Let’s Talk About ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45
The ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 is a sleeping bag designed for comfort and durability, making it a solid choice for rental programs and casual campers alike. With its combination of a rugged ripstop outer, soft flannel lining, and robust zipper, it promises a blend of comfort and longevity. It’s a bag that aims to provide a cozy night’s sleep without breaking the bank.
I was looking for a durable, comfortable sleeping bag that could withstand repeated use, whether from my own less-than-gentle treatment or from lending it out to friends and family who are new to camping. I needed something warm enough for mild weather but not so bulky that it’s a pain to transport. The promise of flannel lining and a durable outer shell caught my attention immediately.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was of a solid, well-made product. The Ripstop outer felt substantial, and the flannel lining was indeed soft to the touch. The weight, at 6 lbs, felt reasonable for a bag in this temperature range and with these materials; it’s not ultralight, but it doesn’t feel like carrying a boat anchor, either.
Compared to a lightweight down bag I own (rated to 30 degrees) and a synthetic fill bag (rated to 20 degrees), the ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 seems to prioritize durability and comfort over packability and extreme warmth. I ultimately chose this ALPS Mountaineering bag because I needed something more robust for general use and occasional lending, and the flannel lining was a major draw. The others are more specialized.
My first impression was positive; I was pleasantly surprised by the overall quality and feel of the bag, especially considering its price point. While I knew it wouldn’t be as compact as my down bag, the comfort and durability factors seemed promising. I was excited to take it out for its first real-world test.
Real-World Testing: Putting ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 during a weekend camping trip in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, in late spring. Nighttime temperatures dipped into the low 50s, with some light wind. The conditions weren’t extreme, but they provided a good baseline for assessing the bag’s comfort and performance.
The bag performed admirably in these conditions. The flannel lining felt great against my skin, and I stayed comfortably warm throughout the night. The Ripstop outer shed a light morning dew with no issues.
Using the bag was straightforward. The square shape offers plenty of room to move around. The large #10 zipper operated smoothly without snagging. No time was needed to get used to the bag as it was easy to enter and exit and the zipper was simple to operate.
The only minor issue after the first use was that the bag’s stuff sack was a bit of a tight fit, making it slightly challenging to pack it down completely. This is pretty common with most sleeping bags, though.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and backyard sleepouts, the ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The seams are still strong, and the Ripstop outer remains free of rips or tears.
The durability has proven to be a strong point of this bag. It has survived being dragged in and out of tents, tossed in the back of trucks, and even endured a curious dog sniffing around without any damage. The #10 Zipper continues to perform smoothly even with dust and dirt.
Maintaining the bag is easy. I’ve spot-cleaned it several times with a damp cloth and mild detergent, and it dries quickly. I have yet to fully wash it, but the materials seem like they would hold up well to machine washing on a gentle cycle (though I’d still prefer to hand wash to preserve the insulation).
Compared to my previous synthetic-fill bag, the ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 offers a superior level of comfort thanks to the flannel lining. It’s not as warm as my 20-degree rated synthetic bag, but for its intended temperature range, it performs very well and is far more comfortable.
Breaking Down the Features of ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45
Specifications
The ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 is a rectangular sleeping bag designed for mild weather camping. Its temperature rating is 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Key specifications include a Ripstop outer fabric, a 100% cotton flannel liner, and a large #10 zipper for enhanced durability.
The bag’s dimensions are 84 inches in length and 34 inches in width, providing ample room for most adults. The packed size is 12 x 21 inches, and it weighs 6 lbs. These specifications are important because they determine the bag’s suitability for different camping conditions and user preferences. A durable outer fabric ensures longevity, while a comfortable liner enhances the sleeping experience.
Performance & Functionality
The ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 performs its intended job of providing comfortable and reliable warmth in mild weather conditions. The flannel lining provides a soft and cozy feel, significantly improving sleep quality. The rectangular shape allows for greater freedom of movement compared to mummy-style bags.
The bag’s strength lies in its comfort and durability. The weakness is that it’s not designed for cold weather. It is not as compact as other options.
It meets expectations for a 45-degree rated bag. It provides adequate warmth and comfort for mild-weather camping, and its durable construction inspires confidence in its longevity.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with durable materials and reinforced seams. The weight of 6 lbs is manageable for car camping and short backpacking trips. The cotton flannel lining adds a touch of luxury that is not often found in budget-friendly sleeping bags.
The design is user-friendly, with a straightforward rectangular shape and a smooth-operating #10 zipper. There is no significant learning curve. Any user will figure it out in a matter of minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ripstop outer fabric is designed to resist tears and abrasions, extending the bag’s lifespan. The #10 zipper is a heavy-duty component that is less likely to break or snag compared to smaller zippers. With proper care, this bag should last for many years of regular use.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for minor stains. The bag can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and tumble dried on low heat.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 comes with a standard stuff sack for storage and transport. There are no significant customization options available for this particular model. However, users can add accessories such as a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth or a compression sack to reduce the packed size.
The bag is compatible with most standard sleeping bag liners and compression sacks from other brands. However, since this is a basic bag, that is about all you can do.
Pros and Cons of ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable 100% cotton flannel liner.
- Durable Ripstop outer fabric.
- Robust #10 zipper for long-lasting performance.
- Spacious rectangular shape allows for freedom of movement.
- Great value for the money; an affordable option for casual campers.
Cons
- Not suitable for cold weather camping (rated to 45 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Stuff sack is a tight fit, making packing a bit challenging.
Who Should Buy ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45?
The ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 is perfect for casual campers, car campers, and those who prioritize comfort over extreme performance. It’s also a great option for rental programs due to its durability and ease of use. This is also ideal for warm weather camping.
Those who should skip this product are backpackers looking for lightweight gear, cold-weather campers needing a lower temperature rating, and those seeking advanced features like water-resistant down or specialized baffle designs.
A must-have accessory is a comfortable sleeping pad to provide insulation from the ground and enhance overall comfort. A compression sack can also be helpful for reducing the packed size.
Conclusion on ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45
In summary, the ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 is a well-built and comfortable sleeping bag that offers excellent value for the money. Its durable construction and soft flannel lining make it a great choice for casual camping and rental programs. It prioritizes comfort and durability over extreme performance, making it ideal for mild weather conditions and those who value a good night’s sleep.
The price of $89.79 is justified by the bag’s quality, durability, and comfort. It provides a solid combination of features at an affordable price point.
I would personally recommend the ALPS Mountaineering Camper Flannel Outfitter +45 to anyone looking for a comfortable and durable sleeping bag for mild-weather camping. If you value a cozy night’s sleep and don’t need extreme cold-weather protection, this bag is an excellent choice. Get out there, enjoy the great outdoors, and sleep soundly under the stars!