BEST Sleeping Bag Options | Sleeping Out Safely in Winter | Bushcraft Gear

A sleeping bag is a great addition to your Bushcraft Gear.
What is the BEST Sleeping Bag Option for you to Sleep Out Safely in Winter? I take a look at three options from a military surplus store. PLUS I share with you the secrets of my winter routine to help you stay warm at night.
00:00 BEST Sleeping Bag Options | Sleeping Out Safely in Winter | Bushcraft Gear
02:36 Snugpak Jungle bag
07:24 Helikon lightweight bag
13:40 British Artic Military Sleeping Bag
15:20 My winter routine.
Where to get your hands on them:
Snugpack Jungle Bag: geni.us/tzE8Z
Canoe bags: geni.us/GjIjOi
Goretex bivvy bag: geni.us/BbBMau
British Army Arctic Sleeping Bag: geni.us/1fF2Bno
The video and/or the description may contain some affiliate links. This means if you buy one of the products we recommend, we’ll make a small commission which helps us continue to make 100% videos. We never recommend anything we haven’t used or don’t 100% believe in.

[@baerv3753]

I used a US Army surplus 3 bag MSS during the dead of winter in Montana as my sole shelter for over a month. I had an insulated mat to get me off the ground and the Gortex bivy bag repelled the snow. Stayed warm down to -2 F. My cat slept in the footbox. She averaged killing 2-3 squirrels and 4 grouse a week for our food supply. Nature gave her much better hunting skills than me. I’m a better cook though😀

[@user-ts1fp4nm9y]

Have you got any kittens for sale????

[@bradcleavenger5826]

That was the most complete explanation of how to have a successful nights sleep I’ve ever seen! Thank you for going into such detail

[@Tali-Khammael]

Here here!! From Minnesota state USA.

[@ajbowers44]

I always find it hilarious going back and forth between videos from ultralight backpacking and bushcraft 🤣

[@WheelsofRage]

Being an incomplete paraplegic warmth is essential. In winter iprefer sleeping in a hammock system like the Blackbird xxl with mumbo-jumbo tarp and a snug pack under quilt and snug pack jungle blanket not the bag. Temp is going to be

[@jeremymoses7401]

If youre not tactical anymore, only fools get cold....🤣that was gold!

[@kevinphillips6593]

Recently discovered your channel and the content is fantastic. Former US Marine here so I always seeing stuff from Marine brethren and your knowledge and experience really shine through in your presentations. Be well brother, Semper Fi, and Per Mare, Per Terram.

[@davidlewis3169]

I spent a brutal Winter in an 8 Ft. Trailer that was a literal ice box, and the only thing that saved me from freezing to death at night was my U.S. Arctic mummy bag. even in below zero F, I would have to let the heat out often. AMAZING BAG! Best bag I ever had.

[@stevej7875]

Once again a thoroughly indepth run down of something we all need to know and thought we did know, excellent stuff....

[@joeltaylor2830]

Great explanation, as everyone in the comments has said. One tip is a thin cotton 'sleeping bag liner' that fits inside all the sleeping bags; it catches the bulk of the dirt and sweat - keeping your sleep system cleaner inside - and can be washed as much as you like. You reduce the amount of times you have to wash the actual bags themselves and reduce the amount of 'damage' you do to their lofting abilities. You'll be keeping your sleeping bag(s) warmer for a bit longer. They can usually be picked up for around £10 UK pounds and 'adapted' to connect to your sleep system if they don't already. I went with a surplus Dutch system of: a winter bag, Goretex outer and the previously mentioned bag liner that all connects together with studs/straps, fits in a compression or canoe bag and looks similar to your British setup in many ways. A bit heavy, but very warm, waterproof and a mere fraction of the price of off-the-shelf sleep systems. Keep up the great and varied content, Nick.

[@NothingToNoOneInParticular]

My Mom always had us use a flannel sheet! It acts as a baffle about the neck too, to keep the heat in. I have a silk one that works well too. More slippy in most bags other than a flannel sheet.

[@carolinescott3888]

I have a silk one. It makes it much easier for me to toss and turn, which I do a lot

[@gilbert7794]

Down bags are great in cold dry climates but in uk once wet are useless. I still have my British sleeping system great value when compared to Carinthia system.

