Do You Use a Blanket with a Sleeping Bag?

Posted by Holly Walton on 29th Oct 2024

Do You Use a Blanket with a Sleeping Bag?

Using a blanket with a sleeping bag is a common practice among campers looking to maximise warmth and comfort during cold nights. While sleeping bags are typically designed to provide sufficient insulation, layering a blanket over or inside the sleeping bag can add extra warmth and make a big difference in overall comfort. In this guide, we'll discuss why you might want to use a blanket with a sleeping bag, how to do it effectively, and the benefits of combining these two camping essentials.

Why Use a Blanket with a Sleeping Bag?

1. Extra Warmth in Cold Conditions

One of the main reasons for using a blanket with a sleeping bag is to boost warmth. While many sleeping bags are rated for specific temperatures, real-world conditions may differ from the bag's temperature rating. Factors such as wind, humidity, and personal comfort levels can influence how warm a sleeping bag feels. Adding a blanket provides an extra layer of insulation, trapping more heat and helping you stay warm in colder temperatures.

2. Increased Comfort

Sleeping bags can sometimes feel restrictive, particularly mummy-style bags, which are designed to hug the body closely for better insulation. Adding a blanket can make the sleep setup feel more homely and comfortable, offering a familiar layering system similar to what you might use at home. The Blanko camping blanket from OLPRO is a great option for this purpose, as its soft fleece lining provides additional comfort while its water-resistant outer layer protects against dampness.

3. Temperature Regulation

If you're camping in an environment where the temperature fluctuates, a blanket gives you more flexibility for temperature control. You can use the blanket on top of the sleeping bag for added warmth during the coldest part of the night, then remove or adjust it if you start to feel too warm. This adaptability is particularly helpful in transitional seasons like spring or autumn, where the nights may be much colder than the daytime temperatures.

4. Emergency Warmth

Bringing along a blanket as an extra layer can also serve as a backup in case of unexpected weather changes. If temperatures drop more than anticipated, the blanket can be used to provide emergency warmth. The Blanko, with its water-resistant properties, can also be used as a ground cover or windbreak, adding to its versatility in various camping scenarios.

How to Use a Blanket with a Sleeping Bag

If you decide to use a blanket with your sleeping bag, there are several effective ways to layer the two for maximum warmth and comfort:

1. Layer the Blanket Over the Sleeping Bag

The most common approach is to place the blanket over the sleeping bag. This helps to trap warm air inside the sleeping bag while adding an extra layer of insulation on top. It's especially useful for colder nights when you need all the extra warmth you can get. The Blanko camping blanket, with its soft fleece interior, adds a cosy layer while the water-resistant outer shell helps keep moisture out, making it ideal for this setup.

2. Wrap the Blanket Around Your Shoulders

For those who prefer some extra warmth around the upper body, you can wrap the blanket around your shoulders while inside the sleeping bag. This method is useful for people who often feel cold around the neck and shoulders, which can sometimes happen if the sleeping bag doesn’t have an insulated hood.

3. Place the Blanket Inside the Sleeping Bag

Another option is to use the blanket inside the sleeping bag. This creates an extra layer of insulation directly against your body and can make a significant difference on very cold nights. However, be aware that this setup can make the sleeping bag feel a bit more restrictive, so it works best with sleeping bags that have a roomier design.

4. Double Up on the Ground

If you’re camping on particularly cold ground, you can place the blanket underneath the sleeping bag for extra insulation from below. The ground can quickly sap heat from your body, and having a blanket like the Blanko as an additional layer between the ground and your sleeping pad or sleeping bag helps minimise heat loss.

Explore the Blanko Waterproof Camping Blanket

Benefits of Using the Blanko with Your Sleeping Bag

The Blanko camping blanket is an ideal companion for sleeping bags due to its versatile features:

Water-resistant Outer Layer: The outer layer of the Blanko protects against dampness, making it useful as an extra barrier when used over a sleeping bag or on the ground.
Soft Fleece Interior: The fleece lining adds a layer of comfort and warmth that enhances the sleeping experience.
Compact and Portable: The Blanko folds down easily, making it convenient to bring along on any camping trip without adding much bulk to your gear.

When Should You Skip the Blanket?

While using a blanket with a sleeping bag can be beneficial, there are some scenarios where it might not be necessary or could even be counterproductive:

1. Warm Weather Camping

If you're camping in warm weather, adding a blanket may cause overheating. In such cases, you might be better off using a lightweight sleeping bag or simply the blanket on its own.

2. High-Performance Sleeping Bags

If you have a high-performance sleeping bag designed for extremely cold temperatures, adding a blanket may not be needed. Using a blanket inside a highly insulated mummy bag can make it feel too tight and uncomfortable.

3. Weight-Restricted Trips

For backpackers or ultralight campers, every gram counts. If weight is a significant factor, you might opt for a single high-quality sleeping bag that meets the temperature requirements without the need for additional layers.

Discover More Camping Essentials at OLPRO

Tips for Maximising Warmth When Using a Blanket and Sleeping Bag

To get the most out of using a blanket with your sleeping bag, consider these tips:

1. Use a Sleeping Pad

A sleeping pad adds insulation from the cold ground, making your blanket and sleeping bag more effective at retaining heat. Look for pads with higher R-values for better insulation.

2. Wear Warm Clothing

Dressing in thermal layers or wool socks can help keep you warm inside your sleeping bag and blanket setup. The extra insulation from your clothing will complement the layered blankets.

3. Seal the Edges

Make sure the blanket edges are tucked in around your body or under the sleeping bag to prevent heat from escaping. This ensures that you retain as much warmth as possible.

4. Preheat the Sleeping Area

Before going to bed, use a hot water bottle to warm up your sleeping bag and blanket. This can help create a cosy and warm environment for sleeping.