We all want our kids to be safe and comfortable when they’re joining us on our overnight camping trips, and it’s essential to find the right kids sleeping bag for your child to maximize their sleep safety and comfort. When the kids are sleeping well, everyone sleeps better at night!
Kids’ sleeping bags come in all kinds of styles, and we’ve identified the best ones for kids of all ages available in 2023. These picks feature easy-to-pack, lightweight, and warm sleeping bags your kids will love.
Keep reading to see the kids sleeping bags we’ll be buying our kids this year, and at the end, we’ll talk about our buyers’ considerations for choosing the best sleeping bags as well as frequently asked questions by buyers of kids sleeping bags.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
REI Co-op Down Time 25 Down Sleeping Bag – Kids’
Best to “Grow-Along”
Columbia Kids Sleeping Bags
Best for Backpacking
Ace Glow in the Dark Mummy Sleeping Bag
Best for Ages 2-4:
Morrison Outdoors Big Mo 20 Kids’ Sleeping Bag – Toddlers’
Best for Ages 3-10:
REI Co-op Kindercone
Best Overall
REI Co-op Down Time 25 Down Sleeping Bag – Kids
The REI Co-op Down Time 25 Sleeping Bag for Kids shares the features of their adult sleeping bag, but it’s intended for sleepers under 5 foot 6 inches tall (which means short adults can save some money by buying a kid’s sleeping bag!)
This sleeping bag for kids packs down small and compact for easy transport, and a REI Compression Sack will compress it even more.
It’s also a great kids’ sleeping bag if you’re planning on winter camping because it has a temperature rating of 25 degrees Fahrenheit and is shaped like a Mummy for added warmth.
| Weight | Insulation Type | Max Height | Temp Rating |
| 2 lbs 4 oz | Down | 66 inches | 25 degrees Fahrenheit |
Pros
- Perfect for children, preteens, teenagers, and petite adults
- Lightweight for all types of travel
- Stay warm at temperatures below freezing
Cons
- The zipper is only on the left side
Best to “Grow-Along”
Columbia Kids Sleeping Bags
Kids grow quickly, and the last thing you want is to be buying a new sleeping bag every few weeks. Columbia Kids Sleeping Bag has a solution: an adjustable sleeping bag. This Mummy-styled kids’ sleeping bag adjusts to fit kids comfortably from 3 feet to 5 feet.
A perk of this sleeping bag is it comes with a built-in carry bag permanently attached to the sleeping bag, so you don’t have to worry about you (or your child) losing it. This is a fantastic first big kid sleeping bag for young kids.
This sleeping bag is also easy to wash because it is made from durable 70D polyester that is safe for washing machines.
| Weight | Insulation Type | Max Height | Temp Rating |
| 4.35 pounds | Synthetic | 60 inches | 40 degrees Fahrenheit |
Pros
- Insulated hoodie included for extra warmth
- Dual-sided, no-snag zippers
- High-quality, trusted Columbia brand
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
Best for Backpacking
AceCamp Glow in the Dark Mummy Sleeping Bag
A lightweight kids sleeping bag is essential if you’re planning on backpacking with the kids, especially if your child will be carrying their sleeping bag. The AceCamp Glow in the Dark Mummy Sleeping Bag isn’t only lightweight, but it’s also glow-in-the-dark so your kids will love it.
This kids’ sleeping bag is made from 190T embossed polyester, so it’s breathable and waterproof. The interior is lined with 100% cotton, making it incredibly soft. It also comes with an added pocket for storage, and your kids can access their stuff without having to unfold the sleeping bag.
It also claims to support temperatures down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the lowest temperature rating we’ve found for kids’ sleeping bags. This sleeping bag might also be your first pick for winter camping.
| Weight | Insulation Type | Max Height | Temp Rating |
| 2.09-2.42 pounds | Synthetic | 51-59 inches | 10 degrees Fahrenheit |
Pros
- Two sizes: Kids (Children < 4’3”) and Youth (Children < 4’11” )
- 30-degree Fahrenheit temperature rating
- Cool design kids will love
Cons
- Taller kids will not fit
Best for Ages 2-4
Morrison Outdoors Big Mo 20 Kids’ Sleeping Bag – Toddlers’
Kids under age 3 should never be put in a standard sleeping bag. The safest sleeping solution for young children is a wearable kids’ sleeping bag like the Morrison Outdoors Big Mo 20 Kids’ Sleeping Bag.
