Choosing the right sleeping bag for your child is about more than just a good night’s sleep under the stars. It’s about ensuring they are warm, comfortable, and excited for the next adventure. A well-chosen bag can make the difference between a memorable camping trip and a chilly, restless one. With so many options available, focusing on temperature rating, durability, and kid-friendly features is key.
From lightweight bags for summer sleepovers to insulated options for cooler nights, the perfect kids’ sleeping bag balances safety, fun, and practicality. Our roundup highlights eight excellent choices that cater to various needs, whether you’re gearing up for a backyard campout or a family hiking trip. Each product is built to withstand youthful energy while providing the comfort required for restful sleep.
Our Top Picks for Kids’ Camping Sleeping Bags
- Teton Junior, 20 Degree Sleeping Bag
- Coleman Kids 50°F Sleeping Bag, Glow in the Dark
- oaskys Camping Sleeping Bag – 3 Season Warm & Cool Weather
- MalloMe Sleeping Bags for Adults Cold Weather & Warm
- FARLAND Sleeping Bags 30℉ for Adults Teens Kids
- Coleman Kids 45°F Sleeping Bag for Children
- TETON Sports Celsius Junior Sleeping Bag
- REVALCAMP Kids Sleeping Bag for Camping 40 Degree
Teton Junior, 20 Degree Sleeping Bag
Built for serious young campers, the Teton Junior sleeping bag is designed to handle cooler temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Its durable taffeta or canvas shell is made to last through countless adventures, from organized campouts to backyard sleepovers. The full-length zipper draft tube is a key feature, effectively holding warm air in to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
Thoughtful details make this bag particularly user-friendly for kids. It includes a convenient interior pocket for storing a small flashlight or other essentials. The two-way zippers are sturdy and easy for little hands to operate. Perhaps best of all, it comes with a durable stuff sack, eliminating the frustration of rolling—kids can simply start stuffing the bag in from the bottom for quick and easy packing.
Coleman Kids 50°F Sleeping Bag, Glow in the Dark
Coleman brings fun to the forefront with this youth sleeping bag featuring a glow-in-the-dark design. Ideal for warmer weather camping or indoor sleepovers, it is rated for temperatures as low as 50°F. The playful design can help ease any nighttime anxieties, providing a comforting and familiar light in a dark tent or room.
Practicality is not forgotten, as this bag is machine washable for easy cleanup after any adventure. It fits children up to 5 feet tall and is recommended for ages 6 and older. A stuff sack is included, making transportation and storage simple. This bag is a fantastic choice for creating positive first camping experiences where comfort and a touch of magic are priorities.
See the Glow-in-the-Dark Design
oaskys Camping Sleeping Bag – 3 Season Warm & Cool Weather
The oaskys sleeping bag is a versatile three-season option suitable for a wide range of temperatures, from 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (10-20°C). Its construction uses a double-filled technology and a weather-resistant, waterproof outer shell to protect against dampness and wind. This makes it a reliable choice for spring, summer, and fall excursions.
Design elements focus on adjustable comfort. A half-circle hood with a drawstring helps keep warmth in around the head and neck area. The bottom of the bag features a separated zipper, which can be opened for ventilation on warmer nights. Made from anti-tearing polyester fabrics, this bag is built to be both durable and breathable, supporting a restful sleep after a full day of activities.
MalloMe Sleeping Bags for Adults Cold Weather & Warm
While sized to fit an adult up to 6 feet, the MalloMe sleeping bag is also a great option for older kids and teens who want a bag they can grow with. Its year-round temperature rating from 50°F to 77°F makes it incredibly flexible for various climates and seasons. The bag is notably lightweight at around 3 pounds, which is ideal for backpacking.
The construction emphasizes protection and comfort, featuring a unique waterproof hex-tech outer shell and double-layered S-shape stitching to trap heat. A 3D inner synthetic fiber fill provides optimal insulation. It comes with a compression sack with straps, making it compact and easy to carry. The vibrant color options are appealing to both boys and girls, adding a personal touch to their gear.
FARLAND Sleeping Bags 30℉ for Adults Teens Kids
For camping in cooler conditions, the FARLAND sleeping bag is rated for temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Its waterproof and weather-resistant design uses double-filled technology to prevent dampness and retain warmth effectively. This makes it a strong choice for three to four seasons of use, from chilly fall nights to cold spring mornings.
This bag includes several convenient features. The roll control design helps guide a neat and quick folding process. A notable benefit is the ability to zip two identical bags together to create a double sleeping bag, perfect for sibling campers or for extra room. Weighing 4 pounds, it offers a solid balance of warmth and portability for various outdoor activities.
Coleman Kids 45°F Sleeping Bag for Children
This Coleman sleeping bag offers a slightly warmer option for youth campers, with a comfort rating down to 45°F. It is designed to accommodate growing children, fitting those up to 5 feet 5 inches tall. The simple, effective design is focused on providing reliable warmth for a variety of indoor and outdoor uses.
Ease of use is a highlight, thanks to the Roll Control system integrated into the bag’s lining. This system helps keep the bag straight and even while rolling it up, making the packing process much simpler for kids and parents alike. Like other Coleman bags, it is also machine washable, ensuring it stays fresh and ready for the next adventure with minimal hassle.
