A sleeping bag liner is designed to go inside your backpacking 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 where it is very cold, a sleeping bag liner helps keep you warmer and can save you from having to wear your clothes while sleeping at night. In addition, these products keep sleeping bags free of dirt, sweat, and body oils.
If you are hiking or camping (or both) in the offseason with unpredictable weather, fall or spring, then 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 high energy levels during the day and too often more attention is paid to the gear used during the day.
If you don’t want to read all the reviews below this is my favorite – the . Later in the article, I have a brief guide on how to choose 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.
Table of Contents
- 1 Best Silk Sleeping Bag Liners Reviews
- 1.1 Cocoon Silk Mummy Bag Liner
- 1.1.1 Key Features
- 1.2 Kingdom Outdoor Gear Mulberry Silk Rectangular
- 1.2.1 Key Features
- 1.3 Browint Silk Sleeping Bag Liner
- 1.3.1 Key Features
- 1.4 Exploren Extra Long Silk Liner
- 1.4.1 Key Features
- 1.5 Sea to Summit Premium Silk Bag Liner
- 1.5.1 Key Features
- 1.1 Cocoon Silk Mummy Bag Liner
- 2 Best Non-Silk/Cotten Sleeping Bag Liners Reviews
- 2.1 Sea to Summit Coolmax Adaptor Liner
- 2.1.1 Key Features
- 2.2 Cocoon Mummy Sleeping Bag Liner
- 2.2.1 Key Features
- 2.3 Sea to Summit Reactor Thermalite
- 2.3.1 Key Features
- 2.4 The Friendly Swede Sleeping Bag Liner
- 2.4.1 Key Features
- 2.5 Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor Fleece
- 2.5.1 Key Features
- 2.6 ALPS Mountaineering Microfiber
- 2.6.1 Key Features:
- 2.1 Sea to Summit Coolmax Adaptor Liner
- 3 Best Sleeping Bag Liners Buying Guide
- 3.1 Bag Fit
- 3.2 Price
- 3.3 Compactable
- 3.4 Durability
- 3.5 Male and Female
- 3.6 Weight
- 3.7 Warmth/Temperature Rating
- 3.8 Synthetic vs. Silk
- 3.9 Liner Length and Width
- 3.10 Storage
- 3.11 Mummy or Quilt
- 4 My Choice of Sleeping Bag Liner
- 4.1 Share the love:
Best Silk Sleeping Bag Liners Reviews
Cocoon Silk Mummy Bag Liner
Key Features
- Ripstop silk
- 95 inches long
- Silk mummy liner
- 200g weight
- Compact when packed
Pros:
- Increases the bag’s temperature by 9.5 degrees Fahrenheit
- Rip-resistant silk – great for rugged backpacking trips
- Compact when packed into a stuff sack
Cons:
- Could be a bit more stretchy
My first selection is this very nice, simple silk mummy-shaped sleeping bag liner. With these, you slide in feet first and they are all-enveloping in terms of comfort, there is no zipper or side opening.
One of the best silk liners in our roundup, this model is made from rip-resistant silk, and this material is stronger than the usual kind of silk and therefore more durable and tear-resistant. It is 4 x 8 x 8 inches when packed into the stuff sack, so nice and compact.
The dimensions of the Cocoon Silk Mummy Bag liner measure 95” x 22” and its weight stands at 200g. It’s a high-quality item in every way. This is one you should consider at a very reasonable price – liners made by Cocoon are rarely a bad choice.
Kingdom Outdoor Gear Mulberry Silk Rectangular
Key Features
- Mulberry silk
- Envelope style
- 85” long
- 300g weight
- Zips
- Stuff sack
Pros:
- Luxuriously soft material provides extra warmth
- Convenient side-opening design
- Includes a ripstop-nylon stuff sack
Cons:
- Expensive
This silk sleeping bag liner bears the standard rectangular shape, so you have side openings which use a good quality zipper. It’s made from very soft, 100% mulberry silk which is excellent for allergies, and is hostel-approved as it should be resistant to bed bugs.
You have a three-side zip to secure the liner, and it is 85” long by 37” wide – not the longest (and therefore not suitable for restless sleepers) but should be fine for a liner. Its weight stands somewhere in the region of 300g and is very compact when packed.
Great quality, although it comes at an extra cost. However, the price is totally justified here – this is, after all, one of the market’s best silk liners. If you’re a backpacking or camping enthusiast, this is one of the best sleeping bag liners you can get and a model that will surely provide you with extra warmth during your adventures.
Browint Silk Sleeping Bag Liner
Key Features
- 100% silk
- No zips
- 180g
- 87” deep
- Very compact
- Pillow pocket
Pros:
- Provides warmth during colder backpacking nights
- Can be compacted down to a very small size
- Impressive anti-allergenic performance
Cons:
- Wrinkles easily
Another one of the envelope style liners for sleeping bags, this one is from a well-known brand that has a reputation for great products.
