There are a lot of different sleeping bag and pad options out there. To a beginner picking a set may seem overwhelming to the point of not buying one and missing out on some fun in nature, or buying one but choosing the wrong combo and not fully enjoying the experience.
If anyone knows me, they know that sleep is critical for me, or I become Oscar the Grouch. And as someone who hates the cold, is a side sleeper and has an old spinal fracture that at times acts up, I needed the right combo to help me get thrugh a restful night away from my cozy bed.
For Christmas a couple of years ago I got a Women's Trailbreak 30 sleeping bag from REI that fits my needs for now. It keeps me warm (I sleep with layers), is designed for a female (keeping me insulated around the hips and feet), and is a mummy bag (providing maximum warmth due to the snugness).
But as I've expanded my exploration I've found some cons with this bag.
I still need it warmer. When Aaron and I went on my first bikepacking trip I used this sleeping bag and had to sleep in extra layers, which was too bulky for my liking.
As a side and stomach sleeper, the bag doesn't accommodate those positions because of its mummy shape. In order to lay in my preferred position, I have to unzip which doesn't work in cooler weather.
It's a bit bulky, so it's harder to pack up for longer backpacking adventures.
But, it is a great starter bag for the price and is good for Arizona where it's a warmer than in other parts of the country (unless you go up north). It's also great for back sleepers and the mummy hood keeps the heat in and a person snug.
I have started to expore other options for an upgrade and have my eyes on a bag that will be more compact, something around 20 degrees (mine currently is 30), and will not be a mummy sack. I really thought I'd LOVE this shape but the more I've used it the more I've realized I have a hard time sleeping on my back.
While doing research I came upon this article that has helped me educate myself on my next purchase and I hope it helps you a bit more too.
Next is the sleeping pad, which in my opinion is just as important. The one I have is AMAZING and I highly recommend it. I still remember the first morning waking up after a night on it and feeling so refreshed! I have tested several pads. Thanks to Aaron who has multiples of everything camping and biking related, I was able to try a variety of pads before I found the mother of all sleeping pads. Shout out to Big Agnes for making a pad for someone who is a side sleeper. The Insulated Q-Core SLX is so comfortable one may have a hard time waking up. It also comes with a bag that can be used for easier inflation which eliminates me having an Asthma attack while trying to blow up an entire pad. It deflates even faster! I don't know about you, but I hate packing up camp and the last thing I want is a pad that's hard to put back together into a teenie tiny sleeve.
Arizona is made up of many beautiful places a person can visit. Whether you're a local, or someone visiting, the options are abundant. So get yourself a sleeping bag, a pad, and get out there!