Originally Posted by
Coldhands
Hey all,
On the GDMTR they recommend a 20/-7c bag, however I'm starting late in the season and my bag is valued at 0c. I could buy something like a -12c bag to be on the safe side, but then I'm going to be going on to Mexico and then Cuba, so I had an idea of keeping my 0c bag, which is fairly flexible, but buying a down quilt. This way I can keep the quilt as a backup, and then once I'm further south mail either the bag or the quilt home. I'm also intending on taking a high-end goosedown gilet and some thermals. Would this setup be suffice for camping out in fall along the GTMBR? If the quilt is rated to say 4c, and the bag 0c, is there any way to predict what temperature they would be good against when used together? Any other suggestions or thoughts are welcome!
Many thanks,
Coldhands
Assuming comfort ratings are accurate for you, Enlightened Equip's formula for combining is: Rating1 - (70-Rating2).
https://support.enlightenedequipment...Quilt-Layering
I would suggest a JacksRBetter Sierra Stealth or Sierra Sniveller (with optional down hood) to combine with your existing bag, assuming it's a mummy. In addition to a sleeping quilt, these have Velcro head holes to multi-task as down ponchos for the cold evenings and mornings while idle at your campsite (don't ride in it though). Of course we lose a lot of heat through our head/necks, and their hood works well in either poncho or sleeping quilt mode. Lastly, I find it a lot warmer than an equivalent weigh down jacket since it can fully cover your legs and feet (sitting cross-legged on an insulated groundpad), and you can pull your arms inside for a full body-mitten effect.
If you really want some luxury for 3-6oz, add a UCO Candle Lantern in the protected triangle of your folded legs for a Palmer Survival Furnance that's nicer than a hot tent. I can only use it for ~1 hr at a time (can't sit in the same position too long), but it's a heck of a nice deep soak warm-up before bed and when you wake for B'fast.