It measures 87 × 43”, and is made from 100% natural AA grade mulberry silk for the best anti-allergenic performance and bug repellent. This is a material that will keep you drier in warm weather, while also providing added warmth during colder nights.
It can be compacted down to a very small size and weighs – with the bag – just 180g, and is a slip-in version with no zips, and comes with a handy pillow pocket.
Exploren Extra Long Silk Liner
Key Features
- 100% silk
- 6’11”
- 7 × 5” when packed
- 200g
- Quality construction
Pros:
- Made from a moisture-wicking, naturally hypoallergenic material
- Generously large & easy-to-use side opening
- Great for taller mountaineering enthusiasts
Cons:
- Pricey
This one is a similar design to the above – it’s one of those rectangular sleeping bag liners that have no zips but come with a side opening that is easy to use.
It differs to many though in that it is deliberately large: it measures 6′ 11” in length, and 3′ 7” in width, and yet folds down to a package of 7” x 5” for carriage, and weighs in at just 200g, so it’s very lightweight.
It’s made from 100% mulberry silk, is a quality item and while it’s one that comes at an extra cost, it’s definitely worth a second look.
Sea to Summit Premium Silk Bag Liner
Key Features
- Ripstop silk
- Good size
- Very small when packed
- 140g
- Quality item
Pros:
- Durable liner for demanding backcountry trips
- Packable yet suitable for taller users
- Lots of colors and designs to choose from
Cons:
- Expensive
The Sea to Summit brand has a reputation for excellent products at sensible prices, and this particular product is one of the best sleeping bag liners
It is, as are all, made from 100% silk – Ripstop in this case – and is neatly made with top-quality materials. It measures 6′ 10”, so is suitable for taller users, yet packs down into a tiny 4.5 x 4 x 2.5” case, and weighs an amazing 140g.
With many satisfied customers, this one must be among the top choices you can make, and while not a bargain-basement price, it’s worth it.
Best Non-Silk/Cotten Sleeping Bag Liners Reviews
Sea to Summit Coolmax Adaptor Liner
Key Features
- Coolmax brand
- 240g
- Very compact
- Moisture-wicking
- Insect shield
Pros:
- The best sleeping bag liner for bug-free sleep
- Moisture-wicking Coolmax fabric for warm weather
- Quick-drying & machine-washable
Cons:
- Somewhat restrictive
Carrying on with analyzing Sea to Summit sleeping bag liners, this one is made from the so-called “Coolmax Fabric”, a specially developed blend designed to attend to moisture-wicking and to keep the user as dry as possible and comfortable at the same time.
It is designed with an insect shield, is durable and soft, and this mummy version is 6′ 4” long. It folds into a packet of 6.5 × 4”, and weighs just 240g, and at the price is certainly worth looking at. The Coolmax Adaptor liner is also machine-washable – once your hiking adventure is over, simply throw this liner into your washing machine.
This “insect shield” that we’ve mentioned is actually a permethrin treatment that successfully keeps the nasty bugs at bay. After a long day of hiking/backpacking, the last thing you need is an insect invasion – your camping nights will surely be much more pleasant with the help of this model’s insect shield feature.
Cocoon Mummy Sleeping Bag Liner
Key Features
- Coolmax
- 87” long
- Mummy shape liner – no zips
- 180g
- Great price
Pros:
- Uses Coolmax – one of the most effective materials of its kind
- Accommodates sleepers of shapes & sizes
- Packs small and wicks well
Cons:
- Thinner than expected
Another liner that uses Coolmax material – to make it clear, it’s mainly polyester and has been developed by DuPont as one of the most effective materials of its kind, so is a proven fabric – and features a mummy shape with no side opening.
It is 87 inches long – that’s well over 6ft so should accommodate all, even the most restless sleepers – and packs to a size of 3 x 8 x 10 inches and weighs just 180g. In other words, it stays lightweight in transit.
This Cocoon Silk sleeping bag liner is undoubtedly a phenomenal backpacking mummy liner and one that comes at a very competitive price.
Sea to Summit Reactor Thermalite
Key Features
- Thermolite fabric
- 7′ long
- Brand name
- Lightweight
- Very compact
- No zips
Pros:
- Suitably lightweight and packable for thru-hiking
- Adds up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit to a sleeping bag
- Soft and stretchy Thermolite fabric
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide as much warmth as expected
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.
This one is a mummy liner – there are no zips here, and it has a foot box for added comfort, and it measures 7′ in length. It packs down to an amazing 3 × 5”, and weighs just 225g so is suitably lightweight, and is favorably scored by many satisfied users.
