If you’re using a sleeping bag for the first time, it’s not the easiest thing to figure out. So here’s a tutorial on how to use a sleeping bag and also how to roll it.

On an Indiahikes trek, you are provided with custom-made high altitude sleeping bags as seen in this video. They are well-insulated and can stand temperatures up to -10 degrees. You will also be given a fleece / cotton liner that you will use from the first to the last day. This is for hygiene purposes.

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Below is a quick skim through the video.

How to use a sleeping bag

• Lay it out on a mat.
• Unlock the zipper flap and unzip it halfway.
• Wear a pair of clean socks.
• Put the liner in.
• Slip into the bag.
• Wriggle in and pull the bag up till your feet touch the bottom.
• Lie down with the hood under your head.
• Gently zip it up from the outside.
• Seal the flap lock.
• You can tighten the hood if required.

Rolling your Sleeping bag

• Zip the bag and lock it.
• Fold it to the length of the sleeping bag cover.
• Remove excess air form the top.
• Use your fingertips to roll it bottom up.
• Push it into the cover.
• Tighten the strings and make a loop.
• Put the flap on and buckle it up!

A few useful tips

• Always use a liner. It keeps your sleeping bag from getting dirty.
• Don’t rely completely on the sleeping bag to keep you warm. Wear enough layers to feel comfortable.
• Wear a pair of socks. It adds an extra layer of warmth.
• If you still feel cold wear a balaclava and warm layers.
• Place a mat underneath your sleeping bag. It acts as a layer of insulation in snow.
• Don’t be rough with the zipper.