Imagine this: you’re tucked into your sleeping bag under a sky full of stars, feeling cozy and warm. But then, the chill of the night creeps in, and your flimsy blanket just isn’t cutting it. Choosing the right quilt for backpacking can be a real challenge. There are so many choices, and it’s tough to know which one will keep you warm without weighing you down.
You want a quilt that’s light enough to carry on long hikes, warm enough for chilly nights, and durable enough to handle the outdoors. It’s easy to get lost in all the different materials, temperature ratings, and features. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about backpacking quilts. We’ll explore what makes a great quilt, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to pick the perfect one for your adventures. Get ready to say goodbye to cold nights and hello to comfortable, restful sleep on your next trip!
Our Top 5 Quilts For Backpacking Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Quilts For Backpacking Detailed Reviews
1. Ultralight Sleeping Bag Top Quilt – 850 Down Backpacking Blanket – 1.9 lbs – Rated for 20°F – Water-Resistant Camping Quilt
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to lighten your load and boost your comfort on the trail? This Ultralight Sleeping Bag Top Quilt is a game-changer for backpackers and campers. It’s designed to keep you warm and cozy without adding extra weight to your pack. Imagine the freedom of movement and the ease of getting in and out of your sleep system. This quilt offers a whole new level of sleeping comfort in the great outdoors.
What We Like:
- Incredibly lightweight at only 1.9 lbs, making it ideal for long hikes.
- Superior warmth without bulk thanks to 850-fill power down.
- Offers more freedom of movement and less claustrophobia than traditional sleeping bags.
- Easy to get in and out of, and helps prevent slipping off your sleeping pad.
- Comfortable foot box keeps your feet warm and allows natural movement.
- Includes straps to secure it to your sleeping pad for added stability.
- Durable, water-resistant fabric can handle various weather conditions.
- Rated for 20°F, making it suitable for chilly nights.
What Could Be Improved:
- While rated for 20°F survival, the comfort rating is 30°F, so it might not be warm enough for extreme cold.
- Top quilts require a sleeping pad for insulation, which is an additional item to pack.
This ultralight top quilt is a smart investment for anyone who values comfort and efficiency on their outdoor adventures. You’ll sleep better and hike easier with this essential piece of gear.
2. Wise Owl Outfitters Outdoor Camping Blanket – Lightweight Packable Puffy Quilt for Backpacking
Rating: 8.8/10
The Wise Owl Outfitters Outdoor Camping Blanket is your go-to companion for any adventure. This blanket is designed to be lightweight and packable, making it easy to bring along on hikes, camping trips, or even just a picnic. It offers warmth and protection from the elements, so you can stay comfortable no matter where you are.
What We Like:
- Super lightweight and packs down small, perfect for backpacking.
- It’s waterproof, so you stay dry if it rains.
- Very versatile – use it as a blanket, poncho, or even to make a sleeping bag.
- Keeps you warm even on chilly nights.
- Easy to clean and makes a fantastic gift for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Works well in all seasons, from summer to winter.
- Has special snaps and loops to wear it or tie it down.
- It’s big enough for sharing or wrapping up the whole family.
- Comes with its own stuff sack for easy storage.
- It’s both cozy and tough, built for the outdoors.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “queen-size” description might be a bit misleading as it’s more of a generous single or shared small-person size.
- While waterproof, it might not be enough for heavy downpours for extended periods.
This blanket is a fantastic addition to any outdoor gear collection. It offers great comfort and functionality for a variety of activities.
3. OneTigris Featherlite Ultralight Sleeping Quilt
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to lighten your load and boost your comfort on your next adventure? The OneTigris Featherlite Ultralight Sleeping Quilt is a game-changer for any outdoor enthusiast. Designed for hikers, campers, and hammock lovers, this quilt packs a punch in warmth and versatility without weighing you down.
What We Like:
- Super comfy with a soft, breathable, and wind-proof 20D Ripstop Nylon outer shell and 380T Polyester Pongee lining.
- It’s a versatile alternative to bulky sleeping bags, making it easy to get in and out of.
- The convertible footbox keeps you extra warm when you need it.
