Sleeping bags?

**jmac** · 07-23-2010, 22:52

I have a couple of mont-bell sleeping bags that I really like. Can they be used as top quilts? What is the draw back to doing it this way instead of a quilt?

Thanks,
John

**tjm** · 07-23-2010, 23:32

I am using my MARMOT bag as a top quilt with the zipper 3/4 open.

I guess I could lose some pack weight with a top quilt but I have other things I want first -

MT Wash UQ

**kthompson** · 07-23-2010, 23:43

Been doing it that way for years. Seems like the specialized quilts are fairly new tech.

**JayS** · 07-24-2010, 00:08

I use a Montbell SS as a TQ in cooler weather and it works just fine. Zip the footbox up as high as you'd like. And the inside material is soooo soft.

**swampfox** · 07-24-2010, 08:08

Originally Posted by JayS

I use a Montbell SS as a TQ in cooler weather and it works just fine. Zip the footbox up as high as you'd like. And the inside material is soooo soft.

I use my Montbell SS as a top quilt for the warmer weather, 50 degrees and above. One trip this summer, I was just laying on it when I went to sleep and woke up a little cool. Felt really good to snuggle under it.

**Just Jeff** · 07-24-2010, 08:35

Originally Posted by kthompson

Been doing it that way for years. Seems like the specialized quilts are fairly new tech.

Blankets have been around for much longer than sleeping bags...

The tradeoff to using a sleeping bag is that it's heavier/bulkier for the temp range, and more difficult to get into (if you crawl inside it) than just pulling a TQ over you. If you use it as a TQ, the hood flops in your face.

The upside is that you have a full hood and don't have any worry of drafts if you get inside when it's really cold.

I still have a SD Wicked Light that I use every now and then.

**kthompson** · 07-24-2010, 10:09

Oh Jeff, Jeff, Jeff...

**Just Jeff** · 07-24-2010, 10:11

All a matter of perspective!

**wisenber** · 07-24-2010, 11:19

Originally Posted by Just Jeff

Blankets have been around for much longer than sleeping bags...

What are these "blankets" of which you speak? I might want to try one of those some time.

**CrankyOldGuy** · 07-24-2010, 18:26

I have both a summer and a 3-season mummy bag. I do like being able to get in and zip up if it turns cold. Not having "quilted" I would guess (and hope) that you can wrap up snuggly.