Few things are more fun for kids than a slumber party or a camping trip. Whether they’re under a roof or under the stars, every kid deserves a comfortable sleeping bag to use when the occasion arises.
Kids’ sleeping bags may be rectangular or mummy-style, and they vary in their warmth, materials, and other features.
If it’s time to get your little one a new sleeping bag, continue reading our buying guide, which includes reviews of a few favorites at the end. Our top pick, the BuddyBagz Sleeping Bag and Travel Kit For Kids will keep your little one feeling safe, warm, and happy all night long.
Kids’ sleeping bags come in a few different shapes. Although some have pretty nontraditional shapes, the two most common are standard rectangle bags and what are called “mummy bags.”
Rectangular sleeping bags are spacious and comfortable. When unzipped, they fold out to a square flat shape and can function as a comforter. The roomier design can make these bags slightly less warm in colder climates.
Mummy bags fit more snugly against your child’s body, with a wide shoulder area that tapers to a narrower shape at the feet. These bags are warmer than rectangular models because they fit tightly next to your little one’s skin. Some kids, however, don’t like how restrictive mummy bags feel.
Most kids’ sleeping bags will display a warmth rating somewhere on the label. They’re usually rated by the minimum temperature that the bag is recommended to sustain. These ratings aren’t the most useful because everyone feels cold at different temperatures. They are, however, a decent way to compare one bag to another.
Know your child’s height before choosing a new sleeping bag for them. There should be at least 2 to 9 extra inches at the bottom in order for the sleeping bag to be comfortable for your child.
Kids’ sleeping bags are made from a few different materials. Bag exteriors are often made from ripstop nylon, which is durable and warm. Others have dry loft exteriors, which are water-resistant and also relatively rugged. Interior linings are usually made from either polyester or nylon. Nylon liners are shiny and not very comfortable against the skin. Some liners are made from cotton, though this material traps moisture, which can be uncomfortable.
A shoulder baffle is a shoulder-height drawstring that helps to conserve your child’s body heat. They’re sometimes included with kids’ mummy bags.
Baffle stitching is a layer of vertical or horizontal stitching that is intended to keep the bag’s filling from clumping. This keeps the bag consistently warm throughout, rather than having a few small “cold spots.”
Kids’ sleeping bags that have hoods help your child stay warm by keeping all of the body heat, including that from the head, from escaping the bag. Hoods can be found on both rectangular and mummy bags.
Most kids’ sleeping bags cost between $10-$60. For $10, kids’ sleeping bags are primarily rectangular designs, only for indoor use. If you spend $40 for a sleeping bag, you can get either a rectangular or mummy bag for indoor or outdoor use. For around $60, kids’ sleeping bags are premium bags with the warmest filling and shoulder baffles.
A. Most kids’ sleeping bags come with their own storage bag. You should store the sleeping bag in the driest place possible, away from sunlight. Moisture can cause mildew and mold if left for a long time. Don’t pack the sleeping bag too tightly, or it will lose loft.
A. Yes. If you want your kids to enjoy looking at their sleeping bag, you can easily find one with animals, monsters, or other whimsical designs on the inside and outside.
BuddyBagz’ Sleeping Bag & Travel Kit For Kids
Our take: More than just a sleeping bag — it’s an entire overnight kit.
What we like: Included night light, pillow, and stuffed friend for your child. It’s 62 inches long, so it’s big enough for larger kids.
What we dislike: Not warm enough for camping. Best for indoor use.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Wenzel’s Moose Boys/Girls 40º Sleeping Bag
Our take: Thick and comfy enough for almost any sleeping situation.
What we like: Has nonallergenic fill material. Comes in blue or pink. Double-sided zipper makes “self-zipping” easy for kids.
What we dislike: Some users reported difficulty with the zipper.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Teton Sports’ Celsius Junior Kids Sleeping Bag
Our take: Lightweight and comfortable option with a stylish finish.
What we like: Fits over the top of the head for extra warmth. Machine washable. Durable construction.
What we dislike: Some felt the lining was too thin.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Adam Reeder writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
