Our team of outdoor experts has spent over 1,000 nights in the backcountry testing more than 30 backpacking quilts based on warmth, comfort, weight and packability, and features. From brands like Enlightened Equipment, Zpacks, Feathered Friends, HMG, and more, we’ll share what we’ve learned through rigorous field testing to help you find the best backpacking quilt for your needs.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Backpacking Quilts
Check out this quick list of our the best backpacking quilts, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.
*Prices vary by size
Best Backpacking Quilt Overall: Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 ($345)
Warmest Ultralight Backpacking Quilt: Loco Libre Ghost Pepper 20 ($405)
Best Budget Backpacking Quilt: UGQ Bandit 20 ($315)
Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather: REI Magma Trail 30 ($329)
More Affordable than Similarly Warm Backpacking Quilts: Hammock Gear Burrow 20 ($284)
Lightest Backpacking Quilt: Zpacks Classic 20 ($459)
Best Warmth-to-Weight Ratio: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 ($499)
Versatile & Warm Quilt/Sleeping Bag Hybrid: Feathered Friends Flicker UL 30 ($499)
Excellent Quality Backpacking Quilt with Premium Details: Katabatic Flex 22 ($369)
Best Ultralight Two-Person Backpacking Quilt: Enlightened Equipment Accomplice ($560)
Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather: Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20 ($460)
What’s new
There have been some big changes to our quilts list with new additions, more detailed reviews, and an overhauled list order:
- The UGQ Bandit 20 moves up to the number three spot and earns our best budget quilt award.
- The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 joins the list and takes the title of best warmth-to-weight ratio.
- We added the extremely light and packable Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20.
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt 20
Best Backpacking Quilt Overall
Price: $345
Weight: 1 lb. 6.5 oz.
Fill Power: 850 or 950
Pros
- Ultralight
- Well-priced for the quality
- Packable
- Opens fully like a blanket Includes pad connectors
- Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified
Cons
- Many won’t find it warm enough for sub-freezing trips
- Custom orders have a long lead time (order a stock quilt if you’re in a hurry)
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation has been one of our go-to backpacking quilts for years due to its versatile design, excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, and great price for the quality.
The Revelation can be left open like a blanket on warm nights or cinched up tight when the temperature drops, so it’s a good pick for hikers looking for something they can use for all but the coldest of trips. We’ve found that the 20°F model keeps us warm to right around freezing or just a little below, but cold sleepers may prefer the 10°F model for the extra warmth.
CleverHiker Founder, Dave Collins, swears by the Revelation and has taken it on many of his most epic backpacking trips. From the chilly peaks of Glacier National Park to the much warmer twists of Marble Canyon in Death Valley National Park, the Revelation’s flexible build readily adapts to the conditions.
You can choose to custom order a Revelation to your desired color, size, and temperature rating. We recommend bumping up a size in length and width for full coverage on chilly nights if you sleep cold, or you could consider the EE Enigma quilt. The Enigma has a footbox that’s sewn closed (like a sleeping bag footbox), so it retains a lot more warmth than the Revelation. CH Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, prefers the Enigma, and he’s trusted it for many big backpacking trips – including his CDT thru-hike.
Quality like this will usually set you back a pretty penny, but the Revelation comes in at an amazing price when compared to similar quilts. We’ve been using ours for years, and it’s still one of the best investments we’ve made in our backpacking setup.
Full review: Enlightened Equipment Revelation
Loco Libre Ghost Pepper 20
Warmest Ultralight Backpacking Quilt
Price: $405
Weight: 1 lb. 5.5 oz.
Fill Power: 950
Pros
- Ultralight
- Very warm
- Highly customizable
- Highly packable
- Chevron baffles keep down from moving
- RDS certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Custom ordering process can be confusing & can take a while to ship
Cold sleepers and winter wanderers, this one’s for you. We usually don’t recommend backpacking quilts for sub-freezing temperatures, but the Loco Libre Ghost Pepper 20 is up for the challenge. This is our top quilt choice for hikers who sleep cold and ultralight adventures at or below freezing.
One thing that makes this quilt warmer than others is the unique chevron baffles – they’re very effective at preventing the down inside from shifting away from areas where you need that heat-trapping power the most. Choose the insulated “Hot Box” footbox option – a footbox that’s sewn closed to trap heat – if you’re gearing up for frigid conditions to boost the warmth even more. And for those who go out in extreme cold, the Ghost Pepper is one of the only quilts on the market that’s available in sub-zero temperature ratings.
