Best Sleeping Bag Liners for Hot and Cold Weather

A sleeping bag liner is designed to be used on its own or inside your sleeping bag. The best sleeping bag liners can be used all year in different situations. When it’s very hot, backpacking enthusiasts only need to use sleeping bag liners – there’s no need for a sleeping bag itself.

In winter or when it is very cold, a sleeping bag liner helps keep you warmer and can save you from having to wear your clothes while sleeping. In addition, these products keep sleeping bags clean and free of dirt, sweat, and body oils; therefore, you need to clean the sleeping bag less.

If you are hiking or camping (or both) in the offseason with unpredictable weather combining the best summer sleeping bag with a liner provides greater flexibility. Getting a good night’s sleep while multi-day backpacking helps me keep energy levels high during the day; too often, more attention is paid to the gear used during the day.

This is my favorite silk liner, the Sea to Summit sleeping bag liner. Later in the article, I have a brief guide on choosing the best sleeping bag liner, but before we get there, here is my selection of the best sellers on the market, to help you further, I have split them into two groups – silk and other materials.

Best Silk Sleeping Bag Liners Reviews

Cocoon Silk Econmomy Mummy Bag Liner

My first selection is this lovely . With these, you slide in feet first. There is no zipper or side opening. Cocoon offers a large range of liners and travel sheets for different weather and sizes, even for kids.

After a few camping trips with my Cocoon Mummy Coolmax Sleeping Bag Liner, I can confidently say that this is an essential addition to any camper or backpacker’s gear list. This liner not only enhanced my overall sleeping experience but also provided additional benefits that I didn’t expect. Here’s a breakdown of why I’m a big fan of this product:

1. Material and Comfort: The Coolmax fabric used in this liner is a standout feature. It’s soft, breathable, and most importantly, moisture-wicking, which makes it perfect for hot, humid nights or even colder temperatures when you need to stay dry. I never felt clammy or uncomfortable, and I believe it contributed to a better night’s sleep overall.
2. Easy Maintenance: Another great aspect of the Coolmax fabric is its ease of maintenance. It’s machine washable and dries quickly, so it’s a breeze to clean between trips. Plus, it helps protect your sleeping bag from dirt and oils, prolonging its life and reducing the need for frequent washing.
3. Additional Warmth: The Cocoon Mummy liner adds a few extra degrees of warmth to your sleeping bag, making it a versatile option for various weather conditions. I found that it allowed me to use my sleeping bag comfortably in colder temperatures without needing a bulkier, heavier bag.
4. Compact and Lightweight: The liner packs down into a small stuff sack (included) and weighs only 9 ounces, making it an excellent choice for backpackers or anyone looking to save space and weight. I had no trouble fitting it into my pack alongside my other gear.
5. Bug Protection: The liner also provides a layer of protection against insects, which can be a significant concern in some areas. While it’s not a complete solution for bug protection, it does offer an additional barrier to prevent unwanted encounters with creepy crawlies during the night.
6. Compatibility: The Cocoon Mummy Coolmax liner is designed to fit most mummy-style sleeping bags, so compatibility isn’t an issue. It’s also available in various sizes to accommodate different body types, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone.

The only drawback I can think of is the price, which may seem a bit steep for a sleeping bag liner. However, considering the comfort, convenience, and added benefits this product provides, I believe it’s well worth the investment. Overall, I highly recommend the Cocoon Mummy Coolmax Sleeping Bag Liner to anyone looking to enhance their camping or backpacking experience.

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Browint Extra Wide Silk Sleeping Bag Liner

Another one of the envelope-style liners for sleeping bags or can be used on its own in hostels/hotels. This liner is made from AA-grade mulberry silk, the smoothest and strongest silk. This results in a more luxurious feel with the best anti-allergenic and bug repellent performance. This material will keep you drier in warm weather while providing added warmth during colder nights.Again this is machine washable but cannot be tumble dried. Browint offers various types of bag liners made from silk and cotton. One I have not tried yet is the Bamboo liners which are also stretchable. But, as I said, I haven’t tried this, but it is an exciting option.

As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, I have tried many sleeping bag liners over the years. I recently had the pleasure of using the Browint Extra Wide Silk Sleeping Bag Liner during a week-long camping trip and must say, I am thoroughly impressed. This liner delivered an unmatched level of comfort, functionality, and durability, making it a must-have for any camping enthusiast.

