Head-to-head · Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Exped Terra 15 vs REI Co-op Trailmade 25

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Exped Terra 15 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.3 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about weekend warriors seeking comfort — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Exped Terra 15

4.3

3 sources$109.95as of Jul 31

The Exped Terra 15 Sleeping Bag balances warmth, weight, and price for 3-season backpacking. REI's Emily Pennington singled out the 650-fill down insulation, the soft fabric, and practical touches like the draft collar and 3D footbox. It's cut for middle-of-the-road sleepers and comes in five sizes. Summer and early fall camping suit it best, and ultralight backpackers will notice the extra ounces. Weekend warriors who want comfort on a budget are the right buyer.

Strengths

— Soft recycled 20-denier ripstop polyester shell and liner with OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification
— Adjustable draft collar and hood help retain warmth and prevent heat loss
— 3D footbox design allows better blood flow and keeps toes warm during sleep

Watch-outs

— Stuff sack is described as bulky despite compression
— Unisex sizing may not fit those who run cold well

$109.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

REI Co-op Trailmade 25

3.8

4 sources

Value and size range are the REI Co-op Trailmade 25's calling cards, which makes it a good first bag or a good answer if standard cuts never fit you. Reviewer Ian Graber-Stiehl found the moisture-resistant synthetic insulation holds up to its 25°F comfort rating and rated the regular size well for average builds, but flagged the bulk and a zipper that snags. Six options cover short, short wide, regular, regular wide, long, and long wide. Casual campers and backpacking newcomers who value fit and price over ultralight weight should look here.

Strengths

— Excellent value for budget-conscious backpackers
— Insulation handles moisture well and performs to comfort temp rating
— Long upper/lower zips offer easy ventilation

Watch-outs

— Lower zippers prone to snagging
— Bulky design with significant packed volume

Buy at rei.com Full review →

How they stack up

Exped Terra 15

The Exped Terra 15 offers a good balance of affordability and comfort, outperforming the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 in warmth and fabric quality, though it's heavier than the Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30. Compared to the Western Mountaineering MegaLite, it's less expensive but lacks the ultralight design and spaciousness.

REI Co-op Trailmade 25

The REI Co-op Trailmade 25 stands out for its budget-friendly pricing and excellent sizing inclusivity, unlike the more expensive Western Mountaineering MegaLite. While the Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30 offers better warmth-to-weight, the REI bag provides superior value and fit for beginners and casual campers who don't prioritize ultralight performance.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Exped Terra 15	REI Co-op Trailmade 25
Temperature Rating	15°F comfort	25°F
Fill Power	650-fill-power	—
Weight	2 lbs 10.5 oz (S)	3 lbs., 4.6 oz.
Insulation	650+ cuin/oz European Grey Duck Down	Recycled polyester
Shell Fabric	Recycled 20 D ripstop polyester	Recycled polyester
Shape	Mummy	—
Packed Volume	—	9.4 L

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