The trek from Tilcara to Calilegua is one of the best treks in Argentina, taking you from the arid mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the lush jungle of the Yungas Jujeñas. In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know to plan and enjoy the trek from Tilcara to Calilegua.

It is ideal for those who are looking for incredible landscapes with the cultural and historical ingredient that is perceived during the whole experience. The trekking is considered demanding: it is approximately 70 kilometers, has a high altitude pass with more than 4100 meters above sea level, steep ascents as well as steep descents throughout the journey.

Why is it one of the best treks in Argentina?

The Tilcara Calilegua trekking is a unique experience involving:

  • Connection with history: You follow in the footsteps of the native peoples who used this route to trade between the ravine and the jungle.
  • Diversity of landscapes: In just a few days, you go from the colorful mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the dense jungle of the Yungas.
  • Physical challenge: Ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking for a demanding but rewarding adventure.
  • Living culture: You get to know small towns, friendly people and traditions that are kept alive.

What is the best time of the year and how long does the tavesia last?

The best time to do this trek is between April and October, when the weather is drier and temperatures are cooler. It is best to avoid the summer months (December to March) because the rains can complicate the trail and make it dangerous.

The tour is done in 4 or 5 days, depending on your pace and how you want to enjoy the experience, although in our proposal for the Trekking from Tilcara to Calilegua you will find a detailed itinerary, below we suggest 3 places to spend the night during the journey:


Wayra wasi: A refuge in the ravine

After overcoming 4000 meters of altitude through the pass of the condor, Wayra wasi is a magical place to rest after a first demanding day of trekking. This small rural outpost is known for its tranquility and breathtaking views of the gorge.

  • What it offers:
    • Shared rustic lodging with bunk beds and mattresses.
    • Possibility to enjoy home-cooked meals.
  • About the location:
    • It is ideal to rest after a first day of trekking.
    • Perfect point to adapt to the rhythm of the crossing.

Molulo: A hidden paradise

As you advance in the trek, the landscape changes, and Molulo is one of the most special stops. This small village is nestled in the transition between the puna and the yungas jungle.

  • What it offers:
    • Simple shared accommodations with bunk beds and mattresses.
    • Total disconnection experience: no cell phone signal, only nature.
    • Possibility of short walks in the surroundings, such as the school or the cemetery.
  • About the location:
    • Ideal to recharge your energy before facing one of the most demanding parts of the trekking.
    • From here, the landscape begins to change, preparing you for the jungle that awaits you in Calilegua.

San Lucas: Discover the mountain jungle

San Lucas is another key point in the trek from Tilcara to Calilegua. This town surrounded by lush vegetation, sounds of nature and lots of tradition, is the last place to stay before the end of the trek.

  • What it offers:
    • Family and economic lodgings, with options for all budgets.
    • Authentic atmosphere full of history and tradition.
    • Homemade food and typical dishes of the region.
  • Why choose San Lucas:
    • It is a strategic place to rest before reaching Peña Alta/San Francisco where the trek concludes.
    • You can learn about life in the villages of the area and share with their inhabitants.
    • You are immersed in the biodiversity of the yungas, with birds, butterflies and impressive vegetation.

What to bring for the Tilcara Calilegua Trekking?

Here is a basic list so that you don’t miss anything, considering that you will eat and sleep in shelters:

  • Footwear: Comfortable, well-worn trekking boots (no new shoes on a long hike).
  • Clothing: Layers for the cold of the altitude and light clothing for the jungle, it is essential to bring a waterproof-breathable layer. We recommend you to read this article on Layered clothing.
  • Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and insect repellent.
  • Equipment: Large backpack, sleeping bag, insulator, capacity to carry up to 3 liters of water and elements to purify it.
  • Food: Energy snacks, nuts, chocolate and light food for the road.
  • Others: First aid kit, GPS/Track on the phone, flashlight and spare batteries.

In our proposal for the Tilcara to Calilegua Trek you will find a complete equipment list.


With or Without Guide?

If you have no experience in trekking or do not know the area, hiring a guide is highly recommended.

In Huka we have the best proposal for you to enjoy trekking from Tilcara to Calilegua guided by professionals in a safe way and without taking care of anything, enjoying and respecting nature and sharing with local people.