This sleeping bag is intended for kids between the ages of 2-4 and offers them the maximum sleeping comfort for the outdoors. It’s rated for 20 degrees Fahrenheit, so even the youngest campers can stay warm.
It has a Nylon shell and a two-way zipper that opens from top to bottom for total draft control. A soft fleece flap keeps the cold away from your toddler’s chin, and a fully enclosed foot box will keep your child’s toes warm.
| Weight | Insulation Type | Max Height | Temp Rating |
| 13 ounces | Down | 54 inches | 20 degrees Fahrenheit |
Pros
- The safest option for toddlers
- Water-resistant
- Weighs less than a pound
Cons
- Sleeves are sewn shut
Best for Ages 3-10
REI Co-op Kindercone
The REI Co-Op Kindercone is the warmest-rated sleeping bag for children ages 3-10, rated at 25 degrees Fahrenheit, and–like the Columbia–it’s adjustable (although it’s unclear how small this kids’ sleeping bag can get, the sleeping bag fits kids as tall as 5 foot).
This Mummy-shaped kids’ sleeping bag is designed from recyclable polyester and is Bluesign Approved (meaning its design was created to keep waste out of landfills).
It has a durable water-repellent coating and is made from synthetic fibers to promote insulation in cold weather, even when conditions are damp.
| Weight | Insulation Type | Max Height | Temp Rating |
| 3 pounds 3 ounces | Synthetic | 60 inches | 25 degrees Fahrenheit |
Pros
- Two-way, anti-snag zipper
- The design supports the environment
- Stuff sack attached to the sleeping bag
Cons
- Too heavy for backpacking despite being marketed for it
Buying Considerations for Kids’ Sleeping Bags
The following are all details we take into consideration when selecting a kid’s sleeping bag.
Length / Maximum Height
A sleeping bag’s length correlates with the maximum height. Ideally, your child will be sleeping in a sleeping bag around the same length as their height. A kid’s sleeping bag that is too long may be too hot for your child, resulting in overheating.
Although a kid’s sleeping bag does not necessarily need to fit like a glove. Most sleeping bags should have some extra space to allow your child space to stretch and be comfortable. A sleeping bag that is too tight will not be comfortable.
Weight
Kids sleeping bags range from under a pound to closer to 5 pounds. A lightweight sleeping bag is considered to be 2 pounds or less. Any sleeping bag greater than 2.5 pounds will be challenging to bring with you on a backpacking trip along with your other gear.
Heavier sleeping bags work fine for car camping, tent camping nearby your vehicle, or backyard campouts. If you’re going to need to walk any distance to your campsite, you will appreciate a lightweight sleeping bag.
Temperature Rating
This is the lowest temperature a sleeping bag will keep the average sleeper warm. If you plan to try winter camping or camping on cool fall nights with your child, choose a sleeping bag with a lower temperature rating.
Shape
Mummy shapes are by far the most popular shape in kids sleeping bags, and that’s because they are the best at retaining heat. A mummy sleeping bag fits snugly around the feet, meaning there is less air circulating in the area.
These kids sleeping bags tend to be lightweight due to their shape, which makes them a first-choice by backpackers. They’re also more packable than other shapes.
Portability
A kid’s sleeping bag needs to be easy to transport, so ideally your kids can carry it independently. Many of the best kids’ sleeping bags come equipped with a storage bag attached, so you don’t have to worry about your kids misplacing it.
You should also consider how easy it is to roll up (because wouldn’t it be great if your kids could pack up their sleeping gear without any help?)
Zipper Position
The position of the zipper is a big complaint we see parents complaining about with sleeping bags.
Kids sleeping bags like the Columbia Kid’s Sleeping Bags feature dual-sided zippers so kids can get out on either side. Dual-sided zippers also prevent kids from having to open a zipper with their non-dominant hand.
