Home Log in or Register

Message Forums

Welcome Guest

Reception - All Forums

Camping under canvas - Backpacking and Lightweight Camping

Topic: Which 2/3 seasons sleeping bag?

Spirito

02/3/2016 at 12:20pm
Location: None Entered
Outfit: None Entered

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 02/3/2016

Standard Member

Forum Posts: 3

Site Reviews Total:	0

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	0

Hi,
After some advice on the selection of a new bag.

I have been looking at the Vango Ultralite 600 and the Mountain Hardware Lamina 20, and can't decide on which one.

The Vango seems to pack small, cost less (approx. £60), and be relatively light. However, I am wondering about the MH Lamina, it seems a similar weight, slightly larger pack size, similar temp rating, but is twice the price.

I would imagine the MH bag would perhaps be more robust and last longer?

I am not averse to spending the extra if the MH bag was deemed superior to the Vango, but I feel the Vango seems to be a well-regarded piece of kit. The MH reviews often complain about a snagging zip.

Anyone had experience of either of these bags, and would recommend them?

Hope you can advise please!
Cheers,

Dave.

Francais

02/3/2016 at 9:06pm
Location:
Outfit:

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 29/6/2008

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 12115
Tent Reviews: 1

Site Reviews Total:	4

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	1
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	14
Site Nights 2018:	0

Best sleeping bag I have ever owned has been the SnugPak Merlin Softee in Olive Green.

Got that back in 2004, a nice feature is that it will take an expanda panel, to give more shoulder room, a great addition for when kit weight is not the main concern.

I also got the specific silk liner at the same time, although have only ever needed to use the liner on one occasion.

VangoMan02

02/3/2016 at 10:10pm
Location:
Outfit:

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 18/5/2007

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 3531
Tent Reviews: 7

Site Reviews Total:	21

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	1

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	1

I bought the MH Lamina 20 in the Blacks sale in November last year reduced by a genuine £50. I think I paid about £85..
Have only tried it in the caravan overnight in the drive at home with no heating on in the van before or during my stay.

I really feel the cold and it was minus 3 overnight on the night I tried it out.
I was warm but decided to use my lightweight fleece liner as well and it got really toastie.

I would probably have been ok without the liner but didn't want to risk getting cold due to health issues.

I will be using it in May/June time when tent camping.

I am also a big fan of Vango and highly rate their range of lightweight type sleeping bags, I suppose it all depends on what season and if you feel the cold more, like me.

I would get one rated higher than you need, its easier to open the zip to cool down a bit or add a liner in colder months. I would check out reviews on the bags you are thinking about to get a good cross section of opinions..

-------------
It is a wise man who has something to say.
It is a fool who has to say something.

daveyboy44

02/3/2016 at 11:00pm
Location: Northants
Outfit: Vango Tempest 300

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 17/8/2008

Standard Member

Forum Posts: 27

Site Reviews Total:	0

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	0

Whilst MH are a premium brand, there's nothing wrong with Vango - especially if you manage to pick up a bargain through their Ebay shop

Vango Ebay Shop

Spirito

03/3/2016 at 9:10am
Location: None Entered
Outfit: None Entered

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 02/3/2016

Standard Member

Forum Posts: 3

Site Reviews Total:	0

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	0

Thanks for your thoughts folks.

I am normally a bit of a gear snob (current but old (25 years!) bag is a Buffalo 4 season outer - superb, but can't justify the purchase of a new one!), but can't see the advantage of paying double the cost for the Lamina 20, when the Vango gets good reviews and is generally well regarded. Figured I might be missing something obvious, and hoped the good people here would either point it out or allay my fears over going for the Vango.

Might pop down to the outdoor warehouse near here at the weekend to check it out again.

Thanks tonnes!

Dave.

VangoMan02

03/3/2016 at 9:34am
Location:
Outfit:

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 18/5/2007

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 3531
Tent Reviews: 7

Site Reviews Total:	21

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	1

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	1

Just to add I also own a Vango Nitestar 450 mummy bag. It is one of the warmest bags I have ever owned and I paid just over £40 a couple of years ago for it.
Problem is the size, great for car camping but to big even when compressed for backpacking.