The Ghost Pepper is CleverHiker Senior Gear Analyst Casey Handley’s favorite quilt for thru-hiking in the shoulder seasons since it’s warm enough for unexpected cold snaps. She used this quilt for her fall thru-hike of the Long Trail, and was very grateful to have the extra warmth when the icy wind picked up in the northern part of the trail.
There are plenty of custom options available to dial in the best warmth-to-weight for your needs, as well as a ton of color and accessory options. The plethora of customizations on the Ghost Pepper can be a little intimidating for first- time quilt users, but we assure you it’s worth the effort to get exactly what you want out of this toasty warm quilt. Loco Libre’s Operator Series Ghost Pepper is a slightly pared down model with fewer options for hikers looking to keep it simple. Just keep in mind that the Operator Series doesn’t have a sewn footbox option, so it won’t be as warm as the standard model.
Backpackers looking for the absolute warmest quilt will love the toasty Ghost Pepper. This quilt turns up the heat while keeping weight and bulk to a minimum, so it’s a great ultralight alternative to cold-weather sleeping bags.
UGQ Bandit 20
Best Budget Backpacking Quilt
Price: $315
Weight: 1 lb. 6.3 oz.
Fill Power: 850 or 950
Pros
- Less expensive
- Highly customizable
- Ultralight
- Warm
- RDS certified
Cons
- Custom ordering process can be confusing & can take a while to ship
- Not as packable as some
- Not warm enough for sub-freezing trips
With a weight that’s competitive with the higher-end quilts on our list but a much smaller price tag, the UGQ Bandit 20 is an incredible value.
UGQ allows for a ton of customization on their quilts, and they have one of the widest arrays of color options we’ve ever seen. All of the customization options can be a bit overwhelming if this is your first quilt, but the Features tab of the ordering page has a ton of useful info to help you make your choices. If you have a little extra cash to spend on your quilt, one upgrade we recommend is the neckline draft collar for extra warmth.
Senior Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, tested the Bandit during her thru-hike of the John Muir Trail. This warm and fluffy quilt provided a comfortable night’s sleep after each long day on trail, and the weight was barely noticeable in her pack when it was time to get moving again.
The baffle design of the Bandit prevents down from shifting away from your core and makes this quilt feel fluffier than many others. And while this isn’t the smallest quilt when packed away, the bulk isn’t too bad. Hikers who are tight on space in their packs may want to splurge on the more expensive 950-fill-power down. This option still comes in under $400 and will save you a considerable amount of weight and bulk.
Backpackers who want the luxury of a custom quilt without having to break the bank will absolutely love the Bandit. This quilt keeps pack weight low for ambitious adventures, and the extra loft will help you rest your best on trail.
REI Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt
Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather
Price: $329
Weight: 1 lb. 4.3 oz.
Fill Power: 850
Pros
- Ultralight
- Less expensive
- No upcharge for larger size
- Highly packable
- Wide cut
- Opens fully like a blanket
- Includes pad connectors
- RDS certified
Cons
- Not as warm as others
- Less durable
The REI Magma Trail 30 is our top choice for trips where nighttime temperatures stay in the 40s or above. The pared down design of this quilt keeps your summer base weight in check, and it compresses down small to leave room in your pack for other luxuries.
The latest iteration of the Magma Trail Quilt features a footbox with a zipper and cinch cord that allows you to tailor the warmth to the conditions – a big improvement over the previous iteration that came with a sewn footbox. Since this is a summer quilt, we find it more valuable to be able to vent heat with an openable footbox rather than trapping it in with a fully enclosed one.
CleverHiker Founder, Dave Collins, loves packing the Magma Quilt for strenuous warm-weather trips when keeping weight to a minimum is most important. He packed the Magma for a challenging trek in Wyoming’s Wind River Range and was very pleased with the warmth-to-weight ratio.
Dave is a taller guy, and he really appreciates the roomier cut of the Magma. The standard width of this quilt is 58.5 inches – most others fall somewhere between 50-55 inches – so it’s a good choice for hikers who want more room to wiggle. And if you want even more space, you still have the option to get an even roomier wide model in regular or long length. And best of all, opting for a larger Magma doesn’t cost more money.
