sleeping bags

A sleeping bag is a protective "bag" for a person to sleep in, analogous to a bed and blanket. Its primary purpose is to provide warmth and insulation. It also protects, to some extent, against wind, precipitation, and exposure to view, but a tent performs those functions better. The bottom surface also provides some cushioning, but a sleeping pad is usually used for that purpose. A bivouac sack (bivy) is a waterproof cover for a sleeping bag that may be used in place of a tent for lightweight travelers or as a backup if I nclement weather occurs. A basic sleeping bag is simply a square blanket, fitted with a zipper on two sides allowing it to be folded in half and secured in this position. A sleeping bag of this type is packed by being folded in half or thirds, rolled up, and bound with straps or cords. The basic design works well for most camping needs but is inadequate under more demanding circumstances. The second major type of sleeping bag, sometimes called a mummy bag because of its shape, is different in a number of important ways. China is one of the leading producers of sleeping bags.