[@CPG4444Chopper]

Is the British sleep system practical for hiking and lightweight camping? I’m guessing it’s too bulky and heavy.

[@fatmanfaffing4116]

Some great tips for this former Aussie soldier. Coldest I can be sure of was -5C, not exactly arctic conditions but then we didn't have that level of gear. So true about stripping off in the really cold weather, providing you have the bag for it. It's winter here now and I am conducting cold weather sleep system testing (in the backyard) and will implement some of your admin routine tips next test. Love your work.

[@grumpyolesilverback7211]

I’m biased but, the Canadian military has an excellent system. A fleece liner, 2x sleeping bags (1x inner, 1x outer) and a Gor Tex bevy bag. I slept warm in -55 Celsius winter conditions. Hands down the best system. Heavy? Yes it is. If it’s winter, you hump what you need. You can break it down for warmer summer/fall and spring months. Brand new this system costs over $1000.00 CAD. Worth every dime.

[@lukeaugustini7866]

I’m 2 minutes in and ol mate is already telling people to get their shit in check 😂 love ya work mate!!!

[@thetrailgoat]

Being from across the pond, I love the poncho liner. Used with the poncho, affectionately known as the Ranger Roll, works really well. I’ve used two sets of those folded opposite each other down to freezing temperatures. At the time we weren’t issued casualty blankets. I would like to try adding that to the combo sometime to see how much warmth that adds to the scenario. However, those combo sleeping bag systems are great if you can access them after you left them in the back of the Deuce or 5 ton. High speed, low drag!

[@daviddirom7429]

When I was in the Canadian military they had a two bag system (inner and outer) a hood, and a Flannel liner. All of this was contained in a Valise bag with a para-cord (sort off?) compression system. Summer you used a single bag, and liner. Winter: outdoors was double bag, liner and hood, indoors was single bag and liner. No matter whether it was British Army 58 pattern sleeping bag, Canadian Military bag or a civilian bag there was no way I could stay zipped up in it longer than 5 minutes, zip went down and I went to sleep. My uniform was laid down the sides of my bag, and in Canadian winter my boots went into a plastic bag on the bottom of my sleeping bag.

[@TheWtfnonamez]

You just earned my sub. I have never served, but for a long time I was tight for money so I always default to army surplus gear for a bargain bit of kit. Ive had so many bargains over the years. I needed a new rucksack and managed to pick up a mint 100l bergen with side pockets for £50. I think its more likely that I will wear out long before that rucksack does. I picked up a lavvu tent for £40, some amazing boots for £25, an Alice Pack for £30 and a bunch of other stuff. Instead of spending thousands of pounds you can get the same or better kit for a few hundred. Some of it might need a little love and a bit of a clean, some might be brand new, and sure its usually heavier, but its the best cost-cutting way to get serviceable camping kit on a budget. I have got to the point where that musty army surplus smell has become almost comforting. Thank you for your excellent videos. Glad I ran across your channel.

[@darkmoon9777]

I am using a u s army surplus mss goretec With a insulated pad to help keep me warm from the cold ground And a Ozark trail 30 degree mummy bag in 22 degree weather And I do stay warm And I have learned a lot of survival information from your videos. Thank you brotha You have saved my ass on many occasions

[@garth8979]

I've used the Snugpak Jungle bag for 2 seasons now and I absolutely luv it. I supplement it with a nato cotton sleeping bag liner and a fleece blanket when needed. I don't bother with the stuff sack, I just jam it all into the bottom of my pack, first in, last out.

[@MaxSafeheaD]

spent five months winter 2019/2020 in a british arctic sleeping bag, no fire, and it was absolutely brilliant.