- Incredibly lightweight at just 35oz (1000g) and folds up small, like a gallon jug, so it easily fits in your pack.
- Offers plenty of sleeping space, spreading out to 6.5ft by 2.8ft.
- The special hollowed back design works perfectly with sleep mats, preventing that claustrophobic feeling some sleeping bags give you.
- Keeps you toasty with baffled construction, rated down to 41°F (5°C).
- Can be used with another sleeping bag or underquilt to create a super warm winter system.
What Could Be Improved:
- While warm, it might not be warm enough for extreme cold without additional layers.
- The “ultralight” claim is relative; serious ultralight backpackers might look for even lighter options.
This sleeping quilt offers a fantastic balance of weight, warmth, and comfort for a wide range of outdoor activities. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their sleep system without adding bulk.
4. COVACURE Camping Blanket – Outdoor Travel Blanket
Rating: 8.7/10
The COVACURE Camping Blanket in Blue is a versatile outdoor companion designed to keep you warm and comfortable on all your adventures. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach, this packable, puffy quilt offers exceptional warmth and thoughtful features.
What We Like:
- Excellent Warmth Retention: Made with premium synthetic down, it’s incredibly warm for its lightweight feel.
- High-Quality and Durable: The 100% nylon Rip-stop shell is weather and stain resistant, built to last.
- Highly Functional Design: Snap clasps let you wear it like a poncho, and corner loops help secure it. The stuff sack even becomes a pillow!
- Packable and Portable: It folds down small and weighs very little, making it easy to carry anywhere.
- Versatile Use: Great for solo use, couples, or even your furry friends.
- Trusted Brand: COVACURE focuses on quality and customer satisfaction.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for three seasons, it might not be warm enough for extreme winter conditions.
- The included carry bag is functional but could be more robust for heavy use.
This COVACURE blanket is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to stay cozy. Its blend of warmth, durability, and smart design makes it a must-have for your next trip.
5. Get Out Gear Down Camping Blanket – Outdoor Lightweight Packable 650 Fill Power Down Blanket Compact Waterproof and Warm Backpacking Quilt for Camping Hiking Travel Hammock…
Rating: 8.9/10
The Get Out Gear Down Camping Blanket is a fantastic addition to any outdoor adventure. It’s designed to keep you warm and cozy whether you’re camping, hiking, or just relaxing in your hammock. This blanket is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry on all your travels.
What We Like:
- It’s super lightweight, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The 650 fill power down makes it really warm.
- It’s packable, meaning it squishes down small for easy storage.
- The waterproof feature helps keep you dry in damp conditions.
- It’s versatile and works great for camping, hiking, and hammocking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” for features means we don’t have specific details to praise further.
- Without more information, it’s hard to say if the durability is top-notch.
- We don’t know the exact price point, which can be a factor for some buyers.
This Get Out Gear blanket seems like a solid choice for anyone needing portable warmth outdoors. It offers a good balance of features for comfort and convenience.
Your Adventure Companion: Choosing the Best Quilts for Backpacking
Discover the perfect quilt to keep you warm and cozy on your backpacking trips.
Backpacking requires gear that is both lightweight and warm. A good quilt can be a game-changer, offering comfort without the bulk of a traditional sleeping bag. This guide will help you find the best quilt for your next adventure.
Key Features to Look For
1. Warmth Rating (Temperature Rating)
This tells you how warm the quilt is. It’s usually given in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius. A lower number means it’s warmer. Think about the coldest nights you expect on your trips. Choose a rating that’s a bit lower than the coldest temperature you’ll face to stay comfortable.
2. Weight
Backpackers want to carry as little as possible. Quilts are often lighter than sleeping bags because they don’t have a zipper or a full back. Look for quilts made with lightweight materials.
3. Packability
How small does the quilt pack down? You need it to fit easily into your backpack. Down-filled quilts usually pack smaller than synthetic ones.
4. Draft Collars and Footboxes
Some quilts have features to block drafts. A draft collar around your neck helps keep warm air in. A closed footbox keeps your feet warm and stops drafts from coming up from the bottom.
Important Materials
1. Down Insulation
Down is the fluffy stuff from ducks or geese. It’s very warm for its weight and packs down small. Higher fill power (like 700, 800, or 900) means the down is loftier and warmer.