Material & Comfort: The Browint liner is made of high-quality, 100% natural mulberry silk, which makes it incredibly soft, lightweight, and breathable. The fabric feels amazing against the skin, adding a touch of luxury to my outdoor adventures. I was pleasantly surprised by how effective it was in regulating my body temperature, keeping me cool on warmer nights and cozy during cooler ones.

Extra Wide Design: One of the standout features of the Browint Silk Sleeping Bag Liner is its extra wide design. Measuring 87″ x 43″ (220 cm x 110 cm), this liner provides ample space for movement, accommodating even the most restless sleepers. The extra roominess not only increases comfort but also reduces the likelihood of the liner twisting around during sleep.

Hygiene & Maintenance: This liner is an excellent barrier between me and the sleeping bag, keeping the bag clean and free of dirt, sweat, and body oils. It is also machine washable, making it a breeze to clean and maintain. I was happy to see that the color didn’t fade and the fabric retained its softness even after multiple washes.

Packing & Portability: Browint’s silk liner comes with a compact, lightweight stuff sack, making it easy to pack and carry. The liner itself weighs only 4.2 ounces (120g), which is perfect for backpacking or other outdoor adventures where minimizing weight is essential.

Versatility: While primarily designed as a sleeping bag liner, the Browint Extra Wide Silk Liner also works perfectly as a standalone sleep sheet when staying in hostels or budget accommodations. It provides a clean and comfortable sleeping surface without adding much bulk to your luggage.

Conclusion: The Browint Extra Wide Silk Sleeping Bag Liner exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort, design, and functionality. It’s not only perfect for camping trips but also versatile enough to be used as a standalone sleep sheet in various situations. I highly recommend this liner to anyone looking to enhance their outdoor sleeping experience with a touch of luxury and comfort.

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Sea to Summit Premium Silk Bag Liner

The Sea to Summit brand has a reputation for excellent products at sensible prices, and this particular product is the best of all silk sleeping bag liners.

After several camping trips using the Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite sleeping bag liner, I can confidently say that it has become my go-to gear for outdoor adventures. Not only is it lightweight and compact, but it also provides an impressive amount of warmth for its size. In this review, I’ll detail my experiences with the liner and why I believe it’s an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

1. Warmth and Comfort:

The most remarkable feature of the Reactor Thermolite sleeping bag liner is its ability to provide substantial warmth despite its thin appearance. The liner is made from a high-quality, hollow-core Thermolite fabric, which effectively traps body heat and provides insulation even in colder environments. On a recent trip with temperatures dipping close to freezing, I noticed a considerable difference in warmth when using the liner inside my sleeping bag. It is estimated to add around 14°F to your sleeping bag’s temperature rating, and from my experience, this holds true.

2. Lightweight and Compact:

Weighing in at a mere 8.7 ounces, the Reactor Thermolite liner hardly adds any bulk to my backpack. When packed into its stuff sack, it compresses down to an impressively small size, allowing me to easily stow it away when not in use. This compactness is a major selling point for me, as I often trek long distances and appreciate any opportunity to reduce the weight of my pack.

3. Versatility:

In addition to its primary function as a sleeping bag liner, the Reactor Thermolite also doubles as a standalone sleep sheet during warmer nights. Its breathability ensures that I remain comfortable and sweat-free on balmy evenings. Moreover, the liner is a great way to keep my sleeping bag clean and hygienic, as it is easily washable.

4. Quality and Durability:

After multiple uses, the Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite liner has shown no signs of wear and tear. The stitching is strong and well-executed, and the fabric is durable and resistant to snags. Furthermore, the drawstring closure at the top allows me to adjust the liner for a snug fit, keeping drafts at bay and ensuring a cozy night’s sleep.

5. Price:

Priced at around $60, the Reactor Thermolite liner might initially seem like an expensive addition to your camping gear. However, considering its ability to extend the temperature range of your sleeping bag, reduce the need for heavier bags, and add a layer of comfort, I believe it’s a worthy investment that will pay for itself in the long run.

In conclusion, the Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite sleeping bag liner is an outstanding piece of gear that has significantly improved the quality of my sleep during camping trips. Its warmth, compactness, versatility, and durability make it an essential companion for any outdoor adventure. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to enhance their camping experience.