[@HIPPIETHUG92109]

I truly appreciate your attention to the big and small details. 🙏✌️❤️🌏

[@DMAC1966]

Always used an Arctic Bag. I also have a DD Jura 2 bag. Just a copy of the Arctic bag but with a foot box. I'm spending two night's next month in Northumberland one night in the Bothy and then in my Hammock. Can't wait!! Always try to sleep in my birthday suit 😆. Story: My mate and I along with someone else spent a night at Green Bothy Northumberland. It was a freezing November night but we both had our Arctic bags...But the other guy who in his wisdom thought to save money and weight decided to buy a B&M £9.99 special 🥶🥶🥶 Needless to say I was very warm indeed and slept like a baby 😴😴😴

[@johnmccarthy2179]

I didn’t learn anything new, but I still loved the video and the campfire and the surroundings

[@madeucedancinclub2452]

I bought 2 Wiggy's sleeping bags. They weigh 4 lbs each and are rated for zero degrees and have lamilite insulation, real heavy duty zippers. I use them with a military bivvy sack and reflective pad. They work very, very, very well and are worth the price, I consider them to be a very good investment. Much better than a goose down bag and about the same i weight. And you can wash them in a machine. The jungle bag you showed looks like a good choice for the Louisiana swamps. Again , I enjoyed the video, well done. Hand salute from a Vet.

[@bickie603]

I am US Army retired. So very used to that system. Now that I see how similar the British system is I really like it. The only thing i would miss is the quick snap opening with the zipper. But not being a Soldier anymore do I really need it. Well done.

[@davidgreally4347]

Hi Nick, great instruction! I use the British army Arctic bags, excellent sleeping bags in dead of winter combined with gortex bivvie bag is the perfect pairing. I do use a cotton bag liner also , helps to keep main bag clean and adds an extra bit of warmth. Keep up the brilliant work. Stay strong and safe with the natural beauty of mother nature .

[@davidgreally4347]

Always watch Nick, your sleep is as important as what you do during the day to reset your mind and body. Weight of sleeping systems is irrelevant in my mind. Must be as comfortable as possible. 👍👍

[@brnrecluse2946]

Excellent video! I use the MMSS when I camp. I find the multiple bag system is effective a capturing my body heat overnight. And I don't ever underestimate the importance of clean, dry wool socks. Rock on!

[@secretsquirrel6718]

I use an army sleeping bag cover with my civilian bag and it works great. Loose and in layers as they say!

[@davelakin3821]

Brilliant advice! Thanks a lot. Great advice to prepare me for a winter camp. I always thought the sleep naked idea was nonsense but it makes sense how you explain it. I will test it out next time! Cheers for the video

[@bathcolin]

Hello Nick. I have to say, I really look forward to seeing your new videos when they come out. The information you provide is faultless for the UK environment, thank you. Your reasoning on a matter is always, well-considered, and backed up by your military experience. You are growing a great channel here, keep it up, please?

[@wanderwithmac]

Had all sorts of bother with sleeping systems over the past year. On my last wander I went back to using an old ex army arctic bag, sorted. Your explanation and methods of use are excellent and I finally know that I am using the correct kit. Much pleasure in subscribing.

[@snakewomangirl]

Right! I now know what I need to go and bivvy one night. Thanks, very clear.

[@wanpaku3279]

For Australian conditions for me a lightweight 4 season approach is USGI Gortex bivi bag , USGI poncho liner, Sea to summit reactor sleeping bag liner, and Costo down throw. In morning throw out on a line to air, light weight and to easy to launder. Add and remove layers to suit season. Last long spell in a sleeping bag got kinda funky. love the vids.

[@daviddirom7429]

I’m really glad your channel showed up on my recommended list. So far lots of stuff I have used and taught over the decades as well as things I had never heared of but they fit in with the way I do things in my little bubble.

[@toffee_drummer6298]

Nick, thanks for explaining the ins and outs of the very equipment I have been pondering. Your explanations and descriptions have been really helpful, please keep them coming, thank you so much.

[@GreeklishOutdoors]

Another excellent video. Really useful tips for winter camping. Best wishes from Greece 🏕️🌲😊👍

[@mikel6517]

I have tried many bags since the late 80’s and always go back to my issue arctic bag. Like the centre zip style and it’s a reliable faithfully bag for a good nights sleep.

[@hairydave82]

I love my arctic bag. I've used it for years and never had a cold night in it. The only thing I find annoying is that the drawstring cinch always seems to end up on my face, no matter how I lie in the bag. It's worth it though.