Since the Magma isn’t custom, purchasing one is straightforward and there’s no long lead time, so you can get it right away if you’re heading out for a trip soon. This is our top recommendation if you’re after a high-quality and convenient option for warm summer adventures.
Full review: REI Magma Trail Quilt 30
Hammock Gear Burrow 20
More Affordable than Similarly Warm Backpacking Quilts
Price: $284
Weight: 1 lb. 9.1 oz.
Fill Power: 850
Pros
- Less expensive
- Warmer than many others
- Durable
- Customizable
- Ordering process is simple & straightforward
- RDS certified
Cons
- Custom orders can take a while to ship
- A little heavier / bulkier than some
If you’re looking to maximize warmth without breaking the bank, the Hammock Gear Burrow 20 is a more basic option with an accessible price tag. This quilt is one of the warmest and most durable on our list, making the low cost all the more enticing.
The Burrow offers a simplified list of custom options, which can make things easier if you’re in the market for your first backpacking quilt. You still get to choose the really important stuff – like length, width, and footbox style – but next-level details, such as stitching color, are omitted. Hikers wanting to get the warmest build should choose a sewn footbox, and you may also want to get an ounce or two of down overfill to maintain loft in key areas where you want to lock in the heat.
When Senior Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, was customizing a Burrow to test on the northern 500 miles of the Arizona Trail, she went with the 20-denier nylon taffeta fabric for the outer and inner faces. This material is thicker and more durable than the low-denier ripstop used on most other quilts, so it held up well when cowboy camping on the rocky ground of the Sonoran Desert. While this option leads to a slightly higher weight and bulk, it’s also more affordable and still packs small for how warm it is.
For those who’d rather spend a little more to save some weight, the Burrow UL is a nice choice. It has the same user-friendly custom ordering process, but it’s a full six ounces lighter and considerably more packable.
While the Loco Libre Ghost Pepper above is our top choice for cold weather hikes, the Hammock Gear Burrow is a close second and is a great choice for those working with a tighter budget.
Zpacks Classic 20
Lightest Backpacking Quilt
Price: $459
Weight: 1 lb. 2.8 oz.
Fill Power: 900
Pros
- Ultralight
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- Highly packable
- Comes with DCF stuff sack
- RDS certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Many won’t find it warm enough for sub-freezing trips
- Not as durable
If keeping weight low is your top priority, the Zpacks Classic Sleeping Bag should be at the top of your list. This quilt/sleeping bag hybrid provides ultralight warmth using high-quality and responsibly-sourced materials.
The Classic is a little different from other quilts, as it’s more like a hoodless sleeping bag. The three-quarter length zipper and fully enclosed footbox maximize warmth, while the omission of the hood cuts down on weight. We love this design because most hikers backpack with a hooded down jacket or fleece jacket that can be used to keep your head warm at night.
Ultralight gear often requires a little extra care to keep it performing its best for multiple seasons of adventure, and the Classic is no exception. The thin fabric and less robust hardware can wear out quicker if you’re not careful, but we’ve kept our Classic in adventure-ready shape for years by always clearing our campsites of pokey debris before setting up as well as storing the quilt in a large storage bag at home to preserve the loft.
The CleverHiker team has spent more than 100 nights in our Classic Sleeping Bag – including Senior Gear Analyst Casey Handley’s thru-hike of the Colorado Trail – and it still insulates just as well as the first time we took it out. We’ve spent several nights right around freezing in this quilt, and we’d say warm sleepers will find it passable in these conditions. But cold-sleepers who frequently encounter temperatures in the low 30s will want to bump up to the 10°F model or choose a warmer quilt from our list (like the Loco Libre Ghost Pepper or Hammock Gear Burrow 20).
The Classic is one of the more expensive quilts on this list, but there’s no better choice if saving weight is a top priority. For this reason, it’s a common pick for thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers covering big distances.
Full review: Zpacks Classic
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20
Best Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
Price: $499
Weight: 1 lb. 4.1 oz.
