, but mummy bags provide the best warmth. Some sleeping bags have a hood for added warmth. Typically, sleeping bags are filled with either down or synthetic fiber. Down is warmer but also more expensive. Also, sleeping bags come in a range of thicknesses intended for different climates.