Modular/layered underquilt

[Campdavid]

This is not a lightweight system. I camp from a car, kayak, canoe, sled etc. so super light is not necessary. It was also cobbled together from parts and pieces in my stash so it is what it is.

Components:
1) Summer quilt/base layer - Full size and full length PLUQ
a) Not folded in half - high sides
b) End channels with shock cord
c) Knotty mods, no full length cord
d) Shock cord from the corners
e) One shock cord from center
f) Snaps down length for liner
2) Spring/fall quilt/inner layer
a) Costco throw
b) Poncho liner outer layer
c) Pocket for snap in Insul-bright
d) Same suspension as above
e) Can be used with/out insul-bright
3) Winter quilt/layered
a) The two quilts snap together
b) Each has its own end cinching
c) Double cinching makes extra seal
d) Two layers of poncho material, down throw and insul-bright layer.

Now, if we would just get some cold temps I could try it. I have a camping trip coming up in a couple weeks and the 10 day outlook ends with days in the 50's and nights in the 40's!!! That stinks!

[rick417]

Can't wait to hear how it works out for you. Love how you incorporated the poncho liner. Mine goes with me on every outing.

[DawgyDaddy]

I like the idea, a scalable under quilt.

[XJ35S]

They recommend layering up for warmth so I think this is brilliant. I purchased a small sleeping bag at a goodwill because there was a feather coming out of the interior lining For $2.99. I knew it was too good to be true. I got it home and pulled some stitching to find polyester fill.

I do think it and my -10 mummy bag modified will work much like yours. I'll get a poncho liner too. Very much appreciate your sharing this.

[XJ35S]

I'm wondering what you end weight is? I weighed my goodwill bag at 4 lbs, my military intermediate cold 4lbs 4 oz. my ozark trail -10 mummy 4lbs 9oz.

Any way I do this 'm looking at around 8 lbs. I don't think that's too bad for sub *20 insulation.

[stryder]

I'm sweating just looking at it... :<)

[blackbishop351]

I've talked with folks before about a somewhat similar idea - layering two underquilts (say a summer quilt and a midseason quilt) for cold weather use. This definitely saves money if not weight. The second quilt would attach directly to the first instead of having its own suspension too, taking a little of that extra weight back.

I might try that soonish, actually...

Let us know how it goes!

[OutandBack]

Back before I owned a set of quilts for every temp range I hang in I used to stack with great success.

[Campdavid]

Thanks all. With the way things are going I'll have to wait until next winter before it's cold enough to try out all the layers. Global warming must be hitting Chicago this year....not a below freezing temp to be found in the 10 day outlook.

If we are lucky enough to have winter return, I'll report on effectiveness. I'll also try to get it weighed.

[Chesapeake]

I like it, good job!