Downshift Musings

This is an important and personal question for any pilgrim looking to minimize the weight of their pack. The quick answer depends entirely on the season you plan to walk. If you are walking in winter, spring, or even in May, I would definitely recommend a 3-season sleeping bag (comfortable to 30 degrees). For summer and fall I think it comes down to personal preference and a choice between a sleeping bag and some lighter options, with a few consideration regarding (ugh…) bed bugs.

In general, your hostel bed will come with a disposable mattress cover, as can be seen in the photo above, and a pillow, also with disposable cover. Blankets may or may not be available. Our first night on the Camino, in the overflow building at the Roncesvalles hostel, a woman was sleeping covered in her poncho because she had assumed blankets would be provided and they were not. I personally will NEVER use blankets or sheets that are provided after seeing a young American kid absolutely covered in bed bug bites from one of those blankets.

So my husband Rich and I both brought sleeping bags. I also brought and used a silk sleeping bag liner. We were walking in September and October, and in general, we could have gotten away without having a sleeping bag. The hostels were generally stuffy, not chilly. However, I get cold easily and enjoyed the comfort of the sleeping bag. I think Rich really should have had the sleeping liner so that he could have slept without the sleeping bag on most nights.

Reasons to bring a sleeping bag

I would bring a sleeping bag if you tend to get cold or if you want that extra layer of protection between you and potential bed bug companions (I bet you are tasty!). I spent way too much money and bought the Western Mountaineering Megalite sleeping bag which weighed only 1lb. 7 oz and packed up very small. Rich scored a zipper-less sleeping bag from Sierra Designs that weighed slightly more, but cost half as much. The disadvantage of the full bag is that it can be restrictive, too hot, and it’s a pain to pack down every morning. Mine barely fits in the bottom pocket of my pack.

Alternatives

A great alternative to a sleeping bag would be a camping blanket or sleeping quilt ( which wraps around and pockets your feet but is open on bottom). You can also wear your fleecy jacket or next day’s outfit to bed for a really cold night. Keep that weight below 2 lbs!

To me the main advantage of the blanket is that it should weigh a bit less than a sleeping bag and you won’t have to unpack it unless you need it … if you also have a liner.

Say ‘Yes’ to the sleeping bag liner

I absolutely recommend having a liner whether you bring a bag or use a blanket. Check out something like the SeaToSummit Adaptor Coolmax Liner with Insect Shield or the Cocoon Silk Mummy Liner. I bought the Cocoon mummy liner and it was great for those nights that it was too hot to be inside the sleeping bag. I treated it, my sleeping bag, pack, and a pillow cover with insect repellent spray so that I could sleep comfortably without the heebie jeebies.

There you have my advice. What am I doing this time? I’m taking the sleeping bag again since I already own it, with the sleep liner. I’ll give them a fresh coat of insect repellent for good measure. Sweet dreams!