How to Prevent Down Bags From Getting Wet
- 1). Keep your down bag packed in a waterproof sack or bag called a "dry bag." Many professional dry bags will keep water away from your sleeping bag unless submerged in water for prolonged periods. Dry bags come in handy while camping for hanging your food from a tree to protect it from bears.
- 2). Insert a plastic garbage bag into the dry sack and cinch the top securely after placing the sleeping bag inside for extra protection. Compress the garbage bag with the sleeping bag inside to remove as much air as possible before sealing the garbage bag.
- 3). Store the dry bag containing your sleeping bag within a portage pack when canoeing. A portage pack resembles a standard backpack or duffel bag but is waterproof.
- 4). Keep your dry bag and sleeping bag inside the front compartment when kayaking. Inspect this compartment for leaks and be sure that it is dry before you leave.
- 5). Buy a sleeping bag filled with high-loft down if possible, which dries more quickly than other varieties of down. Such bags are water-resistant and breathe better, reducing problems associated with perspiration and condensation. They also dry out more quickly if they become wet.
- 6). Sun-dry your down bag whenever possible. Many people perspire while sleeping, or the bag may absorb occasional drops of condensation that can collect over time. Lay the bag out on a dry rock facing the sun for a couple hours on sunny days to remove moisture buildup.
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