Sleeping Bag Liner (cheap alternative?)

**wgunter** · 01-08-2014, 21:06

So I have a 20°F synthetic bag I use as a TQ, all fine there, not perfect, but good enough until I feel like dropping $200+ for a legit TQ. Anyways, I've been looking for a fleece sleeping bag liner to take me down to around 10 and not be an icicle (and also to use during the summer so I can leave the bag behind.)

I look online and see that a Sea to Summit Fleece Sleeping Bag Liner is at least $40. I'm thinking I can go to the fabric store and get some fleece and sew my own, no big deal, just a few simple lines. I happened to go to Dicks and see this for $12.00

http://www.amazon.com/Texsport-Fleec.../dp/B001916XG4

Seemed like a great deal, so I snagged one. The only issue is I'm not sure the quality of the fleece vs. the Sea to Summit bag. Has anyone had any experience with these before?

(SIDE NOTE: You should definitely go to Dicks and look on the Clearance racks right now. They seem to be phasing out some summer stuff, picked up some great deals. 2 pairs of North Face shorts for $12 a piece, normally like $45. Nike DriFit/Koppen shirts for $8.)

**Bobbinheadlodge** · 01-09-2014, 07:54

I'm with you on the $$ thing. I prefer to reuse components of my camping system I already have if possible.

AMK Escape bivy or silk sleeping bag liner off of ebay. both very affordable, light weight. I have both.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Single-Silk-...-/290474704495

http://www.amazon.com/AMK-0140-1228-.../dp/B00AW3CWX8

**HomeMadeHiker** · 01-09-2014, 09:38

You might consider a surplus poncho liner, I''ve used mine as a liner (and lots of other things) to gain a few more degrees. It's a really handy and versatile piece of gear. I would wager its warmer than one layer of fleece. Mine cost $25.

**FLRider** · 01-09-2014, 12:08

Originally Posted by HomeMadeHiker

You might consider a surplus poncho liner, I''ve used mine as a liner (and lots of other things) to gain a few more degrees. It's a really handy and versatile piece of gear. I would wager its warmer than one layer of fleece. Mine cost $25.

It is. It most definitely is. A liner by itself should be good down to ~45* - 50* F for most folks (or about 20* to 25* extra comfort with another bag). Been using one as a three-season (down to freezing) top quilt for three years now, and it's definitely one of the best purchases I've made.

**berksound** · 01-09-2014, 12:23

If you are set on a fleece liner however, Try the Coleman Fleece sleep sack. 15 Bucks at Campmor
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___41895

I like this guy alot very cozy but I can't give you temp ratings. I also used this as my first makeshift summer underquilt using shock cord and some binder clips as "channels". Used that and a walmart tarp my whole first summer of hammock camping

**Otter1** · 01-09-2014, 13:10

Generally, a liner isn't worth the weight for me. I say this because equivalent weight in nice puffy layers (esp. down) provides way more warmth per ounce. The S2S is nice material but adds VERY little warmth.

If you go this route, though, the poncho liner is definitely the way to go. Aside from the benefits mentioned there is one more huge plus: the slick fabric coupled with the insulation doesn't get all twisted and tangled as easily as the S2S or silk liners.

The tangling + weight lead me to the conclusion that I can't use them comfortably.

**Bobbinheadlodge** · 01-09-2014, 16:08

If you do get a poncho liner, make sure it is new, even if 'new old stock'.
The two I bought online had absolutely no loft whatsoever. sure they'll work, but not like one that lofts. This is the danger with all synthetics.

Also check out posts on here for the no sew PLUQ (poncho liner underquilt).

Dejoha has made a few nice illustrations along with in depth post of his trial and error develoments.

**Wlb007** · 01-09-2014, 18:20

Walmart has fleece liners for $15. Right next to the $79 down bags

**overthinker** · 01-09-2014, 20:17

I use this guy:

ALPS Mountaineering Razor

It's expensive for a liner, but I also can use it as a standalone in the summer. The nylon sheds wind and moisture pretty well, and helps keep dirt and leaves off.

**Bec** · 01-09-2014, 20:25

I have bought two of the quilt liner / summer blanket from Jacks r Better. Love them. I had ordered one and liked it so much that when they were running their Christmas sale I ordered another for backup. They were $19.99 on the sale but I just checked and they are now $29. They run a sale on them from time to time. Got both that way. The fleece is so soft and snuggly, yep, snuggly. Best way I know to describe it. Perfect for lounging around and using it while watching TV at home too.