I also own about 5 Vango tents and various other bits of Vango equipment and my user name confirms I like Vango products and quality/price.

I have tried a couple of the Vango Ultralite bags along with Snugpak bags over the years and they didn't work for me due to feeling the cold more than the average person.
That doesn't make them poor products, just didn't work for me.

I still think you would need to check reviews to get the bag that meets your needs and budget.

-------------
It is a wise man who has something to say.
It is a fool who has to say something.

RachlN76

03/3/2016 at 8:06pm
Location: Manchester
Outfit: Vango Maritsa 700; Isis 600 + canopy

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 05/9/2012

Platinum Member

Forum Posts: 740

Site Reviews Total:	7

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	1
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	2
Site Nights 2018:	0

I have a Vango Dormir grande, and it's really, really warm.
As yet I've never slept with it zipped up because it's too hot.
I'd give it a vote.

the-laughtons

17/3/2016 at 9:42pm
Location: South East
Outfit: Oregon 5 QuechuaT4 Easycamp Roma4

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 09/4/2009

Platinum Member

Forum Posts: 830
Tent Reviews: 2

Site Reviews Total:	9

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	0

I have just got back from 2 days backpacking and wild camping in the Brecon Beacons. I have a Vango Ultralite 600. It is very small and light. I took a 65 litre backpack and it fitted in just fine along with a SIM and all my other gear. I used a fleece liner inside as it was frosty at night but I was very warm and cosy. The 600 is a 3 season bag. The fleece liner enabled me to use it in colder than intended conditions.
I think its a great sleeping bag. Small and light but a true 3 season bag.
I am taking it to Iceland later this year for 2 weeks of backpacking and camping. I will not need the fleece liner. It will be perfectly warm enough.

-------------
Sarah

Spirito

18/3/2016 at 6:56am
Location: None Entered
Outfit: None Entered

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 02/3/2016

Standard Member

Forum Posts: 3

Site Reviews Total:	0

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	0

Excellent, thanks all for your comments. I think a trip to buy the Vango Ultralite 600 is in order this weekend!
Happy camping everyone.
Cheers,

Dave.

VangoMan02

18/3/2016 at 1:28pm
Location:
Outfit:

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 18/5/2007

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 3531
Tent Reviews: 7

Site Reviews Total:	21

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	1

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	1

Quote: Originally posted by the-laughtons on 17/3/2016
I have just got back from 2 days backpacking and wild camping in the Brecon Beacons. I have a Vango Ultralite 600. It is very small and light. I took a 65 litre backpack and it fitted in just fine along with a SIM and all my other gear. I used a fleece liner inside as it was frosty at night but I was very warm and cosy. The 600 is a 3 season bag. The fleece liner enabled me to use it in colder than intended conditions.
I think its a great sleeping bag. Small and light but a true 3 season bag.
I am taking it to Iceland later this year for 2 weeks of backpacking and camping. I will not need the fleece liner. It will be perfectly warm enough.

Interested to know what the temperatures are like when you are going to Iceland later in the year?
I take it you are one of the lucky people who tends to run warm. I tried the 600 in a camp bed in my living room last september to try it out and had to give up during the night due feeling cold.

-------------
It is a wise man who has something to say.
It is a fool who has to say something.

spiritburner

18/3/2016 at 1:38pm
Location: NE England
Outfit: Citroen Dispatch Campervan plus tents

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 02/8/2004

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 1625

Site Reviews Total:	21

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	1
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	2
Site Reviews 2019:	1
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	2
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	2
Site Nights 2019:	6
Site Nights 2018:	0

I went on a trek with a company in May 2005(useful as a recce but never again) who used huts. I hate huts. Apart from the one on the icecap that blew up where I slept inside due to a blizzard I kipped outside in a 3 season bag & bivvy bag. I didn't measure temp but seemed on par with UK for time of year.

