Head-to-head · Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Kelty Cosmic Down 20 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

Kelty Cosmic Down 20 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.7). The gap is mostly about casual campers on a budget — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Kelty Cosmic Down 20

4.2

3 sources1 derived$209.95as of Sep 25

The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 puts real down in a budget bag, cut in a tapered mummy shape. Its 550-fill down isn't as thermally efficient as pricier insulation, so reviewers steer it toward summer camping and mild nights. The thicker shell fabric makes it tougher than ultralight bags, at the cost of weight and bulk. Casual backpackers who want down without the premium price will do fine; anyone expecting sub-freezing temperatures should look elsewhere.

Strengths

— More packable than most budget options with synthetic fill
— Relatively thick polyester fabric is more resilient than thin ultralight material
— Includes full-length draft tube and insulated collar for heat retention

Watch-outs

— Cut-rate 550-fill down places it at the low end for warmth-to-weight
— Runs colder than its temp rating

$209.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

REI Co-op Trailmade 25

3.7

2 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 →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Kelty Cosmic Down 20

The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 provides more packability and durability than the budget-friendly Exped Terra 15, but it's less warm than the Argali Alpine 20. Unlike the REI Trailmade 25, which offers better value and sizing, the Kelty bag is more suitable for casual campers who want real down without premium pricing.

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	Kelty Cosmic Down 20	REI Co-op Trailmade 25
Temperature Rating	31/21°F (ISO Comfort/Limit)	25°F
Fill Power	1 lb. 0.4 oz. of 550-fill down	—
Weight	2 lb. 7 oz.	3 lbs., 4.6 oz.
Insulation	550-fill-power down	Recycled polyester
Shell Fabric	20D nylon	Recycled polyester
Packed Volume	10.7L	9.4 L

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