The temperatures on Kilimanjaro can be as high as 40OC on the lower slopes and can plummet to as low as -20OC around the summit. Rain and snow are abundant on the mountain and having the correct sleeping bag can make the difference between a successful trip to the roof of Africa or a miserable, wet misadventure on Kilimanjaro.
When choosing a sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro it is wise to choose a synthetic bag over a down bag. Synthetic sleeping bags are cheaper than down bags; they also give better insulation if wet and dry quicker and easier than their down counterparts. There can be a lot of rain on Kilimanjaro and if you’re sleeping bag becomes damp you still want to be warm at night.
Down bags have the best warmth to weight ratio and synthetic bags are typically heavier and larger in comparison. A large percentage of gear is carried by porters on Kilimanjaro so the weight and the size of the bag are not as important as they would be if you were carrying all of your own equipment.
The shape of a sleeping bag is also important. Sleeping bags do not generate any heat. A sleeping bag works by retaining a layer of warm air that you generate around your body; this is what keeps you warm. The two main shapes of sleeping bags are mummy shaped bags and rectangular bags. A mummy shaped bag will provide the most efficient insulation compared to a rectangular bag which will give more space to move around in, thus leaving more space to be heated up.
Temperature rating is another key element of which bag to choose. It is important to buy a bag that will let you sleep comfortably in the lowest of temperatures on Kilimanjaro. Unless you are having a night at the crater rim you will not be sleeping above 5000 meters. A sleeping bag with a low comfort rating of between -10 OC and - 15 OC will give you the warmth needed on the higher slopes of Kilimanjaro. For sleeping in warmer temperatures on the lower slopes the bag can be left open letting air circulate which will help keep you cool.
A sleeping bag is the first line of defense against the elements and it is equally important to have a good sleeping mat and a good tent. Most outfitters on Kilimanjaro won’t supply a sleeping bag but many do supply tents and mats. When booking a trip to Kilimanjaro make sure the equipment your outfitter supplies is designed for the temperatures and altitude it will be used at.
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