Bedroll vs Sleeping Bag: What Should You Prefer?

Where the emergence of recreational vehicles enhances the comfort of travel, some people still want to be as close to nature as possible. That is why they stick to old-school traveling gear for sleeping outdoors.

Let's explore the best choice of sleeping gear to enjoy the wilderness with increased comfort under the sky.

Here is a detailed comparison between the two popular travel equipment! Bedroll vs Sleeping Bag.

What Should You Know About Bedroll?

Image credit: pathofthepaddle.co.uk

The precedent of the modern sleeping bag, the sleeping gear used by the travelers of the Old West – The Bedroll. Bedrolls are heavy-duty bedding that can be rolled up for outdoor sleeping.

Although its origin is unknown, classic examples like Australian Swag and Cowboy Bedroll show that it was used for many years.

Nowadays, bedrolls are frequently used in conjunction with sleeping bags – either beneath or inside the bag.

The bedroll, consisting of highly durable and waterproof fabric, can survive the rigorous circumstances of trekking and travel.

Nevertheless, visitors prefer to use them in warmer weather mostly. These bedrolls are unfit for cold climates due to their thin interior lining and less comfy fabric.

Campers need to align durable tarps and soft pillows with them to get a cozy sleep. Different materials and various designs of bedrolls cost differently.

Some people chose to make their bedrolls instead of purchasing brand-new products because of their surging prices.

You can make your bedrolls; simply use a foam mattress or other heavy-duty fabrics and save money.

Significant Advantages

Bedrolls can be utilized for your camping nights with or without sleeping bags. The following are some notable benefits of bedrolls:  

• The biggest advantage of bedrolls is their ease of transport. You just roll them up and carry them anywhere you desire.
• High-end bedrolls are fabricated with sturdy, water-resistant, and long-lasting material to avoid any tear.
• You can make a DIY bedroll at your home.

Cons of Bedroll

Traditional bedrolls have some drawbacks as well. Let’s take a look:

• Bedrolls are on the pricier side compared to alternative outdoor sleeping options.
• Not suitable for cold weather due to thin inner linings.

Things to Know About Sleeping Bags

The advent of sleeping bags is traced back to the 19th century when military men mainly used them.

Travelers started to use these bags because of their impressive ability to keep the human body warm, even on chilly nights under the bare sky.

This most commonly used travel gear is shaped as a body wrap bag comprised of synthetic or dawn fill.

The bag with synthetic fill gives maximum warmth even if it is completely soaked in water – since it is made of water-resistant material. On the other hand, down-filled bags will lose their heat when contacted with moisture.

Nowadays, sleeping bags are equipped with cushioned hoods, cord locks, and head drawstrings to lock in the highest heat level and maintain the inner temperature.

Significant Advantages

If you are a camper, you must know the importance of a sleeping bag. Here are several advantages to using it:

• Sleeping bags are available in different shapes and sizes.
• The insulation levels of these bags are convenient for every weather.
• The soft inner lining is perfect for deep sleep.
• Zip, hood, and other accessories make these bags more serviceable.
• There is a sleeping bag to suit every budget.

Cons of the Sleeping Bag

Apart from many benefits, tourists face the following problems with sleeping bags.

• The material of the bag is not long-lasting and wears out quickly.
• They might provide the impression of constraint because you are completely encased in the zipper bag.
• They are bulkier and require compression during transport. 

Comparison of Bedroll and Sleeping Bag

In the modern world, the sleeping bag is the prime ingredient of any camping kit. However, canvas bedrolls were formerly the most popular type of outdoor sleeping apparel.

Durability & Material

Regarding longevity, bedrolls are far ahead with durable materials like oilskin, tarp, canvas, etc.

For example, a Montana canvas outfitter bedroll can withstand water and other harsher conditions at the campsite. In contrast, sleeping bags are made of nylon, polyester, and taffeta, which can tear out more easily.

Warmth and Comfortability

Sleep is essential after a long and exhausting trek. Sleeping bags are at the top of the list for providing a warm and cozy inner environment.

The addition of a sleeping bag amplifies the warmth of your bag. However, the bedrolls cannot be used solely in colder regions; you have to line them with additional layers or use them with a sleeping bag for a better experience.

Size & Transportation

Both sleeping bags and bedrolls are available in different sizes and lengths. You can select the dimensions according to your body size.

In addition, sleeping bags are available in four different shapes: mummy, semi-rectangular, rectangular, kid-sized, etc.

Carrying the bedroll can be problematic due to its heavy weight in contrast to sleeping bags. Furthermore, you can use compression sacks to reduce the volume of your sleeping bags and lift them easily.

Purchase Cost

Sales depend upon the price and quality of a product. The bedroll is considerably cheaper than the sleeping bag, as its construction is uncomplicated and simple.

You can use the roll as a travel bag to save even more money. Conversely, sleeping bags come in different prices, from low to high.

High-end bags with durable outer layers can cost approximately $400. Bedrolls are mainly preferred in outdoor, warmer-weather areas because of their affordability.

Related post: How Much Is a Sleeping Bag

Final Verdict – Bedroll vs Sleeping Bag

It is impractical to say one product is superior and the other is inferior. According to the needs of travelers and campers, both the sleeping bag and the bedroll have usage and importance.

A bedroll is preferred for a hot climate and a rough trek, and a sleeping bag is a better choice to sleep on chilly and freezing nights.

FAQs

When to Avoid Using a Bedroll? 

The rainy areas call for water-resistant gear. However, most bedrolls are waterproof but don't take any risks and use tents and sleeping bags instead.

Moreover, take lightweight sleeping gear instead of heavy rolls if you plan to go on a strenuous hike.

Although these bedrolls are made of durable materials for rough terrain, they are not the best for freezing temperatures.

What Should We Look For When Purchasing a New Sleeping Bag?

Before making a purchase, check the climate of your camping trip destination and select a bag with appropriate temperature ratings. Other things to consider are size, shape, hood, zip, and filling material.