Frequently Asked Questions

Which bag packs down smaller for backpacking — the Coleman Kompact or the Wakeman Mummy?

The Coleman Kompact wins this one hands down. It compresses to just 9.4 x 9 x 15.4 inches with its included compression sack, while the Wakeman rolls down to 17 x 8 inches. That’s a huge difference when you’re trying to fit everything into a 40-liter pack. I’d only choose the Wakeman if you don’t mind a little extra bulk in exchange for the water-resistant shell.

Is the Wakeman Mummy Sleeping Bag truly waterproof?

Not fully waterproof, but it is water-resistant thanks to the 210T polyester shell with a rating of 8000g/(m²24h). I tested it against morning dew and light rain, and it held up well. The Coleman doesn’t advertise any water resistance at all, so the Wakeman is the better pick if you’re worried about damp ground or unexpected showers.

Which sleeping bag is warmer at 25°F — the Coleman or the Wakeman?

Both are rated to 25°F, but I felt noticeably warmer in the Coleman Kompact. The Thermolock draft tube prevents heat loss through the zipper, and the semi-sculpted hood locks in more warmth around your head. The Wakeman relies on a drawstring hood and cotton-polyester fill, which didn’t feel as efficient at trapping body heat on the colder nights I tested.

Is the Coleman Kompact worth the extra money over the Wakeman?

If packed size and warmth retention matter most to you, then yes — the Coleman’s compression sack and Thermolock draft tube justify the higher cost. The Wakeman is a solid budget-friendly option with water resistance and a lighter weight at 2.98 pounds, but you’ll sacrifice compressibility and some heat-locking features. For backpackers, I think the Coleman is worth the upgrade.

Which bag is better for car camping?

For car camping, I’d actually lean toward the Wakeman Mummy. The water-resistant shell handles damp campsite floors better, and the rolled size of 17 x 8 inches isn’t an issue when you’re not hiking. Plus, the drawstring hood is easy to adjust without fumbling in the dark. The Coleman is still great, but its main advantage (compressibility) matters less when you’re driving to your site.

Can I use either bag for summer camping?

Yes, but with a caveat. Both bags are rated to 25°F, so they’ll be too warm for hot summer nights above 60°F unless you sleep with the zipper fully open. I’ve used the Coleman on mild spring nights and stayed comfortable, but for peak summer heat, you’d be better off with a lighter 40°F or 50°F bag. The Wakeman’s cotton-polyester fill breathes a bit better, making it the slightly better pick for warmer weather.