[@sdouglasp]

I'm a retired decorated combat vet who really enjoys and apprecite you sharing your experiences with with us. Keep up the good work!!

[@mistyskies6396]

I learning, so not using any system at present - but found your video extremely useful thank you 🙏🏻💜

[@alexgriffiths6192]

I've got a Carinthia Defence 4 and Snugpak Stratosphere. Could do with a lighter bag for next summer but I think those will be decent enough this winter 👍

[@murphy7801]

Defense 1 is very good

[@herbhometales8255]

Thank you for the clear explanations! I’m an older backpacker, going lite weight, for my knees, not ultra. I went for sleep comfort.. this helped me realize I’d made good choices.

[@neilstemp7137]

Thanks for the great information it explains why I get cold I’ve learned so much

[@robertfoster3114]

Fantastic video! I have bought the lightweight bag for 5 pounds. Great bag! Now I'm after the medium bag! Lol

[@KrisHammes]

wow that was really interesting. Especially the information on calorie conservation and the need to strip when sleeping. It sound initially so counter intuitive that you need to remove layers to allow the bag to work properly

[@BosvarkDelta]

Really enjoyed that I was in the SADF in the '80s Sleeping bags were pretty basic although it can get pretty cold in the winter Ground sheet and sleeping bag was pretty much it Living in Ireland now different environment I am enjoying learning new things at my old age 😀

[@skimpywan]

Quality and informative video. Thanks and keep then coming!

[@MrMulrine]

Why did your dog give off real "head teacher assessing the junior teacher" vibes? Loved the video by the way.

[@johnfroggatt1455]

Another informative video Nick. I currently use the DD Jura 2 sleeping bag but I'm looking at the military modular system, purely to save some weight/volume as I use the gear for Bikepacking, not Backpacking. Weight is less of an issue, but increased packed volume is a pain. Enjoyed seeing Tilly the well chilled pooch too.

[@markkulepisto1159]

Brilliant vid, mate! Cheers

[@barmybootsveteran5201]

I used to just stuff mine inside my bivi bag and in turn stuff that into bottom of my burgen....clansman 320 Bty went inside sleeping bag to prolong its life..all dependant on how much gear you are having to carry, most of the the time we had a pulk.....Norway...love it....

[@LLM1987]

Brilliant video. And a fellow British boy. Will be watching your other videos as this one was very informative. All the best and keep on camping. Luke

[@danielr82]

I use the 58 pattern sleeping bag, - absolutely agree it's heavier than a synthetic bag, but it has so many benefits. the waterproof bottom liner that can just roll straight out, the bag being built in as a hood makes it much easier to "build" a pillow from clothes. that are outside the main hood. they are incredibly warm (down filled) I got my first (medium size) one, when I was about 8, it had been used (it had a name written in black marker on it.) I used it all through cubs, scouts, then camping as an adult (wild camping in the woods.) finally 30 ish years later I upgraded to the large size one. (never used) because I'm too tall for the medium, now my nephew has it and is using it for his cub camps etc... They cost about £40, there aren't many 4 seasons down filled sleeping bags that'll out last a squaddie and still be useful many decades later at that price point.

[@ultraruna]

Very early in my military career I learnt that 'any fool can rough it'. Spent a small fortune on gucci kit, all money well spent. Great video, thanks for sharing your knowledge in a very concise manner.

[@lizziel4876]

I am a middle aged lady and am hoping to do some bike camping, and I found this really useful - SO clear and well thought out, and without any unnecessary information that just takes up time in the video. Much better than many other videos I've seen. I guess you have to think like that to survive in the military.

[@Ikreisrond]

I have not finished seeing the whole video yet, but there's something I would like to mention about the compression bag as provided with the Jungle Bag. I see you pull the straps just like that. For longevity reasons of the compression sack, I would advise to put your weight on the bag so that the strap comes rather loose. Then you can pull it. This prevents too much stress on the seams. Also, for the longevity of the bag it's always a compromise between durability/longevity and packing volume. The smaller you pack it, the more stress there will be on the insulation. Of course you cannot pack it loosely like you would store it at home. But to compress it to its maximum day in and day out, might not be the best option.