With many satisfied customers, this is my top choice, and it’s worth it while not cheap.

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Best Non-Silk/Cotten Sleeping Bag Liners Reviews

Sea to Summit Coolmax Adaptor Liner

Carrying on analyzing the Sea to Summit brand sleeping bag liners, this one is made from “Coolmax Fabric”, a specially developed polyester blend designed to attend to moisture-wicking and keep you as dry as possible and comfortable at the same time.

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Cocoon Mummy Coolmax Sleeping Bag Liner

Another liner that uses Coolmax material it’s 100% polyester and has been developed by DuPont as one of the most effective wicking materials, so is a proven fabric – and features a mummy shape with no side opening. Interestingly we are now moving to EcoMade, which is 100% recycled material. I am falling in love already, but hopefully, all materials will go in this direction.

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Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite Sleeping Bag Liner

Another one from the Sea to Summit range is this design, which is a 100% ‘Thermolite’ polyester material and – as you would expect, very nicely made.

The Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite Sleeping Bag Liner is an outstanding addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection. After putting this liner through its paces during a couple of camping trips and backpacking adventures, I am thrilled to share my experience with it. Offering significant warmth, comfort, and versatility.

Warmth: The Reactor Thermolite sleeping bag liner claims to add up to 14°F of additional warmth, and it certainly lived up to that promise. In cold weather, I found that my sleeping bag alone wasn’t enough to keep me warm and comfortable, but this liner made all the difference. The Thermolite material efficiently traps body heat, ensuring a snug and toasty sleeping experience. It’s perfect for those who tend to get cold easily or want to extend the temperature range of their existing sleeping bags.

Comfort: The liner feels soft and comfortable against the skin, providing a pleasant sleeping environment. It’s also spacious enough to allow for easy movement during the night, preventing that claustrophobic feeling that some liners can cause. The smooth, stretchy material ensures it won’t bunch up or twist, so you won’t have to spend your night adjusting it.

Versatility: One of the best features of the Reactor Thermolite liner is its versatility. It can be used as a standalone sleeping bag in warmer climates or as a liner in colder conditions. Additionally, it acts as a barrier between you and your sleeping bag, keeping the bag clean and reducing the need for frequent washing. This liner also comes with a drawstring hood that helps retain warmth around your head, a crucial factor for staying warm in colder temperatures.

Packability: The Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite sleeping bag liner is impressively lightweight and compact. It comes with a stuff sack, which makes it easy to compress and pack. The small size and minimal weight make it a great addition to your backpacking gear, ensuring that you won’t be burdened by extra bulk on your adventures.

Minor Drawbacks: Although the Reactor Thermolite liner is an excellent product overall, it does have a couple of minor drawbacks. First, the price might be a bit steep for some, especially considering that it’s an accessory rather than a standalone sleeping bag. Second, the liner takes a little longer to dry compared to other liners on the market. However, these issues are minor when considering the overall performance and benefits of the product.

Conclusion: With its exceptional warmth, comfort, and versatility, the Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite sleeping bag liner is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. It significantly enhances the performance of your sleeping bag, making it ideal for cold weather camping and backpacking. Despite a few minor drawbacks, its benefits far outweigh its shortcomings, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to stay warm and cozy during their outdoor adventures.

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The Friendly Swede Sleeping Bag Liner

My next choice comes from The Friendly Swede, a brand with some very nice products of this type. This model sports a side-opening rectangular shape rather than the mummy form. It is 41 × 86”, standard size in this group and folds down to a handy 6 × 8” when in the supplied pocket.

This lightweight, compact, and versatile liner not only adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort but also protects and prolongs the life of your sleeping bag.

The material used for this liner is a soft, breathable polyester that feels great against the skin. It provides a touch of luxury and a sense of cleanliness, especially when you’ve been out in the wilderness for days. The liner is machine washable, which makes cleaning a breeze after a long trip.

The Friendly Swede liner is quite spacious, measuring 105 x 220 cm (41 x 86 inches), allowing for a comfortable sleep even for taller individuals. The integrated pillow pocket is a thoughtful feature that prevents your pillow from slipping during the night. Additionally, the liner comes with a convenient storage bag for easy transportation and packing.