Final Tips for Tilcara Calilegua Trekking

  • Train before: This is not a trek for beginners – be prepared!
  • Respect people and nature: Take your garbage with you, don’t make fires and take care of the environment, respect the culture and beliefs of the local people.
  • Hydrate well: At high altitude and with the physical effort, it is key to drink plenty of water. To learn more about how the body reacts to altitude, we recommend reading this article: Preparing body and mind for altitude.
  • Enjoy the process: Don’t rush. Stop to rest, take pictures and connect with nature.

In Summary

The trek from Tilcara to Calilegua is an adventure that challenges you physically and mentally, but gives you landscapes, stories and experiences that you will not forget. It is for those who want to get out of the comfort zone and live something authentic.

Plan your trip, prepare your backpack and dare to live this unique journey! And if you have already done it, tell us your experience in the comments.

See you on the road!

Trekking in Aconcagua

Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in America, is an emblematic destination for trekking and nature lovers. Among the many options it offers, there are two routes that stand out especially for those who want to experience this Andean giant without trying to reach its summit: the Trekking to the Mirador de la Pared Sur and the Trekking to Base Camp (Plaza de Mulas). These experiences allow you to explore and get to know the park’s majestic surroundings, enjoy impressive views of its most important glaciers, and experience the spirit of adventure characteristic of high altitude camps.

Below, we tell you everything you need to know about these two unmissable routes, as well as useful information on prices, equipment and tips for planning your excursion to Cerro Aconcagua.


Aconcagua Short Trek: Viewpoint of the South Wall

The trek to the Aconcagua South Wall Lookout is perfect if you are looking for a few days tour and enjoy the breathtaking views of this mountain. It is one of the most popular options for those who want to experience the park environment without embarking on the long trek to Aconcagua Base Camp, such as Plaza de Mulas.

Technical details of the trekking to the Mirador de la Pared Sur:

  • Duration: 2 to 3 days (round trip).
  • Distance: About 8 to 12 kilometers, depending on the itinerary.
  • Maximum height: Approximately 4,100 meters.
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Ideal for people with no previous experience and good physical condition.

You must spend at least one night at Camp Confluencia. The most exciting point of the tour is to reach the viewpoint, where you will have a privileged view of the imposing South Wall of Mount Aconcagua, one of the most famous and admired faces by mountaineers. From here, you will be able to observe the hanging glaciers and connect with the highest mountain in America.


Trekking to Aconcagua Base Camp: Plaza de Mulas

If you have more time and are looking for a greater challenge, the trek to Aconcagua base camp, known as Plaza de Mulas, is the best alternative. This is the base point for climbers attempting the summit, but it is also a stand-alone attraction for those who wish to enjoy unique landscapes in a multi-day adventure.

Technical details of the trekking to Plaza de Mulas:

  • Duration: 4 to 6 days (round trip).
  • Total distance: Between 35 and 45 kilometers, depending on the itinerary.
  • Maximum height: 4,300 meters (Plaza de Mulas).
  • Difficulty: Moderate, due to the altitude and the distance covered. Ideal for people in good physical condition.

This trek to Aconcagua base camp is ideal if you are looking for a more intense experience. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery and views of the glaciers at base camp, sleeping in Confluencia and visiting the Mirador de la Pared Sur to better acclimatize to the altitude before the ascent to Plaza de Mulas.


Aconcagua 2025 Trekking and Permits Prices

Aconcagua trekking has a cost that varies depending on the duration, the type of route and the services included. Here is an approximate idea of the prices for 2025:

Additionally, aTrekking Permit must be paid to enter the Aconcagua Provincial Park.


Best Time for Trekking Cerro Aconcagua

The austral summer, between December and March, is the best time for any trekking on Mount Aconcagua. During these months, weather conditions are more stable, with higher temperatures and less chance of precipitation.

However, do not forget that temperatures in the mountains can drop rapidly, especially in the afternoon or at night. Always wear appropriate clothing, ideally using the layering system to cope with sudden changes in weather.


Necessary Equipment for the Trekking

Whether you choose to trek to Aconcagua base camp or a shorter route such as the Mirador de la Pared Sur, it is essential to have the right equipment to ensure your safety and comfort:

  • Footwear: Waterproof and comfortable trekking boots.
  • Clothing: Layered clothing (warm clothes, waterproof jacket, gloves, hat).
  • Hydration: Water bottles and water purification tablets, as mountain water may not be safe to drink untreated.
  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, hat and high protection sunscreen.
  • Specific equipment: trekking poles, 30-40 liter backpack, warm and insulating sleeping bag (if you sleep in a tent).

Frequently Asked Questions about Aconcagua Trekking

Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Aconcagua trekking?

