Nick B

If you're heading off camping or trekking, no doubt at some point it is most likely you'll require a sleeping bag. My own experience of trying to find a sleeping bag a few years back was not a good one, with little information avaialble at the stores I visited. So.. For those who are not 'in-the-know' about sleeping bags here are a few basic pointers:

• Size & Shape - A mummy style bag may offer the most warmth, but if you're using the sleeping bag inside or in warm conditions a semi rectangular bag will offer far more movement inside and will be less claustrophobic.

• Grade - Sleeping bags are rated by season and degrees Celsius, it is always important to check with the supplier which will be most suitable for your need. As a rough guide: 1 will be for summers months (around 5 degrees Celsius), 2 will be for spring into summer (0 degrees Celsius), 3 will be for spring right through to autumn (around -5 degrees Celsius), 4 will be for winter (around -10 degrees Celsius) and 5 is rated for expeditions in colder climates (around -15 degrees Celsius).

• Outer Lining - Down sleeping bags are usually more expensive than synthetic sleeping bags and generally last longer, however, these would not be ideal for wet or damp conditions. For wet or damp conditions the ultralight shell fabrics are more suitable as they often possess a durable water-repellent coating.

• Inner Lining & Insulation - If you will be in dry but cold conditions then down sleeping bags are effective, they possess a high weight to warmth ratio (down insulation is measured by one ounce per cubic inch with 900 being the around the highest). For machine washable and damp resistant sleeping bags, those with synthetic insulation work best.

It is worth asking about sleeping bag accessories too, such as sleeping bag heaters for emergency situations, mats to help cushion the ground and insulate from cold beneath, travel pillows for comfort and sleeping bag liners for extra insulation in cold weather.

There are plenty of reliable sites online and high street stores selling sleeping bags. My friend's website 'Camping-Online.co.uk', is one such store and they offer free advice and stock a nice range of sleeping bags, and other camping equipment so well worth a look if you get chance.