TETON Sports Celsius Junior Sleeping Bag
Another excellent offering from TETON Sports, the Celsius Junior model is engineered for young campers needing dependable warmth. It builds on the brand’s reputation for quality with features designed specifically for a child’s camping experience. Expect thoughtful construction that prioritizes both durability and a comfortable night’s sleep.
While specific details for this model are not provided in the brief, TETON Sports is known for features like draft tubes, soft linings, and easy-pack stuff sacks. Their sleeping bags often include interior pockets and two-way zippers for convenience. This bag is likely a strong contender for parents looking for a trusted brand name and a product built to last through multiple seasons of use.
REVALCAMP Kids Sleeping Bag for Camping 40 Degree
The REVALCAMP Kids Sleeping Bag is rated for 40-degree weather, positioning it as a good choice for cool summer nights or early fall camping trips. This temperature rating offers a practical middle ground for families who camp in varying conditions but don’t typically face freezing temperatures.
As a dedicated kids’ sleeping bag, it should feature a size and design appropriate for younger campers. Brands like REVALCAMP often focus on creating lightweight, easy-to-carry bags that don’t sacrifice essential warmth. It is a suitable option to consider for scouts, sleepovers, and family camping adventures where a balance of warmth, weight, and child-friendly sizing is important.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Kids’ Sleeping Bags for Camping
Picking the right sleeping bag for your child isn’t just about grabbing the cutest one off the shelf. A good night’s sleep is the foundation of a happy camping trip, and the wrong bag can lead to a cold, miserable kid (and, let’s be honest, a miserable you). I’ve learned through plenty of trial and error that a few key features make all the difference. Here’s what I always look for when shopping for the best kids’ sleeping bags for camping.
First, temperature rating is king. It’s the most important spec. Bags are rated for a “comfort” temperature, which is the lowest temperature at which the average sleeper will feel warm. If you’re camping in mild summer weather, a 40°F or 50°F bag is perfect. For spring and fall, look for something rated to 30°F or lower. Always choose a bag rated for temperatures colder than you expect. A child who is too warm can unzip the bag, but a child who is too cold will have a very long night. Remember, kids often sleep colder than adults.
Next, consider the shape and size. Mummy-style bags are more thermally efficient, as they hug the body and reduce empty space to heat up. They’re great for colder trips. Rectangular bags offer more room to move and are often preferred by kids who feel confined. Make sure the bag fits your child’s height with a little room to grow, but isn’t excessively large. A bag that’s too big will be cold. Also, check the weight and packed size if you’ll be carrying it in a backpack.
Insulation type is another big decision. Synthetic insulation (like polyester) is my go-to for most family camping. It’s affordable, retains warmth when damp, and is easy to wash. Down insulation is lighter, more compressible, and warmer for its weight, but it loses all insulating power when wet and is usually more expensive. For kids who might get their gear damp, synthetic is often the more practical choice.
Finally, look for kid-friendly features. A soft, comfortable lining feels nice against the skin. A durable, water-resistant outer shell helps with morning dew. A quality, easy-to-use zipper that doesn’t snag is a must. Some bags come with a stuff sack that’s actually easy for little hands to use. I also love bags that can zip together with a sibling’s or parent’s identical bag for extra coziness and reassurance on those first few trips.
FAQ
What temperature rating should I get for summer camping?
For typical summer camping in moderate climates, a bag rated between 40°F and 50°F is usually perfect. Nights can be surprisingly cool, even in summer, especially near lakes or in the mountains. It’s always safer to go with a slightly warmer rating. If your child overheats, they can simply unzip the bag for ventilation.
Are mummy bags or rectangular bags better for kids?
It depends on your child and the weather. Mummy bags are warmer for cold-weather camping because they minimize heat loss. However, some kids find them too restrictive. Rectangular bags offer more freedom to move, roll over, and even sit up inside, which can be comforting for first-time campers. For most family car camping scenarios, a rectangular bag is a fantastic and versatile choice.
How do I clean my child’s sleeping bag?
Always check the manufacturer’s label first. Most synthetic bags can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Use a front-loading washer or a top-loader without an agitator. Tumble dry on low heat with tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff the insulation. For down bags, use a down-specific cleaner. Avoid frequent washing, as it can degrade the insulation. Spot cleaning and using a liner are great ways to extend time between full washes.
Can my child use an adult sleeping bag?
They can, but it’s not ideal. An adult bag will have too much empty space inside, which your child’s body has to heat up, making them feel colder. They can also get tangled in the extra material. A properly sized kids’ bag is safer, warmer, and more comfortable. It’s one of those pieces of gear where the right size truly matters for performance and safety.
What extra gear do we need with a sleeping bag?
A sleeping bag is just one part of the sleep system. A closed-cell foam or inflatable sleeping pad is essential—it provides cushioning and, more importantly, insulation from the cold ground. A stuffable pillow or a rolled-up jacket makes a big comfort difference. For colder trips, having your child wear clean, dry base layers (like long underwear) to bed and a warm hat can make their night much cozier.