[@AugisTv]

this, lol, pure facts, I would even add that you can just stuff your sleeping bag into the bottom of the backpack, this way sleeping bag uses more space available, fills out the corners, also it doesnt get as compressed as when in the stuff sack, thus causing less damage to the loft, and you dont need compression sack.

[@simongee8928]

I would have thought that doing that was pretty obvious - !

[@christopherjones4595]

Solid tips for cold climates! Thanks for having Tilly in your video!

[@tramontane3239]

Excellent talk, the info kept coming. My best bag is U.S. Korean era emergency evacuation bag. Down. Issued to injured soldiers only, has two straps on each side for carry of the injured by four other soldiers. Lots of room and multiple zippers to allow medics to access soldier while he still in the bag. I slept it to -25f Big. Heavy. It keeps you warm twice, first when carrying it in, ...

[@qsstores6933]

I've used the medium sleeping bag with an issue jungle bag in Norway at -15 and was warm as toast, i also swear by a pair of softie tent boots as my feet feel the cold from time to time. The current British sleep system is great value for money.

[@Patrick18960]

I love your videos mate, really entertaining (especially seeing Tilly putter around) and informative. I think for the money the military surplus bags can't be beat and it's interesting seeing different countries approaches to sleeping systems. Keep up the good work!

[@webb618]

Thanks nick! Happy Sunday morning from the U.S. Well done.

[@dos1639]

the very best chanel i ever subscribed. thanks a lot for your efforts and explanations man, you're awesome 👍👍👍 (greetings from Ukraine)

[@leelo1972]

Good informative film ,keep them coming!! Thank you

[@Daytona2]

Superb sleep system 👌👍 Explaining your routines for heat conservation are hugely insightful, thank you.

[@RonDicken1971]

Great tips all around!

[@artistgigot2044]

Lots of great tips. Thank you 🙏 Definitely cool weather camping now here in Quebec and winter is around the corner. This summer I used just a silk liner bag on warm nights, mostly as protection from bugs.

[@nigeljones8202]

Excellent video, love the professional military advice, really makes sense. Thanks 👍

[@medic2485]

great info and tips thank you!

[@mmem.6622]

So much great advise in this video! Thank you very much!

[@KurttankT]

Excellent as always, thank you.

[@itzybitzyspyder]

Wool blanket and a usmc mss bivy covers almost all situations.

[@markkoehler5110]

This video provided me with some professional tips that will help me keep warm on northern Ontario hunting trips … especially acknowledging the importance of sufficient sleeping system loft in cold night situations. Thank you!

[@JeepsterDave]

Some great info and tips from experience there. Many thanks.

[@scottsummers6357]

Brilliant video, great info, from Oklahoma in the states. I liked it so much that I subscribed 👍

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

@Scott... You definitely won't be disappointed. LA/MS here !

[@ColinWhiteNonno]

Thanks for another great video Nick. Last Wednesday I followed your link and purchased the British Army Artic sleeping bag. It arrived today (Monday, 1 day early). The quality is impressive and it seems to be a lot better than what I was given when in the RAF in the late 70's.

[@domrumble8243]

My winter sleep system consists of Snugpak merlin (inner bag) and carinthia defence 4 outer,all inside a surplus bivvybag.Into my 50's now and i always rig up a Hennesy jungle explorer hammock with a thermarest.wet trousers tucked between the thermarest and bivvy bag around the back of my knees to dry out.Sleep in a merino norgie and have my trusty Buffalo SP6(now 30yrs old and still going strong) as a pillow,ready to wear when i want to get up in the morning.Most importantly is having the piss bottle to hand,so i can simply unzip the bags 1/2 way and roll on my side to fill the bottle over the side of the hammock.

[@stephenjackson4211]

What a great video!!!! Loved it!

[@steve90tdi]

I bought the lightweight British bag new at a bike rally as an emergency replacement and was instantly sold on it. Once home I bought the middleweight to go with it and have since found the cotton liners that tie inside the lightweight bag. Best system I've used

[@brucematys6064]

Very good video Nick. This is probably the best explanation of the military sleep system, and the best way to use it. Cheers from Canada!