- Pros: Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, very compressible.
- Cons: Loses warmth when wet, can be more expensive.
2. Synthetic Insulation
This is made from polyester fibers. It’s a good choice if you often backpack in wet conditions. Synthetic insulation stays warm even when damp.
- Pros: Insulates when wet, generally less expensive than down.
- Cons: Heavier and bulkier than down, not as compressible.
3. Shell Fabric
The outside fabric protects the insulation. Look for lightweight, durable, and water-resistant materials like ripstop nylon. This helps keep the quilt dry and prevents tears.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Things That Make a Quilt Better:
- High Fill Power Down: More loft means more trapped air, which means more warmth.
- Durable Shell Fabric: Strong fabric lasts longer and resists damage.
- Thoughtful Design: Features like draft collars and good stitching improve comfort and warmth.
- Responsibly Sourced Down: Ensures ethical practices in obtaining down.
Things That Make a Quilt Less Good:
- Low Fill Power Down: Less loft, less warmth for the weight.
- Cheap Synthetic Fill: Can be lumpy and lose loft quickly.
- Weak Stitching: Can lead to tears or insulation shifting.
- Heavy Shell Fabric: Adds unnecessary weight.
User Experience and Use Cases
Quilts offer a more freeing sleeping experience than sleeping bags. You can move around more easily. Many backpackers find them perfect for warmer weather or for use inside a tent or shelter.
If you sleep cold, a quilt might be best paired with a good sleeping pad. The pad insulates you from the ground. Some quilts come with straps to attach them to your sleeping pad. This stops drafts from coming in from underneath.
Quilts are great for:
- Warm-weather backpacking
- Ultralight hikers
- Campers who like to move around in their sleep
- Adding an extra layer of warmth to a sleeping system
Choosing the right quilt depends on your personal needs and the conditions you’ll be hiking in. With this guide, you’re ready to find a quilt that will make your backpacking trips more comfortable and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are quilts as warm as sleeping bags?
A: Quilts can be just as warm, especially when used with a good sleeping pad. They work by trapping warm air around you. The lack of a full back can mean some heat escapes, but they are designed to be efficient.
Q: What is the best temperature rating for backpacking quilts?
A: It depends on where you’re going! For summer trips, a 40-50°F (4-10°C) rating is often enough. For cooler spring or fall trips, look for 20-30°F (-7 to -1°C) or even lower.
Q: How do I stay warm with a quilt?
A: Use a high R-value sleeping pad to insulate you from the cold ground. Make sure the quilt is snug around your body to prevent drafts. Some quilts have clips or straps to help seal out cold air.
Q: Can I use a quilt in very cold weather?
A: While some high-performance quilts can handle cold, they are generally best for 3-season use (spring, summer, fall). For deep winter camping, a well-rated sleeping bag is usually a better choice.
Q: What’s the difference between a quilt and a quilt with a footbox?
A: A quilt with a footbox has a closed bottom section for your feet. This keeps your feet warmer and helps prevent drafts from entering from below. A quilt without a footbox is fully open at the bottom.
Q: How do I prevent drafts with a quilt?
A: Many quilts have built-in draft collars or adjustable cinch cords around the neck. Using the quilt’s straps to attach it to your sleeping pad also helps create a seal.
Q: Is down or synthetic insulation better for a backpacking quilt?
A: Down is lighter, more compressible, and warmer for its weight, making it ideal for dry conditions. Synthetic is better if you expect to encounter a lot of moisture because it insulates even when wet.
Q: How do I clean a backpacking quilt?
A: Always check the care label. Down quilts usually need special down wash and should be air-dried or tumble-dried on low heat with dryer balls. Synthetic quilts can often be washed in a regular washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Q: Are quilts lighter than sleeping bags?
A: Generally, yes. Quilts often shave off ounces because they don’t have zippers, hoods, or a full back. This makes them popular for ultralight backpackers.
Q: What is the “fill power” of down?
A: Fill power measures how much space one ounce of down takes up. Higher fill power (like 800 or 900) means the down is loftier and traps more air, making it warmer and more compressible for its weight.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.