One of the standout features of this sleeping bag liner is the side opening with a Velcro closure. This design makes it easy to get in and out of the liner without feeling constricted. The Velcro is strong and stays securely closed during the night, ensuring a peaceful sleep.

While this liner does provide an extra layer of warmth, it may not be sufficient for extremely cold temperatures. In such cases, it should be paired with a high-quality sleeping bag for maximum warmth and insulation.

The only minor drawback I found was the initial chemical smell upon opening the package. However, this is not uncommon with new products, and it quickly dissipated after washing and airing the liner out.

In conclusion, The Friendly Swede Sleeping Bag Liner is a fantastic investment for campers, backpackers, and travelers alike. It enhances your sleeping experience by providing additional comfort, warmth, and hygiene. With its compact size, lightweight design, and thoughtful features, it’s a must-have for anyone spending nights away from home.

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Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor Fleece Sleeping Bag Liner

While it bears the same name as the sheep’s wooly coat, fleece is actually a synthetic material. It is breathable, warm, and super soft, and that’s precisely why the fleece liners are so popular with mountaineering and hiking enthusiasts.

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ALPS Mountaineering Microfiber Sleeping Bag Liner

This phenomenal camping sleeping bag’s liner is bound to amaze you. As the name suggests, the primary material used in its manufacture is microfiber fleece – it is warm, comfortable, and feels great on the skin.

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That’s my list of liners for sleeping bags, in both silk and other materials, so is there one here for you?

Given that I have included examples of all available types and from some of the top brands, I believe there will be one suitable for your needs and budget.

However, before I try to give you a verdict, here’s a reminder of some of the factors you need to consider: bag liners come in all shapes and sizes and are made from various materials.

Best Sleeping Bag Liners Buying Guide

It’s fair to say that many people overlook this when packing, either for the Camino or any other hiking destination where the weather may be hotter, but once you’ve tried a sleeping bag liner, you will feel the benefits, and it will always be on your packing list.

There are two main types of liner: those designed for the mummy type of sleeping bag and those that fit the envelope or quilt type. I have examples of each on my list so that you can choose from the proper selection.

There is also one other significant distinction – the material.

Sleeping bag liners are either synthetic or silk, and I make no excuses in advising that the silk option is the better choice in many ways. It makes the skin feel cooler which results in less sweating at night. It is softer and more protective against bed bugs and other insects that you certainly don’t want to be bringing home or deal with during the night.

As you will have already read in my reviews, there are a number of factors that will influence your purchase. Let’s have a quick recap as to what the main points are that you should be looking at:

Bag Fit

Liners come in various sizes, and for maximum comfort and convenience, you want to make sure you choose one that is the right fit for your sleeping bag. Also, you must ensure that the liner can accommodate your height if you are exceptionally tall.

Price

The cost of the sleeping bag liner can vary quite notably due to various factors, including the material. It helps to have a budget in mind when you draw up a shortlist.

As you have probably noticed, some of the liners in my roundup have a high cost listed as their main disadvantage. Remember that their priciness also means that they’re well-made, comfortable, and more than capable of adding extra warmth to your bag.

Compactable

You are going to be carrying your liner with your other kit, you want it to be able to be compacted to a small enough size to be practical. Most items on this list are easily folded into packages measuring just a few inches.

Durability

As with all such products, ensure that the one you buy is made to the highest quality and from the right materials for your budget, whether we’re talking about silk, cotton, fleece, or proprietary synthetic materials such as Coolmax.

Male and Female

Most of the liners on my list are suitable for men and women, so the only consideration here is size.

Weight

For the sake of transport, you should always aim for lightweight liners. Fortunately, these products are rarely bulky – they are made from thin materials, and the extra weight they add to your backpack is not something you are likely to feel.

Warmth/Temperature Rating

This is an essential factor as it determines the level of warmth liners add to the sleeping bags they’re used in.

An important thing to mention here is that many campers don’t care much about insulation – they buy liners only to have a protective barrier that adds extra comfort.

Synthetic vs. Silk

I have talked about the benefits of silk over synthetic elsewhere, so needless to say, it is important to stress that silk is better than a synthetic material for many reasons, although it remains a personal choice.

Liner Length and Width

This is decided by your size and your preferred way of sleeping. Some prefer longer and wider, some prefer a snug fit, it’s up to the user.

