How to Sleep like a Baby in the Woods
My go to camping sleep setup
Finding a good mattress can be a trick, but finding proper shelter, a sleeping pad, a sleeping bag, and more can be even more difficult. On my first night of solo camping, I broke a tent pole, had to weigh my tent down from blowing away in 30 mph winds, and slept in too cold of temperatures for my $30 sleeping bag. I learned a lot, and I learned fast.
These sleep setup items are what I've found work best for me through much trial and error.
Sleeping Pads
You may be like me and feel that you have the "I'm tough" mentality and act like you don't need a sleeping pad. However, if you're hiking and active all day, nothing is nicer than coming back to camp and having a great sleep. I travel with both a form and an inflatable pad. I could get by on just the foam, but the inflatable is insulated and a nice extra layer to your back. Plus, I like having two sleeping pads when guests join me on the road.
Sleeping Bag Liner
Sleeping bag liners aren't necessary, but I know how my feet look after a long day of hiking. Sleeping bag liners allow you to keep your sleeping bag cleaner and add another layer of heating or cooling. (depending on the weather you're camping in). The liner is just an excellent addition, so you don't have to wash your sleeping bag as much, and it can add another layer of heat if needed.
Sleeping Bags
I'm the type of person who likes to sleep with many blankets and feel cozy and warm. I'd also rather have a warm sleeping bag and sleep on top of it than have a bag that's not warm enough and be too cold. I have never loved a sleeping bag more than the Disco; it's also ideal for side sleepers.
Tent
For car camping, I've primarily used my REI Co-op half dome. While a single person probably doesn't need a two-person tent, I enjoy being able to spread out. However, I wouldn't recommend the Half Dome for backpacking as it does not pack down small, nor is it lightweight. For backpacking, I'd recommend the MSR Zoic Tent. It's pretty cozy for two people, but it's lightweight, you can split it up easily between packs, and incredibly durable.
Pillow
This is the camp item that may make you the happiest. While the stuff sack or a pile of clothes will suffice, treat yourself to a good night's rest with a nice camp pillow.
Light
After a long day of adventuring, I like to return to my campsite to cook, journal, read and plan for the next day's adventures. I spend most nights studying my National Geographic maps and reading my guide books. I'm old school, but with minimal service, you need them. You need a great light to do so, and I love my SOL Venture Light. Not only is it lightweight, but I can hang it from the ceiling of my tent, weigh down my maps and charge my phone with its power bank.
Camping gear is expensive, but getting quality gear is well worth the investment. These are my personal preferences for sleeping gear, but if you're really on the hunt to start camping or looking to upgrade, I'd suggest the following:
Ask your friends who already have gear and ask to try things out.
Join outdoorsy Facebook groups and ask for recommendations. A few of my favorites are Outdoorsy Gals, Women Who Hike (they have regional groups), and hiking groups local to you.
Go in person to outdoorsy stores such as REI, Mountain Equipment Company, and others. Do not be afraid to ask the staff for suggestions. They are there to walk you through everything you may need.
You can check out all my camping gear and more in my Rockporch Locker below!
While the outdoor space may seem daunting to enter, everyone is warm, welcoming, and willing to share their thoughts to help you get started! These are my sleeping gear recs, but many more are to come! Please feel free to ask for what you want to see.