Sea to Summit Reactor Thermolite is not expensive either, so is certainly worth considering, especially given it’s from a top-of-the-line brand. Keep in mind that the Reactor Extreme variant is also available – it will add 25 degrees Fahrenheit of warmth to your sleeping bag.
The Friendly Swede Sleeping Bag Liner
Key Features
- Polyester
- 237g
- 86” long
- Side opening
- Velcro
- Very affordable
Pros:
- Made out of easy-clean & durable polyester
- Packs down into its 6” × 8” pocket
- Features a Velcro side opening
Cons:
- Not very breathable
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”, so a standard size in this group, and folds down to a handy 6 × 8” when in the supplied pocket.
It is made of polyester for softness, protection, and durability, weighs just 237g, and is nicely made. The side opening makes it easy to get into and a Velcro closure is more comfortable than zips.
It’s basic, simple, yet good and very affordable.
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor Fleece
Key Features
- Quality fleece as the main material
- Adds up to 25 degrees of warmth
- Low weight
- Extra comfortable
- Length of 78”
Pros:
- Fleece construction for maximum comfort and warmth
- Great for colder mountaineering trips
- Helps keep the bag clean
Cons:
- Bulkier than most synthetic liners
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.
This Sea to Summit fleece liner is a heavy-duty product that provides a sufficient amount of warmth and can, therefore, be used on its own. Its weight stands at 420g and its length at 78 inches. Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor Fleece sports a mummy shape, just like most of the silk and cotton liners on my list.
The quarter-zip of this fleece liner makes getting in and out of the liner exceptionally easy. I also liked the paneled hood as well as the fact that the model is very easy to wash.
ALPS Mountaineering Microfiber
Key Features:
- Microfiber fabric
- 80” long
- 5 separating zippers
- Weight of 595 grams
- Rectangle style
- Stuff sack included
Pros:
- Designed to keep your sleep system warm and comfortable
- A polyester-cotton version is also available
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- On the heavy side
This phenomenal camping sleeping bag’s liner is bound to amaze you. As the name suggests, the main material used in its manufacture is microfiber fleece – it is warm, comfortable, and feels great on the skin.
ALPS Mountaineering Microfiber has a weight of 1 pound and 5 ounces, and its total length stands at 80 inches. Besides the fact that it provides its user with a sufficient amount of warmth, this microfiber liner is also very practical – it comes with a stuff sack and it’s equipped with five separating zippers.
Another great thing about ALPS Mountaineering Microfiber is that it’s quick-drying and very durable – it’s a perfect choice for any serious backpacking adventure. The model is also available in a polyester-cotton variant.
That’s my list of liners for sleeping bags, in both silk and other materials, so is there one here for you?
Given the fact 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 and give you a verdict, here’s a reminder of some of the factors you need to consider – after all, 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 for 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 you can choose from the right selection.
There is also one other major 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. And, during colder weather, it will keep you warmer. It is softer, and it is also more protective against bed bugs and other insects which 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 a variety of 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 need to make sure that the liner can accommodate your height if you are particularly tall.
Price
The cost of the sleeping bag liner can vary quite notably due to various factors, including the material. It helps if you 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. Keep in mind 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 of the 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 featured on my list are suitable for both 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 important 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 that 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 you are 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.
In case 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 make sure that it will fit well into your bag.
While it’s entirely possible to fit rectangular liners into sleeping bags as well, a lot of hiking enthusiasts buy these for standalone use.
Other sleeping bag reviews:
- Best Three Season Sleeping Bag
- Best Double Sleeping Bag
- Down vs Synthetic Sleeping Bag
- Best Winter Sleeping Bag
- Backpacking Quilt vs Sleeping Bag
- Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads
- Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags
- Best Backpacking Pillows
- Best Backpacking Quilt
My Choice of Sleeping Bag Liner
With something such as a sleeping bag liner, it may be difficult 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.
Other posts in this series include the best cold weather sleeping bag and the best sleeping bag for under $100.
Leslie GilmourI love hiking. From the Camino de Santiago to the West Highland Way in Scotland or simply a great day hike on the weekend. Hiking refreshes me, my mind, and keeps my body reasonably fit. So far I have walked three Camino routes and many other long distance hikes in the UK, Canada, and around the rest of Europe. One of the best was my hike up Ben Nevis.
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Ten articles before and after
How to Choose a Sleeping Bag for Camping & Backpacking
10 Best Summer Sleeping Bags for Backpacking & Camping 2022
What is a Sleeping Bag Liner? Should I own One?
12 Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags for Hiking 2022
Bedroll vs Sleeping Bag: What is the best to buy for 2022?
12 Best Double Sleeping Bags for 2022 [Camp and Backpacking]
Down vs Synthetic Sleeping Bag – Which is the Best?
Backpacking Quilt vs Sleeping Bag: Which is Better for Camping
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