How To Choose a Sleeping Bag for a Kilimanjaro Trek?

Mt. Kilimanjaro is also known as the roof of Africa. It reaches an altitude of 19,340 ft (5,895 m). The weather and temperature conditions vary drastically between the mountain’s lower slopes and its summit. During an ascent, temperatures can easily range between 80 and 20 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Packing the correct sleeping bag is of vital importance on a Kilimanjaro climb. Trekkers will need a bag that can withstand changing temperatures and conditions. A well-suited bag helps to ensure a successful climb. An ill-suited one is almost asking for a miserable misadventure. So, the question begs: What sleeping bag works best?

Both synthetic and down sleeping bags rated at 0 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended for a Kilimanjaro trek.  If a person is a naturally cold sleeper, then a lower rated degree bag (or bag with liner) is recommended.  Let’s look at a few important characteristics of each.

Synthetic mummy shape sleeping bags are often cheaper than their down counterpart.  They also give better insulation when wet; and, they dry quicker and easier than down bags.  Synthetic bags, however, tend to be heavier and larger when compared to downs.

Down mummy shape sleeping bags usually have the best warmth to weight ratio.  They may not perform as well as a synthetic bag in wet conditions, but trekkers can always pack a waterproof sack to protect the bag from getting wet.  Please also keep in mind that some companies do make down sleeping bags made out of hydrophobic down.  This helps retain some vital insulation properties when a down bag becomes wet; and, it also aids in a faster drying process that is close to a synthetic bag.