When to ditch the 20 degree bag

imported
#1

I’ve been sectioning the AT for several years and have finished 1500 miles to date. This May (2nd and 3rd) weeks, I’m going to do an 18 day trip from Allen Gap NC north to New River VA.

I don’t want to carry a 20 degree bag if I don’t have to. I’m thinking of leaving it and bringing my 40 degree summer bag, but not sure if it’s too early in the season. May is one of those goofy months where you have hot and cold days. I’ll also have a pair of base gloves and a light winter hat which I hike in during those windy / wet days.

One thought I’m havine is bringing my 40 degree bag and on a cold night I can wear my hat, gloves and socks. I’ll also be bringing a tent which usually is about 10 degrees warmer than outside temperatures.

Noting the above, what are your recommendations on which bag I should bring?

7 Sisters

#2

It was about 20*F at night for the low at Thomas Knob Shelter on May 22, 2000 when I stayed there overnight on my northbound AT thru-hike.

The week before, on May 14, 2000, I froze at Stan Murray Shelter with the gusty wind that night – Give Me Chocolate was there that night too and I think I could hear her teeth chattering through my earplugs. I had a Feathered Friends Hummingbird 20*F sleeping bag wearing all my clothes and a silk liner too boot. I woke up shivering at about 4am. By 6:30am I was so cold I figured I had to get up and start hiking just to get warm.

For me, I’d take a 20*F lightweight down bag the entire trip if I was to do another northbound AT thru-hike again.

Another thing you might consider is carrying a 3 oz Space brand mylar sleeping bag like this (it sure kept me warm when I used it – you’ll be clamy in the morning but way warmer than without it):

http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=244&parent_category_rn=4500522

Datto

Datto

#3

Although I too am a section hiker, most of the thrus have indicated keeping the winter bag usually until reaching either Damascus or Pearisburg, and usually the timing is close to Trail Days in Damascus, which is the weekend after mothers day weekend in may (usually the 2nd or 3rd weekend). I found the elevation that you plan to overnight at also plays a role, especially at that time of year. Unless you’re a warm sleeper, err on the side of the warmer bag, IMHO.

Cutman11