It is not mandatory for shorter routes, but it is recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the terrain. For longer routes, such as the hike to Aconcagua base camp (Plaza de Mulas), an experienced guide is suggested.

2. Is there wifi or cellular signal in the Aconcagua campsites?

Limited wifi services are available at some of the main campsites, such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas. Cellular signal is very weak or non-existent in most of the park, so it is advisable not to rely on it and to plan any important communication before entering the park.

3. What services are available at the Aconcagua camps?

In campsites such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas, you will find basic services and some additional ones:

  • Chemical or ecological toilets: Available in all main camps.
  • Rest areas: Domes or tents equipped for resting, with 220v electricity and wi-fi.
  • Meals: The guided services include full board during the trekking.
  • Medical assistance: There are medical checkpoints at the main camps to monitor acclimatization and attend to emergencies.

How long does it take to acclimatize?

Acclimatization depends on each person, but we recommend at least one day of rest at an intermediate camp such as Confluencia, before continuing on to Plaza de Mulas or higher altitudes.

5. What kind of food should I bring for the trekking?

For day treks, you can carry a light lunch, energy snacks such as granola bars, nuts and dried fruits. For longer routes such as base camp, it is advisable to bring light, easy to prepare and high in calories. If you hire an agency, meals are included in the service, which is an advantage for not carrying so much weight.

6. How cold can it get during the trekking?

Temperatures on Aconcagua vary depending on altitude and time of day. On the Mirador de la Pared Sur trek, temperatures can range from 5°C to 20°C during the day, but drop to near 0°C at night. At Plaza de Mulas, nights tend to be much colder, with temperatures reaching -10 °C or lower. Wear appropriate clothing to cope with these changes.

7. Are mules available to transport equipment?

Yes, on the trek to Plaza de Mulas base camp you can hire the services of mules to transport your equipment and reduce the weight to be carried. The price of this service varies according to the distance and the total weight to be transported.

8. What happens if I feel sick during the trek?

If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness or any other physical problem, it is important to report it immediately to your guide or camp staff. At the main camps such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas, there are medical checkpoints where your condition can be evaluated and, if necessary, a descent can be coordinated for your safety.


Why Choose Aconcagua for Your Next Adventure?

The Cerro Aconcagua treks are not only a sporting experience, but an opportunity to connect with America’s highest mountain at its best. From short routes like theShort Trek to the Mirador de la Pared Sur to longer challenges like theAconcagua Base Camp Hike, this mountain has something to offer to all levels of adventurers.

Now you know everything you need for your trekking to Mount Aconcagua, get ready, pack your backpack and live an unforgettable experience in the Mendocino Andes!

Moderate (3+)
5 days | 4 nights

In 2023, more than 4 million visitors were recorded in National Parks alone. Year after year, our love of the outdoors takes its toll on nature: areas impacted with trash of all kinds, human waste, invasive species, habituated wildlife, eroding trails, contaminated water sources and more. While those of us who participate in these activities have no intention of harming the natural environment, we may not have the knowledge to preserve it either. So-called low-impact practices allow us to enjoy and protect our natural spaces.

One of the most impacted practices we observe every time we go on outings is the mountain, is the correct disposal of waste and garbage. This principle applies to everything from toilet paper and wet wipes to tampons, etc.

In some very affected natural areas or high altitude camps, as for example in the Cordón del Plata Provincial Park or Cerro Penitentes, we are required to lower our poop 💩: for this, the use of the Caca-Tubo is essential.

Did you know that Salmonella bacteria can live up to 51 weeks inside a 20cm deep hole in high mountain environments?

Let alone if it’s just under a rock or flying through the air on toilet paper… poop contaminates running water sources, groundwater and the snow that we need so much at altitude to properly hydrate ourselves. It also dangerously exposes us to pathogens from fecal matter, not to mention disturbing soils and wildlife health.

With these simple steps, you will be able to have your own Caca-Tubo ready to take care of yourself and nature on your mountain outings 💚🗻 .

Materials needed

  • One 110 mm diameter PVC pipe. You can find it in hardware stores or plumbing and building supply stores.
  • Two caps of the same diameter as the PVC pipe, to seal both ends.
  • Resistant glue for PVC.
  • Large individual bags to wrap waste, preferably biodegradable.