VangoMan02

18/3/2016 at 2:18pm
Location:
Outfit:

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 18/5/2007

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 3531
Tent Reviews: 7

Site Reviews Total:	21

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	1

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	1

Yeah..bivvy bag makes a big difference.

-------------
It is a wise man who has something to say.
It is a fool who has to say something.

the-laughtons

18/3/2016 at 5:28pm
Location: South East
Outfit: Oregon 5 QuechuaT4 Easycamp Roma4

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 09/4/2009

Platinum Member

Forum Posts: 830
Tent Reviews: 2

Site Reviews Total:	9

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	0

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	0

When I put "Later this year" I mean later on I.e July not late in the year. So I am hoping that the nighttime temperature in Iceland will be around 6-9 degrees. The Vango 600 is good for down to 5 degrees, 0 degrees is the extreme so with a bit of luck and plenty of thermal PJs I should be warm enough.
To be honest when I bought the sleeping bag my only thoughts were it has to be light enough and small enough for me to carry. I've never backpacked before and was worried I was struggle with a pack that was too heavy. The 900 would probably have been a better bag for the Brecons as it was below freezing but the 600 and a liner and all my clothes (quite literally ALL of them) and I was warm enough!!
Oh, and I used a Cure a Heat pad around my shoulders and neck. 10 hours of blissful warmth. The best thing ever!!
So for camping in more normal temperatures the 600 should be fine if size and weight are a priority.
I will report back on Iceland.

-------------
Sarah

VangoMan02

19/3/2016 at 9:56am
Location:
Outfit:

View Profile

Quote

Joined: 18/5/2007

Diamond Member

Forum Posts: 3531
Tent Reviews: 7

Site Reviews Total:	21

Site Reviews 2024:	0
Site Reviews 2023:	0
Site Reviews 2022:	0
Site Reviews 2021:	0
Site Reviews 2020:	0
Site Reviews 2019:	0
Site Reviews 2018:	1

Site Nights 2024:	0
Site Nights 2023:	0
Site Nights 2022:	0
Site Nights 2021:	0
Site Nights 2020:	0
Site Nights 2019:	0
Site Nights 2018:	1

Its has always been an issue for me with sleeping bags. Getting one that is warm and can compress enough for backpacking in the colder months and doesn't cost the earth.

Feeling cold apparently runs in our family, something to do with poor circulation but never stopped any of us enjoying the outdoors.

Summer months I could get away with a lighter, lower rated bag but even on some summer nights in Scottish glens can be cold, so I always took a fleece liner or like yourself sleep with my thermals on or fully clothed.

July Iceland averages 11-13c degrees or 52-55f, with 8 hrs of sunshine a day and a 52% chance of rain with 21 days of rain monthly on average in July.
Sounds like a typical July summer up hear in Scotland.

Be good to hear how your trips goes on your return.

-------------
It is a wise man who has something to say.
It is a fool who has to say something.

In order to post a reply you will need to register, or if already registered please log in here

Prev Next
Quick Links - All Forums - Backpacking and Lightweight Camping - Top of Page

Printable version

Latest News, Discounts and Competitions see all...

7414 Visitors online !

Free UKCampsite.co.uk Window Sticker - Recommend to Friend - Add a Missing Campsite

[Message Forums] [Caravan Sites & Camping] [Company Listings] [Features / Advice] [Virtual Brochure] [Shop!]
[Reception] [Competitions] [Caravans & Motorhomes For Sale] [Event Diary] [Contact Us] [Tent Reviews]

Please note we are not responsible for the content of external sites & any reviews represent the author's personal view only. Please report any error here. You may view our privacy and cookie policy and terms and conditions here. All copyrights & other intellectual property rights in the design and content of this web site are reserved to the UKCampsite.co.uk © 1999 - 2024

UKCampsite.co.uk
2024 Advent Calendar

24 Daily Prizes PLUS a Christmas Day Star Prize worth £999

Request a Reminder