Fill Power: 1000
Pros
- Ultralight
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- No upcharge for larger sizes
- Very high-quality down
- Highly packable
- Wide cut
- Includes pad connectors
- RDS certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Not as durable
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 is made with the absolute highest quality materials – namely 1,000-fill power down – and it makes a noticeable difference in the warmth, weight, and packability of this quilt.
We spent 40 nights testing this quilt – including a 300-mile hike on the Arizona Trail – and we find it warmer than many others in its weight class with the same temperature rating. To put it in more data-driven terms, the HMG 20 has 14 ounces of 1,000-fill-power down. The Zpacks Classic and Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20 have 13.7 and 12.5 ounces of 900-fill-power down respectively, and the EE Revelation has 15 ounces of 850-fill-power down. Since the HMG quilt has a larger amount of higher quality down than the Classic and Vesper, it will be noticeably warmer. Seeing as the HMG is filled with better quality down than the Revelation but the fill weight is a bit lower, these two quilts are similarly warm.
Of course the higher quality comes with a higher price tag. The Unbound 20 is one of the most expensive quilts on our list, and whether it’s worth the added cost or not will depend on how much you value saving a few ounces without sacrificing warmth. One big thing the HMG 20 has going for it as far as cost is the fact that you won’t have to pay more to get the long size, and this quilt has a wider cut than many others.
We think thru-hikers and those wanting a quilt for use in chilly shoulder seasons would benefit from the boosted specs of the Unbound, but fair-weather hikers would probably be just fine with a slightly heavier and less warm quilt that costs less.
Feathered Friends Flicker 30 UL
Versatile & Warm Quilt / Sleeping Bag Hybrid
Price: $499
Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz.
Fill Power: 950+
Pros
- Lightweight
- Warmer than others with the same temp rating
- Opens fully like a blanket
- Wide cut
- Durable
- RDS certified
Cons
- Bulkier than other UL quilts
- Cinch straps at the neck can be bothersome
- Some won’t find it warm enough for sub-freezing temps
The Flicker 30 UL Quilt from Feathered Friends is well-constructed, comfortable, and versatile. It can be unzipped to function as a cozy blanket on warm summer nights, or you can cinch the footbox and fully zip the quilt to create a draft-free enclosed system on chilly nights.
The Flicker comes with a high price tag, but you’re getting a high-quality quilt that doesn’t skimp on the details. This quilt is stuffed with 950+-fill-power down, a smooth zipper, and some of the nicest outer shell fabric available. That said, you can save a good chunk of change by choosing the slightly heavier Flicker 30 YF model. The YF uses a thicker shell material and downgrades slightly to 900+-fill-power down, but it’s still a great choice with a premium build.
It’s common for quilt temperature ratings to be overly optimistic by 5-10°F, but the Flicker’s temperature rating is pretty accurate in our experience. That’s why the 30°F option is a go-to for CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Annie Hopfensperger, on her 3-season backpacking trips. She’s spent many nights testing this quilt in the mountains – including her hike on the Tonquin Valley Trail in Jasper National Park – where temperatures can drop quickly at elevation and has always stayed toasty warm.
While the Flicker UL 30 weighs about as much as some of the ultralight 20°F models on our list, the small weight penalty gives you a pretty good boost in durability. The added weight comes – mostly – from the Pertex Endurance shell. This outer fabric is 10-denier (denier is a unit of measurement that describes the thickness of a fabric) while many UL quilts use a 7-denier nylon shell fabric. Pertex Endurance fibers are individually wrapped with water-repellant silicone rather than relying on a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment that will wear out quicker with washes.
Hikers who aren’t expecting to backpack in below-freezing conditions very often will love the high-quality build, adaptable design, and durable construction of the Flicker 30 UL.
Full review: Feathered Friends Flicker UL 30
Katabatic Flex 22
Excellent Quality Backpacking Quilt with Premium Details
Price: $369
Weight: 1 lb. 7.9 oz.
Fill Power: 850 or 900
Pros
- Well-priced for the quality
- Opens fully like a blanket
- Good pad attachment system (included)
- Stash pocket
- RDS certified
Cons
- Custom orders can take a while to ship
- A bit heavy
- Some won’t find it warm enough for sub-freezing trips
We love the versatility, warmth, and comfort of the Katabatic Flex 22, and we’re impressed with its performance on the trail. It comes in several temperature rating options that are all organized in a more simple ordering process than many of the other quilts on this list.
