Backpacking Light Podcast Episode 120 | Using Quilts in Cold Temperatures
Mar 3, 2025
Dive into the art of staying warm while sleeping outdoors in cold conditions. Discover why quilts can be tricky with drafts and cold pads, and explore four essential components for a flawless sleep system. Learn the benefits of wider quilts and how to effectively choose the right temperature rating. Uncover the advantages of pairing a synthetic outer layer and investing in quality down. Plus, find out how wind impacts heat loss and the best shelters to combat it. Enhance your experience with recommended down hoodies and sleeping pad combinations!
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Choose A Wider Quilt
- Use a wider quilt to avoid compressing insulation and to enable layering under the quilt.
- A wider quilt lets you add puffy layers and extends warmth to much colder temperatures.
Real Example: Quilt Plus Down Parka
- Ryan has regularly taken a wide three-season quilt plus a winter down parka and been comfortable down near 0°F.
- He uses the combination to extend a three-season quilt's usable temperature range down substantially.
Avoid Overly Light Quilts For Cold
- Don't buy the absolute lightest quilt if you plan to push into freezing conditions; aim around a 20°F rating for safety.
- This buffer helps compensate for loft loss from condensation near freezing.