When setting off on a walk or hike that involves staying overnight away from home, choosing the right equipment becomes essential to ensure maximum comfort and hygiene. Among the lesser-known but extremely useful accessories is the sleeping bag liner. Let’s see together with our partner Ferrino what it is, how it differs from a sleeping bag, why it is advantageous to use it and how to choose the one best suited to your needs.

What is a sleeping bag liner?

A sleeping bag liner, also known as a sleeping bed sheet or camp liner, is essentially a sheet sewn together to form a pocket closed on three sides, similar to a sleeping bag. It is an accessory designed to be used as an inner layer in sleeping bags or as hygienic protection when sleeping in beds that are not properly clean, as may occur on hikes, in shelters, hostels or in campsites.

It is made of various materials, from cotton to silk and synthetic fabrics, each with different characteristics in terms of weight, thermal insulation and breathability.

Differences between a sleeping bag liner and a sleeping bag

Although they may seem similar at first glance, the sleeping bag liner and the sleeping bag have distinct and complementary functions:

Function: the sleeping bag is designed to provide thermal insulation and protect you from low temperatures, while the sleeping bag liner is mainly a hygienic or additional accessory, useful for keeping the sleeping bag clean and improving comfort.

Material and weight: sleeping bags are generally heavier and bulkier, as they are made of insulating materials. In contrast, sleeping bag liners are extremely light and compact, easy to fit into a backpack without adding too much weight or volume.

Use: while the sleeping bag is indispensable for outdoor camping, particularly in adverse weather conditions, the sleeping bag liner is ideal when sleeping indoors or in warm months, where a sleeping bag might be too much.

Why use a sleeping bag liner on a hike?

The sleeping bag liner is a versatile accessory that offers numerous advantages during a hike. First of all, it significantly improves hygiene standards during a trip, since when staying in hostels, shelters or shared facilities, clean sheets are not always guaranteed. A sleeping bag liner creates a barrier between the person using it and the mattress or sleeping bag, ensuring a more hygienic sleep. and increases the sleeping bag’s thermal performance; it also keeps the sleeping bag clean for longer by avoiding frequent washing and thus prolonging its lifespan. In hot weather, it can also be used as a sleeping bag, avoiding the discomfort of an overly warm sleeping bag. Finally, sleeping bag liners, being light and easy to wash, are perfect for those who want to travel light and always have a hygienic option with them without complications.

How to choose the right sleeping bag liner?

The choice of a sleeping bag liner depends on several factors, which should be considered depending on the type of trip or hike you intend to undertake. Here are some criteria to take into consideration:

• Material:

1. Cotton: a cotton sleeping bag liner is breathable, comfortable and cheaper, but also heavier and bulkier than other materials.
2. Silk: silk is ultra-light, compact and offers good protection against the cold, but is more expensive and delicate.
3. Synthetic fabrics (microfibre): light, durable and quick-drying, synthetic sleeping bag liners are perfect for those seeking practicality without sacrificing comfort.

• Size: there are various sizes of sleeping bag sheets. Some are wider for those who want more space, while others are narrow and compact to reduce bulk in the backpack. If you are particularly tall, look for a longer model to avoid it becoming uncomfortable during the night.

• Shape: some sleeping bag liners are mummy-shaped, designed to fit better in sleeping bags of this shape. Others are rectangular, ideal for those who prefer more freedom of movement.

• Weight and bulk: if you are travelling with a lightweight backpack, opt for an ultralight and compact model. Silk, for example, is a good compromise between comfort and lightness.

• Ease of washing: make sure that the material you choose is easy to wash and dries quickly, especially if you plan to use it daily during a long journey or walk.

The sleeping bag liner is an often underestimated but extremely useful accessory for those who like to travel light and comfortable. Whether you are tackling a long trek, such as the Via Francigena, or simply staying overnight in huts or hostels, the sleeping bag guarantees hygiene, comfort, and a longer life span. Choosing the right one in the Ferrino catalogue based on materials, weight and size can make all the difference and guarantee you a peaceful night’s sleep before setting off again.

Ferrino sleeping bag linerss are available in two shapes: mummy for those who want to save weight with a size of 220x80x50 cm and blanket (square) with a size of 210×80 cm. All versions are available in different fabrics: 100% natural undyed cotton; 100% cotton with side zip to increase comfort and pillow pocket; 100% polyester with pillow pocket for those who want to travel with reduced weight; 100% silk for those who want to combine excellent thermal comfort with a compact and lightweight sleeping bag liner.