For trips that won’t dip much below freezing, the 22 is our top pick for warm sleepers and the 15 is our top pick for cold sleepers. CleverHiker Senior Gear Analyst, Casey Handley (warm sleeper), tested the Flex 22 on a late-season trek through the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness where nighttime temperatures were in the low 30s, and she stayed warm and cozy through the night. Cold sleepers should also consider the Katabatic Alsek 22 which is just a warmer, closed footbox version of the Flex.
The Flex is pretty similar in design to the EE Revelation, but it costs a bit more. That said, we think the quality of the craftsmanship on the Flex is a little better and Katabatic adds some value by including a very effective pad attachment system, a storage bag, and a stuff sack. Another feature that sets the Flex apart from the competition is the highly water-resistant down fill. The ExpeDRY treated down helps the Flex maintain loft in damp conditions and also allows the feathers to dry quicker, so this quilt is a good pick for backpackers who live in wet climates.
Having said all that, the Flex still ranks a bit lower than similar options, like the Revelation, due to its higher cost, weight, and bulk. We also prefer the baffle design of many other quilts over that of the Flex.
The Flex has horizontal continuous baffles that can make it more difficult to keep down fill where you need it most. Continuous baffles allow you to shift down around in your quilt to pile it up where you need it most. Many modern quilts use this construction to help keep costs lower for the user, but quiltmakers will often incorporate different patterns into the design to keep down from shifting too much throughout the night as you toss and turn. The Revelation, for example, uses U-shaped continuous baffles to prevent down from shifting away from your core.
Hikers who tend to stay put while snoozing likely won’t find this to be an issue, though. Those looking for premium features at a price that won’t induce sticker shock will love the water-resistant design, the highly effective pad attachment, and the convenient internal stash pocket.
Full review: Katabatic Flex 22
Enlightened Equipment Accomplice 20
Best Ultralight Two-Person Backpacking Quilt
Price: $560
Weight: 2 lb. 5 oz.
Fill Power: 850 or 950
Pros
- Ultralight for two
- Cheaper than buying two UL quilts
- Includes pad connectors
- RDS certified
Cons
- Less versatile than some (impractical to use on solo trips)
- Bulky
- Can feel drafts between sleeping pads
- Custom ordering process can be confusing & can take a while to ship
The Enlightened Equipment Accomplice is our favorite shared sleep system for couples who like keeping weight to a minimum and snuggles to a maximum.
It’s one of very few double backpacking quilts on the market, and it’s a great value compared to buying two separate quilts or a heavier double sleeping bag. It’s also a little lighter per person than most other quilts on our list. We typically have one person carry the quilt while the other carries the shelter to even out the weight.
We also like to use this quilt for car camping – since it’s luxurious enough for the frontcountry and light enough for the backcountry, the price is even more worth it. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, loves using this quilt for all kinds of adventures with her husband. She’s taken it backpacking in Oregon’s Eagle Cap Wilderness as well as car camping in the high desert, and she loves that the roomy cut provides ample space to sleep cuddled up or cozied on your own side.
That said, one issue with a roomy sleep system is that it can be harder to keep warm. We recommend always packing along the included pad connectors to eliminate dead space between your sleeping pads and prevent cold spots.
The Accomplice can be ordered as a stock quilt that ships out quickly, or you can customize it to your preferred specs if you’re not in a hurry to receive it. Couples who usually hit the trail together should heavily consider going with the Accomplice to save weight and money.
Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20
Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilt for Warm Weather
Price: $460
Weight: 1 lb. 3 oz.
Fill Power: 900
Pros
- Ultralight
- Highly packable
- Includes pad connectors
- RDS certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Narrow cut
- Not warm enough for sub-freezing temperatures
- Less durable
The Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20 is one of the lightest and most packable backpacking quilts on the market, so it’s a popular summer quilt among ultralight hikers.
The Vesper is one of the few quilts that’s widely available in outdoor gear stores, so this could be a good option if you’re gearing up to hit the trail soon. That said, we think the REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 – also available immediately if you have an REI nearby that has it in stock – is the better buy. The Magma is considerably more affordable, weighs about the same, and is more durable. The Vesper is a bit warmer, but not enough to justify the higher cost in our opinion.