[@pappy1812]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge is a big help

[@EdwardHurst2323]

Best advice iv ever heard. I always sleep naked I always wonder why people sleep fully clothed including waterproof jacket . It doesn’t make sense

[@rayhill8283]

Great video. Very informative. I've never heard to sleep naked. I also think military items are usually awesome. Good job!

[@RS-ss6go]

Great info, thanks! I use the USGI sleep system and Snugpak products.

[@noofynumbskull]

Brilliant explanation , straight to the point and very informative

[@jasongreen6447]

Helped alot with my decision on my sleep system, again very grateful for the vids. Keep it up pls.

[@robman247]

Nice show and tell there Nick a this video is right on time for winter 🥶 coming around 👍👌✌️🇺🇸

[@Jauffre-innit]

I got a Dutch sleep system with the NATO ECW sleeping bag, it's rated down to -25c, or -15c comfort rating. The liner, bag and bivvy all clip together with some really sturdy press studs. I found that I can stay warm most of the year with the Dutch woobie (adding a wool blanket in winter). I always get Dutch stuff over US gear since I'm 6'3 and the Dutch are the tallest nation on Earth.

[@Thedude-ut1xb]

You can get the XL hooped bivvy and stuff your ruck down in it and still have space to sleep in it. I'm 6' 1" and with a 120L ruck I am reasonably comfortable.

[@davidmurphy4676]

The Wiggy’s summer bag 35° f zips outside any of the heavier bags -20°, 0° or 20°. Adding an extra 20°f . Enormous ykk zippers . Worth a look .

[@serkd37]

So glad I watched this video. I went out for my first camp, wore thermals in my sleeping bag and was slightly cold. Will try sleeping naked with thermals on standby and trust in my sleeping bag 🤞Thank you!

[@Gus-1313]

Nice to hear the “get naked and let the sleeping bag work” theory. I have always thought this and its good to get confirmation. I am so much warmer the less i wear in my down bag, up here in Scotland. Love the channel. Thankyou. Please keep up the good work. Cheers. Gus

[@lisajohnston6422]

Great video Nick. I have all of those sleep systems. The MSS is a great system that served me well during my military service and will go inside my bugout bag with my military Litefighter tent. For everyday camping and backpacking in the fall and winter I recently picked up the Big Agnes Sidewinder sleeping bag and the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX insulated air mattress because I am a side sleeper. This system was recommended by a KZbin backpacker that I follow but I haven't had a chance to use it yet.

[@RobCanada]

Nick, I love a bit of well explained science, and as you say anyone can be uncomfortable. I've never been in the situations you have but I'm willing to learn from someone who has and most likely learnt the hard way. An excellent video on keeping your core temperature up which I wouldn't have considered. I usually just add layers. Thanks for posting it.

[@Nomadicfieldcraft]

all your vid drops make my day 🤙

[@morestupidforms]

Very informative, thanks. I had never considered getting naked to stay warm and have previously just added more layers.

[@paulc7783]

Great explanation and advice 👍 A good, comfortable night's sleep is a real boost

[@pjccwest]

Great stuff, thanks.

[@anthonyslattery8808]

Fantastic great information learned a lot thankyou

[@brandondegraaf]

I use a big synthetic army surplus sleeping bag. People balk at the size and weight, but I have never had a cold night, even when damp from tarping in some truly savage weather. Meanwhile, people with down sleeping bags complain of the cold even on a good night. I live in New Zealand, where the climate is generally cool and very humid. It rains so hard that tents leak, is so humid that moisture condenses inside tent flies and bivvy bags, and blows so hard the condensation flicks back at ya. Synthetic stays warm here. I will happily carry my bag and save weight elsewhere.

[@David-sj6dj]

Thank you very much for the extremely useful information .

[@garryhudson8384]

Excellent content. Well presented. Thank you.

[@jdcmusicchoice]

Bought the medium weight bag (in the long) and I giggle like a child every time I pick it up. Such a beast, super comfortable. Some great points in the video. Would have been good to see how you would personally carry or attach the larger bags to keep them lofty and dry?

[@Excommunicated-ei1ep]

You’ve definitely sold me on the British Army Gortex Bivvi and Artic Sleeping Bag combo tbh.