Steps to assemble the Poop Tube

  1. Clean the PVC pipe and make sure it is free of debris or impurities.
  2. Take one of the caps and attach it firmly to one end of the tube using the glue. Make sure the seal is airtight.
  3. The other cap will be used to open and close the tube, so it is not attached to either end. You can add a small cordin to the lid to help you open it.
  4. Slightly puncture one of the caps to allow air to circulate and avoid creating a vacuum when sealing the tube with the bags.
  5. You will need a large bag to line the inside of the Poop Tube and smaller bags for the poop.

How to use the poop-tube?

  1. Open the lid of your poop-tube and unroll the large bag.
  2. To make your needs, you have 2 options to choose from:
    1. Open a plastic bag on the floor and do your business! 🎯
    2. Do your business on the floor and then pick it up with the bag.
  3. Close the bag with a knot, making sure that it is not inflated with air inside and that the plastic does not break.
  4. Place the bag inside the Poop-Tube and put the lid on.
  5. To avoid bad odors, you can grind an aspirin and place it inside the bag. You can also include a tablespoon of lime or even “diatomite” cat pebbles to help control odors.

Additional information

November 2022 – Huka Newsletter, mountain and adventure.

Now we have stickers!

TO TAKE US ALWAYS WITH YOU

We are super excited about this news!

Thinking and designing our stickers was an experience we loved. Each one has something special and connects us with the love we feel for nature and adventure. Today we share with you, as a preview, this bike full of colors and desire to go out and pedal. We know: you loved it and want to know the whole family of Huka stickers. But be patient, just like in the mountains!

Very soon they will be part of our outings and you will be able to have your favorite to stick in your thermos.

What you can't miss

HUKA RECOMMENDS

At Huka we know that life isn’t all about being outdoors all the time and that sometimes there’s no better plan than ending the day with a good movie and a pint of ice cream. For those nights to stay at home and enjoy the comfort of the couch, we have a Netflix documentary to recommend that will leave you breathless until the end. And the metaphor of “running out of air” is perfect, because it is “The 14 eight-thousanders”, the story of the Nepalese mountaineer Nimsdai Purja, who one fine day woke up and said “I want to reach the top of the 14 summits of 8000 meters in the world, in 7 months”. That is, all very calm, as you will see. This story seems incredible, but it is real! What happens after that, you have to see it with your own eyes, because we don’t want to spoil a single minute of it. And the best thing is that, in addition to a tremendous adrenaline rush, this movie gives you beautiful images of the highest mountains in the world. Watch it, and we’ll talk about it later when we see each other on an outing!

Huka's tips

FROM OUR BLOG

Have you ever heard of low-impact practices? Perhaps it is a name that may sound strange. Someone might confuse it with a sporting activity where there is no jumping or running, for example, and it has nothing to do with that. The “low impact practices” or “minimal impact” in outdoor recreational activities are the principles that we have to respect in order to “leave no trace” in our passage through nature. It is very important to know these rules and learn them, so that all the activities we do do do not damage or alter the balance of the ecosystem. Sometimes we think we have a clear idea about this, but there are many details to take into account and there is always something more to learn. Therefore, we share with you a very complete note that we uploaded to our blog, full of info and tips to “put in the backpack” and take to all your outings.

Read complete note

 

 

We are often asked about certain items in our Outing Gear Lists , here are some examples of our favorite gear!

Recommended equipment for trekking

  • Large backpack (+65 liters)

    • Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre 75
    • Gregory Baltoro 65:85lt

Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre 65:85 AXIOM - Naka Outdoors - Climbing store

  • Trekking poles

😉 tip: clip-on systems are generally more durable than screw-on systems.

    • Black Diamond telescopic with loops
    • Naturehike telescopic with loops

Black Diamond Poles Trail Trekking Poles Red (Pair)Naturehike ST01 Aluminum 3 sections Lady - Naturehike Argentina

  • Crossing picket

    • Grivel Zero 74cm
    • Petzl Glacier 68cm

Grivel Piolet : Amazon.com: Sports and Outdoors Petzl 75 Cm Traverse Pickaxe | Free shipping

  • Crampons

😉 tip: automatic and semi-automatic crampons can only be used on footwear that supports such adjustments.

    • Grivel G10 Tape 10 tips
    • Edelrid Shark Semiautomatic 12 points

Grivel Crampons G10 New Classic Black | TrekkinnEdelrid Shark 12 points

Recommended camping equipment

  • Warm sleeping bag

😉 tip: sleeping bags should always report the ‘comfort’ and ‘limit’ temperature range.