The Vesper is also quite narrow – it’s designed with a harsh taper that can feel cramped compared to other UL quilts. So side sleepers and those who shift around a lot in their sleep likely wouldn’t find this quilt to be the most comfortable option.
While the Vesper isn’t our first choice, it still earns a spot on this list for its ridiculously low weight and small packed size. Hikers looking to go as minimal as possible may find this quilt to be a perfect fit.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Fill Power | Warmth | Weight & Packability | Comfort | Features | 0 |
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt 20 View Stock View Custom 
|
$345 | 1 lb. 6.5 oz. | 850 or 950 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9 | 1 |
Loco Libre Ghost Pepper 20 View at Loco Libre
|
$405 | 1 lb. 5.5 oz. | 950 | 8.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 2 |
UGQ Bandit 20 View at UGQ 
|
$315 | 1 lb. 6.3 oz. | 850 or 950 | 8.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 8 | 3 |
REI Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt View at REI
|
$329 | 1 lb. 4.3 oz. | 850 | 7.5 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 | 4 |
Hammock Gear Burrow 20 View at Hammock Gear
|
$284 | 1 lb. 9.1 oz. | 850 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 | 5 |
Zpacks Classic 20 View at ZPacks
|
$459 | 1 lb. 2.8 oz. | 900 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 6 |
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 View at Hyperlite |
$499 | 1 lb. 4.1 oz. | 1000 | 9.5 | 9 | 7.5 | 8 | 7 |
Feathered Friends Flicker 30 UL View at Feathered Friends |
$499 | 1 lb. 6 oz. | 950+ | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
Katabatic Flex 22 View at Katabatic |
$369 | 1 lb. 7.9 oz. | 850 or 900 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 9 |
Enlightened Equipment Accomplice 20 View at Enlightened Equipment View at Garage Grown Gear |
$560 | 2 lb. 5 oz. | 850 or 950 | 9 | 5.5 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20 View at REI View at Amazon |
$460 | 1 lb. 3 oz. | 900 | 7 | 9.5 | 6.5 | 6 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
Learn more about how we test for warmth, comfort, weight and packability, and features. We test every quilt a minimum of a dozen nights on trail and backpack with them to find the limitations and benefits of each model.
WARMTH
We test backpacking quilts for warmth through controlled temperature rating tests that simulate typical backpacking conditions, assessing how effectively each quilt retains heat and maintains comfort. We also take them out on chilly nights to make sure they keep us warm in different weather conditions and times of the year to confirm manufacturer claims in the real world. We carefully assess the warmth-to-weight measurements and consider the insulation distribution, with top performers offering excellent loft and thermal efficiency, effective baffle design, and sturdy materials. Quilts with cinch cords, effective closures like zippers and buttons, as well as pad-attachment straps to block out the icy air.
COMFORT
Finding the most comfortable quilt means testing the softness and feel of the fabric against the skin, considering breathability, ventilation options, and moisture-wicking properties. We evaluate the quilt’s dimensions and shape to determine how much coverage and freedom of movement it offers. We look at how easy – or hard – it is to feel potentially uncomfortable elements of the quilts like zippers, buttons, or straps while sleeping.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
To test how light and compressible quilts are, we conduct a number of compression tests. We pack them as small as they can get, see how they fit in included stuff sacks, and how much space they take up in our packs. Before hitting the trail, we conduct precise weight measurements to assess manufacturer claims and understand how each quilt contributes to overall pack weight.
FEATURES
Top performers in the features category include pad attachment straps or clips that secure the quilt to your sleeping pad to prevent drafts when tossing and turning in the night. We look for bags with draft tubes and collars around the openings to minimize heat loss at the neck and shoulders. We consider if a quilt can be used in different configurations like a fully open blanket or closed like a sleeping bag thanks to cinched closures at the head and footbox. Other crucial features include storage options like pockets and mummy-style hoods.
Why Trust CleverHiker?
Having logged over 2,000 nights under the stars, the CleverHiker team has extensive experience sleeping in the wilderness. Casey Handley, Gear Analyst and lead tester, brings over a decade of expertise from traversing several iconic long trails like the Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, and Arizona Trail. She’s rigorously tested dozens of backpacking quilts to pinpoint the best choices for any climate or conditions. With a background in gear sales and years of thoughtful gear evaluations, Casey sets the standard so only the finest quilts make it onto our guide. Her deep understanding of long-distance hiking makes her recommendations invaluable for adventurers at any skill level.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
Top performance is essential when we’re testing backpacking quilts, but we’re also on the lookout for those hidden gems – quilts that deliver exceptional value for their cost. With choices ranging from wallet-friendly to high-end, there’s something here for every type of backpacker.
