by sbd3927 » 03 Feb 2015, 10:03 pm
Admittedly I don't feel the cold much, but underneath is more important than on top. I've a full length self inflating mat, about 40mm thick, not particularly heavy, but still takes up a fair volume. Forget air mattresses, the air circulates and is nearly as bad as a hammock (you only try that once...). With a -2 rated bag I've yet to be able to tolerate it zipped up for more than a few hours, generally using it as a loose blanket. Used recently for a 1 night hike along with tent (took up half the backpack) and for several 1mth long trips central and nth along with a canvas swag (minus the useless swag mattress).
Another option for the cold, take some poly thermals, use them as pajamas if required and a lighter weight bag. Helps keep the bag clean, you can wear them during the day if it's particularly cold, and are quick drying if you need to wash them on extended trip.
I agree 110% with the wanting to cut the way out of a bag feeling. Another reason I leave mine unzipped at least half way, it has a cursed locking zip that I need to break sometime, Unless you pull the tag just right, it wont move, not a nice feeling when you are hot.
Anschutz 1515-1516 22WMR
Steyr Prohunter 308win, Bushnell Elite 6500 2.5-16x50