Meanwhile, the REI Co-Op Kindercone offers a two-way zipper, so you can move up and down either from the head or the feet. This is great for creating ventilation on warmer nights.
A challenge with dual-sided or two-way zippers is that kids can find them difficult to maneuver, so you may end up spending extra time correcting your child’s zipper. This is the main reason many parents opt for a one-sided zipper like the REI Co-op Down Time 25 Down Sleeping Bag.
Ultimately, the zipper’s position in a sleeping bag can make or break your experience, so make sure you like where the zipper is positioned before you make your purchase.
Outer Materials
Most sleeping bags are made from polyester and/or nylon. Both materials, in general, are known for having water-resistance properties.
All types of nylon or polyester are not designed the same, which is why when looking at the type of material a kid’s sleeping bag is made from, you should look for thread count and denier ratings.
190T
The number in this description refers to thread counts–190T means there are a total of 190 threads. A higher thread count showcases a tighter weave in the fabric, so the fabric is made from a higher density. 190T polyester is often seen in tents.
70D
The D in this description stands for denier. Denier is a unit of measurement to measure the thickness of the material. 70D is also standard in many tents and tarps.
Inner Materials
Inner materials can be important to pay attention to, especially if your child has an allergy to a material like cotton. Some kids sleeping bags are filled with the same material as the outer material–polyester or nylon. Others may be filled with cotton or flannel.
Pockets
Some kids’ sleeping bags come with stash pockets, which are handy for storing your child’s sunglasses, favorite toy, chapstick, or other small items. Some pockets can be accessed without rolling out the sleeping back, which gives your child easy access to their stuff while backpacking.
Insulation Type
Kids sleeping bags either have synthetic or down insulation.
Synthetic Insulation
This type of insulation is more affordable and insulates well when damp, it dries fast, and it’s hypoallergenic. Synthetic insulation is typically used in kids sleeping bags because children tend to have sensitive skin.
Down Insulation,
This type of insulation is lightweight, performs better in dry and cold weather, is treated with water-resistant treatment to protect it in damp conditions, compresses small for packing, and it’s durable.
Child’s Preferences
It’s always a good idea to consider your child’s preferences when buying something for them–especially something they will be using for at least 8 hours at a time!
As we all know, children can be picky, and if your children refuse to sleep in a sleeping bag that doesn’t glow in the dark, it’s best to consider their input for everyone’s sanity.
Kid Sleeping Bags Frequently Asked Questions
Are sleeping bags safe for children?
Children should not be in any type of sleeping bag before age 3. Kids are always safest in a sleeping bag that is the right size for them, which is what makes adjustable kids sleeping bags so appealing.
A regular-sized sleeping bag is perfectly safe for children 6 and older, though children under 6 should have a smaller sleeping bag. We recommend Columbia Kid’s Sleeping Bags for first-time sleeping bag users because this sleeping bag can be adjusted to fit a small child’s frame
Why shouldn’t a toddler use a sleeping bag?
Toddlers wiggle a lot in their sleep, and a toddler is more likely to be small enough to wriggle down to the bottom of their sleeping bag. This can cause suffocation.
This is the same reason smaller-sized sleeping bags are recommended for children 3 to 6.
Wrapping Up the Best Kids Sleeping Bags
So now you know our take on the best kids sleeping bags. We love the kids’ REI Co-op Down Time 25 Down Sleeping Bag because it’s lightweight and versatile, though all of these kids’ sleeping bags are great choices, depending on your child’s height and age.
Increase the longevity of your kids’ sleeping bag by following our How to Store a Sleeping Bag tips!
- About the Author
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Nicole Kinkade grew up in campgrounds in the Midwest with her family in their RV and has many fond memories around the campfire. She and her husband took many tent camping trips at the beginning of their relationship, and she looks forward to sharing the outdoors with her young son as he gets older.
She loves discovering new camping techniques and sharing them with the world. With a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Media Communication, she is a passionate writer who loves sharing her knowledge online.
Nicole can be reached at nicolek.author@gmail.com