The best-value backpacking quilts on our list are the UGQ Bandit, REI Magma Trail Quilt 30, and the Loco Libre Ghost Pepper. Each of these models combines high-quality materials, excellent design features, and competitive pricing and performance. They’re durable, comfortable, and highly functional without compromising weight or packability, making them the best value for backpackers who want reliable gear without emptying their savings account.
The UGQ Bandit stands out for its customizable options: choose the insulation type, temperature rating, length, and width for the ultimate personalized fit. The REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 offers an ultralight design, inclusive sizing options, and top-tier down for an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and packability. And, the Loco Libre Ghost Pepper distinguishes itself with premium, hand-made construction using high-fill power down and a differential cut to prevent cold spots, excellent customization, and awesome warmth retention.
WARMTH
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 and Enlightened Equipment Accomplice 20 are our top choices for warm backpacking quilts. Both models provide exceptional warmth thanks to their high-loft, high-fill power down insulation – the HMG 20 uses 1000 fill, and the Accomplice 20 can be customized with 850 or 950 fill. Both quilts effectively minimize cold spots and maximize heat retention because of their sewn-closed footboxes that keep drafts out. Both models also use clips to keep the quilt around your body, plus they attach to your sleeping pad to enhance thermal efficiency.
The Enlightened Equipment Accomplice 20 is a unique, two-person quilt, meaning it can feel much warmer (or colder) depending on you and a partner’s sleeping styles. That said, the Accomplice offers individual contoured head openings and a massive draft collar to trap heat effectively no matter how much you move in the night, and the pad attachment system keeps drafts out. Conversely, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 is a solo quilt with a deep footbox and massive loft, with four sewn-in loops and two pad attachment straps that allow for a customizable sleep system that effectively locks out the cold.
COMFORT
The most comfortable quilts on our list are the REI Magma Trail Quilt 30, Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt 20, and Feathered Friends Flicker 30. Adjustable closures, cinchable footboxes, and soft, gentle materials make them feel cushy on the skin and ultra comfy night after night.
The REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 is our favorite because it boasts a snap-button footbox and adjustable neck closure for customizable ventilation. The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt 20 offers a versatile pad attachment system and a 1/4-length zipper with a shock cord closure, allowing for a highly customizable fit and comfort in different weather conditions. The Feathered Friends Flicker 30 UL stands out with its innovative zip-open footbox, which can be fully unzipped to the collar to function as a quilt in warmer weather or as a sleeping bag on frosty nights, and its spacious cut offers tons of room for movement for side sleepers.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
The lightest and most packable backpacking quilts we tested are the Zpacks Classic 20, Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20, Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20, and the REI Magma Trail Quilt 30. These four quilts lead the pack for incredibly low weights and compress to a very small size without sacrificing warmth, making them our top choices for ultralight adventures. These models boast very high fill power down insulation and industry-leading warmth-to-weight ratios.
The Zpacks Classic 20 stands out for its minimalist design, stripping away unnecessary features like zippers and a hood to maintain the lowest weight we tested, at just 1 lb., 2.8 oz. The Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20 is an extremely close second, at 1 lb. 3 oz., and stands out for its massive loft and box-baffle design that packs ultra small. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 offers a balance between minimal bulk and protection with its water-resistant shell that keeps the down dry, and it weighs only 1 lb., 4.1 oz. And, rounding out our top performers is the REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 at 1 lb. 4.3 oz. These bags represent the pinnacle of ultralight, packable warmth for serious backpackers.
FEATURES
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt 20 and the UGQ Bandit Top Quilt are the most feature-forward quilts on our list with premium materials and thoughtful design elements like adjustable closures and efficient insulation layouts. The Revelation offers pad attachments in the form of elastic straps and clips, a snap and drawcord neck closure, and also includes a stuff sack, and storage bag. For those who choose to customize their quilt, you’ll also have the option to add a draft collar. The UGQ Bandit is our other top choice because of its incredible customizability – choose from fill power, temperature rating, width, length, overstuffing, shell colors, foot box style, and more – including the option to add pad attachments – that makes this one of the most feature-rich options out there. While many of the quilts on this list offer similar features, we think these two models execute these details the best in their overall design.