    • Ansilta Andes feather filling (-13° Comfort)
    • Altus Tibet 1800 synthetic padding (-11° Limit)

Andes Sleeping Bag - Ansilta Venta Online - Indumentaria Técnica de MontañaSleeping Bag Altus Tibet 1800 (-11° Limit) | Free shipping

  • Insulation

😉 tip: inflatable inflatable mattresses should always have a protection underneath to avoid punctures.

    • Therm-a-rest Z Lite Sun R-value of 2.0
    • Sea to Summit Ether Light XT inflatable inflatable 2.0 R-value

Therm-a-rest Z Lite Sol™ | BarrabesSea To Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Inflatable Insulated Mat - Broni

  • Headlamp

😉 tip: we must always have spare batteries

    • BlackDiamond REVOLT
    • Petzl Tikka

BlackDiamond REVOLT 300 Headlamp - KOALA SportsTIKKA 300 L Hybrid Headlamp - Petzl + - Rupal Mountain Gear

Clothing

😉 Tip: The key to your comfort during an active trip is to wear layers (see Layering Clothing Basics).

  • Multifunction Collar

    • Buff

All Sailing | Buff Collar

  • Waterproof jacket

    • Ansilta Ghost Gore-Tex membrane
    • Patagonia Torrentshell membrane H2No

Ghost 4 Gore-Tex® 3c Cknit trekking jacket - Ansilta Venta Online - Technical Mountain ClothingPATAGONIA Men's Outdoor Jacket PATAGONIA Torrentshell 3l Jkt | Regenjacke, Patagonia jacke, Jacken

  • Warm jacket

    • Patagonia Hi-Loft Down Hoody down-filled hoody
    • Raab Cirrus Alpine synthetic padding

Jobb og Fritid - Patagonia W Hi-Loft Down HoodyRab Cirrus Alpine Jacket W | Barrabes

  • Warm gloves

    • Ansilta Antarctica feather-filled mittens
    • Black Diamond Guide synthetic padding gloves

Mittens Ansilta Antarctica Duvet - Windstopper - Naka Outdoors - Climbing storeBlack diamond Guide Gloves Yellow | Snowinn

  • Rigid mountain boots

    • Boreal Maipo
    • La Sportiva Nepal Extreme

Mountain Boots - Waterproof Gramponeables - Maipo - Boreal for sale in Río Cuarto Córdoba for only $ 46,500.00 - OCompra.com ArgentinaLa Sportiva Nepal Extreme - Mountaineering boots Men's | Free EU Delivery | Bergfreunde.eu

When we go out into nature in search of starry skies, one of the most important decisions we must make is which sleeping bag to take.

A good sleeping system for sleeping in nature pays off in comfortable and restful hours of sleep.

These are the key factors to take into account:

  • Temperature ranges: It is advisable to choose a bag rated slightly below the typical/expected outdoor temperature.
  • Sleeping system: In addition to the sleeping bag, it is essential to have a good insulator.
  • Padding: Foam or synthetic? Several factors play a role here, such as heat containment power, compression, durability, weather conditions and humane treatment of the animals.
  • Weight: A bag needs more insulation material to have a lower (i.e. warmer) temperature rating. Therefore, we should compare the weight between bags with similar temperature ratings.
  • Other features: types of adjustment, fabric types, hidden pockets, pillow compatibility, etc.

Sleeping bag temperature ranges

The temperature ratings of a sleeping bag identify the temperatures for which it was designed. It is always advisable to choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating a few degrees lower than the lowest temperature we expect to encounter. For this task, it is important to understand temperature ranges and their terms:

  • An ISO or EN approved temperature range indicates that two sleeping bags can be reliably compared with respect to the manufacturer’s temperature specification. These standardized tests ensure that temperature ranges can be reliably compared between manufacturers (brands).
  • Based on ISO/EN standardized tests, the bag is assigned temperature ranges: maximum, comfort, limit and extreme.
    • The “comfort” rating is the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep a cold person comfortable during sleep and is usually associated with the comfort temperature for a woman.
    • The “limit” rating is the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep a person who is not usually cold at night comfortable and is generally assigned to the comfort temperature for a man.
    • The “maximum” rating is optional and indicates up to which temperatures the bag does not generate excess heat; while the “extreme” temperature is for survival for 6 hours without going into hypothermia. Outside these ranges it is not possible to fall asleep.

Rest system

The sensation of cold when sleeping depends on many variables, including humidity, wind, type of shelter and soil conditions. However, it is the sleeping system that is critical. This system has three basic components: 1) the sleeping bag, 2) the insulation and 3) the clothing.