Storage

This goes hand in hand with the weight of a particular liner, i.e. how compact it is – you want it to be as small as possible when it’s not in use.

That’s my list of things to look out for when choosing one of these, so which is for you? Let’s see if I can give you any help choosing the right one.

Mummy or Quilt

As with your choice of a sleeping bag, the type of liner you choose will also be influenced by your own preferences.

If you’re planning to use the liner primarily with the sleeping bag you use for hiking, your best bet is to go with a mummy-shaped liner – it’s the easiest way to ensure that it will fit nicely into your bag.

While it’s possible to fit rectangular liners into sleeping bags, many hiking enthusiasts buy these for standalone use.

How to Use a Sleeping Bag Liner

It is worth understanding that a liner keeps you warmer in your sleeping bag due to adding an extra layer. So, if you are using the liner in the summer, I suggest ensuring you have a sleeping bag that can zip completely open and be used as a blanket. This way, you can ensure you don’t get too hot during the night. Alternatively, in the summer, in very hot weather, a sleeping bag liner is often all you need at night. The alternative is an ultra-lightweight sleeping bag as it is often cooler for sleeping and takes up much less space in your backpack.

Often sleeping bag liners are used in hostels just to keep your body off the bed that has had many others sleep on during the season.

If you are using a sleeping bag liner to stay warmer in the off-season or cold weather in the winter, first consider an appropriate sleeping bag for the weather as it is a bit less comfortable using a liner. Know your expected weather and temperature and the current rating of your sleeping bag before buying your liner. For example, if you are using a summer sleeping bag and you are sleeping in a mountain hut and expect the temperature at night to drop considerably, then buy one of the fleece sleeping bag liners, not a silk liner.

To use the liner, un-zip your sleeping bag as much as possible and push the liner right to the bottom and corners. It is much easier to do it this way than to force the liner down with your feet and legs. Using this method makes you less likely to tear the liner.

Why Use a Sleeping Bag Liner

Using a sleeping bag liner can provide several benefits. Here are some key reasons to consider using a sleeping bag liner:

1. Improved hygiene: A liner creates a barrier between you and the sleeping bag, keeping it cleaner and reducing the need for frequent washing. This is especially useful when renting a sleeping bag or staying in hostels.
2. Added warmth: Liners can add extra insulation to your sleeping bag, increasing its temperature rating and making it more suitable for colder conditions. Different materials, such as fleece or silk, can provide varying levels of warmth.
3. Increased lifespan: Sleeping bag liners protect the sleeping bag from dirt, sweat, and oils from your body, reducing wear and tear on the fabric and extending its lifespan.
4. Comfort: Liners can provide a softer and more comfortable feel, similar to sleeping between sheets at home. They also help prevent contact with any rough or uncomfortable materials in the sleeping bag.
5. Moisture-wicking: Some liners, especially those made of silk or synthetic materials, can wick moisture away from your body, keeping you drier and more comfortable throughout the night.
6. Versatility: In warm conditions, you can use the liner as a lightweight stand-alone sleep sheet, reducing the need to carry a separate blanket or sleeping bag.
7. Easier maintenance: Liners are typically easier to wash and dry than sleeping bags, making them more convenient to clean while traveling or camping.
8. Allergy-friendly: Liners made from hypoallergenic materials, such as silk, can provide a barrier between you and potential allergens in the sleeping bag or bedding.
9. Bug protection: Some liners come treated with insect repellent, providing added protection against bugs and other pests.
10. Personalization: Liners are available in a variety of materials, colors, and designs, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal preferences and needs.

My Choice of Sleeping Bag Liner

With something such as a sleeping bag liner, it may be challenging to settle on one to recommend. Indeed, if you have a sleeping bag from one of the brands above, it may be worth looking at the liners made by them, as they will likely be optimized for their own products.

With the price of these being very similar – your choice comes down to whether you want a mummy design or side entry and whether you prefer silk or any of the polyester blends.

I have outlined why silk is preferable over materials such as cotton or fleece – it naturally repels insects and is very soft and comfortable – so here’s what I say.

If you want the best sleeping bag liner, you have two choices: for a mummy-type bag liner, have a look at the Sea to Summit Premium model. It’s no.5 in the silk section, is top quality, and you can rely on the brand. If you want a side opening design, no.2 on the silk list, from , is also a very good choice at a sensible price.