How to Choose a Backpacking Quilt
CHOOSING A TEMPERATURE RATING
Choosing the right temperature rating isn’t an exact science. Many factors contribute to warmth, like sleeping pad insulation, clothing, hydration, nutrition, and altitude.
For this list, we chose quilts with temperature ratings that we felt would be a good fit for most 3-season trips. Most of the quilts on this list will keep the average user comfortable when temperatures dip to freezing, or a few degrees below. But hikers who sleep cold will likely want to bump up a notch in temperature rating to extend the usefulness of their quilt.
WARMTH
If you’re using your quilt in a tent rather than a hammock, it’s a good idea to purchase a pad attachment system (if it’s not already included with your quilt) when placing your order. Attaching your quilt to your pad will cut down on chilly drafts that can sap warmth through the open sides. You should always have a warm hat or a down jacket with a hood to wear to bed since quilts don’t have hoods. You can also sleep in base layers, gloves, and down booties to boost warmth. Other tricks include eating a high-calorie snack right before bed, staying well hydrated, putting a hot water bottle inside your quilt by your feet, and sleeping with a warm sleeping bag liner.
SIZING
The length and width you choose is dependent upon your body measurements and your sleeping style. Make sure you pick a quilt that’s long enough to comfortably fit your body from your feet to your chin.
Measure your shoulder girth to find the correct width; we recommend bumping up one size if you’re a side sleeper or a tosser-turner.
If you’re a cold sleeper, it can be nice to also bump up one size in length so you can pull the quilt over your head on chilly nights.
WHERE DOES DOWN COME FROM?
Down is the fluffy, small plumage found underneath the outer feather layer on ducks and geese. These tiny fibers insulate the birds and keep them warm in frigid conditions. Most down is a byproduct of the meat industry.
AVOIDING INFERIOR QUALITY AND POOR ETHICS
Sometimes affordable backpacking quilts have synthetic fill mixed in with the down feathers or are solely stuffed with synthetic insulation. For the best insulating value and warmth-to-weight ratio, look for backpacking quilts that’re made with 100% duck or goose down. If the fill power isn’t advertised, it’s likely the quilt isn’t top quality and won’t pack down as small. Inexpensive down bags are also sometimes made with materials that are unethically sourced. To be sure you’re not supporting bad practices, like force feeding or live plucking, check whether a company is Traceable Down or Responsible Down certified. Companies that use good practices are generally proud of it and clearly state it for their customers to see. For us, it’s worth paying a bit more for the peace of mind.
DOWN FILL POWER
The fill power (fp) of a down quilt measures the quality of the down insulation in the bag. Higher-fill-power down is more expensive, but it weighs less and compresses more than lower-fill-power down. Though a higher fp does provide more warmth for the same weight, fill power alone does not dictate warmth. This is where fill weight – the actual amount of down in a quilt – comes in. This is why it’s important to look at both fill power and fill weight when determining how warm a quilt will be.
In general, 800-fill-power and up is considered high-quality down. Anything lower than that will be more cost effective, but won’t have as impressive warmth-to-weight performance.
DWR
Durable water repellent (DWR) is a treatment that causes water to bead up on the outer shell of a quilt rather than soak in. This treatment doesn’t make a quilt anywhere near waterproof, but it does add some protection in damp conditions. It will wear off and need to be reapplied over time, but don’t worry, re-treatment is easy.
WASHING & STORAGE
Down is a durable material, but it loses some of its loft if it isn’t stored properly and when it gets oily or dirty over time. If properly maintained, a down quilt can last for many years. For details on down care, visit our article on How to Repair, Wash, Store, & Care For Your Sleeping Bag.
Conclusion
Whether you choose ultralight minimalism or luxurious warmth, the right backpacking quilt is the key to a great night’s sleep in the backcountry. When you’re looking for the perfect backpacking quilt, the most important things to consider are the warmth rating, comfort, weight and packability, and the features that are most important to you – the best quilts strike a balance that makes for cozy nights and effortless packing on trail.