If we use an insulator with poor insulating power in cold temperatures, the sleeping bag will not live up to its rating. The rating of a sleeping bag is based on a person wearing full-length underwear and socks, along with an insulator for extreme conditions.

Insulation, clothing and bag work together. In this table, we show you how they should be complemented, depending on the weather conditions:

CONDITIONS WARM TEMPERATE COLD EXTREME
Expected nighttime minimum 10°C 0°C -7°C -18°C
Insulation
(R* value)
less than 2 2-3,9 4-5,4 5,5+
Bag: temperature classification 0°C or less -5°C or less -10°C or less -18°C or less

*The value of R is a measure of how well a surface barrier, i.e. a layer of insulation, resists the heat-conducting flow.

Recommendation: if you usually feel hot when sleeping, take into account the “limit” temperature of the range. If you usually feel cold when sleeping, go for the “comfort” temperature.

Fillers

These are the most important differences between feather and synthetic fillings:

FILL Key benefit
Pen
  • Light
  • Easy to compress
  • It excels in cold and dry conditions.
  • Durable
Synthetic
  • Fast drying
  • Insulates when wet
  • Ideal for wet conditions
  • Hypoallergenic

Some additional details about each type of filler: Feather: On average, it is more expensive than synthetic fillers, lighter and more durable. When comparing qualities, we can focus on these points:

  • What doesfill powermean? It is a specification that indicates the quality of the material. If the number is higher, it is because it generates more warmth.
  • Is there such a thing as water resistant down? Yes, some manufacturers use feather fillings that have a water repellent treatment.
  • What is RDS/TDS and how does it relate to the humane treatment of animals? Indicates that bag manufacturers have taken steps to ensure the humane treatment of the ducks and geese that produce the material through the following programs: RDS (Responsible Down Standard) and TDS (global Traceable Down Standard).

Synthetic: Offers solid performance at an affordable price. Unlike down, it continues to keep you warm when wet, making it the best choice for humid climates. Most of these fillings are polyester-based.

The filler is what determines the size of the bag when compressed. Therefore, we must compare “compressed volume” specifications to understand the size differences between bags.

Weight of the sleeping bag

The most important factors are the filling and shape. Advanced synthetics and feathers with high filling power provide more warmth for less weight. Fill weight: The total weight of the bag is what matters when carrying a bag in a backpack. However, some manufacturers also indicate the weight of the filler, i.e. the insulating material of the bag. In non-approved bags, we can use this value as an indicator of the warmth capacity (if it has more padding, it will be warmer). Bag shape: Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes.

  • Mummy: In order to increase warmth and reduce weight, this bag has a slim fit, with a contoured hood that can be adjusted. The fit is ‘to the body’ and, if we turn to change position, we will do so next to the bag.
  • Semi-rectangular: Also known as “modified mummy” or “barrel”. Offers a balance between warmth and comfort.
  • RectangularCamping bags: Generally, these are camping bags. They offer comfort of movement when sleeping, but are heavier.

All sleeping bags keep you comfortable, because they retain the air heated by your own body. But this task is easier in a small space like a “mummy” bag, and more difficult in a large space, as is the case with rectangular formats.

Finally, we must consider what is the most appropriate size. Most bags come in regular and long sizes, although there are shorter variations for smaller people.

Additional features

Adjustable hood: Provides extra warmth, especially when the collar is adjusted around the head and only the nose and mouth are uncovered. Draft blocking: Air tubes run the length of the bag behind the zipper to prevent warm air from escaping. Anti-zip closure: Some bags protect the closures with a full-length zipper protector. Left or right zipper: Intended for ‘joining’ sleeping bags. One person has a bag with a zipper on the left, the other has a bag with a zipper on the right, and a special zipper joins the two bags together. However, it creates additional air space inside and limits the comfort of movement. Hidden pocket: Generally located on the chest, it is useful to protect items such as a watch, headlamp, GPS and extra batteries from the cold. Pillow pocket: Some bags include this pocket in the hood that allows you to tuck clothing inside. Sleeping bag outer shell: Usually made of rip-stop nylon or polyester. Some are treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish to keep out moisture.

Accessories

Compression bag: These are cloth bags with straps to easily compress the bag. Resting bag: Leaving a sleeping bag compressed for long periods of time affects its ability to insulate. For that, large bags are used where the bag can be stored without being compressed. Thermal bag liner: This is a cylindrical fabric envelope that slides inside the bag, helping to minimize wear and tear and keep the bag clean.